Volunteered at Ateneo! We repacked relief goods for the Typhoon Odette victims 🤍 To donate relief goods, please contact the Tanging Yaman Foundation. God bless you!
Filipino singer-songwriter Clara Benin honors memories on incredibly moving single “blink”
After gaining recognition in the Southeast Asian region with the release of “Suara Hati,” a reimagining of her 2015 acoustic ballad in Bahasa Indonesia, Filipino singer-songwriter Clara Benin conquers music on her own terms with brand new single “blink”—out on all digital music platforms worldwide via OFFMUTE.
On her first original single under the international record label, Benin honors memories like it’s a fundamental aspect of human nature. She finds refuge in reliving the past without any hint of regret, treating it as part of her personal journey.
“I had a series of sleepless nights just recollecting and reliving different times of my life,” the folk-pop artist shares in a statement. “Some were peaceful times. Some were turbulent times. Some were traumatic times. I didn’t really understand why these memories were resurfacing in my head. Writing ‘blink’ just helped me resolve these thoughts.”
Sprawling past the three-minute mark, “blink” propels Benin’s songwriting to compelling new heights. The track is deceptively simple by standards, but its introspective quality, paired with an incredibly moving arrangement, ups the stakes on a purely artistic level.
“I particularly wanted this song to be a sonic journey that is metaphorical to one’s journey towards healing,” Benin shares. “This song is very intimate with my vocals and the acoustic guitar upfront but there are a lot of atmospheric undertones to it if you listen intently.”
The song features gifted multi-instrumentalist Gabba Santiago on drums and electronic musician The Ringmaster on production duties. Breathing so much life into the song, both Gabba and The Ringmaster display unassuming brilliance with subtlety and character—all while giving Benin’s voice an opportunity to flutter and soar.
“Aside from The Ringmaster, I got Gabba Santiago to play the drums,” the 27-year-old hitmaker said. “I enjoy working with Gabba and The Ringmaster because I feel like they really understood my vision for blink.”
The release of “blink” is accompanied by a lyric video made by Clara Benin herself. A music video directed by Josh Elefan will drop sometime February next year.
Check out Clara Benin’s “blink” on all digital music platforms via OFFMUTE.
Follow CLARA BENIN on socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clarabeninmusic
Twitter: https://twitter.com/clarabeninmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarabeninmusic
Follow OFFMUTE on socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/offmuteASIA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/offmute
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offmute/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offmute
Source: Nyou
Punk Tracks
Hello! My 100-word short story, Punk Tracks, was featured here.🍺 Cheers!
𝗣𝘂𝗻𝗸 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗸𝘀
I rode the LRT today to Carriedo. I needed to clear my mind after a long day of working at home. I ride trains to decompress because the tracks give me a sense of grounding. Once I reached Carriedo, I made the short walk to Fred's for a beer. They were playing punk from the noughties.
The beer and the lively, guitar-driven melody transported me back to my younger years. I felt the stress of work melt away. I was back to being punk without a clue.
I rode the train back to Balintawak. I was ready to embrace the weekend. - 𝙎𝙖𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙖 𝙂𝙖𝙞𝙡 𝙇𝙪𝙘𝙖𝙨
To Be Frank
Silent Nights and Happy Ever Afters is a Christmas anthology that features my short story, To Be Frank. I am very proud to be one of the writers featured in this book! Get your own copy from this link. 📚 #authorlife 🎄
A Sunnies Christmas
Thank you @sunniesstudios for our eyewear! We really appreciate our Christmas gifts 🎁 👓
Speak Write Live
Hi everyone! My second book, Speak Write Live, is now exclusively available at https://linktr.ee/speakoutsam 📕
A couple of months ago, I received numerous messages regarding how I wrote my first book. While some friends suggested that I make a presentation deck or a video, I realized that I should teach people how I did it by writing a book. 📖 Find out the systems that worked for me when I wrote my first book and how I made publishing my book a reality!
Buy my book now 👉🏼 https://linktr.ee/speakoutsam 📕
Christmas with Grief
Christmas is finally here. It is a season filled with joy and merriment. However, not everyone is experiencing happiness during this festive time. For people like me, grief is a challenging reality that needs to be dealt with even when the city is glowing with fairy lights and carols are playing on the radio. Grief can be a downer, but it does not mean the end of the world.
