I would like to thank my alma mater, UA&P @uapasia @uapoaa for promoting my book signing with @nationalbookstore on Saturday, November 18! Punta na kayo! ✍🏼 @centralbooksph @publishondemand
LIA LIA RELEASES NEW EP ‘ANGST’ 🥵
LISTEN HERE
LIA LIA - ‘Angst’
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“A trailblazing creative” - VOGUE
“LIA LIA is well on her way to achieving her dreams of being a vulnerable pop icon” - i-D MAGAZINE
“Whether it's starring in campaigns for Louis Vuitton or opening for Doja Cat on the German leg of her world tour, half-Chinese, half-German artist LIA LIA is the stylish, quirky rising punk rocker that's turning heads and quickly making a name for herself.” - PAPER MAG
“another intriguing glimpse into the half-German, half-Chinese star’s impressive and multi-faceted world.” - DIY MAG
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(November 10th, 2023) - Today, Chinese-German artist LIA LIA releases her highly-anticipated new EP ‘Angst’. The project reveals a new depth to LIA LIA’s songwriting, weaving together elements of the classical canon, hypermodern internet cultures and blistering punk riffs. ‘Angst’, co-produced in Los Angeles by Jeremey Zucker, embodies the core theme of her EP, documenting a journey towards authenticity and individuality.
Speaking on her new body of work, LIA LIA says “‘Angst’ is a big fuck you to anxiety, depression & sickness. I’m tired of being tired. I’m tired of being sad. I just want to have fun! It’s impossible to erase all the melancholy from my music, because I’m not pretending. Lyrics are a gateway to my soul. I can’t hide anything”.
Over the past 12 months, the hotly-tipped Berlin-based artist has crafted a remarkable story and garnered a diverse, global fanbase. What sets LIA LIA apart is not just her music but also the meaningful discussions her art provokes around identity, empowering listeners to explore their own emotions. Growing up across cultures in China and Germany further provided her the unique ability to communicate with fans worldwide. While LIA LIA’s battle with identity is a common theme throughout ‘Angst’, her ethos of inclusion remains undeniable.
Earlier this year, LIA LIA was invited to be a guest on the United Nations podcast to discuss her art and sources of inspiration. She was also featured on the cover of SLEEK MAG, profiled in i-D and by Japanese magazine GATA. Her recent release ‘Am i human’ led to interviews on BBC Radio 1, Apple Music 1 and Sirius XM. Meanwhile, songs like the ethereal ‘I ride my bike’ and viral ‘What if i jump from a Bridge’ have amassed millions of views. LIA LIA’s haunting whispers sound more assured than ever, showcasing her brilliance to speak to vast audiences in an intimate way. Her sound may be anthemic, but it retains its ability to speak to that one person alone in the corner.
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Angst follows 2022’s ‘Love & Melancholy’ EP which received critical acclaim. Lead single “I'm a Moth” covered Spotify’s Punk Unleashed playlist and premiered with a feature on BBC Radio 1. There was also support from publications such as Nylon, Vogue, PAPER, Gorilla vs Bear, Clash and NME.
Not only is LIA LIA making waves in the music scene, but she is also leaving a lasting impression in the world of fashion, collaborating on fashion campaigns for iconic brands like Louis Vuitton and New Balance. Renowned fashion designer Clara Colette Miramon, who has worked with top artists like Doja Cat, Kehlani, and Tinashe, lends her expertise to LIA LIA's visual aesthetics.
LIA LIA has also showcased her talent on stage, having previously supported Doja Cat in Germany, then opening for Duran Duran's UK arena tour. Frontman Simon Le Bon praised Lia as a superstar and her song "I’m a Moth" as a classic.
Tracklist
I ride my bike
Angst
13
I cry in my mercedes
What if i jump from a Bridge
Dive deeper in Lia’s world below.
