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XGUnveils Stunning 4th Single"WINTER WITHOUT YOU"
Watch the Enchanting Official Music Video Here
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Hip Hop/R&B-inspired girl group XG returns with their 4th single “WINTER WITHOUT YOU”, accompanied by a visually stunning official music video. Experience the enchantment on their YouTube channel here.
“WINTER WITHOUT YOU” conveys the poignant emotion of reminiscing about distant loved ones during the holiday season, creating a soulful and harmonious winter R&B vibe.
The track, featuring electric keyboards and distinctive vocal effects, offers a tasteful departure from XG's usual style, offering listeners a refreshing musical experience. The seven distinct personalities of XG beautifully harmonise, weaving a spellbinding winter moment.
XG has achieved significant milestones, notably standing out as the sole Japanese artist featured in Rolling Stone’s acclaimed ‘100 Best Songs of 2023’, with their single “LEFT RIGHT” securing the 77th spot. The accolades continued as “LEFT RIGHT” found itself in elite company in ELLE's ‘The Best Songs of 2023’, sharing the spotlight with prolific US artists including Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, Doja Cat, Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, Dua Lipa, and Bad Bunny. Once again, XG emerged as the only Japanese representative, further establishing their global presence.
As the anticipation continues to build with the announcement of XG’s 2024 World Tour, fans worldwide eagerly await the next chapter in their musical journey.
XG “WINTER WITHOUT YOU”
Follow XG
Official Website | OFFICIAL FANCLUB “ALPHAZ” | IG | YouTube | TikTok | Weverse | Twitter | Facebook | XGALX Official Website
For more information please contact: mabuhay@blackstar.space
XG
XG is a seven-member Hip-hop/R&B-inspired girls group consisting of JURIN, CHISA, HARVEY, HINATA, JURIA, MAYA, and COCONA. The group debuted in March 2022 with their 1st single “Tippy Toes” from XGALX, a global entertainment production company that introduces BOLD culture to the world and produces artists with a unique worldview. In June of the same year, they released their 2nd Single “MASCARA”. They released their 3rd Single “SHOOTING STAR” on January 25th, 2023. The group’s name “XG” stands for “Xtraordinary Girls. Through their unconventional and unique style of music and performance, they will empower people from all walks of life around the world.
XGALX
A global entertainment production company that transmits BOLD culture to the world and produces artists with a unique worldview. Through the energy, high-quality music, and performances created by the strong minds, purity, and teamwork of Gen Z women, the company conveys to young people around the world the message of “Chasing a dream, having the strength to make it come true, and going all the way”.
A New Breed Breaking Boundaries” is a project that aims to break down conventions and stereotypes, creating new values through creativity, and expressing to young people around the world that they should “listen to their hearts, set their dreams in motion, have the strength to realize them, and go all the way.”
Source: Blackstar
Superbook Earns 2nd Anak TV Seal, Wins Household Favorite Television Program For 2023
In 2013, CBN Asia launched the beloved Bible-oriented animated show Superbook Reimagined on Philippine television. Through its current partnership with ABS-CBN, a new generation of Filipino children is learning about Bible stories and their life-changing lessons.
Superbook gets its 2nd Anak TV Seal!
As Superbook Reimagined celebrates its 10th year in the Philippines, Superbook also celebrates its latest award: the Anak TV Seal Household Favorite Television Program for 2023! The award was accepted by The 700 Club Asia host, Kata Inocencio.
CBN Asia’s manager for Superbook Icko Gonzalez expresses his gratitude for each opportunity that Superbook can extend its reach.
“We thank God for our partnerships with various media channels who share our commitment to bring the positive messages of the Bible to more Filipino families worldwide,” he said.
It is Gonzalez’ prayer that the Word of God would take root and flourish in the hearts of everyone who has been reached by Superbook, “May their faith and love for Jesus deepen even further as they navigate life’s challenges.”
What’s next for Superbook Philippines?
