I never thought I’d say this, but here we are! MY BOOKS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT @walmart!!!😭😭😭 #authorlife @ukiyotopublishinghouse
Klingande and Vargen Reveal Energetic New Single “Kids On The Run”
Buy/Stream ‘Kids On The Run’ Here
Private Listen
Out NOW via Ultra Records
Klingande kicks off 2023 with “Kids On The Run,” a nostalgic house anthem that sees the multi-platinum French DJ & producer collaborating with rising producer VARGEN. The feel-good track is brought to life by Klingande and Vargen’s high-energy sound. Drawing from ‘70s rock music as well as upbeat, catchy EDM. “Kids On The Run” is set to be an instant classic.
VARGEN, Swedish for “wolf” and is the first signing of KIDDO’s (Tiesto, Wiz Khalifa, Alan Walker, Robin Schulz to name a few) newly formed record label Tolv Records. A new soon to be iconic, female DJ staying an enigma while wearing a wolf mask is establishing her place in the heavily male dominated DJ music industry. The debut release ”What A Feeling” made its way to place 130 on German official radio charts and VARGEN is now teaming up with Klingande on 70’s rock inspired rebel dance anthem ”Kids On The Run” as a followup. She says: “It feels like blessing to be able to follow up 'What A Feeling' with this amazing song and collaboration with Klingande."
Klingande, French producer and tropical house champion, has been breathing new life into the electronic music world with his impeccable productions and uplifting sound for nearly half a decade. Propelled to instant fame in 2014 with his multi-platinum debut release, ‘Jubel,’ Klingande has since continued to release a constant stream of genre-defying singles to satiate his ever-growing fanbase, cementing his reputation as one of the most refreshing and original producers in modern dance today. A musician in the truest sense of the word, what sets Klingande apart from the rest is not only his dedication to producing unusual and mesmerizing soundscapes, but his ability to touch each corner of the globe with them. Living life on the road for years at a time, Klingande is well-versed in worldwide tours, having performed at some of the most respected venues and festivals in the game. ‘Eye of The Storm" marks Klingande’s newest single of 2021 and follows on from 2019's masterful debut double album, The Album. An extensive, 18-track release, the acclaimed LP featured some of the Frenchman’s most recognizable tracks, including ‘Pumped Up’, ‘By The River’, ‘Alive’ and the multi-platinum ‘Jubel’.
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For more information on Klingande, please visit:
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Website | Spotify
Source: Blackstar
Caffeine For Your Heart: A Review of White Mocha Americano
I have a soft spot in my heart for books written during the Covid-19 pandemic. As an author who published books during this teachable moment, I greatly empathize with the enterprising authors who chose to write their narratives during this period of uncertainty. White Mocha Americano by Anthony Shieh is no exception. It is a masterpiece written and published during the time of the pandemic. Incidentally, this is the second book published by Shieh during the pandemic. I appreciate his resilience and creativity during the pandemic.
The novel is a love letter to the LGBTQᐩ community. There are various gay slang words peppered across the novel. I appreciate Shieh’s efforts in including the definition of these terms for everyone’s information. I also enjoyed listening to the author’s playlist, which is included in the novel via a Spotify code. It was like listening to Shieh’s creative musical influences while reading his book, and this gave it another layer of artistry.
I love coffee, so this book resonated with me as it is full of references to my favorite drink. In fact, the title itself needs no introduction. It is a beverage that was made popular by millennials, which incidentally is the generation which Shieh belongs to. And while there is no note in the novel indicating that it is partly autobiographical, I have a feeling that Shieh shares some personal experiences in this book, which adds a personal touch to the whole narrative and plot. I admire his courage for putting personal elements in the novel, such as the year he was born and the industry he belongs to. It takes chutzpah to write a deeply personal novel, and I admire the author for that.
Some metaphors may be uncomfortable to some readers though. As a woman, I was offended by a reference made to a woman who resembles a monkey. I feel that the novel could have done without a sexist reference. Other than that, I found the novel ethereal and lyrical. It deserves to be read, whether you belong to the rainbow or not.
San Holo “DON’T LOOK DOWN” feat. Lizzy Land AVAILABLE via Helix Records on January 27
DON’T LOOK DOWN is here to remind you that your doubts and negative thoughts are just like clouds passing by. We easily get caught up in the noise of everyday life, myself included. I hope this song can help you keep your head up, and give you the strength to keep going! This song means so much to me and was written from the heart!" -San Holo
Acclaimed Dutch producer, artist, and mental health advocate San Holo released his poignantly emotional new single “DON’T LOOK DOWN” via Helix Records on January 27. At once melancholy and uplifting, the track stays true to the artist’s quintessential sound, reaching for epic sonic heights while maintaining an intimate and heartfelt level of songcraft.
After initially starting the track with celebrated producer RL Grime, San Holo collaborated with Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter Lizzy Land, whose credits include co-writes and features on songs with Alesso, Kasbo, Paul Oakenfold, EMBRZ, Jerro, and more. Land says of the songwriting process: “I heard the main melody for “DON’T LOOK DOWN” almost instantly as the track played for the first time. Like gentle bells ringing in my ears. I found it relatable to the way I often feel when I’m overwhelmed or looking for a boost. I hope it inspires people to believe in better days, a higher mindset, and the idea that they can get through anything.”