CONNECT WITH LIA LIA
INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK
Source: Blackstar
Moristeen Coffee
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Spence Lee's New Single and Video "White Tee" Marks a Pivotal Moment in His Diverse Musical Journey
STREAM HERE
Rising hip-hop sensation, Spence Lee, formerly known as Shotta Spence, takes center stage with his latest release, "White Tee." Produced in collaboration with his close friend and musical partner, Melz, this track and accompanying music video represents a pivotal moment in Spence Lee's vibrant and diverse career.
"White Tee" isn't just a song; it's a vibrant reflection of Spence Lee's dynamic musical journey. This track will transport you through his life experiences, drawing from his roots in New Jersey and his multicultural heritage. With a magnetic allure and a penchant for creative collaboration, Spence Lee seamlessly fuses classic hip-hop influences with his own unique storytelling and rhythmic style, all in a bid to unite and uplift his audience through the power of music.
The lyrics in "White Tee" pack a punch and deliver a compelling message about self-expression and staying true to one's individuality. Spence Lee's words carry the weight of authenticity and style, emphasizing that true freshness isn't about expensive designer brands but how you craft your unique identity. He raps, "Fresher than most of y'all in a white tee, look way better in person than IG; said she never met nobody like me; I’m from the jungle baby can you climb trees?" These verses take you on a profound journey through the complexities of life, faith, and personal growth, creating a relatable narrative that's sure to resonate with listeners.
Accompanying the release of "White Tee" is an enthralling music video directed by the highly acclaimed Michael Gilbert, known for his work with artists like Post Malone and Swae Lee. This visually captivating video takes viewers on a journey through Spence Lee's world as he performs live, provides behind-the-scenes glimpses into his creative process, travels to exciting locales, showcases his basketball skills, and shares candid moments with friends. Throughout it all, Spence Lee stays true to the theme of the song, sporting his iconic white tee with undeniable style. The video perfectly complements the track, offering an experience that brings fans closer to the artist's life and artistry.
The sound of "White Tee" is a mesmerizing fusion of classic hip-hop vibes with a slow and ethereal tempo. In a music landscape dominated by fast-paced trends, Spence Lee and Melz’s collaboration shines with authenticity and originality, offering a refreshing and distinct musical experience.
Spence Lee's journey through the music industry has been one of inclusivity and innovation. He proudly embraces his Chinese and Vietnamese heritage, becoming a symbol of the flourishing Asian presence in hip-hop. With dual affiliations at EarDrummers Entertainment and 88rising, Spence Lee stands at the forefront of a musical revolution. His forthcoming debut album, set to release next year, promises an eclectic and diverse soundscape, reflecting his rich cultural background and multifaceted influences.
"White Tee" isn't just a song; it's a sonic voyage through Spence Lee's world of storytelling, personal experiences, and diverse influences. This track represents his unwavering commitment to uniting people through the magic of music while staying true to his authentic self. As Spence Lee's star continues to ascend, "White Tee" stands as a defining milestone in his remarkable musical journey.
FOLLOW SPENCE LEE
spencelee.com
Source: Blackstar
TECNO PHANTOM V Flip 5G Now is Available in Philippines, Representing Flip in Style and Perfect in Pocket
The first foldable device below 30K PHP delivers a stunning synergy of fashionable aesthetics and advanced technology that’s “perfect in pocket” for stylish youth.
Manila, Nov 14, 2023. TECNO’s premium sub-brand, PHANTOM, today launched the groundbreaking PHANTOM V Flip 5G – its first-ever flip phone and Philippines’ market first foldable device below 30K peso. The breakthrough smartphone sets a new standard for the integration of advanced technologies and high-end fashion-forward aesthetics, with a powerful 64MP+13MP+32MP camera system, unique circular cover screen, and stunning cosmos-inspired design.
The “perfect in pocket” PHANTOM V Flip 5G, which was nominated for the German Design Awards, showcases its exceptional design quality in a meticulous selection process.As the brand’s latest foldable, it marks another milestone in the brand’s continued exploration of new form factors and design languages to enhance the premium foldable user experience.