I have survived several Christmases while grieving. It is not an easy endeavor, but it is doable. Here are some tips that I can share on surviving Christmas with grief:
Exercise- Working out can give you a much-needed energy boost. It can inspire you to continue moving throughout the day. Here is a Christmas themed workout that I have been following lately:
Video by Reps to the Rhythm
2. Write on your journal- Are you feeling lonelier than usual on Christmas time? Maybe you just need a journal where you can vent out and write your sadness away. Here is a video that may inspire you to jumpstart your journaling habit:
Video by Noted Journal PH
If you are not the type who journals in paragraph form, you can give bullet journaling a try. Here is a video to get you acquainted with the system:
Video by Noted Journal PH
3. Write a book- This can reward not just your future readers but your soul as well. Write your own story, and it could end up being a book. If you do not know where to begin, watch this video that helped me write my own book:
Video by AnakNiRizal
Christmas is just a season. It will eventually pass. Follow my suggested steps and trust me, you will get through this. So get moving, get writing, and make this Christmas a better story amidst the grief in your heart.
Now Available: Silent Nights and Happy Ever Afters!
Silent Nights and Happy Ever Afters is a Christmas anthology that features my short story, To Be Frank. I am very proud to be one of the writers featured in this book! Get your own copy from this link. 📚 #authorlife 🎄
Emergency Appeal for Typhoon Odette Victims
Hi everyone, I hope that we can all help our brothers and sisters who were affected by the recent Typhoon Odette. Please refer to the image below from the Philippine Red Cross on how to give immediate relief to the victims who need them most. Thank you and God bless!
WATERWALK RECORDS‘ Ariel Tsai releases upliftingworship song “MY ALL IN ALL”
Sony Music Philippines recently announced the launch of WATERWALK RECORDS, a music label focused on bringing fresh Christian music to a new, streaming generation. The label will feature faith-based entertainment artists from across not just the Philippines, but throughout Asia, who represent the best of Christian music combined with their own unique styles.
After launching several new songs from artists in the Philippines such as Morissette, Hazel Faith, NathanHuang, and more, WATERWALK RECORDS is releasing a song from Ariel Tsai, a popular Taiwanese singer-songwriter, pianist, and YouTuber signed under Sony Music Taiwan. Her track, “MY ALL IN ALL,” is a beautiful and heartfelt piano-driven worship song written by Ariel herself.
“I wrote this song this past year during a time where I felt quite lost and uncertain about the future,” says Tsai. “I felt I was holding on to the worldly definition of success and chasing it, just to end up realizing that it could never fill the void in my heart. That was when I came to God and resurrendered myself to Him, and God had let me experience His peace again, the peace that the world could not give. Therefore, I wanted to use this song to record what I felt and experienced—the fact that nothing could ever compare to God, and He is indeed the only one I need.”
Kevin Foo, General Manager of Sony Music Taiwan, was also actively involved in the production of the track. “It is truly a blessing for me, leading the Sony Music Taiwan company, to be working in something I’m deeply passionate in every single day, and that is the music industry. Working with Ariel to produce her release with WATERWALK RECORDS was really an opportunity to dovetail my personal faith, with my passion in music,” says Foo. “It was truly a privilege for me to be able to play a part in this amazing song of worship, a song that reflects Ariel’s journey and her declaration of faith. I hope people will be drawn in to the message of hope in this song, and lives will be impacted.”
“MY ALL IN ALL” is out now on all digital music streaming platforms. The official lyric video is alsoavailable on Ariel Tsai’s YouTube channel.
Source: Sony Music Philippines
Speak Blog Live at the Ortigas Foundation Library
My first book, Speak Blog Live, is now at the Ortigas Foundation Library. 📖 My book can now be used for historical and cultural research in that library. It is an honor to contribute my work to Filipino researchers! 📖 Buy my book here. ✨
Israel Sponsors Hospital-In-A-Bike Project
MASHAV - Israel’s Agency for international development cooperation and the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines co-sponsored Hospital-in-Bike Project of Makati Medical Center Foundation, Inc. The project aims to save lives or prevent further injuries by giving urgent medical attention and intervention to remote areas across the Philippines.
The PHP 500,000.00 grant will be allocated for a basic Trauma Kit that will include medical supplies and equipment such as nasal tracheostomy tube, surgical tools, and portable oxygen. Specialized communications equipment will also be included.
“Part of the embassy and MASHAV’s vision is to share with the Philippines the know-how technologies which provided the basis for Israel’s own rapid development,” Ambassador Ilan Fluss said. “The embassy gives importance to reaching out to remote communities and supporting them with innovative but simple approach to deal with their needs such as responding to medical emergencies,” he added.