Superbook has done so much in a decade, but it does not stop there. According to Gonzalez, the Superbook Philippines team has many more surprises in store for the audience in 2024!
First up is the release of all Superbook Season 1 episodes in Bisaya, along with live events in the Visayas region. This comes after the successful launch of SuperbookCebuano last October 2023.
Gonzalez also gave another exciting news: Superbook Season 5 will soon have a simultaneous broadcast on A2Z and Kapamilya Channel! He invites everyone to join the fun.
“Get ready for a wave of excitement, especially for our multi-generational #CertifiedBatangSuperbook followers—there’s a lot to look forward to!”
Source: CBN Asia
Tickets prices and tiers for SCRUBB Live in Manila released
The Thai alt-pop powerhouse will be holding their debut show in Manila on February 10, 2024
Tickets to SCRUBB: Live in Manila are now available for fans to purchase!
According to event organizer GNN (formerly known as Gabi Na Naman Productions), fans can buy tickets at Ticketmelon for the following tiers: SVIP tickets at PHP 5,200, VIP tickets at PHP 3,200, and Gen Admission tickets at PHP 1,800.
Both SVIP and VIP packages have fan benefit inclusions with varying perks.
A few weeks ago, SCRUBB officially confirmed that they’ll be headlining their debut show in Manila at the outdoor area of 123 Block in Mandaluyong City on February 10, 2024.
The Thai alt-pop act will be performing songs off the official soundtrack of 2gether: The Series, the TV hit that catapulted its young lead actors Vachirawit Chivaaree(Bright) and Metawin Opas-iamkajorn (Win) to global superstardom. The soundtrack for the series includes 18 songs from SCRUBB, along with a few notable ones from the main actors.
Aside from the OST, Scrubb is set to entertain Filipino fans with new and old materials spanning six studio albums that they’ve produced throughout the course of their career. To date, Scrubb has graced several sold-out shows in Bangkok and key cities across Asia. The internationally renowned music act composed of Thawatpon Wongboonsiri and Torpong Chantabubpha.
SCRUBB: Live In Manila is presented and produced by GNN, the Filipino production outfit behind some of the most memorable shows of the year, including the AliwAwards-nominee Back In Time with Pinoy R&B royalty Kyla and Jay-R, the 20th anniversary of Sugarfree’s Sa Wakas album (featuring Ebe Dancel), the 25th anniversary concert of Barbie Almalbis, Zark’s Fest 2023, Linya-Linya Land, and the intimate concert of Clara Benin—just to name a few.
The Filipino production group is also set to welcome Taiwanese math-rock outfit Elephant Gym (co-production with The Rest Is Noise PH). They’ve recently broughtIndonesian pop-rock band Reality Club and Pamungkasto the Philippines for an intimate showcase.
SCRUBB is a phenomenal Thai alt-pop duo whose music reached global popularity thanks to their enormous contributions to the official soundtrack of 2gether The Series, the biggest Boy’s Love hit ever released worldwide, which features young superstars VachirawitChivaaree (Bright) and Metawin Opas-iamkajorn (Win) as leads. The OST to the series includes 18 songs from SCRUBB, along with a few notable one from the main actors.
Source: GNN
ADB, ACEN Sign Php5.5 Billion Sustainability-Linked Loan to Support Solar Energy Generation in the Philippines
MANILA, PHILIPPINES (15 December 2023) –The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and ACEN Corporation have signed a sustainability-linked loan of up to Php5.5 billion (about $100 million) to boost solar energy capacity in the Philippines and support the country’s energy transition goals.
A sustainability-linked loan of up to Php5.5 billion from the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), was also signed by ACEN, with ADB providing a partial credit guarantee covering up to 20% of the principal and interest amount. The guarantee allows BPI to leverage ADB’s AAA credit rating, resulting in a larger facility for ACEN and at a lower margin.
