NOBITA chronicles the path towards healing in new hugot anthem “Paano Uusad”

The heartfelt track weaves a melodic pop-rock sound with bluesy riffs and tasteful guitar solos

With over 240 million streams on all digital music platforms combined, NOBITA has established themselves as one of the most prominent breakthrough bands of the last two years. Their most notable smashes “Ikaw Lang” and “Unang Sayaw” have maintained a cultural foothold with its encapsulation of this generation’s unique experiences when it comes to romantic love—young or otherwise.

Fast forward to 2022, the five-piece act is back with another hugot anthem that successfully turns grief and loss into another potential hit. Chronicling the path towards healing, NOBITA’s new single “Paano Uusad” captures someone’s inability to move on after witnessing the tragic demise of a loved one.

According to the band, the song was inspired by an OPM icon who took away his life due to depression. “It’s all about the people who keep wondering why they were left behind by someone dear to them.” NOBITA adds, “Jae got enticed to write a song while watching the livestream of the late icon’s wife, struggling to put into words how it feels to cope with the loss of a special someone.”

Weaving a melodic pop-rock sound with bluesy riffs and tasteful guitar solos, “Paano Uusad” improves the band’s familiar sonic template in a way that doesn’t overwhelm itslisteners. How they process heartbreak in “Paano Uusad” is interesting as far as delivery is concerned: it’s straightforward, but done with emotional honesty.

The track is accompanied by the release of a music videodirected by John Selirio, who has worked with the band on their previous single “Ikaw Lang.” Selirio emphasizes that the visual narrative offers a portrait of someone grieving and trying so hard to make sense of the shifting emotional state.

“The concept has something to do with the 5 stages of grief,” the filmmaker shares. “The song itself defines how to move on and how to get out of the situation—from crying to acceptance stage. I want to capture that vibe in its intimate form possible.”

NOBITA’s “Paano Uusad” is out now via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

Source: Nyou

Filipino-Norwegian artist Clinton Kane reflects on loss, love, and mental health in new album, MAYBE SOMEDAY IT'LL BE OK

He’s set to headline an international tour this year, including Manila as one of his destinations

Filipino-Norwegian singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Clinton Kane has released his debut album MAYBE SOMEDAY IT’LL ALL BE OK via Columbia Records. The 9-track LP features RIAA Gold-certified lead singles “CHICKEN TENDIES” and “I GUESS I’M IN LOVE” as well as “GO TO HELL” and “14” in addition to five brand new tracks. Listen HERE.

Touching on themes and personal experiences with loss, love, mental health, etc., Clinton might just make listeners feel strong enough to let their emotions out too. Kane says, “This album is a collection of personal experiences and key moments that have had an impact on my life. It’s unapologetically myself. I’ve been working on this project for three years, and to think this whole journey started from a panic attack that forced me to try writing a song is surreal to me.”

He adds, “The name of the album was actually inspired by a phone call I had with a close friend. We were sharing stories about mutual trauma, and at the end of the call he said ‘maybe someday it’ll all be ok.’ It wasn’t too depressing, but not too optimistic either, and I’ve always felt like I live in that grey area - that juxtaposition between hopefulness and hopelessness.”

Earlier this month, Clinton announced a massive global headline tour slated for the fall, which follows two sold-out North American headline runs the past year. The 53-date trek begins in Edmonton, AB on September 3 with stops in Los Angeles, Las Vegas (Life Is Beautiful), New York, Toronto and more. On November 1, Clinton will kick off the international leg of the tour in Dublin, IE with shows throughout Europe and Asia, including Manila on December 3, 2022 at the New Frontier Theatre.

Additionally, Clinton will be contributing a portion of touring proceeds to various charities serving the different continents and cities he will be performing in. A dollar per ticket sold in the US will be donated between Take Back The Night, a national advocacy organization with local chapters that amplifies voices and convenes community for survivors of sexual abuse and assault, and Noise For Now, which supports local abortion providers and advocates in areas where access has been threatened or eliminated.

Visit https://www.clintonkane.com/ for tickets and more information.

