Buy this clothes folder here. 👚 Be like Sheldon and fold your clothes the Big Bang Theory way now 😂 #shopaholicsam #shopeesambassador
Samantha Gail B. Lucas at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2023!
My books, #onlygrowingup and #breakingupforward, are now at the New Delhi World Book Fair! It runs until March 5th. 📖 NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS!⚡️#authorlife #amazonauthor
16 Years with World Vision
I started being a @worldvisionphl sponsor in 2007. I recently celebrated my 16th anniversary as a child sponsor. 🧡 Also, I claimed my 15th anniversary certificate during the organization’s first in-person event for child sponsors in a long time. 🧡 I would like to thank @askmigslopez for accompanying me to the event, and to Rona of World Vision for assisting me. 🧡
PRODUCER SYN COLE TEAMS UP WITH NOVIA BACHMID FOR UPLIFTING DANCE ANTHEM “WITHOUT IT”
Buy/Stream “Without It” HERE
Watch visualizer HERE
Ahead of his performance at Ultra Music Festival in Miami this year, Estonian multi-instrumentalist producer Syn Colereleases the lyrical dance single “Without It” featuring artist/songwriter Novia Bachmid via Helix Records.
“Without It” opens with an uplifting reverberating piano synth & guitar riff that sets the tone for Novia Bachmids powerful vocals & melodic verse, quickly accompanied by Syn Cole’s irresistible dance beat that has both bounce and clap. The chorus’ drop introduces new exhilarating instrumental elements, making “Without It” the perfect carefree dance anthem.
Syn Cole began his career on Avicii’s label LE7ELS and has since amassed over 1 Billion streams which has solidified his place in the Dance space worldwide. Cole kicked off his remix duties with Avicii's "Silhouettes", which became his first BBC Radio 1 spotlight. His second Avicii remix "Hey Brother" sparked both radio and DJ support across the globe. Subsequent singles include “Miami 82” (with remixes from Avicii and Kygo). “Who You Are,” and “It’s You” have also achieved global success and gotten multiple sync placements in film and commercial, including a Sprite TV commercial featuring BLACKPINK. Cole has played at major festivals Tomorrowland, Creamfields, EDC Las Vegas & Ultra Miami.
Novia Bachmid is an artist and songwriter originating from Indonesia. Novia’s passion for singing and creating music found her at a young age. Her rise to fame in Indonesia happened after participating in a talent search event on television called Little Idol. Novia has also participated in talent search shows such as The Voice Indonesia & Indonesian Idol - from the latter TV Show, she joined Hit Records and released her debut single “Wanna Fall In Love”. Since then she has released multiple singles with multi-millions of streams and grown her fanbase online, most notably Tik Tok amassing 2.2 Million Followers. Along her musical journey and rise to fame, Novia has also garnered high profile music award nominations, at the Indonesian Music Awards for Best Newcomer and the Indonesian Dangdut Awards for Most Heartfelt Dangdut Collaboration.
“Without It” is available to stream on all platforms here, with a visualizer out on the day of release, and an official video to follow.
CONNECT WITH Syn Cole
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok
CONNECT WITH Novia Bachmid
Instagram | Facebook | Tik Tok | Twitter
Source: Blackstar
Barbie Almalbis celebrates 25th anniversary with the release of Tower Sessions Live album and a ‘reunion’ concert
Photo by Chealsy Dale
Filipino singer-songwriter Barbie Almalbis marks a monumental milestone in music with the official release of her Tower Sessions Live album under Sony Music Entertainment and a reunion concert featuring her iconic bands Hungry Young Poets and Barbie’s Cradle.
Both celebrations honor her 25th anniversary in the local music scene as a woman who successfully navigated the realm of Pinoy rock with emotionally resonant songwriting and artistic independence.
