Whole Again

Transit Dialog has published my essay Whole Again. Here it is:

"𝘐 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘮𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘵."

𝗪𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻

𝘉𝘺 𝘚𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘢 𝘎𝘢𝘪𝘭 𝘓𝘶𝘤𝘢𝘴

I am newly single. My partner and I recently broke up, and it was not easy. I have aspired for a future with him, but it seems that he had other plans for his own tomorrow. So, to save us both from further heartbreak, we ended our relationship.

I am currently navigating the waters of being single. So far, it has been fun! I am not looking for a rebound, but I am talking to some decent people. It has given me a fresh perspective on things. This has been a relief since I was used to a cycle of pain and unrealistic expectations during my old life.

Now, I feel appreciated for who I am and for my job as a published author. I get to write my books without worrying about hurting someone else’s ego. I get to date other people without worrying how my books can make him insecure. I get to make friends without someone worrying that I am looking for a rebound.

I simply feel free. All I think of right now is my own welfare. I am not worried about someone’s fragile feelings. I am only concerned about my own well-being.

Speaking of rebounding, I am not looking to do this. In fact, I have been very clear about talking to people first before dating anyone. I have focused on myself these past few days, and I have been writing as if my life depended on it. On the personal side, I have been doing some reflecting and journaling. I have also gone to the spa for some me time. It has been quiet and productive so far.

I did not separate from my partner because I was weak. Rather, I felt as if I deserved better. I did not get enough support for my writing and published work. I was not granted an audience during the worst days. More importantly, I was not given any sort of friendship during bad days. It became a lopsided partnership, and I felt like I could not catch up anymore.

The separation was an inevitable action. It was a denouement which did more to explain rather than resolve anything.

I granted myself closure; it was more for me than it was for him. In fact, I should no longer care about him moving forward. So, I wrote down everything that angered me about this partnership. Next, I wrote down all the things that make me feel grateful for him.

Lastly, I closed it with a simple statement for myself: I am in a relationship with myself. It is the most important one that I will ever have, since it is unbreakable. It is my job to nurture this relationship, whether I’m single or not. After all, I am always me.

What scares me about the future is how my next partner will receive my work. I have no plans of retiring from writing, so he has to be confident in his own skin to accept the output that I produce. He has to have his own life so that he is not leeching off mine. He also needs to

be happy to begin with, because being with a moody writer is not easy. But I do make up for it by being a good person

I hope to continue being whole while recovering from my past. I hope to reinforce my present so that I will have a secure tomorrow. I know that I am fine, and I will be better. After all, I am whole again. This breakup is simply temporary.

𝘚𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘢 𝘎𝘢𝘪𝘭 𝘉. 𝘓𝘶𝘤𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘍𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘰 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘣𝘶𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘰𝘯 𝘈𝘮𝘢𝘻𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘨, 𝘸𝘸𝘸.𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘴𝘢𝘮.𝘤𝘰𝘮.

Source: Transit Dialog

Books 7 and 8 at the NLP

My seventh and eighth books are internationally published by @ukiyotopublishinghouse. I was able to turn over copies to the National Library of the Philippines 🇵🇭 as it is my goal to have my books used as research materials. 💡Read on my life as an only child in #onlygrowingup, and my adventures by myself in #idatedmyself. 📚 Buy your copies now for only $2.99 on Amazon, Google Play, and via this link. 📖 NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS! ✨#amazonauthor #authorlife @nationallibraryphilippines

The Hammingtons Fly to Manila for First Fanmeeting

This July is a good time for a family bonding activity as South Korea’s cutest trio is coming to Manila!

For the first time, Sam, William, and Bentley are coming to meet Filipino fans at The Hammingtons in Juanderland: Fanmeeting in Manila. The event is scheduled to take place on July 17, 2022, Sunday, 3 PM at the New Frontier Theater.

The South Korean stars rose to fame in 2016 when they joined the roster for “The Return of Superman,” a reality show featuring celebrity dads and their children. Initially, it was only Sam and William (now five years old) who appeared on the show. Bentley (now four years old) joined a year later after he was born.

The three quickly became fan favorites and eventually brought home the prestigious “Grand Prize” (locally known as “Daesang”) at the 2018 KBS Entertainment Awards along with the other cast.

Earlier this year, the family decided to step down from the show to pursue other opportunities. One of which is “Wilbengers: Suspicious Camping Commotion,” an animated superhero film starring William and Bentley, together with their dad. The family also recently launched their new variety show titled “The Hammingtons’ Dream Closet” which airs on the ENA channel.

Outside of mainstream media, the boys are busy with their very own Youtube channel, “THE WILLBEN SHOW,” which has now amassed more than 350,000 subscribers.

Despite their packed schedule, The Hammingtons are excited to come to Manila.

“This is an amazing opportunity and we are so looking forward to meeting our fans. The last few years have been really difficult due to restrictions but finally being able to have the chance to meet some of our international fans is so exciting,” shared Sam Hammington, the family patriarch.

Sam is a New Zealander-Australian comedian who gainedstardom in the South Korean reality television show “Real Men.” In 2013, he won the “Best Male Newcomer” award for his amazing performance on the show.

