Oh, Flamingo!, Ena Mori, The Itchyworms, and more to represent the Philippines in AXEAN Festival 2023

Now rebranded as AXEAN Festival, Southeast Asia’s leading music showcase platform will take place in Singapore from October 28 to 29, 2023

Six (6) Filipino music acts will be performing at this year’s AXEAN Festival, Southeast Asia’s premier collaborative showcase festival happening in Singapore on October 28 to 29 at Goodman Arts Centre in Singapore!

Filipino alt-rock icons The Itchyworms and critically acclaimed band Oh, Flamingo! will be joining Ena Mori, Alisson Shore, obese.dogma777 and LONER as the country’s representative to the second edition of the music festival.

Formerly known as ASEAN Music Showcase Festival, the newly rebranded AXEAN Festival will feature and attract networking opportunities with notable international talent buyers from Asia and the rest of the world.

Birthed in 2020 as a virtual music showcase festival, AXEAN Festival launched into the “real world” in 2022 and became an internationally recognized platform, bringing regional artists to the global music stage. With the announcement of the 2023 iteration of the festival, the organisers are taking the opportunity to re-introduce the festival with its new name – AXEAN Festival.

Festival co-founder Piyapong ‘Py’ Muenprasertdee explains, "Despite our different languages and customs, Southeast Asia is a region rich with historical heritage and shared cultures and identities.  Colloquially, the term '"ASEAN" (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) is often used interchangeably with "Southeast Asia" due to reasons including the spoken language of its people, signifying the sense of unity we have as a region. After 3 successful editions, we want to make a statement of our commitment to elevate Southeast Asian music onto the world stage by renaming our event 'AXEAN Festival', with an 'X' symbolising our core values of collaboration and crossing borders, whether physical, lingual or cultural, while also inviting artists and fans from all corners of the world to celebrate and share their music with us!"

This first wave of artists performing this year is headlined by Shye, Reality Club, The Itchyworms, KIKI, and Oh Flamingo!. The event will also host performances from Singaporean pop artist Jean Seizure, Thai R&B artist Flower.far, Indonesian singer-songwriter TANAYU, and many more exciting artists.

AXEAN Festival is Southeast Asia’s first intraregional music showcase festival, an annual event that springboards Southeast Asian music onto the world stage held physically in Singapore with 2 main elements: a music showcase festival and business networking events.

Its inaugural edition was organized by 5 participating countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. It was held virtually via live video streaming of pre-recorded performances in September 2020, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, as an initiative to help regional artists stay connected with their fanbase and gain international fans. The goal was to encourage artists and their teams to look beyond the pandemic and prepare for future export and international touring opportunities by being performance-ready and meeting with music business professionals from all over the world.

The second edition was again organized online in 2021, but joined by 2 additional countries: Cambodia and Vietnam. In 2022, the third edition was its first live edition, held in Singapore and jointly organized by the 7 countries with Laos added to its upcoming 2023 edition.

The Wave 1 lineup of artists performing at AXEAN Festival 2023 in alphabetical order is as follows:

ABANGSAPAU - Singapore

Alisson Shore - Philippines

DVY - Indonesia

Ena Mori - Philippines

Flower.far - Thailand

H 3 F - Thailand

inch - Singapore

Jean Seizure - Singapore

Jessla - Indonesia

KIKI - Thailand

KWAN - Cambodia

Limebócx - Vietnam

LONER - Philippines

Mantra Vutura - Indonesia

Minh - Vietnam

motifs - Singapore

Nick. - Cambodia

obese.dogma777 - Philippines

Oh, Flamingo! - Philippines

Polarix - Cambodia

Rangkai - Indonesia

Reality Club - Indonesia

San - Cambodia

Shye - Singapore

TANAYU - Indonesia

The Itchyworms - Philippines

THINH SUY - Vietnam

Vũ Thanh Vân - Vietnam

Zweed n' Roll - Thailand

Get your tickets here: axeanfestival2023.peatix.com

 Source: Nyou

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Calvin Harris heats up the club with Sam Smith-assisted banger “Desire”

Calvin Harris has released his new single “Desire” with Sam Smith. This marks their third collaboration following the success of “Promises” which spent six weeks at no. 1, and “I’m Not Here To Make Friends” which Calvin produced off Sam’s album Gloria earlier this year.