PHANTOM V Flip 5G combines stylish design with powerful flip phone features.
Capturing The Light and Shade of Life with More Definition
PHANTOM V Flip 5G illuminates gloomy shots with enhanced low-light capabilities for dazzling results. The device’s powerful 64MP RGBW Ultra Sensitive Sensor Main Camera benefits from 60% greater light intake, as well as reduced noise and improved color accuracy, thanks to its innovative RGBW pixel format. At an impressive 64MP, the camera has the highest resolution of any flip phone on the market with an f/1.7 aperture and 1.6μm (4in1) pixels. With PDAF, ISOCELL Pixel Isolation and a Pixel Fusion Algorithm, it delivers unparalleled flip phone night performance to light up even the darkest environments.
Using TECNO’s Dual-camera Fusion technology, the 64MP main camera also works in tandem with the device’s 13MP Ultra-Wide Angle Camera so users can enlarge and crop ultra wide-angle shots while retaining plenty of detail.
The cover screen shows a convenient preview for stunning 64MP RGBW Ultra Sensitive Sensor Main Camera shots.
For selfie lovers, PHANTOM V Flip 5G’s 32MP Dual-flash Autofocus Front Camera provides the ultimate solution for low-light selfies. The camera’s integrated Micro-slit Dual-flash is the industry’s first front-facing flashlight in a flip phone, which is complemented by TECNO’s Super Flashlight algorithm to create the ideal lighting with perfect exposure. The camera also utilizes Automatic Eye-focus to achieve more precise subject tracking for greater clarity and detail in selfies and vlogs.
Exciting Imaging Empowered by PHANTOM V Flip 5G FreeCam System
Thanks to its flip construction, PHANTOM V Flip 5G’s opens up a world of shooting possibilities through its advanced FreeCam System. The device lets users elevate their imaginations and capture magic moments in inventive and beautiful images with both front and rear lenses. Stable at any angle from 30-150˚, users can hover the device to shoot better group shots, detailed rear camera selfies, low-angle shots, FreeCam Time-lapses, and more. The strong hovering performance with gesture- and voice-controlled capture lets users enjoy hands-free creativity.
Unleash your creativity with PHANTOM V Flip 5G’s FreeCam System.
Elegant, Premium, Pocket-sized Perfection
The device’s refined look is elevated by its sophisticated colors and materials. For style-minded individuals, PHANTOM V Flip 5G’s premium lychee-pattern classic leather adds to its high-end look and feel, being the same material as that used in luxury fashion and top-of-the-range vehicles. PHANTOM V Flip 5G is available in a choice of two stylish colors: Mystic Dawn and Iconic Black.
Meticulously designed to achieve the perfect pocket-sized form, PHANTOM V Flip 5G measures 88.77 x 74.05 x 14.95mm when folded, allowing for easy thumb swiping, and 171.72 x 74.05 x 6.95mm when unfolded. The slightly narrower main screen was developed following extensive research to offer natural and comfortable one-handed use.
PHANTOM V Flip 5G’s elegant Mystic Dawn and Iconic Black colors.
Reimagining Cover Screen Style and Convenience
PHANTOM V Flip 5G reimagines comfortable use and delightful design with its unique “The Planet” Personalized Versatile Cover Screen. The circular, centrally positioned 1.32-inch AMOLED screen has been meticulously designed for easy one-thumb control, with convenient swiping from every angle.
PHANTOM V Flip 5G’s circular cover screen makes life more convenient than ever.
The 352ppi screen lets users create fun displays that work for their own needs, with customizable wallpapers, Tmojis, 3D interactive virtual pets, and more. With just the swipe of a thumb, users can access their camera for easy Swipe Shots, play music, and quickly reply to messages. Making things even easier, the screen features customizable Smart Widgets, including the weather forecast, vitality rings, timer, sound recording, agenda, stopwatch, and alarms, so users don’t even need to open their phones to stay up to date.