Always keeping busy with next-level projects, San Holo has recently sold out an NFT collection for his last single “All The Highs”, played a pop-up show in an elevator in partnership with taste-making curators Brownies & Lemonade, collaborated with the world-famous Dutch art museum Mauritsuis on a sonic interpretation of a work of art, created special mixes for the popular mental health app Calm and had one of his songs selected for FIFA 2023’s official soundtrack.
To celebrate the release of “DON’T LOOK DOWN”, San Holo will be featured on BBC Radio 1’s Annie Nightingale Quest Mix on Tuesday, January 24. Also, in addition to streaming platforms, “DON’T LOOK DOWN” was available as a limited 24 hour NFT drop at 1 PM PT on release day as well. After connecting their Eth wallet, users will have the opportunity to purchase a NFT of the track. Always exploring the cutting edge of Web3 technology, San Holo’s NFT release for his last single “All The Highs” sold out quickly.
For San Holo, everything is personal. Every note is a story and each lyric a memory, a hyper-real exploration of purpose, emotion, and shared experience. The Dutch producer lives in his own space, crafting a world of beauty and sentiment between the build-and-drop bombast of post-EDM and the intimate musings of ambient post-rock. Having produced EDM (existential dance music) since Soundcloud’s golden era, San’s unique style and honest approach to songwriting have earned him a loyal following that supported his independent debut album and cemented the artist as a star in a league all his own – earning the praise of critics and peers across a multitude of genres. While other artists in the dance music sphere and industry at large may shy away from the rawer aspects of the human experience, San Holo has established himself both as an individual and a brand that encourages listeners to embrace one another’s vulnerabilities.
Download press image HERE
CONNECT WITH SAN HOLO
Website | Instagram | Tik Tok | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube
Source: Blackstar
Strand Bookstore!
If you are losing hope and getting discouraged, always remember that I became a published author at 35. Now that I’m already 36, my books have made it to @strandbookstore 📖Life is not a race. And for life lessons, read my books! Buy them here. 📚 #authorlife #amazonauthor @ukiyotopublishinghouse
MULTI-HYPHENATE RAPPER, PRODUCER & ACTOR RICH BRIAN UNVEILSNEW SINGLE & MUSIC VIDEO “SUNDANCE FREESTYLE” VIA 88RISING / WARNER RECORDS
MADE HIS FILM DEBUT AT SUNDANCE THIS PAST WEEKEND STARRING IN THE JUSTIN CHON-DIRECTED FILM, JAMOJAYA
“Imanuel, better known to global hip-hop fans by his stage name, Rich Brian, gives a convincing performance in the film as a fish-out-of-water musical sensation very much like his real-life self.”
– THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER
“Imanuel acquits himself well during his first outing in front of the camera”
– VARIETY
“Making his big-screen debut, Imanuel easily conveys musical prowess behind the mic, while also pinpointing the character’s guarded insecurity.”
– SCREEN DAILY
“A winning debut for Rich Brian.”
– COLLIDER
(New York, NY) January 30, 2022: Coming off the heels of the Sundance premiere of his first-ever feature film, the Justin Chon-directed Jamojaya, Indonesian rapper, singer, and producer Rich Brian releases a new single “Sundance Freestyle” via 88rising / Warner Records with an accompanying music video.
Listen to “Sundance Freestyle” HERE and watch the music video HERE.
“Sundance Freestyle” features surreal, haunting production that underscores sentimental bars about Brian’s steady rise in the music scene and his recent Sundance debut. The cleverly written and catchy song carries a near cinematic quality as Brian spits incredulously, “I just took a flight to Utah man that’s a first time…5 years ago I’d be so happy to get 5 bands for a 30-minute set.”
The music video directed by frequent collaborator Daniel Cloud Campos, sees Brian in full movie star persona on an imagined talk show set preparing to chat about his starring role in Jamojaya. An elaborate one-take shot reveals a wide array of characters–including skateboarding keytarists and disco dancers–disrupting and causing disarray to the entire production. Watch the video HERE.
This past weekend, Jamojaya premiered at the 2023 Sundance film festival. Directed by seasoned actor and filmmaker Justin Chon, the film depicts a story of a growing gap between father and son. Brian, stars as a young, up-and-coming rapper who wants to hire a manager and a music label from the United States to take over the reins from his father, played by Yayu Unru, who has guided his son’s career as a singer from start to fame. Most of the scenes in Jamojaya are in the Indonesian language. 88rising CEO and Co-Founder, Sean Miyashiro also contributed to the film as an executive producer.
“Sundance Freestyle” notably follows Brian’s recent, self-produced track “VIVID” featuring $NOT. The breakup anthem features the rappers trading verses in a hypnotic volley, dissecting relationship ups and downs. Complex raved how on the track “Brian effortlessly switches between his low-pitched, distinctive rapping voice, and more angelic singing vocals.” Brian also recently headlined 88rising’s fourth annual, flagship Head in the Clouds festival in Los Angeles last August to an audience of over 35,000 and the festival’s globally expanded stages in Jakarta and Manila in December 2022.
More to come from Rich Brian in 2023.
("Sundance Freestyle" video still hi-res HERE, credit: Scott Hutchinson)
ABOUT RICH BRIAN:
Growing up homeschooled in Indonesia, Brian found the Internet to be his English teacher and window to the world beyond. After moving to America alone at the age of 17, Brian has been both awed and humbled by his experiences, as they simultaneously smack him down to Earth and lift him up. After making the leap to America, Brian has experienced all the glory of “making it” - from collaborating with the likes of 21 Savage, Offset, and Playboi Carti, to selling out shows and playing festivals around the world.