With only a few weeks until the fanmeet, Sam shared how the Hammingtons have begun preparation.

“We are not trying to overly prepare as we want to have an authentic experience while we are there. However, we have been trying to learn some Tagalog but it is not as easy as we thought it would be.”  

Sam also shared that they’re eager to try some of the delicious food recommended by the fans; most notably, “chocolate rice” or champorado in Tagalog.

When asked how the kids reacted to the news, the 44-year-old star candidly answered, “To be honest, I have told them but I don’t think they quite comprehend where we are going. They are excited to go on an airplane to another country. But when we get there I am sure they will be excited.”

As a parting message to fans, Sam had this to say: “First and foremost, thank you for supporting us in everything we do. We appreciate you all, and without you, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. This is our opportunity to thank you in person and hope to meet as many of our fans as possible.”

The Hammingtons’ fanmeeting in Manila is just one of the many Asian stops lined up for the family. With WILD Group now managing their international activities, fans can look forward to seeing more of the trio in-person and on various media platforms across Southeast Asia.  

Tickets will be available this Saturday via TicketNet online.Prices for the fanmeet range from PHP2, 850 (Balcony) to PHP6, 500 (MVP). The Hammingtons in Juanderland: Fanmeeting in Manila is presented by CDM Entertainment.

Source: CDM Entertainment

Calvin Harris drops new single “Stay With Me,” featuring Justin Timberlake, Halsey, and Pharrell

WATCH HERE & LISTEN HERE!

‘Funky Wav Bounces Vol. 2’ out August 5

PRE-ORDER/SAVE HERE!

GRAMMY Award-winning, multi-platinum selling artist and heavyweight producer Calvin Harris continues to soundtrack summer with the release of his new single “Stay With Me” featuring musical giants Justin Timberlake, Halsey and Pharrell out today via Columbia Records/Sony Music. The psychedelic official video directed by Emil Nava also premieres today and features all four artists.  Watch the video here and listen to the song here.

The new single marks the first time Harris has collaborated with Timberlake and Halsey, and the second time with Pharrell, who was previously featured on ‘Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1’ and has notably collaborated with Timberlake on countless hits over the years.

“Stay With Me,” a dancefloor ready tune perfect for any party is prime to become song of the summer.

“Stay With Me” follows the release of “Potion” with DuaLipa & Young Thug and “New Money” featuring 21 Savage from Harris’ forthcoming and highly anticipated new album ‘Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 2’ out on August 5. ‘Vol. 2’ will feature a number of today’s most dynamic artists such as: Stefflon Don, Chlöe, Charlie Puth, Pusha T, Shenseea, Tinashe, Normani, Lil Durk, Offset, 6lack, Coi Leray, BustaRhymes, Donae’O, Latto, Swae Lee, Jorja Smith, and Snoop Dogg. The album is available for pre-order/save here.

Pre-order/save ‘Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 2’ here

 Source: Nyou

Date Yourself First ⚡️

So my eighth book #dateyourselffirst is now out worldwide on Amazon, Google Play, and via this link. 📕 I just want to share that this is all a product of my hard work. I was able to write all my books because I worked on my writing ✍️ everyday even when I did not feel like it. I chose to become a self-help writer because I was able to build myself up when everything was falling apart. 💪 I gave myself a chance when no one did. 🖤 And I am doing better because I choose to help myself everyday ✨ So, if you want to learn from me, buy my books and support my work ❤️ This is what hard work looks like. And as I always say, NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS!⚡️#amazonauthor #authorlife @ukiyotopublishinghouse

Clara Benin strikes a balance between infatuation and fantasy on dreamy new single “Affable Dork”

Inspired by coming-of-age films and books, the jazzy pop tune comes with a visual helmed by Simon Te and Summer Puertollano

Filipina singer-songwriter Clara Benin approaches dreamy teen romance with emotional candidness on her new single “Affable Dork”—out today via OFFMUTE. 

Taking surprising new directions as it examines the delicate balance between infatuation and fantasy, the rising folk-pop artist’s new song brings a beloved fictional character to life, only to realize that some things don’t really work the way we want it to be.

Benin adds, “the song is about the thought process of a girl overthinking her relationship with an affable dork because she feels unworthy of his attention. As you navigate a complete picture of the story, you later on realize that fantasies only remain as such and don’t translate to reality.”

The track is inspired by coming-of-age classics with sharp satirical bite, from Ruby Sparks and Stranger Than Fiction to anything helmed by John Hughes. “I've always been fond of coming-of-age films and books,” says Benin. “I think that when you're head over heels over someone, you start to romanticize your relationship like you're in a cute romcom.”

Delivered with stripped-down eloquence and jazzy pop elements, “Affable Dork” sounds like something you’d hear in the background of a French bar or café, made more compelling by The Ringmaster’s sublime production. It’s arranged by frequent collaborator Gabba Santiago, with Chico Macorol on drums and Miko Villena on upright bass.