Besides the cover screen, PHANTOM V Flip 5G flips open to reveal an ultra-big 6.9-inch FHD+ 2640x1080 main screen. The supremely flat, crease-less display delivers a captivating experience thanks to TECNO’s self-design drop-shaped hinge and a thinner, lighter screen. Meanwhile, a 10-120Hz LTPO refresh rate and 360Hz touch sampling (single and double finger) allow awesome fluidity with lower power consumption.
Charge in a Flash, Go All Day
There’s nothing fashionable about running out of charge. That’s why the PHANTOM V Flip 5G is equipped with a 4000mAh Super Battery, so users can show their style all day long without worrying about a dead battery. When the device does need a boost, 45W Flash Charging means it won’t need long to be back to full power. In fact, 15 minutes of charging is enough to reach 50%, and just 45 minutes is all that’s needed for a full recharge.
45W Flash Charging lets users power up in a flash.
Powerful Flip Phone Performance
Ensuring PHANTOM V Flip 5G delivers substance as well as style is a powerful triathlon of features. First is the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 8050 5G chip which delivers cutting-edge performance with excellent energy efficiency. The 6nm TSMC chip lets users enjoy superbly smooth operation that glides seamlessly between windows.
Second, the device boasts an 8GB RAM and 256GB ROM memory to easily meet the needs of users’ long-term daily use while reducing lagging issues. Extended Memory (which supports memory expansion of up to 8GB), Memory Anti-Aging, and Memory Slimming allow users to further optimize the device’s performance in line with their memory needs.
The First Device Equipped with HiOS 13.5
PHANTOM V Flip 5G is TECNO’s first device to feature the new HiOS 13.5 operating system, an optimized OS based on Google’s Android 13. HiOS 13.5 lets users make the most of all of the benefits of a flip smartphone, from image-making and editing to hovering video calls and useful Smart Widgets. The system also boasts intelligent features such as the ELLAGPT personal assistant, as well as beefed-up security to give users greater peace of mind.
Unbeatable discounts, awesome freebies during the pre-launch sale
The PHANTOM V Flip 5G is the first foldable smartphone priced below PhP30,000 in the Philippine market at only PhP29,999. The aesthetic, groundbreaking foldable device will be officially launched on November 09 exclusive on Shopee, and will be available on all online and offline platform starting November 18 with Iconic Black and Mystic Dawn colors.
From 11.09 to 11.11, take advantage of its pre-launch sale exclusively on TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Shopeeand get up to PhP6,000 discount, which means you can get the Flip phones at PhP23,999, a free PHANTOM Watch. Customers may also avail of the buy now pay later promo – up to 12 months interest-free, for as low as PhP1,999 per month.
From 11.12 to 11.17, pre-order the PHANTOM V Flip 5G offline at select TECNO concept stores and enjoy a PhP2,000 discount on the official price, get a free TECNO customized portable vacuum worth PhP2,000, and avail of the buy now and pay later promo. Preorder is available in the following stores: SM Tanza, SM Mall of Asia, SM San Jose Del Monte, SM Fairview, SM Bacoor, One Mall Ayala, SM Consolacion, SM Makati, Gaisano Grand Carcar and Robinsons Galleria South San Pedro.
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About TECNO
TECNO is an innovative technology brand with operations in over 70 countries and regions across five continents. Since its launch, TECNO has been revolutionizing the digital experience in emerging global markets, relentlessly pushing for the perfect integration of contemporary, aesthetic design with the latest technologies. Today, TECNO has developed into a recognized leader in its target markets, delivering state-of-the-art innovation through a wide range of smartphones, smart wearables, laptops and tablets, HiOS operating systems and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing”, TECNO is committed to unlocking the best and newest technologies for forward-looking individuals. By creating stylish, intelligent products, TECNO inspires consumers worldwide to never stop pursuing their best selves and their best futures. For more information, please visit TECNO Philippines’ official site: https://www.tecno-mobile.com/ph/
Source: TECNO Philippines
Samantha Gail B. Lucas: A PWD Published Author
Samantha Gail B. Lucas has been blogging on her website, www.speakoutsam.com, since May 2017. She has since attended several conferences, workshops, and networking opportunities through her website. She regularly shares her favorite local finds, foodie adventures, charitable advocacies, and media partnerships. She graduated with an AB Humanities degree from the University of Asia and the Pacific. She also has fourteen books available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books Kinokuniya, and Shopee. She is the winner of the Ukiyoto Literary Awards for Nonfiction Woman Writer of the Year 2022 and the Nonfiction Author of the Year 2023. She currently resides in Quezon City, Philippines.