Brian’s debut project Amen, released in February 2018, garnered widespread critical acclaim and topped the iTunes Hip-Hop charts - a first in history for an Asian musician. Brian has since gone on to sell out shows across North America, Europe and Asia, and festivals worldwide, including Bonnaroo and Rolling Loud. In 2019 he released The Sailor Brian’s second full-length album. It received critical acclaim, with Hypebeast proclaiming, “Rich Brian flawlessly tackles his sonic growth and Asian identity.” Featuring production from Bekon & The Donuts, 1Mind, Frank Dukes and Rich Brian himself, The Sailor documents Brian’s coming-of-age in the public eye, which has taken him from an Internet-born rapper to an Indonesian icon and hero for Asian youth around the world. The album features singles “100 Degrees”, “Yellow”, and “Kids”, and has been streamed over 550M+ times globally.
After spending months in quarantine, Brian followed up The Sailor with the 1999 EP. A sonically diverse project borne out of months of social isolation, the majority of the EP is both self-written and produced. 2021 proved to be a triumphant year for Brian as he reached new heights in his career. Brian notched his first-ever U.S. Top 40 radio hit for "edamame" with bbno$. Brian also played a prominent role in Marvel Studios' Shang-Chi & The Legend of the Ten Rings soundtrack – including collaborations with 21 Savage, Rick Ross, and DJ Snake.
Last year, Rich Brian made history as one of the first Indonesian artists to play a solo headline set at Coachella and attract 10 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH RICH BRIAN
Source: Blackstar
KAIA brings back the fun in pop music on the performance video of “Turn Up”
The P-Pop quintet’s new banger welcomes 2023 with an upbeat club anthem
After earning rave reviews for their Y2K-indebted track “Dalawa,” KAIA marks another creative triumph for P-Popwith the release of another banger under Sony Music Entertainment.
The Filipino girl group’s new single “Turn Up” unabashedly displays their signature brand of sass while reviving the bold, explosive sounds of early 2010’s dance-pop.
The release of “Turn Up” comes with a music video (performance version) directed by Denny Lee and Jake Jung. The visuals find KAIA performing the track with a synchronized choreography.
“Because it’s upbeat and danceable, we thought a party concept will best for it, so people could have fun whenever they hear Turn Up,” KAIA shares in a collaborative statement. “We want our listeners to feel good as they vibe with the song.”
The catchy track was written by KAIA themselves, and helmed by acclaimed K-Pop producer Lee Oh Won, who has done impressive work for international artists such as Stray Kids, SHINee’s Taemin, TVXQ, SB19, and more.
As pointed out by the five-member act, “Turn Up” is an escapist anthem about setting one’s worries aside for the time being and taking pleasure in moments that call for funand adventure.
“We got so busy stressing out about things that we couldn’t control,” says the Blah Blah quintet. “This song somehow encourages listeners to break away from the mold, live in the moment, and let their body groove into the music. Sometimes all you need is to disconnect from the outside world and be yourself.”
“Turn Up” will also be part of KAIA’s debut EP to be released in the coming months. The song will be performed live at the Pinoy Pop Convention 2023(PPOPCON), an ultimate fan gathering and celebration of Filipino pop culture and music.
KAIA’s “Turn Up” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide. Watch the music video (performance version) here.
Source: Nyou
Magkasintahan 2.0 Vol. 1
I am happy to share that I am part of the Magkasintahan 2.0 Vol. 1 anthology! My short story is part of this Valentine’s special by @ukiyotopublishinghouse 📖 Buy it now on Amazon or via this link. 📖 #authorlife
Israeli Embassy and DepEd Commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day
A moment of silence after lighting six candles for the six million Jews who perished during the Holocaust.
In photo (L-R): L-R: USec Gina O. Gonong, Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching; USec Epimaco V. Densing III, Undersecretary for School and Infrastructure Facilities; VP and DepEd Sec. Sara Duterte; Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss; Assistant Secretary of DFA-United Nations and International Organizations (UNIO) - ASec Kira Christianne Danganan-Azucena; President of the Jewish Association of the Philippines Mr. Salito Malca
The Embassy of Israel in the Philippines collaborated with the Department of Education for the annual commemoration of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, with this year’s theme: Home and Belonging.
Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss thanked the Vice President of the Republic of the Philippines and Secretary of the Department of Education Hon. Sara Duterte and her team who organized the event and made the 27th of January a formal day of commemorating the holocaust in all DepEd schools and facilities.
“The Holocaust is the darkest time in human history – especially for the Jewish people. It was an unprecedented event from 1942 to 1945 when Nazi Germany attempted to annihilate the Jewish people. Six million Jews – one third of the Jewish population – were murdered for the sole reason that they were Jewish,” Ambassador Fluss explained. “Today we are witnessing voices of denial of the holocaust and increasing antisemitism. This cannot be ignored; we can never let it happen again. We must remember, learn, teach, educate, and say - never again.”
The Ambassador also remembered the act of former president of the Philippines Manuel Quezon of opening the country’s doors to over 1,300 Jewish refugees fleeing the Nazi regime in 1939. “Pres. Quezon saved not only those individuals, but also their future families.”
