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Bajula delivers nostalgia with sensual bliss on soulful new track “Bad Man”
First impressions might not be everything, but electronic soul duo Bajula shows inimitable promise with the release of their debut single “Catching You” a few months ago. The irresistible slow jam, whose retro-inspired R&B shows no signs of withering away, received consistent airplay at Jam 88.3 for weeks, and even gained traction online—thanks to its hilarious music video and sultry, infectious vibe.
Two months after the maiden song became available on various streaming platforms, Alvin “Vertigo” Guanlao and Jolo “Frazier” Juatco return with a follow-up track that blends bedroom R&B/pop confessionals with homemade instrumentation.
Their sophomore single “Bad Man” is cosmic in scope, but intimate in presentation: an attempt for the eclectic pair to deliver nostalgia with sensual bliss and restraint. Singing in Prince-style falsetto, Frazier takes over the vocal duties for the first time while radiating a wistful energy over impressionistic synths and lo-fi beats.
According to Frazier, he wrote “Bad Man” to capture and represent at least one of the stages of a typical relationship, which is ‘flirting’ and getting to know the person on a surface level. “In terms of describing the actual song, Bad Man is about the internal battles of a reluctant pursuer towards a girl he likes. The theme is kind of flirty but chill in terms of the instrumentation and arrangement.”
The song is produced by both Frazier and Vertigo, and was initially conceived remotely before recording it in the former’s home studio. It also helps that Vertigo has technical skills and project management background, so it takes little to no learning curve when it comes to using different technologies that would help them fill in the gaps created by the pandemic.
“The song was basically done when it comes to lyrics, arrangement and overall production when Frazier sent it to me, the falsetto style of singing accompanied with lyricism of subtle romantic desires paved its way to a sexy and soulful feel,” Vertigo said. “I’m also playing around with my vocal harmonizer at that time so I tried adding some backup vocals using it, and to our surprise, it added more personality and depth to the song.”
As for other collaborators in the music project, Bajula teamed up with contemporary visual artist Rene Bituin for the single art, and Hennie Ken Avila and Final Projects Studios PH for the assets needed for promotional content.
“Bad Man” will be part of Bajula’s upcoming debut album, Sensual Dance Club. Containing 8 tracks of sonically arresting musical treat, the 2022 record aims to bring back the “fun” in soul music, with influences that range from ‘New Jack Swing to Tom Misch, Anderson .Paak to Masego.
“Bad Man” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.
Links:
Source: Nyou
Rising singer-songwriter liesl-mae is ready to conquer the Asian region with debut single “Headspace”
OFFMUTE, Sony Music Entertainment’s new Southeast Asian label, is excited to put the promising new talent on the global map
After delivering an impressive rendition of Ben&Ben’s anthemic rock single “Lunod,” up-and-coming songbird liesl-mae is ready to conquer the international music arena with the release of her original songentitled “Headspace.”
With two previously-released singles under her belt, “Headspace” marks her official debut as a soulful pop singer-songwriter with a knack for ethereal melodies and soaring vocals. The single is one of the first original songs that the Kuala Lumpur-based artist has ever written, noting that she penned “Headspace” in the beginning of 2020 when she found herself at a point in her life where she was feeling weighed down and overwhelmed.
“Headspace” was born out of the songwriter finding herself struggling to feel present; instead spending most of her time inside her own head.
“Trying to snap out of it and being able to focus again. That’s what the song’s about,” says liesl-mae.
Lyrically, the single is a nuanced display of vulnerability and, in liesl-mae’s own words, “a cry for help” – of wanting to find peace and safety, whether it be a person, place, or headspace.
An advocate for mental health, liesl-mae is determined to openly address and discuss mental health in her music in the hopes of inspiring others, as well as to foster understanding around the subject matter – and she does it all with her heart on her sleeve. The proof is in her artistry.
“‘Headspace’ is about finding peace amidst the chaos. Writing this song gave me that peace, and I can only hope that listening to it gives you that too,” concludes liesl-mae.
liesl-mae is one of the three new artists that OFFMUTE, Sony Music Entertainment’s new Southeast Asian label, signed upon its launch last March 9, 2021. Prior to “Headspace,” she has previously released called “Solace,” a self-written and home-recorded single born out of the lockdown-stricken crucible that is life in a pandemic.
“Headspace” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via OFFMUTE. The official music video will be released at 8pm, same date.