Presenting a new arrangement of her old and new songs, Barbie Almalbis’ Greatest Hits live album was produced by Eric and Carlo Perlas of Tower of Doom, recorded by Kyle Cayton, and mixed/mastered by Simon Durias. It will also feature career-defining hits such as “Firewoman,” “Torpe,” “Tabing Ilog,” “The Dance,” “Goodnight,” and “Just A Smile,” along with fairly new tracks: “Days Are Long,” “Silaw,” “Tigre,” and “Kumpas,” the album’s carrier single.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to record our songs live, because we’re always rearranging songs as a band, and I think there’s something special that gets captured when the we play live together,” Almalbis shares. “My producers and collaborators did such a great job of making you feel like you’re at the gig. You can feel the power of the kick drum and the bass, and then have guitars blasting in your ear — in a pleasant way, of course.”
Aside from the release of Tower Sessions Live on digital platforms, Barbie Almalbis is set to headline her 25thAnniversary concert at 123 Block, Mandala Park on March 11 (Saturday), from 2pm onwards. Celebrating the impact of her music as a guide to many people’s journey in life, the show will reunite her with former bandmates in Hungry Young Poets and Barbie’s Cradle.
Aptly titled Firewoman:25 Years of Barbie Almalbis, the mini-music fest will also feature sets by some of the country’s finest acts, including Sandwich, Gab Alipe of Urbandub, Clara Benin, I Belong To The Zoo, Kai del Rio, and Bird.
Reflecting on her career as an artist, Almalbis expressed gratitude to her fans who have been supportive of her endeavors through the years. “I didn’t have so many plans growing up, but always just dreamt of playing music. I’m so grateful that I get to do this and share the experience with others too. I’m always touched by the support of my fans and friends, and really humbled and encouraged by their words and stories about how these songs have also become part of their journey.”
Barbie Almalbis’ Tower Sessions Live is now available on all digital platforms worldwide under Sony Music Entertainment.
Tickets to her upcoming concert, Firewoman:25 Years of Barbie Almalbis are available for purchase via TicketMelon. The event is presented by GNN Entertainment Productions, in partnership with Sony Music Entertainment, Backspacer Records, JB Music, Nova Wellness Store, D&D, Smirnoff Mule, and 123 Block.
Follow Barbie Almalbis on socials: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Source: Nyou
Watch sci-fi inspired music video forRico Blanco’s “Palibot libot”
Acclaimed singer-songwriter/producer Rico Blancoexplores sci-fi themes in the music video of “Palibotlibot,” his current single under Sony Music Entertainment.
Helmed by Cris Escolano and Rico Blanco himself, the visuals present a story of humanity in a world completely engulfed by hopelessness. The MV stars Rico Blanco, model Tuti Pon, and “The Entity,” a robotic figure created by Richard Somes.
According to Pon, she had fun playing the female lead and embracing the intricacies needed to pull off her character convincingly. “It was definitely a new experience for me and I’d do it again if I got a chance.”
Production Designer Justine Arcega-Bumanlag expressed enthusiasm in working with the team and conveying the fantastically imaginative vision of the material. She shares, “For this, Rico Blanco was aiming for a classic-looking music video that stands the test of time. He wanted to veer away from CGIs, so we started building a set that looks like a wreckage from an unknown planet, and using it all throughout the time.”
The song, which reflects on the uncertainty that thrives between friendship and relationship, was inspired by one of the characters in a series that he filmed in La Union last year. With its storytelling “anchored precariously on someone’s steadfast devotion,” albeit a one-sided one, the song minces no words about the reality of love: It’s not always synchronized. It comes with complications, but that’s the beauty of it.
“Palibot libot” will be part of Rico Blanco’s fourth studio album to be released under Sony Music Entertainment.
Watch the music video of “Palibot libot” here.
Source: Nyou
Tiffany Circle Coffee
My fave coffee mix is @tiffanycircleph because it has moringa, collagen, and vitamin C, among other healthful ingredients. It also tastes great! ☕️ Buy it here. ☕️ #shopaholicsam #shopeesambassador
Samantha Gail B. Lucas Books at Bokus Sweden!
Dreams do come true. My books are now available at @bokus_com Sweden! 🇸🇪 Mabuhay!
CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTHWITH CHICAGO HOUSE MUSIC LEGENDSTEN CITY
NEW ALBUM 'LOVE IS LOVE' OUT FEBRUARY 17
ON HELIX RECORDS
“When we started house music 35 years ago, I wanted to do music that was accessible and would reach everybody and people would love it. We can’t be selfish with house music if we want it to go forward. Not only should we be happy to see Cardi B and Drake and Beyonce doing it, but we also should embrace it. Slick Rick is receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammys. I would like to see the same thing for house music, see some of the originators receiving lifetime recognition. House music, it’s a very positive music and I don’t want to hold it in in the underground.” – Ten City’s Byron Stingily as told to Variety
Proof that disco evolved rather than died can be heard throughout the discography of house group Ten City. Set apart most obviously by singer Byron Stingily, a powerhouse falsetto between and distinct from inspirations such as Philip Bailey and Sylvester, the Chicago group's recordings epitomize deep house with a basis in gospel and soul, and messages of love and positivity. Teamed with dance music pioneer Marshall Jefferson, Ten City emerged in the late '80s with two of their biggest hits, "Right Back to You" and "That's the Way Love Is," the latter of which topped Billboard's dance/club chart and cracked the Top Ten of the U.K. pop chart.
Before their mid-'90s disbandment, the group in their original trio incarnation issued four albums ranging from Foundation (1989) through That Was Then, This Is Now (1994), and charted with seven additional singles. Nearly three decades after the fourth album, Ten City returned with Judgment (2021), made by Stingily and Jefferson, which in 2022 earned a GRAMMY nomination for “Best Electronic/Dance Album.” Due to popular demand and the feel-good vibe from the recording of Judgement, Ten City are back in 2023 with Love Is Love due out February 17 on Helix Records.
"2023 is the year of Loving Self and Self Affirmation!” declares Byron Stingily. These themes are prominent throughout the album. Just check out the singles such as the title track and its remix by fellow Chicago house artists DRAMA, and “I Love Me,” a collaboration with bubbling UK producers Wh0.
Love Is Love Album Pre-Save:
https://helixrecords.ffm.to/loveislove-album
Tracklist:
1. Love is Love
2. All In One Night
3. Losing My Mind
4. Strange Times
5. Casual
6. A Girl Named Phil
8. Magic
9. Family
10. Woman of the Sun
Follow Ten City:
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Source: Blackstar
ICONA POP RETURN WITH NEW SINGLE,‘I WANT YOU’ WITH GALANTIS – OUT NOw Confirm NEW ALBUM IS ON THE WAY
Global chart-topping duo Icona Pop return today with ‘I Want You,’ an exciting new collaboration with Swedish electronic outfit Galantis.
Listen to ‘I Want You’ with Galantis HERE
‘I Want You’ offers fans the first taste of what’s to come musically from the duo in 2023, as they put the finishing touches on their forthcoming new album. As civilization slipped into lockdown Caroline and Aino left Los Angeles and returned to Stockholm to quarantine. Soon after, they found themselves back in the studio “where it all started.” Conjuring a sweet sentiment of nostalgia, it also pushed them to re-engage with their electronic and alternative roots, but this time from an evolved perspective with years of experience behind them both as proven performers and accomplished chart topping songwriters.
“We got back to what we love,” Aino affirms. “It was the quietest period we’ve experienced in ten-plus years, so it’s crazy we made such danceable music. We felt the need to do something more up-tempo.”
Last year, Icona Pop graced the clubs worldwide with the irresistable ‘You’re Free’ (LISTEN) joined by legendary singer, songwriter, DJ, and producer Ultra Naté, paying homage to the1997 Billboard’s Dance Club Songs Chart #1 hit ‘Free.’ Preceding the release of ‘You’re Free’was the 10-year anniversary of the duo’s hit single, ‘I Love It’ (feat. Charli XCX); commemorated with a re-imagining of the track by Caroline and Aino, alongside producers Osrin and Ellis. Listen to ‘I Love It (I Don’t Care 2022 Re-Edit)’ HERE.