The International Holocaust Remembrance Day is the day that the United Nations urges every member state to honor the victims of the Holocaust. It marks the anniversary of the day in 1945 when the main extermination camp Auschwitz-Birkenau – where more than a million Jews were exterminated – was liberated by the allies.
The ceremony was held on the 26th of January at Bulwagan ng Karunungan, DepEd Complex in Pasig City. In attendance were officials and staff from the Embassy of Israel, Department of Education, representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs, and members of the Jewish community in the Philippines.
Source: EMBASSY OF ISRAEL MANILA
ADB, DSNG Sign Sustainability-Linked Loan to Support Rural Livelihoods and Agroforestry in Indonesia
JAKARTA, INDONESIA (27 January 2022) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $15 million loan facility with PT Dharma Satya Nusantara Tbk (DSNG) to help the company expand sustainable wood processing, rural livelihood development, and climate-resilient agroforestry in Java, Indonesia.
The ADB proceeds will finance capital expenditure to implement energy-efficient and water-saving processes, and procurement of cultivated native Indonesian Sengon and Jabon trees. Farmed native trees can be a sustainable alternative to natural timber, preventing deforestation and supporting biodiversity.
DSNG sources timber from Central, East, and West Java. The majority of Sengon and Jabon trees are cultivated by smallholder farmers and are intercropped with a variety of other crops including coffee, corn, and rice. As well as enabling the utilization of otherwise unproductive land, intercropping trees with food crops can reduce erosion, enhance soil health, and in many cases improve crop yields.
“The region faces increasing climate shocks, impacting livelihoods, food, water, and health for millions of people with women disproportionately affected,” said ADB’s Private Sector Operations Department Senior Investment Specialist Carine Donges. “ADB’s assistance will promote sustainable and inclusive agroforestry, preventing deforestation and supporting biodiversity, while demonstrating how the private sector can improve rural livelihoods and climate resilience through innovative sourcing models and by providing training to farmers.”
A $500,000 technical assistance grant administered by ADB will provide capacity building in climate-resilient agricultural practices for complex agroforestry systems and financial literacy to about 4,000 farmers, at least 1,200 of them women.
As a sustainability-linked loan, this financing demonstrates ADB’s and DSNG’s commitment to a low-carbon and climate-resilient future. It is DSNG’s first sustainability-linked financing, with adjustments in pricing upon achieving pre-defined annual sustainability targets, including training farmers to obtain forest management certification from the Forest Stewardship Council. The sustainability-linked loan has received an independent second-party opinion, consistent with industry principles.
“Sustainability is embedded in how DSNG runs its business, and we are constantly driving ourselves to achieve value and positive impacts. This sustainability linked loan with ADB dovetails with our vision to be a business that is responsible for our people, our planet and our common prosperity,” said DSNG Director Jenti Widjaja. “By incorporating sustainability metrics through key aspects of our business, from our supply chain and operations to financing, we aim to strengthen the alignment between creating value and delivering positive impacts for all of our stakeholders in our wood business.”
Established in 1980, DSNG is listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. In the wood segment of its business, the company operates two wood processing plants in Central Java with an installed capacity of 150,000 square meters a month for engineered flooring and 9,000 cubic meter per month for panels. DSNG is one of Indonesia’s leading forestry companies and its largest exporter of wood products to Japan.
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.
Source: ADB; photo by ADB
PITBULL JOINS FORCES WITH AYYBO & ERO808, PUTTING HIS SPIN ON NEW HIT SINGLE “HYPNOSIS” FOR LATIN HOUSE REWORK “RIGHT OR WRONG (HYPNOSIS)” PLUS OFFICAL MUSIC VIDEO FEATURING MR. WORLDWIDE HIMSELF
Out NOW via Helix Records!
Buy/Stream: https://helixrecords.ffm.to/rightorwrong
Listen/Download Here
AYYBO's hit single HYPNOSIS gets a rework from Mr. Worldwide himself, creating the perfect Latin House banger that is RIGHT OR WRONG [HYPNOSIS]. The original has garnered over 5M+ streams to date, peaked #35 on Shazam Global House Chart, 20M+ views across Tiktok usages. The Pitbull version drops just ahead of his 2023 global tour, and will feature wide support across Pitbull's socials (90M in total) & an official video dropping week of release. RIGHT OR WRONG is the latin & dance blend that we needed.
Emerging producer AAYBO presents an exciting new House track “HYPNOSIS” with singer-songwriter ero808 via Funkshway & Helix Records. The single is the duo’s first collaboration and in its first month of release has already amassed over 700K Spotify streams and reached #39 on the Shazam global House chart.
Pitbull invites disruption on a global scale as a GRAMMY®-winning independent international superstar. With countless awards, dozens of international number ones, hundreds of gold and platinum certifications, millions of single sales, 25 million album sales, and cumulative video views in excess of 15 billion, one of the most impressive careers in music history set the stage for him to make true change. Pitbull returned to the road in 2022 with the sold out North American Can’t Stop Us Now Tour, packing arenas and amphitheaters coast-to-coast. He maximizes his own creative, entrepreneurial and personal freedom, yet again, on his next long-awaited English album, coming soon.