“Asia and the Pacific accounts for more than half of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions and supporting its energy transition from fossil fuel into clean renewable energy is key to ADB’s mission as the region’s climate bank,” said ADB Director General for Private Sector Operations Suzanne Gaboury. "ACEN is a trailblazer in the Philippine market as the first power utility company to divest interests in coal power generation and channel funds into solar and wind power. ADB is proud to have facilitated ACEN’s inaugural issuance of a sustainability-linked loan."
The proceeds will fund ACEN’s solar projects, enabling the generation of at least 450 gigawatt-hours annually, power previously generated through divested coal plants. A total 277,650 tons of carbon dioxide annually will be avoided by 2029. Sustainability-linked loans incentivize the achievement of sustainable performance goals, in return for a variable or lower interest rate. The loan has been certified through second-party opinion provider DNV.
ACEN manages a diversified portfolio of large-scale renewable power generation projects in the Australia, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Viet Nam. ACEN is a subsidiary of Ayala Corporation one of the most diversified conglomerates in the Philippines, with interests in real estate, banking, telecom, water, power, infrastructure, industrial technologies, health care, and education.
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
SB19’s Josh Cullen forges own path with the release of new single, “Get Right”
The upbeat track is helmed by Josh Cullen himself with additional production by frequent collaborator Ocho the Bullet and UK-based indie sensation No Rome
P-Pop superstar Josh Cullen reclaims creative independence on his own terms with the release of his new single “Get Right” via Sony Music Entertainment.
The electro-pop banger finds the SB19 rapper and vocalist embracing his music journey while navigating the challenges of making a dent in a highly competitive industry as a solo act.
Josh explains, “Basically, it’s a declaration of my return, confidently showcasing my understanding of the game. The lyrics reflect my resilience, self-assurance, and the realization of how the industry operates. It's about asserting my presence, owning my space, and creating music that resonates with who I am as an artist.”
Written and produced by Josh Cullen himself with frequent collaborator Ocho the Bullet and UK-based indie icon No Rome, the upbeat track marks a significant departure from the vibe and songwriting style of his previous releases. Integrating EDM, hip-hop, and hyper-pop influences with a bass-heavy production, “Get Right” explores music for the sheer joy of reinvention and fun while tapping into a new sonic space that fits Josh’s personal style and brand.
“I was pretty much the brains and director of the process, but my cousin ‘Ocho’ really elevated things, surpassing my expectations,” the fast-rising producer and singer-songwriter explains. “I might've pushed him a bit hard with my specific vision, which got a bit stressful. However, he went all out on this insane drop we'd been dreaming of. And you know what? The outcome exceeded all my expectations.”
Josh adds, “Also, No Rome, who was a co-producer, brought some crazy energy to the mix too. His input added this insane energy to the whole process. He really brought some fire to the table.”
The release of the song comes with visuals developed by Josh himself. The music video features Josh and friends hanging out in Los Angeles, enjoying the warm climate and the laid-back, cosmopolitan lifestyle usually associated with the city.
“I just went with the flow and let my creativity run wild during those times,” said Josh. “I wanted to bring the visuals I've had in mind since we started making the song to life, and LA turned out to be the perfect spot for it. Yet, truthfully, YouMeUs and my team in LA exceeded all expectations. Despite being only three people in LA, their effort and discipline were monumental. They managed to make it look like a full-blown production with their dedication, imagination, improvisation, and hard work.”
Josh Cullen’s “Get Right” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The music video drops tonight, December 15, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. on Josh Cullen’s official YouTube page.
Source: Nyou
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KAIA to stage first headline concert on December 19, 2023
The P-Pop group will be performing some of the fan favorites, which includes individual and group segments
P-Pop group KAIA is set to conquer the big stage with their first major concert, happening on December 19, 2023, at the Teatrino Promenade in Greenhills, San Juan.
Dubbed KAIA IS HERE: 1st Solo Concert, the highly anticipated show promises to deliver knockout performances and top-tier numbers that serve as a testament to the Filipino group’s undeniable growth and commitment to their artistry.
