Samantha Gail B. Lucas has been blogging on her website, www.speakoutsam.com, since May 2017. She has since attended several conferences, workshops, and networking opportunities through her website. She regularly shares her favorite local finds, foodie adventures, charitable advocacies, and media partnerships. She graduated with an AB Humanities degree from the University of Asia and the Pacific. She also has fourteen books available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books Kinokuniya, and Shopee. She is the winner of the Ukiyoto Literary Awards for Nonfiction Woman Writer of the Year 2022 and the Nonfiction Author of the Year 2023. She currently resides in Quezon City, Philippines.
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PASSENGER RELEASES NEW VERSION OF “LET HER GO” FEAT. ED SHEERAN
UNVEILS ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF
MULTI-PLATINUM ALBUM
‘ALL THE LITTLE LIGHTS’
Photo Credit: Mila Austin
November 13th, 2023 – Singapore – Acclaimed UK singer/songwriter Mike Rosenberg celebrates 10 years since the release of his seminal album 'All The Little Lights' with the release of 'All The Little Lights (Anniversary Edition)'. Entirely re-recorded and completely re-imagined, Passenger infuses these songs with another decade of experience and wisdom as he calls friends like Foy Vance, Gabrielle Aplin and Nina Nesbitt for special collaborations. Through it all, he preserves all the spirit and soul of the original while breathing new life into these well-loved Passenger staples.
With the album’s release comes a brand new video for the re-recording of “Let Her Go” featuring one final collaboration with Passenger’s longtime friend and tour mate, Ed Sheeran. The original global smash single went #1 in 19 countries, and entered the Spotify viral charts in Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore. Today, it has over 6 billion streams, is the #2 most Shazamed song of all time, and remains the 16th most viewed video on YouTube of all time.
Passenger - "Let Her Go (feat. Ed Sheeran - Anniversary Edition)" [Official Video]
“Where do I begin… it’s a truly life altering song. Four minutes of music that shifted my trajectory entirely. It’s so big that I think of my career in two sections - before and after ‘Let Her Go.’ People often ask me if I knew I’d written a hit straight away after writing it. The honest truth is I didn’t. I’d written so many songs up until that point that I had been excited by, but nothing had ever come of them, so by this stage I had genuinely stopped thinking in those terms.
I vividly remember writing it. It was early 2011, and I was out on a regional tour of Australia playing tiny rooms to a handful of people each night. I remember walking into a venue dressing room, picking up my guitar and playing the opening riff like I’d written it years ago, like I’d played it before. Like it had always been there. I don’t think I’ve had many other moments like that.
A massive part of the song's success is down to Ed Sheeran. If he hadn’t have taken me around the world as his opening act in the year leading up to the song blowing up, then it simply wouldn’t have happened. I owe him an awful lot - he has championed me and opened doors that were securely locked. He’s an incredibly kind and thoughtful person that somehow finds time and energy to lift others up around him even though he carries the world on his shoulders. He’s a constant inspiration and a fierce friend.
So, when it came to re-recording this song, there was only ever going to be one person that I’d want to duet on it. I’m sure some people will see this collaboration and assume that it’s for commercial opportunity and of course they’re right - it’s no bad thing to have one of the biggest stars in the world sing on one of my songs!! But like the other three collaborators on this album, there is a genuine and undeniable link that he has had to Passenger over the years and to this song in particular.
I’m grateful to ‘Let Her Go’ beyond words. Not just for its success, but for the opportunity to reach people all over the world, just for four minutes, and make some kind of small difference. What an amazing thing,” Passenger shares.
Passenger & Ed Sheeran | Photo Credit: Zak Walters
The years leading up to the release of 'All The Little Lights' were filled with personal and professional upheavals and led Mike to a path of busking across the UK and eventually Australia, where he found himself at Linear Recording. The album quietly transformed into a global phenomenon buoyed by “Let Her Go”. The smash single took the world by storm, generating 6 BILLION streams to date and reached #1 in 19 countries, platinum status in 11 countries, and became the #2 most Shazamed Song of all Time and #1 most Shazamed Pop Song of All Time.
Passenger now celebrates everything before, during and after this era with 'All The Little Lights (Anniversary Edition)'.