The release of “Affable Dork” comes with a music video shot in Enchanted Kingdom. Capturing the tone of the material with magical-realist trickery and romantic sweetness, the MV, according to director Simon Te, is about “finding all the parts that you hate about a person and realizing that you’re just like that too.” Te further explains, “You try to reject and push the ideas away thinking that these traits/quirks are beneath you when in reality, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

Summer Puertollano, the co-director behind the visual narrative of “Affable Dork” compares the song to a “fragile, almost surreal, innocence kind of love.” She adds, “the music video is an interpretation of, and response to the track: a mix of the feelings that it brings, and the playful and somewhat comforting writing of Clara.”

Check out Clara Benin’s “Affable Dork” on all digital music platforms via OFFMUTE. Watch the music video here.

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

About Clara Benin

 Clara Benin is touted as the indie darling of the Philippines. She is one of the first artists under Sony Music’s new regional label OFFMUTE. Her signature angelic voice and melodic acoustic guitar playing bring a kind of serenity that her listeners gravitate towards. She has collaborated with Singaporean artists Charlie Lim for a remake of her hit single “Wine” and Gentle Bones for the pop track “A Day At A Time”. 

Widely loved for her warm and quiet demeanor, the acoustic-folk artist has played in notable festivals like Wanderland Arts and Music Festival in the Philippines, Music Matters in Singapore, and Zandari Festa in Korea. She sold out her first solo concert in 2016 for her album “Coming Home” and had a back-to-back concert with fellow artist Ben&Ben in 2018.

Source: Nyou

BamBam Surprises Fans with Back-to-Back Fansign Events

BamBam is the next KPOP idol to hold a solo fansign event in the country. Preceded by Jung Yerin and fellow GOT7 member YOUNGJAE, the Thai superstar will also be joining the roster of July fansign events made possible by Y Global Music and CDM Entertainment.

To fans’ delight, BamBam is not just hitting the streets of Manila but Cebu as well. BamBam Fansign in the Philippines makes him the first KPOP idol to hold a solo fansign in the Queen City of the South. Given that not many South Korean artists hold events outside of Manila, Cebuanos are brimming with excitement.

The Cebu show is scheduled to take place on July 26, 2022, at 6:00 PM at The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu. Manila follows closely on July 28, 6:00 PM at Activity Center, Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

Much like the other fansign events, BamBam will greet fans through a variety of activities like selfie, solo photo op, fansign, and group photo. Top Spender event will also take place where fans with the most albums get guaranteed perks.

For many, the most enticing part of both events is undoubtedly the “Goodbye Session.” This perk allows all fans to go up the stage and wave goodbye to BamBam. As a bonus, fans can take a video of their interaction with the idol.

Only 1,000 seats are available for Cebu and even fewer for Manila with 750 seats. Entry to the event only requires purchasing one set of ‘B’ albums worth PHP3,900 via https://www.cdmentertainment.ph. With limited seats, it’s a game of who secures their entry first.

BamBam Fansign in the Philippines is presented by Y Global Music in partnership with CDM Entertainment.

Source: CDM Entertainment

Ace Banzuelo embraces a darker, more melancholic turn on breakup song “Walang Himala”

The Filipino hitmaker channels ’80s synth-pop with brooding themes and modern R&B textures

Following the chart-topping success of “Muli” and the release of its viral music video starring ABS-CBN stars Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, Ace Banzuelo returns with another potential hit that is guaranteed to whet the appetite of music fans across the country.

Released under Sony Music Philippines, the Filipino recording artist’s new single “Walang Himala” carries the inherent weight of dealing with a partner’s betrayal. The melancholic synth-pop track serves as antithesis to Banzuelo’s earlier song Himala: a sad little tune that reduces listeners to a pool of misery, written as if he hibernated for months in his own mancave— devoid of light, and completely immersed in the grieving process.

“Walang Himala’s emphasis on betrayal can be interpreted in multiple ways,” shares the Laguna-based singer-songwriter and producer. “It’s not afraid to embrace a darker, more lamenting turn. Coming from ‘Muli,’ this particular track reeks of angst and frustration in the most human way possible. Some people have experienced it at some point in our lives. It’s my way of comforting them as a songwriter/musician.”

Channeling ‘80s synth-pop with modern R&B textures and brooding themes, Banzuelo reflects on loss and loneliness with a more matured perspective. Sonically speaking, “Walang Himala” retains his signature glossy synth production on top of a playful storytelling that connects his past and present releases. “My music provides a strong multiple set of stories, and this new track follows the storyline of Himala,” the Muli hitmaker points out.

According to the young multi-hyphenate, the most memorable moment for him during the recording process is coming up with the introduction and a first verse. The line “ang hirap,” which means, “it’s difficult” really stuck with him; hence, playing around with it as part of the song’s main hook. “Another memorable moment was coming up with the chorus because I didn’t have to revise it. I knew it had to be those words: Walang himala, maliako pala (translation: There’s no miracle; it’s my fault),” shares Banzuelo, putting more context to the lyrics’ poignant rough spot.