Follow liesl-mae: Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Spotify | Apple Music
Source: Nyou
Maris Racal and raven team up for sparkly popanthem “Pumila Ka”
After making headlines with generation-defining songs that celebrate individuality and empowerment, Maris Racal is back with another track that fits cohesively in the country’s ever-diversifying P-Pop music landscape.
Featuring up-and-coming singer-songwriter and rapper raven, Maris Racal’s latest single “Pumila Ka” asserts the internet-breaking star’s knack for capturing the zeitgeist and shaking up outdated conventions in mainstream music.
On “Pumila Ka,” the recording artist claps back with an empowering tune that emphasizes how people need to be more aware and considerate of those around them - that it's okay to aim high as long as you won't be hurting or do anyone wrong in the process.
“I wanted to write a really relatable song and I was thinking of everyday expressions that I could build a song around,” Maris explains. “The inspiration for this song is the Filipino expression Pumila Ka usually endearingly delivered among friends when competing for a crush. I asked Rico Blanco for a dance beat, and so he quickly did a dancehall beat and within seconds, I was singing the chorus.”
During the recording, Maris thought of adding a rap segment and immediately handpicked her Balcony Entertainment co-artist raven, a rising OPM act behind some of the biggest ‘bedroom pop hits’ of the last two years, to be part of the project. “I automatically knew that it had to be raven,” the multimedia star reveals. “ravenwas so cool to work with. When I first heard his rap, I was thrilled that it has so many catchy lines and flows.”
The effervescent bop was written by Maris and raven, with production by Rico Blanco. Maris also co-wrote the music with RB.
According to raven, working with Maris was a fun and exciting experience. “I used to watch her in PBB, and I’m glad that I got to collaborate with someone as talented as Maris. The verse that I’ve written for her was based on a true story.”
The prolific musician shares that it was his first time appearing in a music video with backup dancers and a more elaborate setup. He also praised Maris Racal and Rico Blanco’s work ethic as collaborators, and their kind gesture of making him comfortable during the entire shoot.“At first, I felt intimidated by Maris and sir Rico, because I’m not used to working with artists of their caliber. Good thing they were approachable and very accommodating on the set. I’ve learned a lot of things from them.”
“Pumila Ka” is accompanied by a colorful music video that bursts with the 24-year-old singer-songwriter/actress’ chameleonic persona. Helmed by veteran filmmaker TrebMonteras, the visuals offer a choreography-heavy spectacle that brings listeners back to the era of early 2000s pop music, led by artists such as Beyoncé, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera. “We wanted to go for a retro futuristic and tribal aesthetic,” Maris adds.
Upon the release of the music video, “Pumila Ka” instantly climbed the iTunes Philippines chart at No. 3, and trended on Twitter Philippines at No. 1 for several hours. As of press time, the MV has racked up more than 100,000 views.
“Pumila Ka” marks Maris Racal’s first release of 2022, and continues the journey of her previous singles “Ate Sandali” and “Asa Naman.” Both tracks earned positive feedback from music critics and fans for steering pop music forward with exciting new ideas.
The song also serves as raven’s latest offering since 2021’s Lika Na album, a collection of songs that put refreshing spin on ‘90s indie rock, lo-fi hip-hop, folk, and bedroom pop. The record includes hits and absolute gems such as “Ngayon Lang 'To,” “Paraluman,” “SUKI (which includes Rico Blanco on production),” and “Kung Tayo, Tayo.”
Maris Racal and raven’s “Pumila Ka” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music.Watch the music video here.
Source: Sony Music Philippines
Heroes For ChIldren 2021
Yay I finally got my finisher’s medal for last year’s run for @unicefphils @runrio_inc! #fitspo
Jarlo Bâse marks his major label debut with soulful, laid-back track “Kalapati”
The Filipino singer-songwriter is ready to make a mark as a recording artist under Sony Music Philippines
Filipino singer-songwriter Jarlo Bâse is ready to carve his own lane in the music industry with the release of “Kalapati,” his first official single under Sony Music Philippines.
Recorded at Sonic State Audio, “Kalapati” doesn’t sound like a total diversion from his previous releases, but it has a more pristine quality to it as far as production is concerned. The laid-back tune finds the promising newcomer embracing a lighthearted but soulful direction while remaining adept in making accessible R&B/pop music that yields ecstatic returns.
Lyrically, the song deals about “loving someone for reasons that actually matter,” and as Jarlo Bâse puts it, “accepting them for who they are now, not for who they were, and definitely not for who we want them to be someday.” With Jarlo Bâse’s signature smoothness adding an element of a much-needed chill, “Kalapati” makes for an exhilarating listening experience: a bop that is ready to redefine romance in an exciting, youthful way.