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PASSENGER RELEASES NEW VERSION OF “LET HER GO” FEAT. ED SHEERAN
UNVEILS ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF
MULTI-PLATINUM ALBUM
‘ALL THE LITTLE LIGHTS’
Photo Credit: Mila Austin
November 13th, 2023 – Singapore – Acclaimed UK singer/songwriter Mike Rosenberg celebrates 10 years since the release of his seminal album 'All The Little Lights' with the release of 'All The Little Lights (Anniversary Edition)'. Entirely re-recorded and completely re-imagined, Passenger infuses these songs with another decade of experience and wisdom as he calls friends like Foy Vance, Gabrielle Aplin and Nina Nesbitt for special collaborations. Through it all, he preserves all the spirit and soul of the original while breathing new life into these well-loved Passenger staples.
With the album’s release comes a brand new video for the re-recording of “Let Her Go” featuring one final collaboration with Passenger’s longtime friend and tour mate, Ed Sheeran. The original global smash single went #1 in 19 countries, and entered the Spotify viral charts in Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore. Today, it has over 6 billion streams, is the #2 most Shazamed song of all time, and remains the 16th most viewed video on YouTube of all time.
Passenger - "Let Her Go (feat. Ed Sheeran - Anniversary Edition)" [Official Video]
“Where do I begin… it’s a truly life altering song. Four minutes of music that shifted my trajectory entirely. It’s so big that I think of my career in two sections - before and after ‘Let Her Go.’ People often ask me if I knew I’d written a hit straight away after writing it. The honest truth is I didn’t. I’d written so many songs up until that point that I had been excited by, but nothing had ever come of them, so by this stage I had genuinely stopped thinking in those terms.
I vividly remember writing it. It was early 2011, and I was out on a regional tour of Australia playing tiny rooms to a handful of people each night. I remember walking into a venue dressing room, picking up my guitar and playing the opening riff like I’d written it years ago, like I’d played it before. Like it had always been there. I don’t think I’ve had many other moments like that.
A massive part of the song's success is down to Ed Sheeran. If he hadn’t have taken me around the world as his opening act in the year leading up to the song blowing up, then it simply wouldn’t have happened. I owe him an awful lot - he has championed me and opened doors that were securely locked. He’s an incredibly kind and thoughtful person that somehow finds time and energy to lift others up around him even though he carries the world on his shoulders. He’s a constant inspiration and a fierce friend.
So, when it came to re-recording this song, there was only ever going to be one person that I’d want to duet on it. I’m sure some people will see this collaboration and assume that it’s for commercial opportunity and of course they’re right - it’s no bad thing to have one of the biggest stars in the world sing on one of my songs!! But like the other three collaborators on this album, there is a genuine and undeniable link that he has had to Passenger over the years and to this song in particular.
I’m grateful to ‘Let Her Go’ beyond words. Not just for its success, but for the opportunity to reach people all over the world, just for four minutes, and make some kind of small difference. What an amazing thing,” Passenger shares.
Passenger & Ed Sheeran | Photo Credit: Zak Walters
The years leading up to the release of 'All The Little Lights' were filled with personal and professional upheavals and led Mike to a path of busking across the UK and eventually Australia, where he found himself at Linear Recording. The album quietly transformed into a global phenomenon buoyed by “Let Her Go”. The smash single took the world by storm, generating 6 BILLION streams to date and reached #1 in 19 countries, platinum status in 11 countries, and became the #2 most Shazamed Song of all Time and #1 most Shazamed Pop Song of All Time.