The all-girl ensemble will be performing some of the crowd favorites and new songs live, including individual and group segments made specifically for their fans.
KAIA expressed their excitement about headlining their own solo show, which they consider a dream come true. “We had always dreamed of having our own solo concert, and now it’s happening,” shares the chart-topping act in a press statement. “While the pressure of it being our first solo show weighs on us, we're fully dedicated to delivering the best possible experience to our fans.”
To make the production numbers extra special, KAIA underwent intensive training in dancing, singing, and performing, including cardio workouts due to the dance breaks and surprises that they will be showcasing on the day of the show.
“Despite the challenges, we pushed ourselves to deliver more than our best for our fans, ZAIA,” said the five-piece ensemble. To our ZAIA, thank you for your undying love and support for us. Because of all of you, our concert has become possible. In return, we will give you a performance that you will remember forever.”
Tickets to KAIA IS HERE: 1st solo concert are almost sold out, and are available at TicketNet and its physical outlets nationwide. Official merch are also bundled with the tickets for a complete fan experience.
Source: Nyou
Tate McTae tops Apple Music charts in more than 10 countries!
The breakthrough pop artist has recently dropped herhighly anticipated sophomore album, Think Later
Press Photos here
Multi-platinum singer/songwriter Tate McRae solidifies her breakout moment with the release of her highly anticipated sophomore album, THINK LATER via RCA Records.
Upon its debut, the pop blockbuster topped Apple Musicin more than ten counties, including Australia, Canada, Germany, Norway, and more.
In the Philippines, Tate McRae peaked at no. 14 on Apple Music, and continues to blow up with smash singles “greedy” and “exes” gaining traction on both streaming and top 40 radio.
THINK LATER and its 14 songs are steeped in pop appeal and infectious toplines. Showcasing Tate’s boundless vocal talent and evolution as a songwriter, this new body of work explores the all-too-relatable feelings of falling in love and embracing the raw emotions that you experience as a result of leading with your intuition and heart.
Executive produced by hitmaker Ryan Tedder (Taylor Swift, Beyoncé), the album features writing collaborators and producers including Amy Allen (Harry Styles, Justin Bieber), Jasper Harris (Doja Cat, Post Malone), Greg Kurstin (Adele, Pink), ILYA (Ellie Goulding, Sam Smith), Savan Kotecha (Ariana Grande, The Weeknd) and more.
Speaking on the album, Tate says, “After freshly turning 20, when I began to zoom out and reflect on the relationships and situations in my life, I realized that a common thread was that I had been living and making decisions much more spontaneously and way less with my head for the past year. This album represents the feelings of falling in love, feeling glimpses of obsession, missing the signs, and feeling the repercussions. I really wanted to lean into a more pop leaning sound, and approach my writing from a way more playful and curious place. I was able to make this album with a few people I admire so much, and cannot be more grateful.”
Tracklist
1. cut my hair
2. greedy
3. run for the hills
4. hurt my feelings
5. grave
6. stay done
7. exes
8. we’re not alike
9. calgary
10. messier
11. think later
12. guilty conscience
13. want that too
14. plastic palm trees
Lead single “greedy,” earned the star her first #1 on the Billboard Global 200 chart, Global Excl. US chart and Spotify’s Global chart. The self-assured hypnotic offering has garnered over 552 million streams to date and hit #7 on the Hot 100 along with #1 most added at Top 40 and Hot AC radio upon release. “greedy” has been called “an artistic turning point… a propulsive self-empowerment anthem built around a firecracker of a pop hook that finds McRae dipping in and out of a falsetto while exuding unshakeable confidence” by Billboard.
Out of all the new releases on November 17th, Tate’s latest song “exes,” had the biggest debut on Spotify’s Global Top Songs chart. It was released alongside a steamy music video featuring intoxicating visuals and high energy choreography as Tate and her dancers took over a rundown rodeo for the night. Making it her biggest first week debut to date, “exes” has been deemed “equally infectious…with a chorus that’s catchy enough to put the same kind of success well within reach” by Rolling Stone.