While the song was initially conceived four years ago, it was only in 2021 when Jarlo Bâse was able to record the track in a professional studio. “I had to be patient,” the multi-talented artist reveals. “Waiting for the availability of studio was the most challenging part for me. It was all about timing, and making sure I was ready when an opportunity would arise. If my memory serves me right, Ifinished the song around four years ago. Most of what we did was re-record the different stems of the track, and polish what needed polishing.”
Underlining his reputation as a skillful singer-songwriter who is open to possibilities and sonic ideas, Jarlo Bâsewrote and produced “Kalapati,” with Brian Lothooverseeing the recording and production process, and Munimuni’s Jolo Ferrer on bass duties.
“My good friend Jolo Ferrer played bass for this, which gave the track more color and movement. I also got to work with Brian Lotho of Sonic State Audio. Brian definitely knows how to work very well with artists and their songs. I thoroughly enjoyed the studio sessions with him.”
Jarlo Bâse is currently managed by Crown Artist Management—home to artists such as Maja Salvador (also its CEO), John Lloyd Cruz, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, and more.
His latest single “Kalapati” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.
Source: Sony Music Philippines
Acclaimed singer-songwriter lullaboy drops debut album, chapters of you
Singapore-based Indonesian-American artist lullaboy ringsin the new year with his debut compilation album, chapters of you—released independently and available now on all major digital streaming platforms. The recordcomes with two new songs: “deja vu” and “open up.”
After being rejected by countless labels, lullaboy decided to take matters into his own hands across 2021, releasing a song every month for the whole year. Each song explored different perspectives around a central theme of discovering what love means, in all its different shapes and forms. With his storybook lyricisms and genuine, heartwarming vocals, it didn’t take long for fans around Southeast Asia (and the globe!) to take notice. This persistent approach garnered him tens of millions of streams, and grew his following to an incredible 1.5 million monthly listeners by the turn of the year.
Hundreds of fans then came together to co create the artwork for chapters of you, each submitting handwritten versions of their favorite lyrics and lines from his catalogue, to be placed alongside each other in the final image.
“From songs about crushes to self worth, from regret to filial and spiritual needs, “chapters of you” represents a photobook that I’m showing a significant other, but I also hope it represents every single fan’’s own experience,” the rising singer-songwriter shares. “I hope that listening to the album will be like looking into a mirror and realizing that true love is found in every chapter of your life.”
“dejavu” is the lead single off of this album, and will be accompanied by a music video filmed in Malibu, California. The track is an anthemic one, created together with longtime collaborator Nacho Larrazza, and combines lullaboy's signature pop sensibilities with powerful, upbeat soundscapes. It will be released at 2pm (SGT) on the 24 January.
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Listen: here (Private listening and download link)
Socials: Instagram, Tiktok, Youtube
Source: Nyou
J-Pop queen Hikaru Utada delivers another pop masterpiece with eighth studio album, Bad Mode
J-Pop queen Hikaru Utada makes an impactful return with the digital release of her eighth studio album, Bad Modeon January 19, Wednesday—the same date as her birthday.
Delivering yet another pop masterpiece with sophisticated edge, the global superstar solidifies her iconic status with a string of envelope-pushing jams such as “One Last Kiss,” the theme song to EVANGELION:3.0+1.0 THRICE UPON A TIME; “PINK BLOOD,” the soundtrack to anime drama To Your Eternity; and “Face My Fears,” which was written and produced by Hikaru Utada alongside chart-topping producers Skrillex and Poo Bear—to name a few.
Utada’s new record contains four bonus tracks and three new songs, including self-titled “BAD MODE,” “Kibunja Naino (Not In The Mood),” and “Somewhere Near Marseilles.” The former is a euphoric electro-pop tune that is characterized by breezy melodies and soaring vocals, a quality that is rampant throughout her latest release. Its music video, directed by Joe Conner (Sam Smith’s” Pray” and Coldplay’s “Everglow”), is set to premiere during her online concert, "Hikaru Utada Live Sessions from Air Studios.”
Hikaru Utada’s new studio album, Bad Mode will be available on CD format (February 23), and on vinyl format (April 27). Following its release, the best-selling Japanese singer-songwriter and producer will be reissuing all her beloved classic albums on limited-edition vinyl: First Love, Distance, and DEEP RIVER, will drop on March 10, while ULTRA BLUE, HEART STATION and Fantôme will be available for the first time on vinyl this April 27, as well as an encore pressing of the Hatsukoi vinyl.