A total of 100 cycle responders will benefit from the said project: 25 Tausug Heroes based in Sulu Province, 25 cycle responders based in Luzon, 25 cycle responders based in Visayas, and 25 cycle responders based in Mindanao.
“We hope that more communities, especially the far-flung areas, will benefit from this project in the future,” Ambassador Fluss said.
Ambassador Fluss and Deputy Chief of Mission Nir Balzam personally turned over the grant to Dr. Victor Gisbert, President of MakatiMed Foundation and MASHAV alumna and Executive Director of MakatMed Foundation Ms. Mary Margaret M. Barro. Present virtually was the board of trustees of Makati Medical Center Foundation, Inc. chaired by Mr. Manny Pangilinan.
Source: EMBASSY OF ISRAEL MANILA
R&B newcomer LOIR teams up with rapper Guddhist Gunanita on hypnotic slow jam ‘Umaga’
The music video showcases a forbidden love affair set in a mythical forest
Budding R&B artist LOIR reflects on the process of growth and peace of mind on her new single “Umaga”—out now on all digital music platforms via Sony Music Philippines.
Inspired by her realizations in life and romantic relationships, the track maps her journey towards acceptance and starting anew with the right mindset.
Laced with lush strings, acoustic guitars, and minimal beats, the hypnotic slow jam is produced by frequent collaborators HavoMusic and Goodson, whom LOIR worked with on “Sakay.”
It also features a rap verse and songwriting credit from acclaimed hip-hop artist Guddhist Gunanita. The two have teamed up together earlier this year for the sun-kissed bop “Dalampasigan,” which to date, has more than 600 thousand views on YouTube alone.
Both acts star on the official music video of “Umaga,” which showcases a love story arc set in a magical forest. LOIR essays the role of a Diwata, who unexpectedly gets entangled in a forbidden romantic relationship with a hunter, played by Guddhist Gunanita himself.
“We have always prioritized the artist’s vision in making music videos,” says production outfit, Swimming Pictures. “And upon listening to Loir’s ‘Umaga’, we immediately formed this simple narrative and atmosphere that should be seen in its visuals. From there, we built these fantasy-mythological characters of Loir (as Diwata) and Guddhist (as Mangangaso). And we thought this suits the whole intention and vibe of Loir and ‘Umaga’ very well.”
In an official statement, the production house responsible for the music video emphasized how Loir and Guddhistare a gem to work with. “Even from concept meetings pre-production, we felt their enthusiasm to get this story turn into a reality. During production, the shoot went smoothly as the artists were always ready to go and costumed in-character. We felt their deep love for their music video in the whole process of making it up until the finished product.”
“Umaga” serves as the second installment in a series of LOIR music videos that are connected by a narrative thread. LOIR is expected to wrap up the series of MVs with her upcoming EP to be released in 2022, featuring more collaborators in the local music scene.
Watch the music video here.
Source: Sony Music Philippines
Guiding Light Books
Still thinking of gift ideas for kids and kids at heart? Why not buy them educational books from @guidinglightbooksph? They are local publications that teach values and good deeds to young learners. They are also reasonably priced and of good quality! Buy them here: https://www.guidinglight.com.ph 📖 #booksam @gabinanamanprod
Infinite Possibilities’ MINO, expands the spectrum with the 3rd full-length album “TO INFINITY.”
Stream “To Infinity.” here
MINO of WINNER has returned with a new concept of ‘Digital Gun Man’ proving his own music spectrum. Entitled “TO INFINITY.”, the third album was inspired by the famous line “To Infinity and Beyond” of the animation Toy Story and showcases his infinite love for his fans.
Previously, YG explained that MINO’s second album is “really ‘MINO-like’ album and MINO’s identity itself.” Meanwhile, “TO INFINITY.”showed his confidence in this comeback album. He participated in the writing, composing, and arranging all songs that feature blends of his own hip-hop swag, sexy mood, and experimental sound. MINOmentions that this third album is a particularly lovely album with the concept of ‘city cowboy'. He also added that he wants to bring out the modern vibe through emoticons included in the song title and expressed each songs entertainingly. The album single ‘Tang!♡’, stands out with passionate lyrics that tackles willingness to give up everything to get love.
MINO’s third full-length album “TO INFINITY.” is now available viawww.applewoodshop.com / www.applewoodshopph.com. For those who will buy the album, they can get an opportunity to participate in a video call fan sign event with MINO, or will receive a signed Polaroid, signed CD, and an exclusive selfie photo card and handwritten message card from MINO.