“Desire” follows on the heels of Calvin’s Platinum-selling single “Miracle” with Ellie Goulding, which spent eight weeks at no. 1, 16 weeks in the OCC Top 3, and has garnered over 2 million global single sales and 320 million streams globally across all partners.

The summer anthem has received critical acclaim upon its release, contributing to the powerhouse duo’s success as collaborators working at the crux of dance and pop music crossover. Billboard praised “Desire” for delving “deep into the trance realm” and for incorporating the “squiggly synth line” that gives the song a “very late-night club vibe.”

The song was previewed in the past few weeks by Calvin during his live performances in Ibiza over the summer. Fearlessly exploring ‘90s rave with contemporary electronic elements, Calvin Harris has once again tapped his hit-making potential with another banger that will surely elevate the genre to another exciting level.

Calvin Harris and Sam Smith’s “Desire” is out now on all digital music platforms via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

TRIPOLISM x NANDU x RADECKT - DOPE DANCE

out via Ultra Records 07/28/2023

Tripolism, Nando, and Radeckt each bring their own unique musical journey to the table, ensuring an unparalleled sonic experience.  Nando is an artist who embodies independence, originality, and music drenched in melody and emotion. His journey began with hard work and persistence, breaking free from his Copenhagen home to establish himself as an acclaimed producer and DJ. His EPs and features in renowned compilation series like Secret Weapons and Unity have solidified his name as a favorite among followers of melodic dance music. As a DJ, Nando's sound has transcended borders, with international tours taking him to Barcelona, Berlin, Dubai, Goa, London, and beyond. Each new place inspires him to create music that resonates deeply with his audience.

Radeckt, on the other hand, combines edgy synths and vibrant percussion with a vision to create a varied sound universe in each of his productions. From his Copenhagen studio, he channels the desire to fuse metallic sounds with warm and intriguing drum rhythms, resulting in an original and momentum-filled sound. Radeckt's unique approach to every track has earned him releases on esteemed labels like Renaissance, TAU, Microcastle, and many more. His productions have garnered support from industry giants such as Dixon, Âme, Mind Against, and Keinemusik. When Radeckt takes the stage as a DJ, his passion for connecting with the crowd truly shines. His sets are filled with energy, surprises, and infectious grooves that keep clubs around the world captivated.

Together, Tripolism, Nando, and Radeckt form a powerhouse of talent and creativity. "Dope Dance" is a testament to the power of creativity and the magic that happens when three talented artists come together. Born from a spontaneous jam session in their shared studio space, this track perfectly captures the essence of Tripolism's distinct routines and perspectives on electronic music. Each member contributed equally, resulting in a masterpiece that was completed within a few late hours. It's a testament to the untamable nature of creativity.

With their distinct styles and shared passion for pushing boundaries, this collective is set to deliver an unparalleled sonic voyage that will captivate your senses and leave you craving more. Discipline and dedication may be controlled, but their creativity knows no bounds. With their unique blend of melodic techno and subtle Nordic noir influences, Tripolism will transport you to new heights of musical ecstasy.

Source: Blackstar

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NOBITA releases debut album, BETTERFLY

The 8-track release shows their affinity for earnest songwriting and soul-baring production

Filipino alt-rock outfit NOBITA has finally released their highly anticipated debut album, BETTERFLY via Sony Music Entertainment.

The 8-track album finds the band expressing their introspective take on life, optimism, and companionship with an affinity for soul-baring production and vulnerable songwriting. The record is co-produced by constant collaborator Isagani Palabyab of Monostery Studio, and was written and co-arranged by NOBITA.

BETTERFLY is led by the track “Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan,” which captures the immediacy of romantic love, and the inescapable thrill that it brings to people. The soulful ballad reflects NOBITA’s core competencies as lyricists and musicians, delivering heartfelt sentiments with bluesy chops and ‘60s-style harmonies.