Passenger now celebrates everything before, during and after this era with 'All The Little Lights (Anniversary Edition)'.
'All The Little Lights (Anniversary Edition)' - Tracklist
1. Things That Stop You Dreaming
2. Let Her Go (feat. Ed Sheeran)
3. Staring At The Stars
4. All The Little Lights
5. The Wrong Direction
6. Circles (feat. Gabrielle Aplin)
7. Keep On Walking
8. Patient Love
9. Life’s For The Living (feat. Foy Vance)
10. Holes
11. Feather On The Clyde (feat. Nina Nesbitt)
Stream 'All The Little Lights (Anniversary Edition)'
here: ffm.to/passenger-allthelittlelights
Watch the music video "Let Her Go (feat. Ed Sheeran)" here
FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | NETTWERK RECORDS
FOLLOW PASSENGER
Source: Secret Signals
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Get Ready to Indulge in Tranquility: Serenease Aesthetic and Wellness Studio Opens its Doors in the Heart of Quezon City
Quezon City, November 8 2023– Serenease Aesthetic and Wellness Studio, a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation, had a grand opening of its first ever branch in the bustling heart of Quezon City.
"We are thrilled to bring a touch of tranquility to the heart of Quezon City. Our spa is not just a place; it's an experience designed to revitalize the body, mind, and spirit by offering them relaxing treatments that make them look and feel more beautiful inside and out. We invite everyone to embark on a journey of ultimate relaxation and self-care with us," said the owners of the newly opened spa.
About Serenease:
Serenease Aesthetic & Wellness Studio is your destination for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Their dedicated team offers a wide range of beauty and wellness treatments, from spa massages to eyelash and nail enhancements, all delivered in a tranquil atmosphere meticulously designed for relaxation. What distinguishes them is their commitment to affordable luxury, ensuring that quality treatments are accessible to all. They make sure to prioritize exceptional customer service, aiming to create lasting relationships with their clients.
Extraordinary Services of Serenease Aesthetic and Wellness Studio :
-Exquisite Treatments: Experience a wide range of luxurious treatments, from head spa to indulgent massages, to nails, eyelashes, and waxing/threading services, expertly curated to pamper your senses.
-Skilled Therapists and Technicians: Their team of highly skilled therapists and technicians, trained in the art of wellness, provide personalized and nurturing care to every guest.
- Soothing Ambiance: Step into a tranquil oasis featuring calming interiors, ambient lighting, and the gentle colors of nature, creating the perfect atmosphere for your relaxation.
-Grand Opening Offer: To celebrate their opening, the first twenty (20) guests will receive a free membership.
Location and Contact Information:
Serenease Aesthetic and Wellness Studio
#60 Sct. Chuatoco cor. Champaca St. Brgy. Roxas, Quezon City (02) 8522 9185
Care@sereneaseph.com
www.sereneaseph.com
Social Media:
Follow them on social media for updates, promotions, and upcoming discounts: - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sereneaseph
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sereneaseph/
- Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@sereneaseph
Source: Serenease
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Book Signing on November 18!
Please support my book signing and buy my books!!!
Jewelry Polishing Cloth from Shopee
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ADB, SQB Sign $50 Million Loan to Support Privatization and Expand Lending to MSMEs in Uzbekistan
TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN (10 November 2023) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Sanoat Qurilish Bank (SQB) signed a $50 million senior convertible loan to support Uzbekistan’s privatization of state-owned banks, which will strengthen the banking sector, contribute to economic growth and job creation. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) are parallel lenders.
The loan proceeds will be used to help SQB expand its financing to underserved micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), including those owned or led by women (WMSMEs). Portfolio diversification will contribute to SQB's transition into a fully universal commercial bank by serving a broader customer segment. ADB will also provide technical assistance to help SQB implement its transformation roadmap.