Icona Pop continue to slay since the release of their 2013 full-length debut, This Is… Icona Pop, which garnered critical acclaim from the likes of Pitchfork and Rolling Stone as the duo performed on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, Good Morning America, and America’s Got Talent in addition to featuring on the iconic HBO series Girls and a popular Saturday Night Live sketch. They canvased the globe on sold out tours with Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, and One Direction and joined Tiësto for the banger ‘Let’s Go’ in 2014. Along the way, the duo has performed alongside everyone from Avicii to The Chainsmokers as well as gracing the stages of Ultra, Tomorrowland, Mark Ronson’s Club Heartbreak, and more. Since then, they have consistently filled the gap in music when it comes to upbeat, carefree, quality dance-pop, including a series of powerhouse collaborations in 2021, including “SPA” with SOFI TUKKER (WATCH), “Off My Mind” with VIZE (LISTEN), and more.
Stay tuned for more exciting announcements from Icona Pop coming very soon.
‘I Want You’ with Galantis is available everywhere now.
Source: Blackstar
Ace Banzuelo drops catchy, upbeat banger “Tadhana”
The prolific singer-songwriter/producer expresses pure joy and romantic connection in his newly released track
After topping the charts last year with his hit single “Muli,”Filipino singer-songwriter/producer Ace Banzuelo continues his winning streak with the release of his 2023single “Tadhana”—out on Friday, February 17 via Sony Music Entertainment.
The prolific solo act returns with a catchy, upbeat track that keeps listeners basking in summer’s eternal glow. Providing R&B-inspired vocals atop new wave beats and disco elements, Banzuelo tips its hat to the pure joy of bringing the past and the future together with another pulsating bop.
“This feels dreamy yet groovy at the same time,” describes the talented multihyphenate. “All of these things contribute to my vision and how I just really want to be myself. I'm definitely back making music that makes people move.”
According to Banzuelo, “Tadhana” deals with romantic connection and destiny, and explores losing one’s inhibitions for something that might be fulfilling in the long run.
“Tadhana is about this magical encounter you have with someone and how you're instantly drawn to that person,” the young hitmaker shares. “The connection is so intense it kind of scares one of you but you're here telling that person that hey it's okay maybe what's on your mind is also what's on mine.”
Ace Banzuelo considers “Tadhana” as a happy accident that eventually evolved into a song that moved him, not just physically, but on a more resonant level. In a way, he wanted a familiar tune that he can play anywhere—be it live or just a recording, and would make people get all wrapped up with its undeniable groove.
“I went all out with my vocal performance for this track and produced it in a very, very precise manner. The subtlety of all the elements beneath the vocals, the crunchy guitars, dreamy synthesizers, drums, and my voice, contribute to the overall groove of this track. In fact, most of these elements were recorded and finalized in one take.Everything just came together as if it were all meant to happen.”
Ace Banzuelo’s “Tadhana” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Source: Nyou
Australian artist RUEL announces free mall show In Manila this weekend!
The young singer-songwriter will be performing in the country to promote his upcoming debut album, 4THWALL
Australian singer-songwriter Ruel returns to Manila for a special mall show happening at the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City this Saturday, February 18, 2023.
The free event is part of a campaign to promote his highly anticipated debut album, 4TH WALL, which is slated for a March 3, 2023 release via RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment. Ruel's long-awaited debut album explores his most personal and stellar musical offerings to date.
In an announcement posted on social media last week, the 20-year-old hitmaker expressed his excitement about visiting the country for the second time since performing here in 2019.
He shares, “Manila! I’m so excited to play a FREE show next week! I’ve created a Manila channel in my discord so we can all talk ahead of the show.”
Ruel’s current single “MUST BE NICE” is currently making waves in the Philippines, thanks to its emotive pop sensibilities and relatable lyrics. Written and produced with longtime collaborator M-Phazes (Khalid, Noah Cyrus), along with the TMS Production Team (Lewis Capaldi, DuaLipa) and songwriter Sean Douglas (Lizzo, Thomas Rhett), the piano-driven ballad showcases Ruel’s stunning voice, which glides effortlessly from gritty tenor to airy falsetto.
The talented artist has also released two well-received singles so far, “SOMEONE ELSE’S PROBLEM” and “YOU AGAINST YOURSELF.”
Ruel: Live at Venice Grand Canal Mall is presented by Megaworld Lifestyle Malls and Venice Grand Canal Mall, with MYX as the Official Media Partner.