MAYBE SOMEDAY IT’ll ALL BE OK TRACKLIST:

1. MAYBE SOMEDAY IT’LL ALL BE OK

2. 14

3. COLD

4. CHICKEN TENDIES

5. KEEP IT TO YOURSELF

6. ONE MORE DAY WITH YOU

7. I GUESS I’M IN LOVE

8. GO TO HELL

9. I WISH I COULD HATE YOU FOR BREAKING ME AND CALLING IT LOVE

About Clinton Kane:

Clinton Kane isn’t afraid to cry. He’s also not afraid to ask questions, laugh, scream, speak his mind, or push the envelope. He might ponder God in one song only to wonder what the f*ck went wrong with a relationship in the next. For as wide-ranging as he may be lyrically and conceptually, he’s also a highly disciplined and self-taught singer, guitarist, pianist, drummer, and producer. As far as the story is concerned, Clinton bounced around from Perth, Australia to The UK as a kid. On a teenage sojourn to Santorini and beyond, he lived out of a backpack as he gained traction with a series of independent releases before signing to Columbia Records. In 2019, he served up the this is what it feels like EP before guesting on “Drown” by Martin Garrix in early 2020.

Building an international fan base, he generated over 1 billion-plus streams across a catalog highlighted by “Fix It To Break It,” “i don’t want to watch the world end with someone else,” and “remember the mornings.” He has also sold-out successive headline tours and incited the applause of NME, Billboard, and more in addition to landing on Forbes’ “30 Under 30 Asia.” The loss of three family members, heartbreaking relationships, nights sleeping on park benches, and an unbelievable trip to the brink of adulthood inspired his 2022 full-length debut album, MAYBE SOMEDAY IT’LL ALL BE OK [Columbia Records], featuring the gold-selling singles “CHICKEN TENDIES” and “I GUESS I’M IN LOVE” as well as “GO TO HELL” and “14.”

Follow Clinton Kane:

Website | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Source: Nyou

4th Impact explores themes of heartbreak and betrayal on emotional ballad “Tapat sa’yo”

Their new single is produced by Lee Oh Won, the hitmaker behind some of the most compelling chart-toppers in K-Pop

Responsible for ushering in the girl group renaissance in Pinoy pop, 4th Impact delivers feisty bangers that woosh listeners back into the groove. The former X-Factorfinalists are now part of Sony Music Philippines and ShowBT Philippines’ growing P-Pop roster, which includes award-winning boyband SB19 and promising newcomer KAIA.

In an attempt to showcase their more vulnerable side, the Here We Go act returns with a heartfelt ballad that distills themes of betrayal and loss into an empowering statement of moving on. 4th Impact’s new single “Tapatsa’yo” is inspired by breakup stories from the members of the girl group, and digs deep into the universal truths of going through pain and rebuilding one’s sense of self from the ground up.

“As always, we were hands on in both the songwriting and creative process,” shares the sister act in a statement. “We co-wrote ‘Tapat sa’yo’ with Angelo Calucin and Renz Salazar, and our utmost goal is to deliver a heart-wrenching message that a lot of people can relate to. The vocal arrangements and harmonies were done by 4th Impact’s very own Mylene.”

“Tapat sa’yo” is helmed by renowned K-Pop producer Lee Oh Won, the man behind some of the biggest hits from SHINee's Taemin, Stray Kids, TVXQ, Wanna One, and SB19. The track was recorded at Monostery Recording Studio with the help of Isagani Palabyab and Lee Oh Won himself.

“We are honored to be working with renowned Korean composers and producers,” says 4th Impact. “Lee OhWon is so kind yet very professional and strict in a good way. Like us, he is a perfectionist. And we love it.”

The powerful pop ballad features a melodic string section and acoustic elements, which add a layer of emotional resonance to the material. With enthrallinginstrumentation and soulful vocals to back it up, “Tapatsa’yo” addresses the foibles of romantic love with maturity that goes beyond years.

The release of “Tapat sa’yo” comes with a music video directed by Emman Zii. Reflecting the lyrical premise of the song, the visuals find the girls of 4th Impact trying to reminisce about their good old past, while picking themselves up from the ruins of their failed romantic relationships.

According to Zii, 4th Impact was fun to work with, and brought their A game during the shoot. “I can say that our shoot was really relaxed. Everybody knows what they need to do. and I look forward to working with them again soon.”

4th Impact’s “Tapat sa’yo” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony MusicEntertainment. Watch out for the release of its music video on 4th Impact’s official YouTube page this July 22, Friday at 9pm.

Source: Nyou

Date Yourself First 🇵🇭

I’m so excited to share that my eighth book #dateyourselffirst is now available in paperback in the Philippines! 🇵🇭 It is also available worldwide on Amazon and Google Play. ✨ Price stars at only $2.99. Buy your copy here. 📖 #amazonauthor #authorlife @ukiyotopublishinghouse

Date Yourself First on Amazon

It still feels surreal whenever I see my books on Amazon! Buy my latest work #dateyourselffirst on Amazon, Google Play, or via this link for only $2.99 📖 #amazonauthor #authorlife @ukiyotopublishinghouse

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