“ADB fully supports the Government of Uzbekistan in its transformation to a vibrant and inclusive market economy and its implementation of banking sector reforms. This project will support the stability of the country’s banking system, capitalization, and deposit levels while strengthening resilience and lending to climate projects and underserved MSMEs and WMSMEs” said ADB’s Director General of the Private Sector Operations Department Suzanne Gaboury. “This project also provides the region with a strong business case for other countries seeking similar reforms.”
In 2017 the Government of Uzbekistan embarked on an ambitious market reform agenda, including the privatization of more than 100 state-owned banks. In 2020, the government’s Strategy for Reforming the Banking Sector, 2020–2025, outlined directions and objectives for the banking sector and prioritized the privatization of six of the largest state-owned banks. ADB, as well as other multilateral development banks, have been supporting the privatization process and banking sector reforms.
“MSMEs continue to struggle to secure commercial financing to fund their growth, with women-owned being the most affected. ADB is supporting the enabling environment in Uzbekistan for MSMEs to have easier access to markets, as well as providing the much needed financing to close the financing gap for MSMEs,” said ADB’s Uzbekistan Country Director Kanokpan Lao-Araya. “ADB’s partnership in SQB builds on those two objectives.”
MSMEs play a significant role in Uzbekistan’s economy, comprising the majority of registered businesses and employing 74% of the workforce. However, access to financing remains a challenge, with only 13% of the sector having access to commercial loans. Women-led businesses face an even greater financing gap, estimated at $2.7 billion, with loans to women-owned businesses making up just approximately 2.5% of total bank loans.
“ADB’s support comes at a crucial time for SQB to underpin investors’ confidence and further enhance SQB’s environmental, social and governance practices, and its digitalization process. ADB’s support in these areas is very important to us,” said SQB’s Chairman of the Management Board Aziz Akbarjonov.
Founded in 1922, SQB is one of the oldest banks in Uzbekistan and is the second-largest state-owned bank. SQB is one of the strongest brands and banking market leaders with one of the widest branch networks in the country.
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 Kid LAROI releases star-studded album, The First Time
The highly anticipated record also features collaborations with Justin Bieber, Central Cee, Future, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Robert Glasper, Jung Kook, D4VD, and Baby Drill
After increasing anticipation to a boiling point throughout the fall, The Kid LAROI proudly presents his highly awaited full-length debut album, THE FIRST TIME, out now via Columbia Records. As a whole, the 20-track opus affirms The Kid LAROI as the game’s most inventive, infectious, and inimitable outlier. He threads together a simultaneously nuanced and expansive body of work powered by a signature hybrid of hip-hop, pop, alternative, and indie.
To celebrate the record’s arrival, LAROI shares the Cole Bennett-directed music video for the new single and opener “SORRY,” with a nod to one of his first videos “Let Her Go.” As a soul sample rattles at the sound of 808s, he gets introspective with a confession, “Every day I wake up scared that it could be taken from me,” only to remind, “I ain’t sorry.”
The star-studded album includes friends and peers, including Justin Bieber who delivers a reflective recollection on “STRANGERS PT. 2 (Interlude).” The latter’s piano continues on “CALL ME INSTEAD” [feat. YoungBoy Never Broke Again & Robert Glasper]. The Kid LAROI’s warbling vocals hover over the beat as his collaborators each accent the track.
The album concludes on a powerful note during “KIDS ARE GROWING UP.” In a full circle moment, The Kid LAROI admits, “Growing up I watched my favorite rappers’ interviews, I ain’t believe ‘em when they said it ain’t all what it seems, but now I’m here I realize they were telling truth.”