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: Nyou
The Lucas Journaling Method 🐱
#thelucasjournalingmethod is now available worldwide on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Google Play, and via this link. 📖 NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS! 🐱 #amazonauthor #authorlife @ukiyotopublishinghouse
WATERWALK RECORDS releases “MANLILIKHARI,” the first single off 10-song series project, Sambahan
WATERWALK RECORDS announces the release of Sambahan, a 10-song series project that contains worship songs from grassroots, church-based songwriters who connected and collaborated through an unconventional ‘lab’ setting via the synergetic fellowship, KONEKOLAB.
Its first single, “MANLILIKHARI,” is a portmanteau of two words, which interestingly allude to that one Being who assumes both roles of a Manlilikha (Creator) and a Hari(King). As WATERWALK RECORDS A&R Jungee Marcelo puts it, “MANLILIKHARI” qualifies God’s sovereignty “over all creation, over everything, over you and me. It’s worthy of worship and adoration.”
Marcelo adds, “The word ‘create’ is very dear to us, and with this song we offer our highest praises to the true Creator, King of everything. “Konekolab Worship aims to cater to the needs of local church congregations for singable worship songs in the local vernacular. Who better to concoct these original worship songs than the very church people in the community. The hope is for each of these songs to become a staple in the church music lineup, as well as in personal times of devotion andprayer.”
“MANLILIKHARI” is co-written with Irving Galang and Mary Ozaraga, both community-based, church leaders whose artistry is balanced by their deep sense of faith. According to Galang, the song celebrates the “awesomeness of our Creator, the ultimate Artist, and our King who did not just create us but also took full responsibility over us by loving us to the fullness of our being, no matter how seemingly small and insignificant we think we are.”
Ozaraga shares that joining this project provided a lot of new challenges for her: writing with a collaborative mindset, and penning a song in Tagalog. “Armed with the Bible, a guitar, and Google Translator, I was able to take on the challenges, greatly inspired by the hard work of Sir Jungee and my team leader, Sir Irving, and was able to witness how God honors faith-fueled hardwork."
“MANLILIKHARI” is produced by Jungee Marcelo, and arranged with Joshua Capule on piano, Junjun Regalado on drums and percussions, and Ardie De Guzman on guitars. Capturing the Church worship experience with intricate instrumentation and vocal congregational textures, the spiritual anthem reveals a solemn quality to it that soars even as it calms. The expertise of sound engineer extraordinaire Angee Rozul binds everything together with a mix that is divine-like, but filled with so many layers and depth.
The track is sung by Gianne Hinolan, who considers the collaboration a gift. “Seeing how passionate these artists are about communicating the message of God already spoke to me. This is why it was easy for me to say yes to sir Jungee when he invited me to sing the song. As singers, we are expected to be the ones ‘delivering’ our listeners, but here, I was the one who was delivered.Delivered from my doubts and delivered closer to knowing who He is; who God is as our Creator and our King. Wonderful.”
“MANLILIKHARI” is out now on all digital music platforms via WATERWALK RECORDS.
For more updates on the new tracks, artists, and upcoming events, please follow:
WATERWALK RECORDS: Facebook | Instagram
Source: Nyou
Reverb Worship Drops Soulful Music Video for Jex De Castro’s “Sa Piling Ko”
Experience Reverb Worship’s inspirational single, “Sa Piling Ko,” all over again with a brand-new music video featuring Tawag Ng Tanghalan All-Star Grand ResbakFirst Runner-Up, Jex De Castro.
The official music video, directed by John Valdes Tan, shows Jex singing this ballad with soul and poignancy, inspiring listeners to a deeper appreciation of God’s unconditional and unending love.
“When you feel as though you’re all by yourself, all you need to do is look to God. His arms are wide open. That brings such great comfort and reassurance,” encourages Jex.
“Sa Piling Ko” was written and composed by Chino Alfonso and Alwyn Villaruel. It was produced by Reverb Worship as the official theme song for CBN Asia’s Holy Week Special, “In My Father’s Arms,” starring Jodi Sta. Maria.
Jex reflects on how he now connects with the song since its initial release in 2017, “I must say that this song has a deeper meaning for me now because of the struggles I experienced during the pandemic. It was at that time that I experienced my lowest point, but every time I sang this song, I felt my faith being renewed.”