The much-awaited release also contains new songs such as “Hay Buhay,” which honors the beauty of being alive and in love, and “Bukang Liwayway,” a strings-laden ditty that confronts challenges with a hopeful, persevering tone. Both songs encapsulate NOBITA’s self-assured musical direction: never hurried and deceptively simple, but coming from a place of sincerity and warmth.

Track list: 

1. Kahit Sandali

2. Sa Ulan

3. Hau Buhay

4. Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan

5. Totoo

6. Paano Uusad

7. Bukang Liwayway

8. Kalangitan

The band’s rapid rise to mainstream acclaim is no stranger to the public. The Pinoy five-piece act hit it big with “Ikaw Lang” and “Unang Sayaw,” which currently rank as two of the most streamed OPM tracks in Spotify history. The pop-rock outfit has built an impressive portfolio by releasing songs that capture the beating heart of the young generation, and bringing light, love, and inspiration to as many people as possible.

NOBITA’s new album, BETTERFLY is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

BENJAMIN KHENG MAKES A COMEBACK WITH ‘ROCK BOTTOM BLUES’ FEAT. JAMES REID, ANNOUNCES TWO-PART DEBUT ALBUM GLOOMY BOOGIE

Singapore, July 28, 2023 – Homegrown singer-songwriter Benjamin Kheng is back with new music, teaming up with acclaimed Filipino-Australian artist James Reid for a powerful collaboration on ‘Rock Bottom Blues’, the first single from his highly anticipated two-part album, Gloomy Boogie.

Produced by Charlie Kurata and Saint Kid, ‘Rock Bottom Blues’ delves into the depths of emotions experienced during difficult times and toxic relationships. The song explores the pain of feeling stuck in a cycle of self-redemption and longing for redemption. ‘Rock Bottom Blues’ is written by Benjamin Kheng, Olivia Knox, Saint Kid and James Reid.

Benjamin shares his inspiration behind the track: “Hurt people hurt people, that’s just human nature. I’ve experienced love that didn’t deserve my hurt, and that’s kind of where ‘Rock Bottom Blues’ takes place — at the end of a love that left for a good reason. It’s hard to be anything other than your worst self with someone when you’re already at rock bottom.” The poignant and introspective lyrics of the chorus (“Now I'm stuck singing rock bottom blues / I wish I was better for you / But I can’t / It’s too easy to fall right down again”) reflect the depths of personal struggle and the longing for redemption.

The collaboration —the first between the two— is a quintessential “sad bop”; the duo’s emotive vocal deliveries perfectly complement each other against the infectious dance arrangement. The result is a synergy that effortlessly blends sombre and danceability into a truly unique musical experience.

“Benjamin is a talented musician, and it’s been an honour working with him on this track,” says James, “The song holds a serious topic, but Ben’s playful personality couldn’t help but shine through. We aimed to infuse a playful energy into the song while staying true to its heartfelt essence.”

The feeling of admiration is mutual, as Ben shares: “
It’s been amazing getting to work with James on this track, not just to witness, up close, a superstar of his calibre be the amazing talent and human that he is, but also how beautiful it is to be able to make music across borders and draw parallel lines between our journeys. Here’s hoping we build more music roads across our barriers and get to see more Southeast Asians working together.”

The accompanying music video for the song was directed by Barnabas Chua of Murk & Marrow Films, who transports viewers to a mesmerizing, kinetic dream world. Alternating surreal landscapes serve as the backdrop, while multiple sets embracing natural elements such as snow, smoke, and storms provide Benjamin Kheng and James Reid with an expansive canvas to project their emotions. The video's oscillating visual language guides audiences on a captivating journey, encouraging exploration of the contrasting yet enthralling world inhabited by the duo. Barnabas will also work on visualisers for other tracks on the upcoming album; the visuals of each video will echo the sonic textures of each track, revealing moments of vulnerability and introspection, where the viewers are invited to peel back the layers beneath the surface of Kheng’s multifaceted persona.