Orange County-native and party music hustler AYYBO is an emerging artist with an arsenal of heavy-hitting House beats up his sleeve. In just over a year of releasing music, AYYBO has quickly began cementing his style of dark, addicting grooves with a splash of funk. Since the second grade, Aaron Bonnema has gravitated towards music production, cinematography, and design, allowing him to fully channel and execute his creative vision for the project with every release. After years of working in the shadows, AYYBO has evolved into what you are experiencing today: a new House artist born with the intention to make you move your feet. “God damn baby” isn’t just his motto; it’s a way of being.
Boston-bred but now Boulder-basedero808 is a singer-songwriter and producer whose name has spread through the electronic music scene like wildfire. With a raised-by-wolf mentality, ero has collaborated with the industry’s top-rising talents, quickly becoming one of the most innovative musicians in the game. Inspired by hip hop, electronic and latin music at a young age, ero808 began his musical journey at only 11 years old. Today, he continues to use these sonic influences to tell his story reflecting on his past traumas, future dreams, and nightmares.
PITBULL
Spotify | Instagram | Tik Tok | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube
AYYBO
Spotify | Instagram | Tik Tok | Twitter |Facebook | YouTube
ERO808
Spotify | Instagram | Tik Tok | Twitter |Facebook | YouTube
Clara Benin opens 2023 with the release of When Harry Met Sally-inspired track “different…”
The acclaimed singer-songwriter takes rom-com to an entirely different level as she revels in the idea of ‘what-ifs’
2022 has been a great year for Clara Benin. Aside from getting featured on a Times Square billboard in New York ahead of the International Women’s Day, the folk darling received two nominations at the recently concluded 8th Wish Music Awards and collaborated with international artists such as British singer-songwriter Lowswimmer. On top of her achievements, Benin also dropped a song called "Affable Dork," which garnered rave reviews for "adopting a jazz-pop approach."
This year is no different for the prolific act, as she continues to delight Clarafied (her official fans club) with her remarkable consistency. Benin opens 2023 with a soothing tune that revels in the idea of ‘what ifs' and how it often sparks curiosity and wonder. Her new single, "different…" draws inspiration from a rom-com classic, a common theme among her last few releases.
"I wrote this song after being inspired by the movie, When Harry Met Sally," Benin admits. "My song "different…" is about having a really good friendship with someone and wondering if you two could take that relationship somewhere different."
In "different…," Clara Benin takes a familiar musical route without losing the riveting earnestness of the subject. As expected, the FIlipino singer-songwriter has mastered the art of subtlety, and on "different," it’s here to stay: beautifully woven as if it’s an integral part of Benin’s identity as an artist.
The track is produced by Francis Lorenzo and Gabba Santiago, with her dad Joey Benin playing fretless bass. Clara initially recorded the vocals and guitars of the song in her dad’s studio in December 2021, during the time when she visited her family in her hometown. The rest, as they say, is history.
"We went for a more stripped-down instrumentation so we could really highlight the lyrics," reveals the talented singer-songwriter. "I really wanted to play around with more organic sounds. Majority of the percussive sounds that you hear in this song are actually just Gabba tapping on random things around my studio."
Check out Clara Benin’s “different…” is on all digital music platforms via OFFMUTE.
Follow CLARA BENIN on socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clarabeninmusic
Twitter: https://twitter.com/clarabeninmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarabeninmusic
Follow OFFMUTE on socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/offmuteASIA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/offmute
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offmute/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offmute
Source: Nyou
RUEL ANNOUNCES HIGHLY ANTICIPATEDDEBUT ALBUM 4TH WALL TO BE RELEASED MARCH 3RDNEW SINGLE “MUST BE NICE” OUT NOW
British-Australian singer/songwriter and pop prodigy Ruel announces his highly anticipated debut album 4th Wall to be released March 3rd via RCA Records. Through a journey that spanned over the last three years, Ruel’s long-awaited debut album explores his most personal and stellar musical offerings to date. Pre-order/pre-save HERE.
Today, Ruel releases his new single “MUST BE NICE” which was written and produced with longtime collaborator M-Phazes (Khalid, Noah Cyrus) along with TMS Production Team (Lewis Capaldi, Dua Lipa) and songwriter Sean Douglas (Lizzo, Thomas Rhett). The emotive, piano-driven ballad showcases Ruel’s stunning voice, which glides effortlessly from gritty tenor to airy falsetto. Listen HERE.
Speaking on the single, Ruel says, "’MUST BE NICE’ is the first time I’ve ever released a ballad as a single, and it would have to be one of my favourite tracks on the record. Lyrically it's such an easy song to grasp, essentially, it’s just about a break up. But I wanted to take a step back and try and give it a new perspective. All break ups are difficult in their own way, but when you see the other person getting on with their life, it hits so much harder. I feel like the lyric “fuck it must be nice” captures that perfectly."
About Ruel:
At just twenty years old, the performer born Ruel Van Dijk has experienced several careers worth of success. Since debuting in 2017 at the age of fourteen on producer M-Phazes “Golden Years,” Ruel was the youngest artist to appear on the popular live segment “Like a Version” on renowned Australian youth radio station triple j. He has since released three EPs, earned five platinum records, and amassed over two billion streams worldwide. As the youngest artist to sell out the Sydney Opera House (twice), he has been hailed by the likes of Elton John, and touring partners Khalid and Shawn Mendes, while being declared by media critics as “the next global pop star in waiting.” His decorated career includes two MTV Europe Music Awards, a Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Award, an ARIA Award, and numerous nominations.