“Walang Himala” is written, produced, mixed, and mastered by Ace Banzuelo himself. The song is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

Listen here: http://lnk.to/AB-WalangHimala

Source: Nyou

#dateyourselffirst

My eighth book is now out worldwide on Amazon, Google Play, and via this link. 📖 #dateyourselffirst is my love letter to spending countless hours getting to know myself better by doing the things that I love! Find out what made me appreciate myself better by spending time by myself. 🖤 Hope you can support my work by buying a copy!📖 #authorlife #amazonauthor @ukiyotopublishinghouse

Shop, Sell and Be Entertained on TikTok Shop in the Philippines

Ultimate shopping and entertainment experience for customers, new selling platform for businesses

Manila, Philippines - July 14, 2022 - TikTok, the leading short-form video platform, recently launched its online marketplace, TikTok Shop, in the Philippines. Through this brand new e-commerce platform, TikTok Shop aims to open up more business opportunities not only for brands, but also for small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). All these, whilst providing a fresh new shopping experience for users and opportunities for local content creators alike.

TikTok Shop products can be purchased through product anchors embedded in short videos, live streams, and the TikTok Product Showcase tab of a merchant's TikTok page, making it easy for users to be entertained and yet shop at the same time.

At TikTok Shop in the Philippines, affordable and unique items are on offer locally, even those hard-to-find must-haves. TikTok users can purchase items from various categories of products including fashion, home & living, beauty and personal care. They can enjoy shopping from favorite brands such as realme, Unilove, Perysmith and Kily.phonline

During June 15 to 21, TikTok Shop held its maiden mid-year sale in the Philippines, highlighted by super deals and users enjoyed up to 70% discounts, subsidised shipping and first-time buyers received coupons and discounts. For shipments to the Luzon region, there were shipping vouchers of up to PhP 150 off with a PhP 10 minimum spend. For shipments outside Luzon, there were shipping vouchers of up to PhP 150 off with a PhP 50 minimum spend.

#TikTokShopSuperDeals

Celebrities and top content creators joined the very first sale, including top actress Glaiza De Castro, TV host Macoy Dubs, and top creator Alfea, who did key live sessions and short video posts via TikTok Shop.

The week-long mid-year sales campaign saw TikTok Shop Philippines gain a 33% growth in its daily gross merchandise value (GMV). The e-commerce platform's number of daily orders likewise jumped by 29%, while the volume of livestream climbed 36% compared to the previous week (June 8 to 14).

Top products bought and sold during the mid-year sale were air fryers, high-waist skinny jeans for women, water bottles and colortint make up. Top brands were Gaabor, KILY.PH and Uni-Love. The top creators includes HaroldBalilo, Kntxyrl, Nina Cabrera, actress Glaiza De Castro.

Kimberly Duyag, CEO of the well-known local cloth and garment brand KILY.PH, shared her experience, "We created more than PhP 5 million sales during the first mid-year sales campaign, and we just began to do livestream on a daily basis one month ago. Many sellers have been surprised by the platform's support, especially the free shipping vouchers and discount promotion. Plus it also enables merchants, brands and creators showcase and sell their products directly on TikTok via feed, content or livestream."

The creator Harold Balilo achieved more than 500% GMV growth in one single live session compared with his best live before the campaign. "I started on TikTok Shop in late April. It’s my very first time doing live selling. I’m so thankful and happy as a student and as a small creator looking for a part-time job as a live streaming creator. I can say that TikTok Shop has changed my life and offered huge help for me and my family," said creator Harold Balilo.

Sell products seamlessly and maximize branding on TikTok

TikTok Shop in the Philippines aims to provide local businesses a new avenue for reaching out to customers. It also aims to make purchasing possible and more accessible for Filipinos without leaving their favorite mobile entertainment platform. Merchants will be able to enjoy zero commission fees on the platform for selected products whilst payment service fees are capped at one per cent to payment service partners.

Businesses can check out the Merchant page https://shop.tiktok.com/merchant/ph or view the Seller Recruitment page for more information about being part of TikTok Shop.

For additional information, please visit the Seller Center https://seller-ph.tiktok.com/account/login while the Seller University https://seller-ph.tiktok.com/university/home offers local training to sellers.

Download the app on your iOS and Android devices today.

Source: TikTok Philippines

Singaporean R&B singer-songwriter Sezairi hooks up with Filipino rapper Young Cocoa for catchy new track “Dead”

The infectious song is part of Sezairi’s third album, Violets Aren’t Blue — out today via Sony Music Singapore

Singaporean musician and singer-songwriter Sezairi teams up with rising Filipino rapper Young Cocoa for the slinky R&B jam “Dead.”

The track, which follows the release of Young Cocoa’s bossa-meets-rap ditty “Nova” and Sezairi’s streaming hit “Restless Love,” is produced by Canadian hiphop/electronic producer duo Potatohead People. It also comes with a visualizer that expands on the song’s theme with a moody, melancholic touch.

Setting the theme for an exhilarating listening experience, the catchy bop serves as the focus track from Sezairi’s third album, 'Violets Aren'tBlue', which features his previous singles, ‘Raindrops’, ‘Blue’, ‘Fool’, and ‘Restless Love’, and three new tracks that continue his plunge into the depths of love, infatuation, and the desperation of seeking to fill an empty heart.