Last month, Tate made her musical guest debut on Saturday Night Live with host Jason Momoa where she performed her hit single “greedy” and debuted a new song “grave.” She was featured on the cover of Billboard’s November Music Awards Issue and performed “greedy” at the award show.
About Tate McRae:
Calgary native singer/songwriter/dancer Tate McRae has become the artist to watch with over 7.1 billion career streams, over 945 million video views, a #1 Top 40 hit and multiple #1 dance hits. She’s received countless accolades including nominations for two Billboard Music Awards, an MTV VMA Award, a People’s Choice Award, four iHeartRadio Music Awards and nine JUNO Awards among others. She’s been featured on Variety’s 2022 Power of Young Hollywood list, Billboard’s 21 Under 21 list for the past three years along with Forbes 30 Under 30 list for 2021 where she was the youngest musician on the list.
Her #1 RIAA certified 3x Platinum single “you broke me first” has amassed over 1.9 billion streams since its release in 2020. She’s collaborated with various artists including Regard & Troye Sivan on their #1 dance hit “You,” along with Khalid on their track “working,” Tiësto’s“10:35” and Jeremy Zucker on her viral single “that way.” Tate has toured the world and performed at various music festivals including Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, Firefly, The Governor’s Ball, Austin City Limits and more.
Last year, Tate released her debut album, i used to think icould fly which landed at #1 on Spotify’s Global Top Albums Debut Chart, charted in the top 10 in multiple countries upon release and has garnered over 1.5 billion streams to date. Featuring RIAA certified Platinum single “she’s all i wanna be” and certified Gold track “feel like shit,” the album showcased Tate at the top of her game with all-star writing collaborators and producers including Greg Kurstin, Finneas, Charlie Puth, Alexander 23, Blake Slatkin, and more. The stunning album received praise from the likes of Billboard who said “…Tate McRae steps into stardom on her long-awaited debut album” while GRAMMY.com stated, “…each track shows McRae is ready to be one of her generation's most raw-and-real superstars.”
To Stream THINK LATER:
https://tatemcrae.lnk.to/THINKLATER
Follow Tate McRae:
Official Website | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | TikTok
Source: Nyou
Filipino rapper WAIIAN captures the simplicity of everyday life on “Pablo” music video
The jazzy, laidback tune serves as the focus track off his third studio album, WEYAAT?
Filipino hip-hop artist WAIIAN offers a generous heap of slice-of-life goodness on the music video of “Pablo,” his new single under Sony Music Entertainment.
The MV captures a day in the life of Pablo (his real name), where he finds happiness and contentment in the simplest of things. The Joshua Cecario-helmed visuals depict a young man who lives in the present day and enjoys his routine, from spending time in his home studio to navigating familiar and far-flung places with his motorcycle ride—all lovingly filmed to present moments of beauty that surround him every single day.
“It’s about living life and making music out of it and making music to live a life,” the Solo Mission act explains.
Written by WAIIAN himself and produced by Tatz Maven, “Pablo” solidifies his reputation as one of the most exciting young bloods in Philippine hip-hop. The laid-back tune serves as the focus track off his third studio album, WEYAAT?, which was released on December 1, 2023.
The nine-track album is thematically diverse but distinctly shaped by his keen sense of self-awareness. Led by the last track of the same name and new single “Pablo,”"WEYAAT?" is a slang for “WAIIAN, where you at?,” which is his way of reintroducing himself to the world after a three-year sabbatical in music. The groovy but sonically eclectic record also features collaborations with Kashira, a music production company founded by critically acclaimed producers and musicians U-Pistol, TatzMaven, and Calix.
“I want listeners to recognize the energy that I put into these songs,” the prolific rapper adds. “Luckily, I’ve met people along the way who helped translate my vibe into music. Somehow, it adds extra sauce and interesting layers, sonic-wise.”