To Buy/Stream “MUST BE NICE”:
https://ruel.lnk.to/MustBeNice
Follow Ruel:
TikTok | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Source: Sony Music Philippines
XG HIGHLY anticipated third single “SHOOTING STAR” is out now!
XG has released “SHOOTING STAR” via digital streaming services as well as on limited edition box set today! The long-awaited third single is a spacewalk through a dream-like soundscape that showcases powerful rap and exceptional vocals from the seven-member girl group. The lyrics express their single-mindedness in achieving world-class status as artists. The accompanying music video features XG as next generation cool kids from a system beyond ours who have brought with them their unique musical expression, and presents their compelling vision of a world without boundaries. Watch it here.
The “SHOOTING STAR” single also includes an extra track, “LEFT RIGHT”, an addictive song - its lyric "The only direction I know" embodies XG's philosophy of never being swayed by others, belief in one’s self and to always push ahead.
Both tracks on this release are quintessential XG, and encapsulates their energy with the statement "Trust URSELF & Be what U want to be".
A live performance SHOOTING STAR LIVE STAGE has premiered shortly before the release of the music video - featuring both tracks, “SHOOTING STAR” and “LEFT RIGHT”, the livestream brought together enthusiastic viewers from all over the world, who communicated their appreciation in the comments section.
XG has previously posted a whole host of additional videos such as choreography and dance practices for their first two singles 'Tippy Toes' and 'MASCARA'. Fans can look forward to more innovative content XG will deliver for this latest new single!
“SHOOTING STAR”
Digital/CD Box
Tracklist:
1. SHOOTING STAR
2. LEFT RIGHT
About XG
With their single “Tippy Toes” XG were the first artists to debut from XGALX. In June 2022, XG released their second single “MASCARA”. A third single, “SHOOTING STAR”, is slated for release on January 25th, 2023.
XG stands for 'Xtraordinary Girls'. XG areJURIN, CHISA, HINATA, HARVEY, JURIA, MAYA and COCONA. With their fresh, inventive music and performance, they aim to empower young people from all over the world - from all walks of life.
About XGALX
XGALX is a global entertainment production company with a mission to produce artists with a defined world view, creating a culture of “bold” creativity. Through the dynamic energy of their music and performance, XGALX will spread a message to young people all over the world: "Focus on your dreams and don’t stop until you make them a reality."
CREATE BOLD CULTURE
Through the work of the XGALX project we will empower young people all over the world, from all walks of life to: "Listen to your heart, focus on your dreams and have the strength to make them come true - without being limited by the opinions or judgements of others.”
Follow XG
Official Website http://xgalx.com/xg/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/xgofficial
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC12HMtO5MYph9dCZZ7yygng
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@xg.official
Weverse: https://weverseapp.page.link/p3i5
Twitter: https://twitter.com/XGOfficial_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XGOfficial
Follow XGALX
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Source: Blackstar
RUNNING ON THE DEAD SEA – DEAD SEA LAND MARATHON
The 2023 marathon season is upon us and with it the registration for the Dead Sea Marathon runners is in full swing. The marathon at the lowest place in the world - the Dead Sea, will start on 03.02.2023at Ein Bokek Beach in the Tamar Regional Council, Dead Sea Land.
These days, the preparations continue for the Dead Sea Marathon, which is taking place for the fourth year, and will offer the participants a unique running experience in areas closed to the public throughout the year, next to ancient salt crystals, in front of the magical desert landscapes and on the eastern border of Israel. All the runners will run east, straight onto the sea towards Jordan, on a dirt embankment that is not normally stepped on and which has been adapted especially for the benefit of the marathon participants. The routes are circular with a minimum repetition of the routes, with a minimum of asphalt and a maximum of scenery. The Dead Sea Marathon is gaining increasing interest around the world and is becoming an event that attracts hundreds of runners from abroad who want to enjoy a running experience along with hospitality and recreation at the lowest place in the world.
Unique - All runners will run straight onto the sea towards the border with Jordan, on a dirt embankment that has never been trodden on and which has been specially adapted for the use of marathon participants. All routes are circular, with minimum asphalt.
Sammy Yahia, Israel’s Director of Tourism to India and Philippines " I am thrilled that everything is getting back to normal. We have been waiting for since the first wave of the pandemic brough the world to a standstill two years ago. We are confident that visitor numbers will gradually recover to pre-pandemic numbers as consumer confidence grows in line with the gradual easing of restrictions. Our first, and most important priority is the safety and wellbeing of all those who wish to travel to Israel, and starting next week, I look forward to welcoming Filipino runners to participate around the beautiful sites at the Dead Sea Marathon.”
The Dead Sea Marathon has grown from the foundations of the old Ein Gedi race, which for over 30 years hosted thousands of runners and was an anchor point in the annual race schedule of amateurs and professionals from all over the country who became addicted to the magical view and silence. As a continuation of the commemorative event at the half marathon will be held in memory of the late Tomer and Giora Ron, members of Kibbutz Ein Gedi.
Wide range of courses to accommodate all levels:
● 5km – a comfortable running and walking route for those who enjoy the running experience.
● 10km – running on the dike out to the sea and returning along the new Dead Sea promenade.
• 21.1 km Half marathon – fast and flat track, in the name of Tomer and Giora Ron.
● 42 km marathon - a flat marathon around the southern Dead Sea basin
● 50km Ultra Marathon – The Israeli championship by the IAA (Israel's athletic association).