In this album, Sezairi turns the famous 18th-century poem on its head, challenging the cliched expectations and idealism of great love and being swept off your feet by someone who sees you better than you see yourself.

"The reality isn't quite the same. Just like how violets aren't actually blue, love isn't actually easy. The true strength of love lies in the adversity, the physical labor in the gardening of two people to make each other truly blossom."

Starting at the first moment of attraction and the infatuated daydreams of an idealised future that follows, we follow Sezairi throughout the album on a journey of the bittersweet realities of temporary love.

Tracklist:

1. Dead (ft. Young Cocoa)

2. Fool

3. Blue (ft. msftz)

4. Violets (Interlude)

5. Raindrops

6. Restless Love

7. Lullaby

8. Raindrops (Outro)

In addition to Young Cocoa, who is signed to Southeast Asian label OFFMUTE, Sezairi pulled together a myriad of talents to co-create this piece this work: Korean artist and labelmate msftz, New Zealander producer Josh Fountain (BENEE, MAALA, Theia), Canadian producer duo Potatohead People, Australian singer-songwriter Brooke Toia, music video director duo Nasri Lian and Hanie Hidayah, fellow Singaporean artists Linying and lewloh, illustrator Sleeping Geisha, and more.

"On a personal level, this album is really the result of a long depressive episode amidst the pandemic and discovering how to re-contextualisemy past experiences so I can live alongside them in peace. Working on the songs in isolation was incredibly difficult but assembling my dream team of creatives to work with made it incredibly worth it."

‘Violets Aren’t Blue’ is available on all digital streaming platforms from 8th July 2022.
Link goes live upon release: lnk.to/Sezairi_VioletsArentBlue

ABOUT SEZAIRI

Sezairi represents artistry at its most humble state — from his very core, driven by a love and passion for music. Since the early beginnings of his career, Sezairi has accumulated invaluable experience, shaping him both as an artist and an individual.

2021 sees Sezairi continuing creative reflections on life with his new music.  'Blue' featuring fellow Sony Music Korean artist, msftz, marks Sezairi’s first cross-cultural release. ‘Fool’ is Sezairi’s latest offering — a romantic ballad pop track Sezairiwrote about his experience with first love to reach new audiences. He collaborated with Josh Fountain, producer for viral TikTok track ‘Superlonely’ by BENEE, to produce the track. 2021 also saw Sezairi co-writing and singing this year’s National Day Song, ‘The Road Ahead’, with fellow Singaporean musicians Linying, Shye, and Shabir.

In November 2020, Sezairi returned to the music scene with the bi-lingual ambient funk number, ‘Raindrops’. This was the start of a new chapter of Sezairi’s work with a more open and introspective approach to his music and songwriting.

Sezairi released his highly anticipated EP, ‘Undertones’, in January 2020 which featured singles he had released since 2017— ‘She Moves, ‘In Secret’, ‘Mirage’ and the highly successful ‘It’s You.

In 2017, Sezairi worked tirelessly with notable writers and producers in Sweden to bring to life the evocative ballad, 'It's You'. The track has gained great success with over 300 million streams globally after it went viral on Tik Tok in 2021. It has since been certified 3x PLATINUM in Singapore, 3x PLATINUM in Indonesia, and 2x PLATINUM in Malaysia.

The success of 'It's You' had the track featuring in multiple charts across the region. It peaked at #15 on Spotify Global Viral 50 and #2 on Spotify Indonesia Top 50 & #5 Viral 50, #17 on Spotify Malaysia Top 50 & #3 on Viral 50, #4 on Apple Music Indonesia Top 100 and #1 on Indonesia Youtube Music amongst many other notable playlists.

'It's You' was also featured on Spotify’s Hot Hits playlist billboard in Indonesia and Apple Music's ‘Best of 2018: Editors' Picks’ Global Playlist, where it sat comfortably on the 3rd spot amongst some of music's most recognised and memorable songs from around the world.

FOLLOW SEZAIRI

- Twitter: ​https://twitter.com/sezairi

- Facebook: ​https://www.facebook.com/sezairi

- Instagram: ​https://www.instagram.com/sezairi

- YouTube: ​https://www.youtube.com/user/sezairisezali

 Source: Nyou

Sony Music Philippines celebrates success of its dance music releases through an electric spinning event

Sony Music Philippines, in partnership with Electric Studio, recently celebrated the return of big, jubilant dance/electronic anthems with an indoor spinning event that offers full-body fitness experience and top-notch music.

Pedaling its way with high-performance rides and well-curated jams, the Somebody Like You: Electric Spinning Event featured some of the label’s most prominent club music releases of 2022 as backdrop to an energizing workout. The spinning event took place in Electric Studio, BGC, Taguig City last July 8, 2022 (Friday).

Most notably highlighted during the ‘ultimate sweat session’ is “Somebody Like You,” a critically acclaimed collaboration between Filipina R&B/soul songstress KZ Tandingan and international producers GATTÜSO and Frogmonster. The rousing EDM track recently topped Mixmag Asia’s list of 20 Summer Anthems: Festival Edition, joining the ranks of other dance music heavyweights such as Grimes’ “Shinigami Eyes” and Peggy Gou’s midnight remix of Kylie Minogue’s “Can’t Get You Out Of My Head.”

