Cut Out Visions

Transit Dialog has published my essay Cut Out Visions last January 28, 2022. Here’s the full text:

"𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘤 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘵𝘩 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦."

𝗖𝘂𝘁 𝗢𝘂𝘁 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

𝘉𝘺 𝘚𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘢 𝘎𝘢𝘪𝘭 𝘓𝘶𝘤𝘢𝘴

I had my Covid-19 booster shot this morning. My day started normally, which was with a cardio workout, a cold shower and a heavy breakfast. After drinking my cup of black coffee, I was off to the vaccination site near my home.

On the way to the public school where I was about to receive my shot, I reflected on how far I have come since the pandemic hit our shores. I’ve been freelancing as a writer and researcher. But the workload before the pandemic was more demanding, which is why I am able to pursue my hobbies and passions more these days.

While I am not pleased about the resurgence of Covid-19 in 2022, I am thankful that I have already figured out protocols, self-soothing and coping mechanisms by now. I have learned to adapt to our changing times thanks to consistency with my routines and priorities.

By the time I reached the vaccination site, I was able to outline the vision board that I wanted to make in my head. A local cultural agency gifted me with back issues of their official publication, so I had material for this project. I was inspired to make a vision board after reflecting on my growth during the pandemic and while I am keeping myself safe from the virus. Safety does not mean being stagnant. For me, it is possible to balance safety with taking personal risks in order to thrive during uncertainty.

The ironic part is that we keep on discussing how uncertain things are these days when in reality, everything has always been uncertain. The unknown has simply been magnified with the pandemic, so we tend to see the world through the lens of uncertainty. Personally, I found it unsettling to deal with more external variables beyond my control, but it also enabled me to zero in on my capabilities. This led me to do volunteer work for frontliners and typhoon victims, and realize my dream of becoming an author. The two books that I have self-published are a testament to the power of dreaming and never giving up.

I finally took my turn to get jabbed. I got vaccinated by a friendly frontliner who seemed unfazed by the crowd. I took a quick selfie to document this momentous event, and exited the venue with a lighter heart.

I went straight home to eat lunch. After drinking another cup of black coffee, I took the magazines out. I cut out images and words which reminded me of my dreams, aspirations, and visions. I made a vision board based on my love for writing and my desire to continue doing what I love. I pasted pictures of food, because I am happiest whenever I enjoy my meal. I included photos of ladies in Filipiniana attire because I feel most dignified whenever I am wearing a terno or a Maria Clara blouse. In fact, I was in local dress when I launched my two books. That way, I was able to pay tribute to my heritage as I fulfilled my dreams of having my own books.

I included the word metaphor on my vision board because I realized that my day represented the rest of my life. I got vaccinated in order to safely explore the world. I want to write more so that I can tell stories based on the pieces of inspiration I find each day. I want to piece my memories together on my blog so that others may be inspired to try new things. And I realized that the pandemic was a period of personal growth for me.

My cut out visions are only the beginning. I hope that you will also find time and inspiration to make your own vision board one of these days.

𝘚𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘢 𝘎𝘢𝘪𝘭 𝘉. 𝘓𝘶𝘤𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘦𝘣𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘦, 𝘸𝘸𝘸.𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘴𝘢𝘮.𝘤𝘰𝘮, 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘔𝘢𝘺 2017 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘴, 𝘧𝘰𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘴, 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘴. 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬, 𝘚𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘉𝘭𝘰𝘨 𝘓𝘪𝘷𝘦, 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘖𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘳 2021, 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬, 𝘚𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘞𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘓𝘪𝘷𝘦, 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘋𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 2021.

Source: Transit Dialog

Rex Orange County announces new album, Who Cares?New single and video “Keep it Up,” out now!

"KEEP IT UP"

WATCH: https://ROC.lnk.to/KEEPITUPVid

WHO CARES?

PRE-ORDER/SAVE: https://www.rexorangecounty.com/

Rex Orange County returns to announce his forthcoming album WHO CARES?,which is due March 11th via Sony Music. Along with the announcement, Rex also shares the new album's lead single and its accompanying video in "KEEP IT UP." In the video, Rex is seen dancing his way through Amsterdam's busy city center as he performs the track alongside musician Benny Sings, with whom he created WHO CARES? over the course of a few sessions in Sings' Amsterdam studio.

Today's release is Rex's first since 2020's Live at Radio City Music Hall EP taken from his two sold-out shows at the venue in 2020 just before his international Pony tour was cut short in Berlin due to Covid-19. As it turns out, however, that tour being cut short is part of the genesis of this album. After spending the bulk of 2020 quarantined back home in the UK, Rex made the trek to Amsterdam that fall to record with Benny Sings, with whom he crafted the 2017 platinum selling breakout single "Loving Is Easy." 

What started as sessions without expectations turned into an incredibly productive 48-hour window of recording with Benny, prompting a follow-up trip to Amsterdam. The subsequent 10 days of work together produced his fourth album, made in close partnership with Benny, that is a playful record by an artist in a playful mood. The album also finds Rex reunited with one of his earliest champions, Tyler, The Creator, who contributes a verse to "OPEN A WINDOW," which marks the first time the two have collaborated since Tyler's 2017 album Flower Boy.

Listen to and watch "KEEP IT UP" above, find full album details below and stay tuned for more from Rex Orange County coming soon. 

WHO CARES?