For more information about the marathon, please visit https://deadsea.run/.
About Israel:
Whether road trips, city trips, swimming, wellness, active and cultural trips, rental car tours or family vacations, the Israeli State Tourist Office provides information about the various regions, cities, and sights in the Holy Land. Located in the eastern Mediterranean. The country offers a sunny climate, a wide variety of historical, archaeological, and religious sites, including houses several UNESCO World Heritage sites across the country, displaying an intriguing contrast between the ancient and modern periods.
Experience the dynamic vibe of Israel.
For information about the different tourism offerings, visit www.goisrael.com
For the most up to date information on the guidelines and requirements for entering Israel, visit https://israelsafe.com
Source: ISRAEL MINISTRY OF TOURISM Philippine Office
Kai Buizon marks official debut with intricate folk-pop single “The Meadow”
The promising newcomer’s new track is written by Buizonherself, and produced by Gabba Santiago and One Click Straight’s Tim Marquez
Filipina singer-songwriter Kai Buizon marks her official arrival in the local music scene with the release of “The Meadow,” her debut single under Sony Music Entertainment.
Her folk-pop track brings to mind the picturesque view of the countryside, with soothing vocals that thrive within the realm of summer nostalgia and first love.
According to Buizon, “The Meadow” was meant to be arranged to evoke nostalgia inspired by tracks that shaped her generation’s childhood years, including The Legend of Zelda’s “Great Fairy's Fountain Theme” or Disney’s “A Whole New World” from Aladdin (1992). The intricately dreamy tune was produced by One Click Straight’s Tim Marquez and Gabba Santiago, both remarkable musicians who are known for their stellar work with artists such as Ena Mori and Clara Benin.
“Brainstorming with Gabba about the structure and direction of the track flowed so easily,” says the talented newcomer. “We met up at a coffee shop and basically had the entire song mapped out after just an hour. He was really able to capture the acoustic features of the song as well as the ‘homey’ authenticity that I was shooting for. With Tim, he was able to enhance the dreamy, magical aspect of the track with the more electronic or processed production components. I also appreciate how he added a second guitar to support my own arrangement.”
Written and performed by Kai Buizon, “The Meadow” is a song that encapsulates the hesitations, uncertainties, insecurities, and ‘what-ifs’ that brew before completely giving into a romantic confession. Beautifully delivered with emotional vulnerability, it feels lackadaisical in the best possible way. The track works either as an intimate revelation, a deep sigh of relief, a teen romance fodder, without being made intentionally to cater to those fields.
“I imagine a lot of people tend to feel afraid, or at the very least, hesitant, when it comes to approaching the unfamiliar, such as falling in love for the first time,” Buizonreflects. “Anyways, long story short, I called that mental space a meadow. And as my fellow romantics may already be familiar with, the meadow is also a prevalent symbol in classic literature of a place where lovers meet. So, basically, I wrote ‘The Meadow’ to encapsulate this whirlwind of feelings that comes before revealing that you’re actually in love with the other person.”
The promising solo act expressed her gratitude to Nico Pascal, who arranged the demo that she sent to Sony Music Entertainment. Buizon reveals, “he was the first person to see the track’s potential, and his enthusiasm really helped in motivating me to present the song.”
Kai Buizon’s “The Meadow” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Follower her on social media:
Source: Nyou
Blackwell’s!
I am very proud to share that I am now a @blackwellbooks author! 📚 Please continue supporting me by purchasing my books on Blackwell’s, Amazon, Google Play, Barnes and Noble, and via this link. 📕 NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS! ✨ #amazonauthor #authorlife @ukiyotopublishinghouse
ADB Signs $131 Million Loan to Support the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Container Terminal Upgrade, Enhance International Trade
NEW DELHI, INDIA (23 January 2023) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal Private Limited (NSFTPL) signed a $131 million loan to upgrade the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Container Terminal located in Navi Mumbai Maharashtra to enhance international trade in India through efficient, transparent, and state-of-the-art logistics infrastructure.
The financing package comprises $61.4 million from ADB’s ordinary capital resources and $69.6 million from Leading Asia’s Private Infrastructure Fund (LEAP) administered by ADB. The funds will be used to upgrade existing berths and yards and install additional energy efficient equipment such as electric quay cranes. These upgrades will expand the terminal’s container handling capacity and attract vessels operating on important international shipping lanes.
NSFTPL is a special purpose vehicle jointly owned by J M Baxi Ports and Logistics Limited (JMBPL) and CMA Terminals.
“Global trade and supply chains are vulnerable to shocks, and enhancing countries’ capacity for trade is critical to the region’s recovery from COVID-19 and its ongoing prosperity, “ said ADB Vice-President for Private Sector Operations and Public–Private Partnerships Ashok Lavasa. “Long-term financial support from ADB can boost economic competitiveness in India by developing world-class mega ports and boosting the efficiency of containerized cargo terminal operations.”
“We are absolutely delighted to sign the Financing Agreement with ADB, which is the largest loan agreement signed by us so far, and we appreciate ADB’s commitment and agility in bringing this deal to a smooth closure in record time,” said NSFTPL Board member and JMBPL Managing Director Dhruv Kotak. “Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal is a key terminal for the country and this deal underscores India’s potential in becoming a $10 trillion economy by 2035. We are proud to have ADB support us in our endeavor to make international trade seamless, and this partnership is a testimony of our shared value system of the highest level of governance, transparency, and compliance” he added.