‘Rock Bottom Blues’ serves as the lead single of Benjamin’s two-part debut album, Gloomy Boogie,which will be released later this year. He describes the concept album as an ode to those who navigate life's challenges while concealing their inner turmoil. The album will invite listeners to embrace their ugliest emotions at the most unexpected moments, capturing the same energy as those forced smiles at social gatherings when everything seems to be falling apart. It acknowledges the bravery required to dance through pain and acknowledges that everyone grapples with unkind thoughts, even when it feels isolating.

Like ‘Rock Bottom Blues’, fans can expect Gloomy Boogie to present them with a fusion of melancholic melodies and infectious rhythms that promises to be a captivating exploration of the human experience, celebrating the resilience of the “sad social-survivor”.

OFFICIAL ‘ROCK BOTTOM BLUES’ SINGLE ARTWORK

‘Rock Bottom Blues’ is available on all digital streaming platforms from July 28, 2023.
Link goes live upon release: HERE

Image Credits: Sony Music Singapore

ABOUT BENJAMIN KHENG:

Benjamin Kheng is a Singaporean artist who has made a name for himself as a versatile musician. Making his debut into the music industry in 2012, he is best known as one of the founding members of the pop-quartet “The Sam Willows”, performing globally in the Canadian Music Festival in Toronto, Singapore F1 Grand Prix 2013 and more. In 2019, he officially returned to music as a solo artist. Releasing his first single, ‘Wicked’, ‘Find Me’ and ‘Lovers Forever’. He was also honoured several times during his career for his exceptional talent and contributions to the music industry, and received the Youth Music Award for Best Male Artist in 2019 and nominated as MTV EMA’s Best Southeast Asian Act in 2020. Expect to see more collaborations and new music coming from Benjamin Kheng as he works on his 2-part album, Gloomy Boogie.

ABOUT JAMES REID:          

Actor, singer, song-writer and record producer, James Reid is a true creative with a tireless passion for developing his artistry. James is the Founder and Chairman of Careless Music, an independent music label based in Manila, Philippines. James has been on multiple film box office hits and award-winning television shows. He is one of the most sought-after artists, not only in the Philippines but also internationally within the Filipino community. Fusing together elements of neo-soul and funk into pop and R&B tracks, the essence of James’ music is inspired by all things love and his current realities that surround him. Collaborated with artists like "JAY B (former member of GOT 7), Yuna from Malaysia, Destiny Rogers from USA and a South Korean band, "The Rose".

FOLLOW BENJAMIN:

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/benjaminkheng

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminkheng?lang=fr

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BenjaminKhengMusic

FOLLOW JAMES:

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/tellemjaye

TikTok: http://bit.ly/Jamsred

 Source: Sony Music Philippines

DEBUT EP ‘COLOURS’ TO BE RELEASED ON 15TH SEPTEMBER

Photo Credit: Credit Wolff

THE NEW PROJECT FROM KODALINE’S MARK PRENDERGAST

July 28th, 2023 – Singapore – Mark Prendergast’s new project Man Alive is a leftfield step away from his international chart-conquering success with Kodaline. Evident in his debut EP ‘Colours’, which is set to release on 15th September, takes listeners through a whirlpool of emotion with its title track and new single. Listen here: https://found.ee/ManAlive-Colours

Mark says, “I was just like a kid in a candy shop when making this EP. When you’re in a band and you get it right, there’s a confidence that comes from a gang mentality, and that’s great, but this was the total opposite. Just the idea of going solo was a thrill, but the songs always came first and drove everything. Like everybody else in this world, you go through moments where you're fucking great

and you go through moments where you're not. I suppose each song is just about a different kind of emotion, and that discovery of figuring out who you are and all that kind of craic.”

The new single "Colours" is a blissed-out Tame Impala-esque waltz which sets sun-kissed psychedelia through the glittery prism of a disco ball, all with an undercurrent of sophisticated and orchestrated pop which sets the perfect ambience for lyrics that celebrate the purity of being in love.