No matter where you are in your faith journey, it is never too late to come back to God.
The song’s timeless message of unconditional love, hope, and freedom, is a truth that is important for everyone to hear at any period in their life.
Feel the warmth of God’s loving embrace. Stream “Sa Piling Ko” on Spotify, Apple Music, and all digital streaming platforms. The official music video is also now available for streaming via Reverb Worship’s YouTube channel.
New songs are coming soon from Reverb Worship PH! To catch the latest updates, follow Reverb Worship PH on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
Source: CBN Asia
Samantha Gail B. Lucas at The Last Bookstore Los Angeles
My books are now available at The Last Bookstore, LA! @lastbookstorela 💘 Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone! 🫶🏼 @ukiyotopublishinghouse #authorlife #amazonauthor
XG Unveil music video for “LEFT RIGHT”
February 13th, 2023 — XG has unveiled the music video for “LEFT RIGHT”, a track taken from their third single “SHOOTING STAR”. The concept of this music video is based on traveling in unexplored expanses in space, with minimalistic and stylish performance of the group members contrasting with the 70’s-90’s themed set and wardrobe - watch it here.
Since its premiere on January 25th the music video for “SHOOTING STAR” has been swiftly gaining views - 16 million and still counting. The live stage video, dance practice video and performance video have all entered rapid-rise charts and received wide acclaim globally.
Both tracks are quintessential XG, and encapsulates their energy with the statement "Trust URSELF & Be what U want to be". While “SHOOTING STAR” conveys the girl group’s desire to grow into world-class artists, “LEFT RIGHT” expresses their determination to set their own direction and push for new frontiers.
It has been non-stop for XG since the single release - they have appeared on 11 popular Korean music TV shows and completed numerous interviews with major media outlets from the U.S. as well as India over the past weeks.
“LEFT RIGHT” music video still
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”, was released 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
Official Website http://xgalx.com/
Source: Blackstar
ADB Supports Georgia’s Capital Market with Subscription to Country’s First Certified Gender Bond
TBILISI, GEORGIA (13 February 2023) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has invested GEL18.75 million (approximately $7 million) in a 2-year local currency gender bond issuance by Joint Stock Company Microfinance Organization Crystal (Crystal), the largest microfinance institution (MFI) in Georgia. It is the first certified gender bond issuance in the South Caucasus and in the Georgian Stock Exchange.
The proceeds will finance women-owned micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (WMSMEs). The total bond issuance amounts to GEL 25 million with ADB as the anchor investor and the Bank of Georgia as co-investor with a subscription of GEL 6.25 million. Gender bonds are social bonds issued to enhance gender equality and women's empowerment. Crystal’s gender bond framework received a second party opinion to certify its compliance with the Social Bond Principles of the International Capital Market Association.
“Local currency bonds bridge financing gaps that prevent developing countries from achieving sustainable and inclusive growth, and support sound capital management by the private sector,” said ADB Private Sector Operations Department Director General Suzanne Gaboury. “This pioneering transaction will also help deepen Georgia’s capital market by raising awareness about thematic bonds aligned to best international standards while supporting improved access to finance for WMSMEs.”
Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises play a critical role in Georgia’s economy, accounting for most private firms and providing more than half of all jobs, but their growth is constrained by a lack of access to finance. Women in particular are disproportionately affected due to high collateral requirements and other cultural biases that hamper asset ownership. MFIs play an important role in providing access to finance to low-income borrowers particularly in remote rural areas, which traditional commercial banks are generally reluctant to serve.
“Crystal has always been an active supporter of the sustainable financing and small entrepreneurs, and our efforts have been recognized by numerous corporate awards and investment deals,” stated Crystal’s Chief Executive Officer Ilia Revia. “This transaction demonstrates that ADB and Crystal share a commitment to improving access to finance for women entrepreneurs in Georgia, which will ultimately contribute to the country’s economic development."
Crystal is the leading financial inclusion organization and the largest non-banking financial institution in Georgia. It manages a loan portfolio of GEL 400 million, employing more than 1,000 staff, and operating through 50 branches serving more than 130,000 customers across Georgia.
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
The Lucas Journaling Method: Out Now on Paperback!