JMBPL is a part of J M Baxi Group, a 106-year-old marine services, ports, logistics and technology conglomerate offering the entire range of logistics services including port facilities such as container and multi-cargo port terminals, container freight stations and inland container depots, niche logistics services for project and bulk cargo, offshore installations and ship agency services. CMA Terminals was established in 2012 and is engaged in the development, construction, acquisition, and operations of container terminals. It is wholly owned by CMA Terminals Holding, a subsidiary of the CMA CGM Group, a global player in sea, land, air, and logistics solutions.
LEAP is an ADB-managed fund capitalized with a $1.5 billion commitment by the Japan International Cooperation Agency. Established in 2016, LEAP focuses on delivering high-quality and sustainable private sector infrastructure projects that reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and offer accessible and affordable health care, education, and communication services to ADB’s developing members.
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.
Source: ADB: photo by ADB
LiFTED Asia Drops New Single From LiFTED LOUNGE VOL. 1 SeriesThird single from Vol.1 is RAYRAY and TED PARK’s ‘6 Speed’
Listen to ‘6 Speed’ HERE
‘6 Speed’ official music video HERE
23 January 2023 - Asia’s leading pan-Asian Hip Hop Platform LiFTED releases its third single under the LiFTED LOUNGE title – an ongoing series that will showcase the region’s top artists and emerging talent to the world. On the new single, ‘6 Speed’ Taiwan’s Bass queen RAYRAY teams up with Korean-American rapper TED PARK for a bouncy, hook-laden Trap banger that finds RAYRAY singing the hooks to counterpart TED PARK’s melodic, rapid-fire rhymes. Her bass-heavy production, combined with tweaked Asian instrumentation is at the forefront of this catchy collaboration. LiFTED Lounge is released by b2 Music in partnership with Jägermeister and distributed by The Orchard.
RAYRAY has been steadily rising up the ranks to become a global festival fixture, after her collaborations with Dutch heavyweights YELLOW CLAW, and a string of releases with them that have touched all aspects of Bass culture. She recently was an international feature at Tomorrowland festival across three continents and has become one of Asia’s top DJ standard bearers across the globe.
TED PARK is one of Asian America’s most recognizable MCs due to his non-stop hustle and well placed collabs. Since he first blew up in 2016 with ‘Hello (Who is This?) he has gone on to sign with Jay Park’s H1GHER label and collab with him and artists like JESSI and frequent partner in crime PARLAY PASS.
About LiFTED LOUNGE Vol 1
LiFTED was founded in March 2021, and quickly took the lead in covering all aspects of Asian Hip Hop culture – including RnB, B-boying/B-Girling, Graffiti and Street Art, Turntablism and associated sub-cultures. In May 2022 LiFTED launched the LiFTED 50, Asia’s first-ever regional Hip Hop rankings. Now the platform is curating its first exclusive music project, LiFTED LOUNGE Vol 1 – after 18 months of covering the scene in an organic and personal style.
Jägermeister has been committed to helping emerging artists break out and create new music through their global initiatives like #savethenight and in the Asia region with LiFTED’s #thenext5 campaign.
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Connect with RAYRAY
Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter
Connect with TED PARK
Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter
Source: Blackstar
Jarlo Bâse refuses to adhere to conventions on haunting, genre-defying track “O Sana, Hosanna”
The talented singer-songwriter/producer is set to launch his first single of the year at Social House on January 20, 2023
Filipino artist Jarlo Bâse deftly incorporates contemporary pop, R&B, gospel, and alternative music influences with haunting soundscapes on his new single “O Sana, Hosanna”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment.
The song draws listeners to its emotionally powerful narrative while making great strides in terms of songwriting and production.
According to the talented music act, the concept of his new track came from his filmmaker/choreographer friend Jobert Lachica, who pitched a story about the cycle of abuse and being abused, or, in the words of Charles Eads, the theme surrounding the phrase “hurt people hurt people.”
“So, from there, I thought of sharing the perspective of someone who is going through a dark phase in his/her/their life, and what it might feel like to constantly have an ongoing battle with one’s self,” Jarlo explains. “As someone who has experienced anxiety and had to overcome a depressive phase in my life, I had to channel these thoughts and feelings in my writing, while reliving those moments in my head. It’s a pretty dark way to writea song, but somehow it felt therapeutic knowing that there is a way out of this darkness.”
“O Sana, Hosanna” was written Jarlo Bâse, who also serves as the 2023 single’s sole producer. He constructeda sonic equivalent of a battlefield, or to quote him directly, “a scene from an anime where the main character is struggling to break his limits in a fight.”
The Manila-based singer-songwriter adds, “I stayed true to the essence and concept of the track. There were parts where there’s tension, because I want to reflect how anxiety and bad thoughts sound like, when they’re presented as music ideas. Hence, the intensifying beat and brooding vocal arrangements.”
“O Sana Hosanna” will be launched for the first time on a live stage this January 20, 2023, at the Social House in Makati City. Expect a soulful but intimate performance of the track, as well as some of the new and old tunes from Jarlo Bâse himself. Joining the Filipino act for the single launch and birthday gig are some of the most notable Filipino acts and newcomers, including Paolo Sandejas, raven, Ysanygo, of Mercury, and Any Name's Okay.Tickets are available here.
Jarlo Bâse’s “O Sana, Hosanna” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Source: Nyou