Rex Orange County

March 11th, 2022

Sony Music

1. KEEP IT UP

2. OPEN A WINDOW (Feat. Tyler, The Creator)

3. WORTH IT

4. AMAZING

5. ONE IN A MILLION

6. IF YOU WANT IT

7. 7 AM

8. THE SHADE

9. MAKING TIME

10. SHOOT ME DOWN

11. WHO CARES?

Connect with Rex Orange County:

Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | TikTok

Amazon Music | Apple Music | Pandora | Spotify | YouTube

 Source: Nyou

Hey! Salad Day 1

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Young Cocoa’s “Manila” enjoys commercial boost thanks to ENHYPEN’s Ami Paris XVI playlist

The groovy track currently ranks on Spotify Viral Top 50 in South Korea and the Philippines

Filipino hip-hop artist Young Cocoa is propelled back into the spotlight. 

His debut single “Manila” has received resurgence in popularity after K-Pop music act ENHYPEN included it in Ami Paris XVI – Curated by Enhypen Spotify playlist.

Handpicked by the members of the Korean supergroup, the new edition of the fashion house playlist includes an esteemed selection of upbeat and summery tunes from Justin Bieber, Yerin Baek, 5 Seconds of Summer, and more. 

The placement boosted Young Cocoa’s profile on the streaming charts ranking, with “Manila” currently enjoying renaissance on both Spotify Viral Top 50 in the Philippines (No. 14) and South Korea (No. 15). The groovy, feel-good bop has also landed prominent inclusions on several playlists, including Trending Tracks Philippines, Bago Sa Rap, and ALL HITS RADIO.

With its unexpected success, Young Cocoa is grateful that his work is now being recognized and appreciated all over the world. 

“Adding the fact that respected and renowned figures in the Korean music scene openly recommending my music makes it even crazier to digest,” the young rapper/singer-songwriter said. “All I can really say is it’s changed how I appreciate my own music and gives me so many reasons to be grateful.”

The breakthrough rapper/producer is no stranger to gaining recognition worldwide. “Manila” initially made it on BTS’ resident rapper RM’s online playlist, and has even received endorsements from Korean artists such as Yeri of Red Velvet,Eric of The Boyz, Omega X, Dawon of SF19 and Lia Kim from 1Million Dance Studio. It has also entered the Melon Korea Overseas Chart, along with his other track “Zesto.”

As of press time, the Manila-based artist is working on his upcoming EP to be released under OFFMUTE, a new pan-regional label by Sony Music Entertainment focused on championing new and emerging Southeast Asian artists from across all genres. “Expect an EP from me in the coming months,” the hip-hop newcomer shares. “In terms of collaborations, stay posted! Exciting things ahead.”

Check out Young Cocoa’s “Manila” on all digital music platforms via OFFMUTE.

Follow YOUNG COCOA on socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theyoungestcocoa/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/youngcocoa_

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_youngcocoa

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

About Young Cocoa

As one of the most promising hip-hop artists in the Southeast Asian region, OFFMUTE signee Young Cocoa quickly rose to fame after BTS’ resident rapper RM included his track “Manila” in one of the global superstar’s online playlists. The trailblazing bop, which finds the Filipino artist rapping over lo-fi beats and jazzy soundscapes, eventually went viral, and received endorsements from Korean artists such as Yeri of Red Velvet, Eric of The Boyz, Omega X, Dawon of SF19 and Lia Kim from 1Million Dance Studio.

Currently based in Manila, the 24-year-old rapper and songwriter has established himself as genre-averse artist whose music draws a lot from his personal narratives and observations on life. With groove-oriented production and smooth urban sound, Young Cocoa’s work explores a diverse range of genres and sonic template that often reflects a state of dreaminess and escape, but whose verses embrace the confessional and authentic side of storytelling. 

The eclectic Filipino artist considers Frank Ocean, Kanye West, Anderson Paak., Saba and Tyler TheCreator as some of his music influences. He works with some of the most underrated and innovative hip-hop and electronic producers in Asia, from Korean-based beatmaker Lazy Wanderlust to Indonesia’s very own Ghidd. Blending his own artistry with sonic collages set up by his collaborators, Young Cocoa provides a unique music stamp with layers of childlike nostalgia, countryside daydream, and city futurism, and touches on themes derived from his experiences as a third culture kid.

As the first hip-hop artist under pan-regional music label, OFFMUTE, Young Cocoa is determined to push the Southeast Asian sound to the next level, while retaining his personhood in the creative process. He is currently working on new songs off his debut EP to be released soon. 

His first official single is “Zesto,” a bouncy electro-pop tune that reimagines the very definition of a summer anthem. 

ABOUT OFFMUTE 

OFFMUTE is a new pan-regional label by Sony Music Entertainment focused on championing new and emerging Southeast Asian artists from across all genres, giving them a dedicated platform to pursue their creative vision and reach audiences across the region. 

The new label will support Southeast Asian artists in amplifying their music and building a strong pan-regional audience base with the enhanced promotional, marketing, and artistic development of Sony Music’s global expertise and resources. 

OFFMUTE is the first-of-its-kind in Southeast Asia, embracing the eclectic appeal and rich diversity that Southeast Asia has to offer, and empowering artists with the resources and expertise to find cross-border success. 

OFFMUTE was launched in March 2021 with new artists signed from Indonesia (Mezzaluna), the Philippines (Clara Benin), and Malaysia (liesl-mae). 

 Source: Nyou

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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:

Spotify Artist / Social Media

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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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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