WAIIAN’s WEYAAT? is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.
Source: Nyou
Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and Benj Pangilinan honor the tradition of ‘paying it forward’ through Season of Giving campaign
The initiative is part of a campaign to engage the country in a fight to alleviate food insecurity and malnutrition
Manila, Philippines – Sony Music Entertainment Philippines(SMEP) and Filipino singer-songwriter Benj Pangilinan have recently linked up with Rise Against Hunger Philippines(RAHP), an international hunger relief organization that distributes food and life-changing aid to the world's most vulnerable, to support communities in Manila that are impacted by food insecurity and malnutrition.
This initiative is part of Sony Music Group’s global ‘Season of Giving’ campaign, where the company upholds its commitment in collaborating with partner organizations through a series of in-person events and charitable activities.
For this particular project, the international record label has collaborated with Rise Against Hunger Philippines in enacting programs that are design to uplift the lives of many peoplethrough food aid and entertainment. In a collective statement, RAHP was all praises to Sony Music Philippines and Benj for spreading the holiday joy with the children this season of giving. “Their dedication to give back not only makes this holiday season merrier for the kids, but also makes our mission to achieve food security all the more possible.”
The fast-rising recording star has recently joined the SMEP team through a day of volunteering and performances at the Better World Tondo community center, which functions as a food bank and feeding center. This is where RAHP holds food drives, and the AHA Learning Center manages an after-class studying program for the disadvantaged kids.
Aside from providing relief and assistance to the beneficiaries, Benj performed two songs, including his current single, “Dance Like You.”
“Giving back has always been something I’ve loved doing,” the Sony Music talent said. “This opportunity was a wonderful experience for me. Sometimes, when you bless others, you realize later how much you’ve gained and learned from the experience. I’m also grateful to Sony and my management team from Genesis for sharing my vision when it comes to giving back to the community.”
Donning a hairnet, gloves, and a Rise Against Hunger PH apron, the young and promising artist engaged with the kids through fun games and activities and helped in the distribution of food.
In a random act of kindness, the multi-talented newcomer also talked to one of the ice cream cart vendors outside and bought his whole stock for the day. He distributed ice cream to the kids and moms who were present during the feeding program activity.
Benj shares, “We were about to leave, and I just saw the guy selling, so I just thought to help out. I didn’t expect that a small act like that would have such a major impact on them. I’m always happy to help.”
Season of Giving, a global initiative of Sony Music Group, runs throughout the holiday season in collaboration with charity partners across Africa, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Continental Europe, Latin America, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
In addition to Benj Pangilinan, other notable artists who have volunteered with partner organizations and Sony Music Entertainment in the past two years include Shoti, NOBITA, and Hazel Faith.
This campaign also represents the company’s ongoing philanthropic commitment to forge partnerships and support communities that need it most, which are anchored in its culture of making a difference and contributing to social development through music.
“At Sony Music Philippines, we believe in using our platform to not only entertain but also to uplift and empower communities,” Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Philippines, Sony Music Entertainment, explains in a press statement. We are committed to continuing our Season of Giving initiatives and partnering with organizations like Rise Against Hunger Philippines to create a positive impact in our society.”
Pineda adds, “Together with artists like Benj Pangilinan, we look forward to more opportunities to give back and make a difference in the lives of those who need it the most. We are immensely proud of their dedication and grateful to have such compassionate individuals as part of our Sony Music family.”
Learn more about SMG’s giving approach here.
Source: Nyou
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Offshore Music releases 9-track holiday album, An Offshore Christmas
The compilation record features tracks from ena mori, Mt. Lewis, Elton Clark, Sansette, and more
Offshore Music, a Manila-based record label known for its focus on creative integrity, captures the spirit of the holiday season with a new compilation album featuring its stellar roster of local music acts.