With a collective 1.75 billion streams between them over the last 2 years, the unexpected trio pushes the boundaries of dance music with a truly global collaboration that features two versions: one in English and another one in Mandarin.

Riders also got to experience some songs off The Chainsmokers’ No.1 Billboard Dance/Electronic album, So Far So Good, including the chart-topping hit “High” and new single “The Fall,” featuring fast-rising producer duo Ship Wrek. The Chainsmokers’ fourth studio album received positive reviews from several music critics, with music publication Pitchfork praising the record for “easily” being “their most enjoyable front-to-back listen.”

The Somebody Like You: Electric Spinning Event also rounded out an energizing ride that aims to improve one’s stamina and speed, all while blasting Sony Music Philippines’ recent goldmine of rhythmic and dance tunes.

Listen to The Chainsmokers’ So Far So Good album: https://thechainsmokers.lnk.to/SFSG

Listen to KZ Tandingan, GATTÜSO and Frogmonster’snew single “Somebody Like You”: https://lnk.to/GTSxFMxKZ-SomebodyLikeYouDC

Source: Nyou

I Befriended Myself: Soon to Be Published!

My eleventh book will be published soon! This will be released worldwide via Amazon and Google Play this year. 📚 This book is memorable to me because my friends helped me finish this work. My best friend Jay and I came up with the idea while brainstorming after lunch. Then, I reconnected with Miguel, who understood me and my work. We went to Cebu, and that was there I finished writing this. Then, I submitted it at The Workstation PH, which is the coworking space at Cebu owned by our good friends Joao and Ling ❤️ To support me and my work, you can purchase my books via Amazon and Google Play, and via this link. 🖤 NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS!✨ #authorlife #amazonauthor #ibefriendedmyself

Luxolite Specs 👓

Luxolite specs from @sarabiaoptical 👓 make me look smart even while on vacation! Buy them here. 🤓 #shopeeambassador #shoppeesambassador #shopeeambassadorph #shopaholicsam @morganlanuza

Tiffany Sakura Milk Tea 🧋

Enjoying the rainy weather atm with my @tiffanycircleph sakura milk tea! 🌸 use my code TIFFLUCAS for a discount via this link on Shopee. 🧋 #shopeeambassador #shopeeambassadorph #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam

Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin star in the music video of Ace Banzuelo’sstreaming hit “Muli”

The Gen Z superstars portray a romantic couple struggling to put their love back together

 ABS-CBN stars Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin reunite onscreen for the music video of Ace Banzuelo’s chart-topping electronic ballad “Muli.”

The visual narrative captures the disintegration of what used to be a promising relationship, with ‘FranSeth’struggling to process their pain.

Going the abstract route, the MV depicts an imagery of a home on the verge of breaking apart: burning couches, dying lights, and a smashed piano. Ace Banzuelo himself, makes a significant appearance as the ‘inner emotions’ of Seth.

“Everything was heavy on symbolism, but still reflects the intensity of the song,” says Chapters’ very own Jake Soriano, who directed the music video of “Muli.”

Soriano has worked with both Francine and Seth in the past, but according to him, this project was the first time that he witnessed the loveteam deliver a nuanced performance and showcase their range as dramatic thespians. “They’re easy to work with, because aside from being good actors, they’re also very kind and professional, and both are super funny. We always get a good laugh during shoots.”

For his part, Ace was very much involved in the brainstorming and creative process of the music video, and was very open in collaborating with Francine and Seth.

“At first, I was okay to do the music video alone with what I had, and then we started to get tweets, comments, and messages from multiple fans that they wanted to see me collaborate with local actors,” shares the young singer-songwriter and producer. “Our team reached out to the loveteam, and we were so happy that they were game! Working with Seth and Francine was super fun, I’m proud that we were able to capture the vision of song, and present it through the long-awaited video.”

Few hours before the premiere of the music video, FRANSETHxACE MULI MV immediately topped Twitter Philippines trending list at No. 1, with fans expressing their excitement on the teamup.

“Muli” has been the most streamed OPM song on Spotify and Apple Music for more than a month now. It continues to make an impact on several music charts worldwide, reaching No. 1 on Apple Music Viral Hits – Philippines, No. 2 on Spotify Top 50 – Philippines and Spotify Viral 50 – Philippines, No. 3 on Apple Music Top 100: Philippines, and No. 6 on Spotify Viral 50 – Global. “Muli” has also landed on Spotify Viral 50 charts in four other territories: UAE, Singapore, Canada, and New Zealand, making it one of the biggest crossover hits that came out in the country this year.

Ace Banzuelo’s “Muli” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.Watch the music video here.

Source: Nyou

Ben&Ben shows queer love in its full and complex humanity in the “Paninindigan Kita” music video

Pat Lasaten and Agnes Reoma star as a romantic couple standing up for love in a world that invalidates the LGBTQ+ community’s struggles and rights

Filipino nine-piece collective Ben&Ben caps off the Pride celebration with the release of “Paninindigan Kita” music video, starring Pat Lasaten and Agnes Reoma.