Bad Mode was introduced last month with lead single “Kimini Muchuu,” which was recorded with frequent collaborator and producer A.G. Cook—a renowned PC Music producer who has done incredible work with international stars Charli XCX, Hannah Diamond and SOPHIE.
Check out the track list of Bad Mode here:
01. BAD MODE
02. Kimini Muchuu (Main Theme for TBS Friday Night Drama Saiai)
03. One Last Kiss (Theme Song for EVANGELION:3.0+1.0 THRICE UPON A TIME)
04. PINK BLOOD (Main Theme for Anime Series To Your Eternity)
05. Time (Main Theme for NTV Sunday Drama Bishoku Tantei Akechi Goro)
06. Kibunja Naino (Not In The Mood)
07. Darenimo Iwanai (SUNTORY Tennensui CM Song)
08. Find Love (Featured in SHISEIDO's Global Campaign "POWER IS YOU")
09. Face My Fears (Japanese Version) / Hikaru Utada & Skrillex
(Opening Theme for Action Role-Playing Game KINGDOM HEARTS Ⅲ)
10. Somewhere Near Marseilles
11. Beautiful World (Da Capo Version)
(Theme Song for EVANGELION:3.0+1.0 THRICE UPON A TIME)
12. Kireina Hito (Find Love)
13. Face My Fears (English Version) / Hikaru Utada & Skrillex
(Opening Theme for Action Role-Playing Game KINGDOM HEARTS Ⅲ)
14. Face My Fears (A.G. Cook Remix)
Hikaru Utada’s new album, Bad Mode is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music.
Source: Sony Music Philippines
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Hindi po ako beauty vlogger 😅 and this post is so not sponsored 💄 pero I just really like @grwmcosmetics milk tint in wintermelon and it’s currently on sale! Buy it here. 🧡 #shopeeambassador #shopeesambassador #shopeeambassadorph #shopaholicsam
Upcycled Scrunchies
For fun handmade scrunchies made of deadstock fabric, buy here. 🎀 #shopeeambassador #shopeesambassador #shopeeambassadorph #shopaholicsam
Buy my Books and Support my Dreams
How much do you believe in your dreams? Last year, I turned my dreams of becoming an author into a reality. I released two books on the discipline and habit of writing, which also include self-help lessons that even non-writers can appreciate. Please support my dream and purchase my books here. 📖 #authorlife #speakwritelive
SB19 launches premium merch line inspired by record-breaking EP, Pagsibol
Released in collaboration with ShowBT and Sony Music Philippines, the merch promises a ‘full fan experience’ with its three main collections
Filipino pop supergroup SB19 is welcoming 2022 with an exclusive merch line named after their record-breaking EP, Pagsibol.
The official Pagsibol merchandise features an assortment of designs heavily referenced by the emerging global stars’ chart-topping songs, as well as their corresponding videos and artwork.
Proudly made in the Philippines, the premium merch promises a ‘full fan experience’ with its three main collections: What? Collection, which includes an Iron-On Patch and Enamel Pin as inspired by the critically acclaimed first single; MAPA Collection, which includes abundled T-shirt and a collectible photocard, handmade resin keychain, along with its own Iron-On Patch and Enamel Pin inspired by the smash anthem for parents and family; and Pagsibol Collection, which includes a poster and a photobook.
A first of its kind in the P-pop scene, the SB19 photobook is full of inclusions and goodies for the fans such as the collectible streaming plaque, SB19 poster, postcard, sticker sheet, and the much-anticipated random member photocards included in each unique copy. “It was curated by fans for fans, and we wanted to make sure that it would live up to expectations especially with it being the first of its kind for P-pop,” the Sony Music Philippines merchandise team shares in an official statement. “Fans are sure to hunt down for their bias in SB19, or even all the member photocards.”
The exclusive merch line was conceptualized and produced by Sony Music Philippines, SB19, and ShowBT. To help execute the ideas, the merchandise team collaborated with Filipino artists Irmay Ledesma and Bea Zaragoza to come up with top-notch designs that reflect the SB19 brand, as well as what their music stands for. The team also made sure that the merch line adheres to the Filipino group’s vision, and is representative of the aesthetic of SB19 and their music.