Man Alive – "Colours" (Official Music Video)

It offers a very different approach from the spacious beauty of its lovelorn alt-folk predecessor and debut track "Be Someone" which earned attention from the likes of NME, Clash and Hot Press as well as a broad sweep of Irish airplay and nine global Spotify New Music Friday playlists. This contrast hints at the vast array of sonic touchpoints that Mark is drawing upon for Man Alive.

The postcard intimacy of "Five Minute Drive" offers “a place to park your broken heart” while another new song, "Everytime I See Red", possesses a similar warmth, all richly textured vocal harmonies and dreamy acoustic pop. The EP’s closing track "What Are The Chances" finds the sweet spot between its anthemic, stadium-sized scope and a very personal touch, complete with the darker heart of lyrics such as, “I know I burned your neighbourhood to the ground”.

While Mark Prendergast has always written songs for Kodaline, he has also composed and demoed other songs simply for his own pleasure. But then the one-two combo of a break-up and lockdown hit, and suddenly he was in the midst of a purple patch of inspiration. He had never even casually entertained the thought of becoming a singer, but the catalogue of songs he had written was just too personal to hand over to someone else.

To date, Man Alive have played just two shows: a raucous house party in which Mark’s band included Gavin James and members of Soft Launch, while his friend Aisling Bea guested as MC, and Tuesday’s sold-out debut headline show at The Waiting Room in London.

Mark, accompanied by his Kodaline bandmates, is set to make their way to Southeast Asia in September, with performances scheduled in Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand. He is looking forward to connecting with existing fans who have known and loved his previous work, while eager to reach out to new fans in the region to expand the presence of his solo project and share his music with a broader audience.

Pre-save the album ‘Colours’ here: found.ee/ManAlive-ColoursEP Listen to ”Colours” here: found.ee/ManAlive-Colours

Source: Blackstar

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Gospel Rapper JDP Jack D’Preacher Gets Real About Sin and Repentance in His Inspiring New Song "Muli"

JDP Jack D’Preacher, a rising talent in the gospel rap scene, gets real and raw and captivates listeners with his latest single with Reverb Worship PH titled, Muli—out now on all digital streaming platforms worldwide!

Drawn from firsthand experiences, Muli delves into the depths of sin, addiction, and emotional chains—taking the listeners on a transformative journey of guilt, repentance, and forgiveness. Through his strong rhythmic rap style and solid lyrical flow, JDP Jack D’Preacher fearlessly addresses his personal yet universal struggles and offers hope to anyone who is seeking a fresh start in life.

“I am living a double life,” JDP Jack D’Preacherconfessed. “I have repetitive sins that damaged me, and I want a way out. As Matthew 26:41 says, ‘The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak’, Muli is about resisting temptation and how the Lord provides a way out. It reminds everyone that Jesus ​​is forgiving and merciful.”

With his unique blend of hip-hop and gospel, the up-and-coming artist delivers a message that resonates with audiences from all walks of life. Muli invites listeners to confront past mistakes, repent, and find comfort in the loving arms of God.

“Sin is not something that we are proud of. It is shameful and we don’t want other people to judge us. But if I don’t talk about this, then who will? I can’t let my fear hinder the amazing grace, power, and miracle that Jesus has done in my life. I wrote this song for people to know that there is hope and freedom in Christ,” JDP Jack D’Preacher said.

After successfully producing Christian Contemporary songs in the past three years, CBN Asia’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Valdes Tan hopes that Reverb Worship’s newest release would inspire listeners anew.

“I am so excited about the release of Muli, Reverb Worship’s first venture into rap music. I believe the honesty and rawness of this song will resonate with the listeners of rap. I pray that this song will touch a deep core in their hearts and turn it once again to God.”

Experience God’s hope and redemption. Stream Muliby JDP Jack D’Preacher on Spotify, Apple Music,YouTube and all digital streaming platforms worldwide.

Don’t miss Reverb Worship’s future music releases! For updates, follow Reverb Worship on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

Source: CBN Asia

Australian recording star BIRDEE 王煒announces Southeast Asian tour

The eclectic pop singer-songwriter will be performing in Manila, Jakarta, and Singapore ahead of her “Best Mistake I Never Made” release

Sydney-based alt-pop artist BIRDEE 王煒 will be touring Southeast Asia next month! 