Recognizing the importance of celebrating queer love and engaging in the fight towards greater acceptance, the visuals reflect the real-life experiences of Ben&Ben’s power couple Pat and Agnes as they live and love fearlessly in a world that rarely gives them a sense of belongingness.

“We're both excited and nervous because we're not very public about our relationship,” says keyboardist Pat Lasaten. “We also aren't into PDA, in fact our bandmates seldom see us hold hands.”

Bassist Agnes Reoma adds, “Expressing this story to a wider audience will be a fun challenge, as we aren't actors. Nonetheless, we're excited for the number of queer kids who'd see it.”

The “Paninindigan Kita” MV is helmed by prolific filmmaker Niq Ablao, who has directed some of the most enduring music films in recent memory, including Moira’s “Paubaya,” featuring Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto, and Ben&Ben’s “Upuan,” featuring Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano.

According to Ablao, the visual narrative tackles the journey of Pat and Agnes, “from the first time they decided to stand up for love regardless of gender and how they chose to stand by each other no matter what.” She emphasizes that, “This shows some of the struggles and challenges especially of those in the LGBTQ+ community - who feel like they have to hide simple expressions of love.”

Abalo is optimistic that the MV would shed a new light and a deeper understanding of how love should be: “Regardless of gender and sexuality, we love who we love and we stand by them no matter what. Brave are those who fight and take pride for it.”

“Paninindigan Kita” is written by Paolo Benjamin and Miguel Benjamin, and was the first song recorded in an actual studio since the pandemic started. Ben&Ben made the entire track at Spryrta, the same place where they recorded their multiplatinum full-length album, LimasawaStreet.

It follows the release of last year’s “Di Ka Sayang,” another empowering LGBTQ+ anthem that inspires confidence and fearlessness in the face of adversity, and this month’s “Langyang Pag-ibig,” which chronicles the inevitable disintegration of a romantic relationship.

“Paninindigan Kita” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.Watch the music video here.

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here. 

Source: Nyou

Only Growing Up Paperback

Super happy to share that the paperback version of my latest book, #onlygrowingup, is now available in the Philippines! 📖 Buy my book and read my only child narrative here. ✨ NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS! ✨#amazonauthor #authorlife @ukiyotopublishinghouse

Global R&B star Giveon drops mega-anticipated full-length debut album, Give or Take

The American singer-songwriter releases the music video for new single “Lost Me”

Delivering the R&B event of the summer, GRAMMY-nominated multi-platinum star GIVĒON presents his anxiously awaited full-length debut album, Give Or Take, today via Not So Fast/Epic Records.  Available HERE.

To celebrate the arrival of the record, he just shared the energetic and cinematic music video for the new single “Lost Me.” Watch it HERE. Upbeat production sets the track in motion as guitar wraps around the simmering beat. It culminates on an instantly catchy chorus, “I’m not looking for the one, later but for now I’m having fun.”

It stands out as one level of the story at the heart of Give Or Take. Across the record’s 15 tracks, he relays his account of the past year to his mother, speaking bluntly on the ups, downs, romances, relationships, and everything in between. To bring this to life, he worked with an all-star cast of producers and collaborators, including Cardo, Boi-1da, Jahaan Sweet, Sevn Thomas, OZ and more.

The journey commences with the sparse piano of “Let Me Go” where his robust baritone echoes over 808s as he muses, “Either love me, or I gottaleave.” Elsewhere, “July 16th” highlights the dynamics of his voice as he confesses, “I’ve been down this road before,” in between string-laden piano. “At Least We Tried” reflects on a past relationship with candor and clarity, while the finale “Unholy Matrimony” hinges on airy production as he paints a picture of a, “White gown hanging in the closet, black tuxedo that I never got to wear,” as a dream of marriage fades to black.

Honest, heartfelt, and hard-hitting, Give Or Take is everything R&B should be in 2022 and more.

He heralded Give Or Take with the ballad “Lie Again.” It has already amassed over 12.2 million Spotify streams and 5.3 million YouTube views on the music video. Right out of the gate, Rolling Stone hailed it as “beautifully painful,” and Complex proclaimed, “He shows his strength in vocals as he asks his partner to lie to him about past indiscretions.”

Last September, GIVĒON shared “For Tonight,” the lead single off the record, which is now RIAA certified Gold. The song was praised by outlets such as Complex and Rolling Stone on its way to amassing more than 175 million streams worldwide. Earlier this month, GIVĒON released a live version of “For Tonight” as part of the VEVO LIFT performance series. That followed his appearance at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards where GIVĒON joined Justin Bieber and Daniel Caesar for a smooth, jam session-style performance of their chart-topping hit “Peaches.”