Given SB19’s status as one of the biggest and most awarded boybands in Asia, the team wanted to bring the same big-caliber treatment that fans of international and K-Pop artists have experienced when it comes to merch. “We made sure to involve SB19 members and ShowBT in every step of the way - from concept, design, down to execution and production. We presented our own ideas in the beginning, and from there, the ideas evolved as to what the whole team envisioned for the project. Specifically, SB19’s Justin De Dios serves as a co-creative director for the project, pitching in his input for all the studies and acting as liaison for the rest of the members when it comes to creative decisions.”
As of press time, the official Pagsibol merchandise has been getting good feedback based on the volume of orders and online hype. According to the merch team, the fan anticipation has been high, especially for the release of the photobooks, which received a large number of pre-orders prior to its release.
The official Pagsibol merchandise is available on the following channels:
For local online purchases:
http://sb19pagsibol.officialcostore.com
For international purchases (ships worldwide):
http://sb19pagsibol-int.officialcostore.com
For pick-up and in-store purchases, items are available at the CO. Store, 3/F Shoppesville Mall in Greenhills, San Juan. The merch line will also be available for purchase soon via Shopee and Lazada.
Source: Nyou
Emmy Meli inspires a global movement with soulful new track “I Am Woman”
21-year-old singer-songwriter Emmy Meli is currently making waves with the viral popularity of her new single “I Am Woman.”
The soulful R&B/pop track, which carries an uplifting message, recently spawned a global movement on TikTok where women of all stripes posted videos of themselves that match the description presented in the chorus.
To date, “I Am Woman” has racked up more than 31 million views on TikTok, and has inspired more than a million videos on the platform alone.
Outside of the video app, “I Am Woman” is gaining tractionboth on streaming and radio. The track continues to climb on Spotify US at No. 68, and currently sits inside the top 200 of Spotify Philippines at No. 131.
Emmy Meli’s latest hit has entered the top 40 of US Mainstream radio and various charts in several countries worldwide, including the UK (No. 67), US (No. 74), Canada (No. 55), Australia (No. 28), and New Zealand (No. 15)—to name a few.
With the rising artist taking the world by storm, Emmy is working double time in the studio to finish her debut album to be released under Arista Records. According to the American-born recording star, the biggest reward of writing a smash single is seeing it take off and create a positive impact to listeners out there, most especially women.
“The reason I went into music was to inspire and to create something that nobody had ever created before,” she told Variety in an interview. “I want to help people love each other.”
Emmy Meli’s “I Am Woman” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Arista and Sony Music.
Source: Sony Music Philippines
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Get to know my Human Nature online shop bestsellers here: our natural cooling cream is a hit with customers who love walking and working out! I use it myself as I do cardio everyday. Our men’s shampoo bar is also popular because of its cooling effect. Buy these products from my shop today. 🌻 #samsellshumannature
My New Year
2022 has been good to me so far. I thought of sharing with you how my year has been doing and what I have been up to lately.
For starters, I have been eating breakfast at Ikea and I have been loving their breakfast plate! For only Php59, I get a chicken sausage, scrambled eggs, and two pieces of pandesal. Talk about a great start to my day! Oh, and their brewed coffee is free for Ikea Family members until 10:30am. It is a sweet deal which I have been enjoying, and trust me, this is not a sponsored post.
Working out has always been my number one priority. Reps to the Rhythm has been keeping me company in the morning, and I enjoy his workout videos. Here is my current favorite:
Lastly, my Sarabia Optical Yamada specs has been really making my days lighter. The frames weigh next to nothing, and I am loving the Essilor Transitions lenses which protect me from both UV light and blue light. I am very lucky to have these Sarabia specs in my life.
I hope that you will continue supporting me this 2022! My books are still available here, and you can buy Human Nature essentials from my online store.
Have a blessed year ahead, everyone!
Heaven Peralejo stars as a vampire on the music video of Sponge Cola’s “Kung Ako Ang Pumiling Tapusin Ito”
The visual narrative is an allegorical take on walking away from an unhealthy, toxic relationship
Filipino actress Heaven Peralejo stars as a deeply conflicted vampire on the music video of Sponge Cola’s “Kung Ako Ang Pumiling Tapusin Ito”—the new singledropped ahead of their full-length album to be released in 2022.
The MV sees Heaven on the verge of a domestic breakdown as she adjusts to a life of uncertainty and fear from the sunlight.
“It was a treat meeting and working with Heaven Peralejo,” Drummer Tedmark Cruz shares in a statement. “Being part of a project or shoot with the nicest people just makes everyone’s jobs a lot easier.”