The eclectic singer-songwriter will be performing in Manila, Jakarta, and Singapore to promote “Best Mistake I Never Made,” her upcoming new single, which draws earnest comparisons to forward-thinking pop auteurs Lorde, Tove Lo, and Charli XCX.

“Growing up, I have always felt connected to Asian culture,” the Australian pop act explains in a press statement. “My mother’s side of our family is from Kuala Lumpur, so I have always embraced my mixed heritage with honor and pride.”

The breakthrough recording songstress, whose own lineage of Asian, Greek, and Russian ancestry defines her sound and storytelling, is also looking forward to meeting her fans, who have shown love and support for her work as an artist. “My music is really high energy, and I love to move on stage. I'm so excited to meet people there, to sing, dance and have a good time with those who come to a show.”

According to James Lewis, CEO of DISRUPTIVE ENTERTAINMENT, BIRDEE 王煒’s music has seen a massive surge on streaming services and playlists in the region, particularly in the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.”

“Given BIRDEE 王煒 ‘s heritage, she has always wanted to tour Asia,” Lewis adds. “With the support she has received now, it feels like the right time.”

BIRDEE 王煒: Live In Southeast Asia dates:

AUGUST 8 - Manila - 225

AUGUST 9 - Manila - Noor

AUGUST 10 - Manila - Wish Bus

AUGUST 11 - Manila - Eastwood Mall

AUGUST 12 - Manila - McKinley Mall

AUGUST 15 - Jakarta - Resso office

AUGUST 16 - Jakarta - performance venue tbc

AUGUST 17 - Jakarta - performance venue tbc

SEPTEMBER 8 to 14 - Singapore - All That Matters Festival (3 performances)

FOLLOW BIRDEE 王煒 on social media:

INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK

Source: Nyou

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(G)I-DLE UNVEILS NEW VIDEO: I DO - A LOVE STORY IN BANGKOK-FEATURING THAI TALENTS TONTAWAN TANTIVEJAKUL AND JIRAWAT SUTIVANISAK

NEW SINGLE “I DO” OUT NOW. HEAT EP OUT SEPTEMBER 8

Credit: Cho Gi-Seok 88Rising

Following the phenomenal launch of their debut English language single “I DO”, chart-topping girl group (G)I-DLE has unveiled a poignant video love story starring adored Thai talents ‘Tu’ Tontawan Tantivejakul and ‘Dew’ Jirawat Sutivanisak, reuniting the co-stars of hit drama series Boys Over Flowers on-screen once more.

download video still here

WATCH THE VIDEO LOVE STORY HERE

The video love story adds an enchanting dimension to “I DO”, which serves as a captivating first taste of HEAT, (G)I-DLE’s inaugural EP entirely in English. Co-executive produced by 88rising through a new partnership with Cube Entertainment, the heartfelt single highlights emotional vocal prowess of Soyeon, Minnie, Miyeon, Yuqi and Shuhua. The official music video features a beautiful love story portrayed by the members and actor Lee Chaewon, enhancing the depth of the song’s narrative.

WATCH AND STREAM “I DO” HERE

PRE-ORDER HEAT HERE

About (G)I-DLE

(G)I-DLE (여자) 아이들, is one of the reigning K-Pop girl groups today, with over 1.4 billion streams. Since debuting in 2018, (G)I-DLE have set themselves apart by co-producing their own music and creative directing their campaigns. Their biggest hits -  including debut single "LATATA” and the US Top 40-charting "NXDE”, are penned and produced by leader So-yeon, alongside members Minnie, Yuqi, Miyeon, and Shuhua.  (G)I-DLE just released their first all-English single via 88rising, "I DO”, ahead of their HEAT EP this Fall. They will embark on a global tour this Summer including stops in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Paris, London, Berlin and Japan. 