'All The Little Lights (Anniversary Edition)' - Tracklist
1. Things That Stop You Dreaming
2. Let Her Go (feat. Ed Sheeran)
3. Staring At The Stars
4. All The Little Lights
5. The Wrong Direction
6. Circles (feat. Gabrielle Aplin)
7. Keep On Walking
8. Patient Love
9. Life’s For The Living (feat. Foy Vance)
10. Holes
11. Feather On The Clyde (feat. Nina Nesbitt)
Stream 'All The Little Lights (Anniversary Edition)'
here: ffm.to/passenger-allthelittlelights
Watch the music video "Let Her Go (feat. Ed Sheeran)" here
FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | NETTWERK RECORDS
FOLLOW PASSENGER
Source: Secret Signals
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Get Ready to Indulge in Tranquility: Serenease Aesthetic and Wellness Studio Opens its Doors in the Heart of Quezon City
Quezon City, November 8 2023– Serenease Aesthetic and Wellness Studio, a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation, had a grand opening of its first ever branch in the bustling heart of Quezon City.
"We are thrilled to bring a touch of tranquility to the heart of Quezon City. Our spa is not just a place; it's an experience designed to revitalize the body, mind, and spirit by offering them relaxing treatments that make them look and feel more beautiful inside and out. We invite everyone to embark on a journey of ultimate relaxation and self-care with us," said the owners of the newly opened spa.
About Serenease:
Serenease Aesthetic & Wellness Studio is your destination for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Their dedicated team offers a wide range of beauty and wellness treatments, from spa massages to eyelash and nail enhancements, all delivered in a tranquil atmosphere meticulously designed for relaxation. What distinguishes them is their commitment to affordable luxury, ensuring that quality treatments are accessible to all. They make sure to prioritize exceptional customer service, aiming to create lasting relationships with their clients.
Extraordinary Services of Serenease Aesthetic and Wellness Studio :
-Exquisite Treatments: Experience a wide range of luxurious treatments, from head spa to indulgent massages, to nails, eyelashes, and waxing/threading services, expertly curated to pamper your senses.
-Skilled Therapists and Technicians: Their team of highly skilled therapists and technicians, trained in the art of wellness, provide personalized and nurturing care to every guest.
- Soothing Ambiance: Step into a tranquil oasis featuring calming interiors, ambient lighting, and the gentle colors of nature, creating the perfect atmosphere for your relaxation.
-Grand Opening Offer: To celebrate their opening, the first twenty (20) guests will receive a free membership.
Location and Contact Information:
Serenease Aesthetic and Wellness Studio
#60 Sct. Chuatoco cor. Champaca St. Brgy. Roxas, Quezon City (02) 8522 9185
Care@sereneaseph.com
www.sereneaseph.com
Social Media:
Follow them on social media for updates, promotions, and upcoming discounts: - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sereneaseph
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sereneaseph/
- Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@sereneaseph
Source: Serenease
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Book Signing on November 18!
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ADB, SQB Sign $50 Million Loan to Support Privatization and Expand Lending to MSMEs in Uzbekistan
TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN (10 November 2023) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Sanoat Qurilish Bank (SQB) signed a $50 million senior convertible loan to support Uzbekistan’s privatization of state-owned banks, which will strengthen the banking sector, contribute to economic growth and job creation. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) are parallel lenders.
The loan proceeds will be used to help SQB expand its financing to underserved micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), including those owned or led by women (WMSMEs). Portfolio diversification will contribute to SQB's transition into a fully universal commercial bank by serving a broader customer segment. ADB will also provide technical assistance to help SQB implement its transformation roadmap.
“ADB fully supports the Government of Uzbekistan in its transformation to a vibrant and inclusive market economy and its implementation of banking sector reforms. This project will support the stability of the country’s banking system, capitalization, and deposit levels while strengthening resilience and lending to climate projects and underserved MSMEs and WMSMEs” said ADB’s Director General of the Private Sector Operations Department Suzanne Gaboury. “This project also provides the region with a strong business case for other countries seeking similar reforms.”
In 2017 the Government of Uzbekistan embarked on an ambitious market reform agenda, including the privatization of more than 100 state-owned banks. In 2020, the government’s Strategy for Reforming the Banking Sector, 2020–2025, outlined directions and objectives for the banking sector and prioritized the privatization of six of the largest state-owned banks. ADB, as well as other multilateral development banks, have been supporting the privatization process and banking sector reforms.
“MSMEs continue to struggle to secure commercial financing to fund their growth, with women-owned being the most affected. ADB is supporting the enabling environment in Uzbekistan for MSMEs to have easier access to markets, as well as providing the much needed financing to close the financing gap for MSMEs,” said ADB’s Uzbekistan Country Director Kanokpan Lao-Araya. “ADB’s partnership in SQB builds on those two objectives.”