TRACKLISTING:

1. Let Me Go

2. Scarred

3. Dec 11th

4. This Will Do

5. Get To You

6. Tryna Be

7. Make You Mine

8. July 16th

9. For Tonight

10. Lost Me

11. Lie Again

12. Another Heartbreak

13. At Least We Tried

14. Remind Me

15. Unholy Matrimony

ABOUT GIVĒON

GIVĒON has always used his raw, evocative songwriting to mine a confusing world for answers, and that approach has connected to the tune of over 1 billion global streams and nearly 1 billion YouTube views thus far. But, lately he's been fixed on a problem he can't solve. As he puts it, “Sometimes the truth is rewarded, and sometimes it’s frowned upon. Does a little deception make us feel better?” This sort of tension is at the heart of GIVĒON’s work. His debut album Give or Take shows off the emotional curiosity and deep warmth of his songs over cinematic R&B arrangements. This sensitivity and love for storytelling traces back to his upbringing in Long Beach, CA, where his mother shielded him and his brothers from the area’s gang culture, and encouraged him to sing. After years of hustle, he bonded with producer Sevn Thomas (Drake, Rihanna) in 2019 and placed “Chicago Freestyle” on Drake’s 2020 mixtape Dark Lane Demo Tapes. GIVĒON’s March 2020 debut EP Take Time held his first top 40 Hot 100 hit, “Heartbreak Anniversary,” and by March 2021, his When It’s All Said and Done… Take Time compilation debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 (It’s since gone Platinum, and highlight “All to Me” went Gold—his 10th RIAA certification). Since then, the seven-time Grammy nominee has been forging connections in person on tour, and he’s been hard at work writing Give or Take. Its arrival shows just how much he’s grown, both as an introspective songwriter and an empathetic human being. Source: Nyou

FOLLOW GIVEON:

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER

Source: Nyou

Emerging singer-songwriter liesl-mae looks inwards and recountsstories of personal-growth in her captivating new single, “THE TRIP”

Talented singer-songwriter liesl-mae takes fans on a journey of self-discovery with the release of her latest single, “The Trip.” Simple, vulnerable, and authentic, liesl-mae’s analogous approach to storytelling reveals an old soul steeped in awareness far beyond her age. The Kuala Lumpur-based songstress is signed to OFFMUTE – Sony Music Entertainment’s Southeast Asian label – and is one of four artists that the label announced upon its launch on 19 March, 2021.

“The Trip” begins stripped down and intimate as liesl-maedetails the starting point of a journey she’d like to embark on. Eager and excited, everything around her seems to imply the time is right to charge towards her goals and ambitions. However, living in an age where people are constantly being inundated with the thoughts and opinions of others, liesl-maehighlights the importance, now more than ever, to check in on oneself; ensuring that the expectations we set for ourselves are indeed important to us and the goals we strive to achieve are in alignment with our values.

The sparse instrumentation, a nod towards limitless potential and endless possibility, is equally daunting in its expanse as it is exhilarating. Symbolic of the balancing act involved in deep reflective thought, “The Trip” is, in essence, an exercise in maturity and self-understanding - an antidote to the unrealistic expectations promulgated and exacerbated by social media.

In dealing with the mental exhaustion and burnout that typically ensues, “It’s important to look back at all the things that have made us who we are, the things we are thankful for; the people, experiences, and memories… And realise that there’s more to life than the hardships we go through”. Instead of allowing ourselves to be defined by our struggles, “Life can only get better when we’re here to make it better” says liesl-mae.

Personal growth and exploration are strong themes that undergird the entirety of the project; from the initial conception of the song, to working with producer Jose Ong to bring it to life. “[Jose] made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process and really pushed me in terms of finding my identity as an artist for this song in particular. He was super receptive to my feedback and helped me learn a lot in our few studio sessions together - from sing[ing] more expressively, to building harmonies, and just overall encouraging me to try things I’d never tried before.”

Translating the track’s metaphoric nature to its accompanying visual components was of the utmost importance to the music video’s director, Dexter Anthony. “Since The Trip is all about mental health and what [liesl-mae] has gone through, I didn't want to stray too far away from her own story.” Tastefully highlighting key lyrical moments with strong visual cues and motifs, the music video conveys an affecting sense of restraint; one that allows liesl-mae’s mellifluous storytelling to breathe and occupy its due space.

“The Trip” is due to be released on 24 June 2022. Watch theofficial music video here.

ABOUT LIESL-MAE

liesl-mae is a 24-year old singer-songwriter from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Handpicked by Sony Music Entertainment, liesl-mae is the first Malaysian artist to be signed to Sony’s Southeast Asian label OFFMUTE. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Lizzie Alpine, Dodie, Billie Eilish, Kodaline, and Bruno Major, liesl-mae’s artistry is defined by her distinct voice and vocal style which can best be described as calming and dreamy, with an almost lullaby-like quality to it, and paired with nuanced lyrics that display a marked simplicity and realness.

Her past releases “Solace” (2021) and “Headspace” (2022) have amassed a total of over 565,000 streams on all digital streaming platforms.

Driven by an unwavering sense of self in her dedication to her craft, liesl-mae is right on the cusp of going from bedroom singer-songwriter to full-fledged recording artist and performer. Her first original release entitled “Headspace” was released in early 2022. Watch the “Headspace” music video here.

Find liesl-mae on:

Apple Music | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube

 Source: Nyou