About 88rising

88rising is a pioneering global music and media company representing the best of Asian talent. Since its inception, 88rising has paved the way for many music industry firsts: the first to have an Asian artist top the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop charts, Spotify’s Weekly Global Albums chart and enter the top 10 on Mediabase’s Top 40 chart, the first to launch an all-Asian radio channel in North America, and the first and only record label to have a main stage slot at Coachella. 88rising is also most notably the first company to launch an Asian-centric music festival in the United States, Head in the Clouds Music & Arts Festival, in partnership with powerhouse promoter Goldenvoice. The 5th annual flagship festival sold-out before a lineup was even announced and expanded globally to Jakarta and Manila in December 2022. In 2021, 88rising executive produced and curated the soundtrack to Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings - Marvel Studios’ first Asian-American superhero. 88rising continues its film endeavors with Jamojaya,  which stars multi-hyphenate Rich Brian and is executive produced by 88rising founder & CEO Sean Miyashiro. The film will premiere at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival. Previously, in 2019, 88rising was awarded Label of the Year by NetEase, one of the largest music streaming platforms in China. With over 160 million followers across global social media platforms and over 40 billion total streams and views, 88rising’s global influence is undeniable.

CONNECT WITH (G)I-DLE

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok

Source: Blackstar

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Multi-platinum rapper and producer will.i.am teams up with Britney Spears on new single “MIND YOUR BUSINESS”

Music luminary and multi-platinum, GRAMMY® Award-winning artist will.i.am delights fans with the release of his highly anticipated new single "MIND YOUR BUSINESS," featuring the incomparable Britney Spears.This exciting collaboration marks their first reunion since their timeless, triple-platinum hit "Scream & Shout" in 2012, which was the first-ever number one song on Billboard’s Dance/Electronic Songs chart.

Set against an enigmatic and captivating beat, will.i.am exudes charisma and confidence with his captivating vocals, while Britney's unmatched attitude and energy elevate the song to new heights. The irresistible hook and infectious energy of "MIND YOUR BUSINESS" solidify its status as the definitive anthem of 2023.

This release follows will.i.am's recent solo comeback after a decade with "THE FORMULA," featuring Lil Wayne and Formula 1®. “THE FORMULA” was also the debut track of the partnership between will.i.am and Formula 1, with Formula 1 tapping will.i.am as their first ever “Global Artist in Residence”.  As part of the partnership, more F1 inspired tracks will be released before will.i.am drops his latest solo album. 

Both "THE FORMULA" and “MIND YOUR BUSINESS” serve as a prelude to will.i.am's forthcoming fifth solo album. It marks his first album since 2013's chart-topping #willpower, which featured the global smash "Scream & Shout" with Britney Spears. Always pushing boundaries and embracing innovation, will.i.am is poised to elevate his artistry to unprecedented heights throughout 2023.

About will.i.am: ​
With a career spanning more than two decades, will.i.am continues to make an indelible mark on the music industry as the co-founder and frontman of the genre-defying Black Eyed Peas. His talent extends beyond performing, as he is also a renowned producer and successful solo artist. Additionally, will.i.am fluidly combines his passions for both music and technology investing as the Founder & CEO of FYI.AI, a Web 3.0 messenger app.  He also spearheads STEAM education programs for more than 12,000 students in the Los Angeles area through his i.am Angel Foundation.

About Britney Spears:

Multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning pop icon Britney Spears is one of the most successful and celebrated entertainers in pop history with nearly 150 million records worldwide. In the U.S. alone, she has sold more than 70 million albums, singles and songs, according to Nielsen Music. Born in Mississippi and raised in Louisiana, Spears became a household name as a teenager when she released her first single “…Baby One More Time,” a Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 smash and international hit that broke sales records with more than 20 million copies sold worldwide and is currently 14x Platinum in the U.S.  

Britney’s memoir The Woman in Me, which is a brave and astonishingly moving story about freedom, fame, motherhood, survival, faith, and hope, will publish on October 24, 2023.  