MSMEs play a significant role in Uzbekistan’s economy, comprising the majority of registered businesses and employing 74% of the workforce. However, access to financing remains a challenge, with only 13% of the sector having access to commercial loans. Women-led businesses face an even greater financing gap, estimated at $2.7 billion, with loans to women-owned businesses making up just approximately 2.5% of total bank loans.
“ADB’s support comes at a crucial time for SQB to underpin investors’ confidence and further enhance SQB’s environmental, social and governance practices, and its digitalization process. ADB’s support in these areas is very important to us,” said SQB’s Chairman of the Management Board Aziz Akbarjonov.
Founded in 1922, SQB is one of the oldest banks in Uzbekistan and is the second-largest state-owned bank. SQB is one of the strongest brands and banking market leaders with one of the widest branch networks in the country.
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.
Source: ADB; photo by ADB
The Kid LAROI releases star-studded album, The First Time
The highly anticipated record also features collaborations with Justin Bieber, Central Cee, Future, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Robert Glasper, Jung Kook, D4VD, and Baby Drill
After increasing anticipation to a boiling point throughout the fall, The Kid LAROI proudly presents his highly awaited full-length debut album, THE FIRST TIME, out now via Columbia Records. As a whole, the 20-track opus affirms The Kid LAROI as the game’s most inventive, infectious, and inimitable outlier. He threads together a simultaneously nuanced and expansive body of work powered by a signature hybrid of hip-hop, pop, alternative, and indie.
To celebrate the record’s arrival, LAROI shares the Cole Bennett-directed music video for the new single and opener “SORRY,” with a nod to one of his first videos “Let Her Go.” As a soul sample rattles at the sound of 808s, he gets introspective with a confession, “Every day I wake up scared that it could be taken from me,” only to remind, “I ain’t sorry.”
The star-studded album includes friends and peers, including Justin Bieber who delivers a reflective recollection on “STRANGERS PT. 2 (Interlude).” The latter’s piano continues on “CALL ME INSTEAD” [feat. YoungBoy Never Broke Again & Robert Glasper]. The Kid LAROI’s warbling vocals hover over the beat as his collaborators each accent the track.
The album concludes on a powerful note during “KIDS ARE GROWING UP.” In a full circle moment, The Kid LAROI admits, “Growing up I watched my favorite rappers’ interviews, I ain’t believe ‘em when they said it ain’t all what it seems, but now I’m here I realize they were telling truth.”
Check out the full tracklist below:
THE FIRST TIME
1. SORRY
2. BLEED
3. I THOUGHT THAT I NEEDED YOU
4. WHERE DO YOU SLEEP?
5. TOO MUCH (feat. Jung Kook & Central Cee)
6. TEAR ME APART
7. STRANGERS (Interlude)
8. NIGHTS LIKE THIS
9. WHAT’S THE MOVE? (feat. Future & Baby Drill)
10. STRANGERS PT 2 Interlude (with Justin Bieber)
11. CALL ME INSTEAD (feat. YoungBoy Never Broke Again & Robert Glasper)
12. DESERVE YOU
13. WHAT WENT WRONG???
14. THE LINE (feat. D4VD)
15. WHAT JUST HAPPENED
16. YOU
17. LOVE AGAIN
18. WHERE DOES YOUR SPIRIT GO?
19. YOU NEVER FORGET YOUR FIRST TIME…
20. KIDS ARE GROWING UP
Earlier this week, he surprised fans with “WHAT’S THE MOVE?” [feat. Future & Baby Drill]. He also preceded the release with "WHAT JUST HAPPENED," “BLEED” and "TOO MUCH" (feat. Jung Kook & labelmate Central Cee).
The Kid LAROI’s THE FIRST TIME is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Columbia Records and Sony Music Entertainment.
FOLLOW THE KID LAROI:
INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE
Source: Nyou
INDIE-POP SINGER-SONGWRITER ROSIE DARLING UNVEILS CAPTIVATING DEBUT ALBUM 'LANTERNS'
Photo Credit: Celina Kenyon
November 10th, 2023 – Singapore – Indie-pop artist Rosie Darling releases her debut album 'Lanterns' via Nettwerk – an exploration of confessions, heartbreak and acceptance. Rosie has entwined her lyrical prowess with her honeyed vocals to create a record that is utterly raw and genuine to her.
Rosie’s latest emphasis track from the record is "The Longest Goodbye”, a heartfelt reflection on the enduring pain and nostalgia of a past relationship that lingers, despite attempts to move on. Each track illuminates different facets of her life and emotions taking us on an intimate yet anthemic journey.