Budding filmmaker Lamar Roque directed the music video, which serves as an allegorical take on walking away from an unhealthy, toxic relationship and finding the courage to love yourself. Despite the several changes in terms of shoot dates, the production team headed by Lamar covered all the bases, and made sure that it wentsmoothly as planned.
“It took almost a year with all the lockdowns and delays,” vocalist Yael Yuzon said. “Direk Lamar and his team did a great job capturing the gravitas while adhering to all safety measures during the shoot. It was a long logistical juggling act that must have added to the weight of the end product. We're mighty proud of the visual masterpiece.”
“Kung Ako Ang Pumiling Tapusin Ito” was written by vocalist/guitarist Yael Yuzon, with additional parts from bassist Gosh Dilay. According to Yael, he penned the song from the perspective of the one who leaves the relationship. “Walking away, cutting clean is theoretically easy but usually isn't. Whether it's comfort and familiarity, an inability to be alone or whatnot, most people who leave find themselves circling back which isn't something people tend to focus on since we usually think of the ones left behind.”
The song was produced by constant collaborator Joey Santos, whom the band has worked with on previous singles “Siguro Nga,” “Labis-labis” and “Alamat,” the Mobile Legends Bang Bang 5th Anniversary track. The alt-rock quartet aims for a minimalist, ambient, but very punctuated approach in doing a ballad, and with Joey’s expertise in conveying the band’s vision for the sound design, everything turned out better than expected.
As Ted puts it, “Working with Joey Santos has been wonderful. From file sharing over Google Drive, to creating a dedicated WhatsApp/Telegram group, to recording and doing online shows, and most recently traveling to Dubai, I believe we’ve bonded very well. And boy are we all excited to share the sound we’ve come up with in this latest album with you all.”
“Kung Ako Ang Pumiling Tapusin Ito” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines. Watch the music video here.
Source: Nyou
The Craft of Writing Certificate
I finally received my certificate for The Craft of Writing! It was a short course taught by THE Jessica Zafra. I highly recommend her writing boot camp because her teaching style is straightforward and practical. I suggest that you make time for any of her courses because her valuable insights has helped me produce quality written output lately.
Zack Tabudlo teams up with James Reid on the emotionally captivating single “Hatdog”
Listen to ZACK TABUDLO’s “HATDOG”
Prolific singer-songwriter/producer Zack Tabudlo is starting the year right with a high-profile collaboration featuring multimedia superstar James Reid.
The pair teams up on “Hatdog,” a soulful pop ditty written, mastered, mixed, and produced by Zack Tabudlo himself. With its swoon-worthy chorus and sterling guitar work, the song not only benefits from the duo’s impressive vocals, but also from their undeniable talent to a tackle an emotionally captivating song.
According to the breakout recording artist, “Hatdog” is all about loving and waiting for the right person despite the other camp’s hesitation to give in. “Hatdog is about giving reassurance, love, and support to the person who has mixed feelings for you. You are there for them no matter the situation is even if it will hurt in the long run.”
Prior to their exciting new teamup, both Zack and James have worked together on the music video of the former’s hit single “Para Sa Mga Ex,” off his critically acclaimed 2021 album, Episode. It was the first time they’ve talked in person. Upon meeting, both Zack and James clicked, became friends, and decided to collaborate on a music project.
“James was just very chill to work,” the artist with Spotify's most streamed song in the Philippines last year, reveals. “He was very open to ideas. He really has an edge with singing as well. The character in his voice pushes out the uniqueness of how it sounds, which makes it very different from what we hear from singers and artists nowadays. He has his own thing.”
Zack finished writing “Hatdog” in 30 minutes and made James listen to it in his studio. The Careless CEO and On The Wings Of Love actor immediately loved the track, and decided to finish recording his part in 4 hours. The rest, as they say, is history.
“We were supposed to just hangout to kind of talk about what song and style and everything else we should do,” Zack shares. “But we ended up finishing the material. I’m happy James came along, and added magic to the song.”
The finished product shares the familiar aesthetic sensibility that defines Zack’s previous songs: an easygoing pop/R&B tune with soulful, slow-rock edge to it and infinitely catchy verses that build up and soar. As the 20-year-old hitmaker puts it, “Hatdog is definitely one of the most ‘chill’ songs that I've released so far. It’s super laid back and just easy to listen to.”
Zack Tabudlo and James Reid’s “Hatdog” is out now on streaming platforms worldwide via Island Records Philippines.
Source: GNN Entertainment Productions