Debuting at #1 on Billboard’s Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart, “Hold Me Closer” finds Elton John and Britney Spears, two of the most iconic artists of all time come together for the first time ever on record. The song topped the charts providing Britney’s first in almost ten years and the record has also climbed to #1 in Australia and Canada, #3 in the UK, and most notably #1 on iTunes in over 40 countries worldwide upon release.

will.i.am and Britney Spears’ new single “MIND YOUR BUSINESS” is available now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Epic Records and Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

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PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival announces top 12 finalists for main competition

The two music institutions have recently launched PhilPopHimig Handog Songwriting Festival, an initiative that champions the next wave of recording superstars and industry titans.

PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival continues its commitment to empowering the future generation of music industry professionals and hitmakers through its sustainable, world-class mentorship program.

The collaborative project, which was produced and presented by songwriting institutions PhilPop and HimigHandog, kicked off with a Digicamp series that is carefully designed to develop the skillset of aspiring participants in the fields of songwriting, music arrangement and recording, branding, marketing, career development, and intellectual property.

After organizing a two-month workshop-based training and songwriting class for some of the most promising industry hopefuls, the country’s top songwriting competition has finally selected 12 of the best entries that will advance to the main competition:

In alphabetical order, here are the finalists who made it to the PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival:

Luzon / Bulacan: Rinz Ruiz – “Papahiram”

Luzon / Laguna: Francis Contemplacion – “ATM”

Metro Manila: Tiara Cinco – “Wag Paglaruan”

Metro Manila: Kevin Yadao – “Ghostwriter”

Metro Manila: Rob Angeles – “MHWG”

Metro Manila: Geca Morales – “Langit Lupa”​

Metro Manila: Alvin Serrito – “Kurba”

Visayas / Bacolod: Shantel Lapatha – “Tulala”

Visayas / Cebu: Relden Campanilla – “Dili Nalang”

Visayas / Cebu: Jimmy Grajo – “Salamat (Nga Wala Na Ta)”

Visayas / Bohol: Keith Quito – “Buhi”

Mindanao / Davao: Maric Gavino – “Taliwala”

The entries went through multiple rounds of adjudication,headed by an esteemed panel of Board Members, producers, key leaders, prominent songwriters, and decision-makers affiliated with both PhilPop and Himig Handog.

According to ABS-CBN Music Creative Director Jonathan Manalo, one of the considerations for picking the top songs was based on quality in terms of songwriting and composition. He explains, “It was important to us that the songs were up to the standard that were set by both PhilPop and HimigHandog. We also wanted to see how effective the fellows were in applying the lessons and insights that they’ve learned from the PhilPop Himig Handog DigiCamp. We wanted to challenge the fellows to break borders and push the boundaries of Filipino pop music. Lastly, we also had to factor in the appeal and marketability of the entries since our goal was also for the top songs to appeal to a wide range of Filipino music listeners.”

This year’s PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival promises to be bigger and bolder as two of the most important songwriting organizations in the country team up to bring export-ready Pinoy Pop to the crux of global dominance. With combined resources and expertise to discover potential greats that could command cultural conversations beyond borders, the collaborative project aims to promote OPM on a scale that’s never been done before: break new territories and captivate the international audience with music that is distinctly global yet very Pinoy.

“We’re excited with this batch of finalists from the PhilPopHimig Handog Songwriting Festival because it’s going to showcase how talented and brilliant Filipino Songwriters are,” said PHILPOP Executive Director Dinah Remolacio. “Fans of both PhilPop and Himig Handog can expect a diverse set of songs, not just in style but also in terms of representation and languages, among others. We also believe that longtime listeners of both organizations can also expect fresh tracks that have the potential to really grow the fanbase of Filipino Pop music. The songs of the Top 12 Finalists are a great representation of the current feel and the latest trends in Filipino Pop Music.”

PhilPop Himig Handog Songwriting Festival is an initiative of Himig Handog and PhilPop Music Foundation. This year’s game-changing event remains unwavering in its obligation to come up with innovative approaches in music-making and songwriting that are at par with international standards. The event is co-presented by Maynilad, Smart Communications, Inc., and TuneCore.

Source: Nyou