The result of Rosie’s remarkable talent and exceptional collaborations, including Justin Gammella (FINNEAS, Ashe), Wynter Bethel of Tommy Lefroy and Swedish-based songwriters Boy in Space, Hilda Stenmalm, is a stunning collection of poetic alt-pop tracks that unpack the emotions of young adulthood. 'Lanterns' challenges us to look within and accept all that life throws at us.
In Rosie’s words, “I want to celebrate the thorny process, feel the pain of it and hopefully, find healing. I want to encourage people to have a stronger heart and an appreciation of who we are becoming no matter what life throws at us. Let’s get to the other side! ”
LA-based indie-pop artist Rosie Darling is a quietly confident and passionately creative singer-songwriter, known for her signature flowing melodies and gut-wrenching lyrics. Her 2021 debut EP 'Coping' and 2022’s 'Golden Age' EP kickstarted her stratospheric rise, with over 200+ million global streams and the title-track “Coping” having swept up viral charts on Spotify – charting on Viral 50 playlists in 8 markets across Asia and Top 20 on the Global Viral Chart, and support from the likes of VH1 India, MTV Asia, Rolling Stone India, Billboard Indonesia and more.
“Shimmery introspective indie pop.”
– Under The Radar
“Darling nails those quiet moments, but also balls up her frustration in affecting big-picture questions: “What did you want from me? / I gave you everything.”
– Billboard
“Rosie’s journey as an artist both personally and professionally centers around embracing and leaning into growth, change, and evolution – themes anyone can relate to.”
– V Magazine
'Lanterns' Tracklisting
1. Boxes
2. Nail In The Coffin (ft Boy In Space)
3. Lost On You
4. I Don’t Want It Anymore
5. Only Fools
6. Villain
7. Justify
8. Burden
9. I’m Different Now
10. The Longest Goodbye
11. Overthrow
Stream the album 'Lanterns' here: rosiedarling.ffm.to/lanterns
FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | NETTWERK RECORDS
FOLLOW ROSIE DARLING
Source: Secret Signals
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IT IS MY DREAM TO HAVE MY BOOKS SOLD AT National Book Store 🔥😭📚 Laking National po ako!📖 We are one step closer to that dream as my books will be part of Sulit Reads Christmas Book Fair from November 17-19, 2023, at the Gateway Mall 2 Quantum Skyview. Please buy my books! Please support my author journey 🙏🏼 NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS! Publish On DemandCentralBooksAraneta City
Please Say Thank You
Transit Dialog has published my essay, Please Say Thank You. Read it here.
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Barbie Almalbis releases new synth-pop single “Wicked Heart”
The award-winning singer-songwriter finds herself reflecting on misguided actions based on emotions
Photo credit: Nina Sandejas
Multi-awarded singer-songwriter Barbie Almalbis wraps up her tremendous year in music with the release of “Wicked Heart,” her new single under 12 Stone Records and Sony Music Entertainment.
Barbie’s new song reflects on the repercussions of making rash decisions out of emotion. According to Barbie, “Wicked Heart” also presents the rhetoric that while our desires and emotions are a beautiful part of who we are and how we experience life, there must be something “truer” than the heart.
The Dahilan artist recalls a personal experience in the past involving a misguided action that she regretted doing.
“I was thinking about how following your heart can lead to trouble sometimes,” the Filipino alt-rock icon explains. “I want to follow my heart, but it’s always changing its mind. It’s definitely something I’ve personally been through, but it also takes inspiration from the verse in Jeremiah 17:9: The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked: who can know it?”
Written and produced by Barbie Almalbis herself, with JorelCorpus and Jett Galindo on mixing and mastering duties, respectively, “Wicked Heart” hits the high mark with its refreshing mix of ‘80s influences and pastel synths. Delivering a whopper of a pop anthem, Barbie initially penned the track on a “guitalele” to harness a different dimension and vibe.
Barbie reveals, “Writing on a new, different instrument makes the process feel exciting and fresh sometimes. As the song progressed, I realized I didn’t hear much guitar in it, so I asked my bandmate Nikko Rivera to fill the whole thing with keys and synth parts, and he sent me like 10 layers of things. I just added a little bit of guitar later on, so that I’ll have something to do when we play it live. Karel played bass on it, and Jonard played the drums.”
Barbie Almalbis recently celebrated her 25th year in the music scene with a concert chronicling her career as one of the most influential figures in Pinoy alternative rock. She also recently released her debut solo record, Parade, on vinyl for the first time. To date, Almalbis is working on new songs and collaborations for future releases.
“Wicked Heart” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.
Follow Barbie Almalbis on socials: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Source: Nyou
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