Source: Nyou
Israel Embassy Gifts Portable Water Purifier to IP Community
The season of gift giving is in the air as the Embassy of Israel, together with the Shalom Club-Nueva Ecija, donated a portable water purifier and food packs to the indigenous peoples of the Bulwagan ng mga Katutubo in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.
Ambassador Ilan Fluss personally handed over the Israeli-made portable water purifier to the Samahan ng mga MakakalikasangKatutubong Ayta (SaMaKa) officers.
“We hope that the indigenous peoples will have access to clean and potable water with the use of this Israeli technology,”Ambassador Fluss said. “The embassy continues to look for ways on how Israeli technology and innovation will reach and benefit more Filipino people,” he added.
Ambassador Fluss, Deputy Chief of Mission Nir Balzam, and MASHAV Officer Gladys Baniqued-Turiano made a product demo of the portable water purifier showing how the water in the Bacao River is filtered to drinkable water.
Ngayong Pasko, Salo Tayo is an annual Christmas outreach project of the Shalom Club-Nueva Ecija headed by Ms. Lorna Mae Vero in partnership with the Israeli embassy.
The turnover activity was held on December 9 and was participated by Usec. Mr. Rolando M. Rivera; National Commission on Indigenous Peoples-Nueva Ecija Provincial Office (NCIP-NEPO) Provincial Officer Dr. Donato Bumacas;Barangay Chairman of Doña Josefa, Palayan City; Chieftain Lando Belmonte of Domagats; Bgy. IPMR Carling Baclay of Aytas; Provincial IPMR/Board Member of NE Hon. Emmanuel Domingo; Fr. Jacinto Beltran, Exec. Director, BESTI (Diocese of Cab. NGO; and Ms. Eugene Baltazar, director for extension services of the Central Luzon State University.
Source: EMBASSY OF ISRAEL MANILA
Chocolates from Nyou
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Thank you @nyouconsultancy @ianurrutia for my @partagerph handmade truffle chocolates 🍫❤️🎄 it’s a pleasure working with you!
Speak Blog Live at the Filipinas Heritage Library
My first book Speak Blog Live is now at the Filipinas Heritage Library! I donated my work there because it is important for it to be part of a collection of Filipiniana books. My life may be short and finite, but my work can live on in a library where it can be read, cared for, and appreciated.
It is a huge honor for me as an author to be part of the Filipinas Heritage Library. Mabuhay ang Pilipinong Manunulat!
6cyclemind returns with soaring rock anthem “Langit”
The new single off their upcoming seventh album serves as a testament to their enduring power as a creative force
Filipino pop-rock outfit 6cylemind makes a triumphant return to form with the release of “Langit,” the first single off their upcoming seventh studio album under Sony Music Philippines.
Characterized by its soaring introspection, “Langit” is a song about chasing one’s dreams, making it happen, and allowing yourself to fail and persevere in order to achieve your goals in life. As lead vocalist Tutti Caringal puts it, “It won’t always be a smooth ride. There will be bumps on the road, but what matters is whenever you fall you get back up and soldier on.”
The unapologetically brash anthem was written by rhythm guitarist Rye Sarmiento and Michael Lao, who initially made the demo for every dreamer out there to keep pushing and never give up on their dreams.
With minimum health and safety protocols taken into account, the band went through several jamming sessions prior to hitting the studio to record their respective parts. Despite the restriction imposed during the peak of the pandemic period, 6cyclemind carried on with their brand of professionalism and work ethic, producing one of their finest singles to date.
“I feel like we’ve surpassed our expectations in terms of sound and feel,” Rye said. “We’re trying to deliver a positive and empowering anthem that has that epic sound to it. Special shout out to our sound engineers, Oliver Romblon and Jam Bumanlag, whom we get to work for the first time. We’re grateful of how everything turned out.”
Still on the top of their game 20 years after the launch of their career-defining debut, 6cyclemind loves a good challenge, and on “Langit,” they’re still as persistent as ever, and are more risk takers when it comes to the creative aspects of the recording.
“What makes the single a cut above the rest is that the recording process challenged everyone in the band to give his best with limited physical and moral support from other members,” bassist and backing vocalist Roberto "Bob" Cañamo shares. “The song being technically self-produced by the band, was recorded with a little more personal touch by each member. Everyone was so involved during the post production and was so excited to hear and release the final cut of our latest song, Langit.”
6cyclemind’s “Langit” is out now on all digital music platforms via Sony Music Philippines.
Source: Sony Music Philippines
Museo ng Katipunan
The Museo ng Katipunan will teach you about the heroism of the Katipunan revolutionaries and inspire you to love your own country 🇵🇭