Check out the full tracklist below:
THE FIRST TIME
1. SORRY
2. BLEED
3. I THOUGHT THAT I NEEDED YOU
4. WHERE DO YOU SLEEP?
5. TOO MUCH (feat. Jung Kook & Central Cee)
6. TEAR ME APART
7. STRANGERS (Interlude)
8. NIGHTS LIKE THIS
9. WHAT’S THE MOVE? (feat. Future & Baby Drill)
10. STRANGERS PT 2 Interlude (with Justin Bieber)
11. CALL ME INSTEAD (feat. YoungBoy Never Broke Again & Robert Glasper)
12. DESERVE YOU
13. WHAT WENT WRONG???
14. THE LINE (feat. D4VD)
15. WHAT JUST HAPPENED
16. YOU
17. LOVE AGAIN
18. WHERE DOES YOUR SPIRIT GO?
19. YOU NEVER FORGET YOUR FIRST TIME…
20. KIDS ARE GROWING UP
Earlier this week, he surprised fans with “WHAT’S THE MOVE?” [feat. Future & Baby Drill]. He also preceded the release with "WHAT JUST HAPPENED," “BLEED” and "TOO MUCH" (feat. Jung Kook & labelmate Central Cee).
The Kid LAROI’s THE FIRST TIME is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Columbia Records and Sony Music Entertainment.
FOLLOW THE KID LAROI:
INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE
Source: Nyou
INDIE-POP SINGER-SONGWRITER ROSIE DARLING UNVEILS CAPTIVATING DEBUT ALBUM 'LANTERNS'
Photo Credit: Celina Kenyon
November 10th, 2023 – Singapore – Indie-pop artist Rosie Darling releases her debut album 'Lanterns' via Nettwerk – an exploration of confessions, heartbreak and acceptance. Rosie has entwined her lyrical prowess with her honeyed vocals to create a record that is utterly raw and genuine to her.
Rosie’s latest emphasis track from the record is "The Longest Goodbye”, a heartfelt reflection on the enduring pain and nostalgia of a past relationship that lingers, despite attempts to move on. Each track illuminates different facets of her life and emotions taking us on an intimate yet anthemic journey.
The result of Rosie’s remarkable talent and exceptional collaborations, including Justin Gammella (FINNEAS, Ashe), Wynter Bethel of Tommy Lefroy and Swedish-based songwriters Boy in Space, Hilda Stenmalm, is a stunning collection of poetic alt-pop tracks that unpack the emotions of young adulthood. 'Lanterns' challenges us to look within and accept all that life throws at us.
In Rosie’s words, “I want to celebrate the thorny process, feel the pain of it and hopefully, find healing. I want to encourage people to have a stronger heart and an appreciation of who we are becoming no matter what life throws at us. Let’s get to the other side! ”
LA-based indie-pop artist Rosie Darling is a quietly confident and passionately creative singer-songwriter, known for her signature flowing melodies and gut-wrenching lyrics. Her 2021 debut EP 'Coping' and 2022’s 'Golden Age' EP kickstarted her stratospheric rise, with over 200+ million global streams and the title-track “Coping” having swept up viral charts on Spotify – charting on Viral 50 playlists in 8 markets across Asia and Top 20 on the Global Viral Chart, and support from the likes of VH1 India, MTV Asia, Rolling Stone India, Billboard Indonesia and more.
“Shimmery introspective indie pop.”
– Under The Radar
“Darling nails those quiet moments, but also balls up her frustration in affecting big-picture questions: “What did you want from me? / I gave you everything.”
– Billboard
“Rosie’s journey as an artist both personally and professionally centers around embracing and leaning into growth, change, and evolution – themes anyone can relate to.”
– V Magazine
'Lanterns' Tracklisting
1. Boxes
2. Nail In The Coffin (ft Boy In Space)
3. Lost On You
4. I Don’t Want It Anymore
5. Only Fools
6. Villain
7. Justify
8. Burden
9. I’m Different Now
10. The Longest Goodbye
11. Overthrow
Stream the album 'Lanterns' here: rosiedarling.ffm.to/lanterns
FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | NETTWERK RECORDS
FOLLOW ROSIE DARLING
Source: Secret Signals
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