I am so happy to share that my latest book, #thelucasjournalingmethod, is out now on paperback in the Philippines! 🇵🇭 Buy it now via this link. 🫶🏼 NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS! 🇵🇭 #authorlife #amazonauthor @ukiyotopublishinghouse
Filipino rapper/producer Young Cocoa pays tribute to Jakarta on new single “J-TOWN (PM)”
The DNB-infused bop is produced by his frequent collaborator Trizzy
Filipino rapper-producer Young Cocoa revisits his experiences of growing up in Jakarta on "J-TOWN (PM)"—his new single via pan-regional label, OFFMUTE.
According to the prolific young artist, "J-TOWN (PM)" maps a pivotal moment in his life where he embraced the joys and pains of living in a multicultural city, pursued his goals and dreams, and met people with diverse backgrounds.
"The song is about how I feel about Jakarta," Young Cocoa reflects. "It’s not so much a nostalgic visit as it is one where I express how much impact the city has had on me."
While the majority of the lyrics are delivered in English, some of the lines in Young Cocoa’s latest track are in Bahasa Indonesia. The Manila chart-topper shares, "The way I did it was inspired by other Southeast Asian artists who would mix English and their native languages into their lyrics. I chose to incorporate Bahasa because I felt it was necessary to tell my story as authentically as possible, as this is a more serious take on how I normally structure the lyrics and storytelling of my music."
"J-TOWN (PM)" is produced by Young Cocoa’s frequent collaborator Trizzy, whose work pushes the rookie act to experiment and explore his sound even further. Combining drum n’ bass elements with UK Garage and lo-fi textures, the song showcases a grittier, edgier, and more serious side of Young Cocoa, while allowing listeners to get to know him on a deeper lyrical level.
"JTOWN is the most different song I’ve ever made," says Young Cocoa. "I consider it a benchmark in my discography in terms of my sound selection, tempo, mood, and overall evolution of taste."
"J-TOWN" will be on Young Cocoa’s debut mixtape, Sari Sari, to be released in the coming months. The soon-to-be-released EP contains a collaboration with an Asian artist he met last year at a music festival, as well as some bops.
Check out Young Cocoa’s “J-TOWN (PM)” on all digital music platforms via OFFMUTE.
Follow YOUNG COCOA on socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theyoungestcocoa/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/youngcocoa_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_youngcocoa
Follow OFFMUTE on socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/offmuteASIA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/offmute
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offmute/
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About Young Cocoa
As one of the most promising hip-hop artists in the Southeast Asian region, OFFMUTE signee Young Cocoa quickly rose to fame after BTS’ resident rapper RM included his track “Manila” in one of the global superstar’s online playlists. The trailblazing bop, which finds the Filipino artist rapping over lo-fi beats and jazzy soundscapes, eventually went viral, and received endorsements and playlist inclusions from Korean artists such as RM of BTS, Jay of ENHYPEN, Yeri of Red Velvet, Eric of The Boyz, Omega X, Dawon of SF19 and Lia Kim from 1Million Dance Studio.
Currently based in Manila, the 25-year-old rapper and songwriter has established himself as genre-averse artist whose music draws a lot from his personal narratives and observations on life. With groove-oriented production and smooth urban sound, Young Cocoa’s work explores a diverse range of genres and sonic template that often reflects a state of dreaminess and escape, but whose verses embrace the confessional and authentic side of storytelling.
The eclectic Filipino artist considers Frank Ocean, Kanye West, Anderson Paak., Saba and Tyler TheCreator as some of his music influences. He works with some of the most underrated and innovative hip-hop and electronic producers in Asia, from Korean-based beatmaker Lazy Wanderlust to Indonesia’s very own Ghidd. Blending his own artistry with sonic collages set up by his collaborators, Young Cocoa provides a unique music stamp with layers of childlike nostalgia, countryside daydream, and city futurism, and touches on themes derived from his experiences as a third culture kid.
As the first hip-hop artist under pan-regional music label, OFFMUTE, Young Cocoa is determined to push the Southeast Asian sound to the next level, while retaining his personhood in the creative process. He is currently working on new songs off his debut EP to be released soon.
Source: Nyou