Aptly titled An Offshore Christmas, the 9-track record earworms its way into the collective consciousness with diverse stories spanning generations and experiences, interpreting what Christmas meant from varied lenses: a joyful hymn that brims with life and humanity, a vodka-induced downer that revels in the sentiments of missing home, a quirky jam that envelopes listeners with comforting warmth, and simply, a frustrated sad song that barely keeps up with the season’s booming, optimistic energy.
As Offshore Music CEO Ely Buendia puts it, “The album is a kaleidoscope of emotions, from melancholy to euphoria, as well as a feast for anyone who enjoys all kinds of music.”
Offshore Music General Manager Audry Dionisio takes pride in the record’s insistence not to be boxed in the usual category of how a holiday-inspired album should be. She points out, “We also made sure that people from different walks of life would not feel left out. Every song in the album can be played way past the Christmas season, that’s for sure.”
The Christmas-themed album features recently released tracks from its esteemed lineup of artists, including Pinkmen, Suspiria Pink, Elton Clark, Sansette, Eliza Marie, JR Oca Experience, Sulo, as well as additional new songs from ena mori and Mt. Lewis.
“With the new roster of artists on board, it also created a fresh and inspired energy within us to collaborate more with them and for them to showcase their abilities to the public more,” Offshore Music A&R Director Pat Sarabia shares.
Mt. Lewis’ “Trip To Jerusalem,” the album’s focus track, provides a contemporary spin on The Eraserheads’ cult holiday classic while retaining the original’s intrinsic charm and fuzz. When asked about how he feels about the rendition, Ely Buendia expressed his approval of the band’s tenacity to breathe new life to an underrated, deep cut. “We thought it was fitting to honor their brave achievement by having one of our artists cover a song from Fruitcake for our own Christmas release.”
Another album highlight is ena mori’s “Christmas Song (Version II),” a bittersweet little tune about choosing to celebrate Christmas alone with cats rather than joining a party filled with family members and friends who do nothing but send a minefield of emotional triggers. Over snappy, acoustic guitars and minimal percussions, the alt-pop star delivers an anthem that is bold and uncompromising in its message but remains hopeful amidst the intention to hide the hurting.
Offshore A&R Manager Otep Tumambing emphasizes that the holiday record is more than just a reinforcement of postcard-perfect tradition but also a time to nurse the wounds of isolation and grief—all valid feelings that deserve to be celebrated on the same level as their merrier counterparts.
“Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays globally, symbolizing joy, togetherness, and generosity. An Offshore Christmas aims to provide our artists and their audience with a platform to express their views on Christmas, even if it's about sadness and loneliness. Not everyone experiences the usual ‘happy’ Christmas, and they deserve to be celebrated as well.”
‘An Offshore Christmas’ is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Offshore Music and Sony Music Entertainment.
Source: Nyou
Filipino rapper Alex Bruce links up with Costa Cashman on the minimalist bop “Bling”
Filipina rapper Alex Bruce and O Side Mafia’s Costa Cashman coast through a seamless blend of minimalist rap and spaced-out production for their new single “Bling,” released under Sony Music Entertainment.
The unexpected pairing brims with chemistry that few others can lay claim to while delivering larger-than-life verses that play to their individual strengths.
“This song celebrates our success as an artist and how we’ve come a long way in surmounting the challenges in our respective careers,” the young Filipina rapper explains. “We’re both bragging respectfully, but there’s more to this track than flaunting our achievements. It’s also about hard work and rewarding yourself and the people around you who made it possible for you to survive and win in life.”
“Bling” serves as Alex Bruce’s first collaboration with a fellow artist on equal billing. The track is produced by Costa Cashman and BRGR, whose unique styles mesh together to create a star-making bop for the streaming generation.
The rising young talent expressed her confidence in the outcome of the material, particularly on the technical side of the production. She attests, “I’ve always trusted Cashman and BRGR when it comes to dishing out the best beats to complement my energy and delivery. I am aware that they know what they’re doing, and based on first-hand experience, the material resonates with me on a personal level.”
“Bling” is the follow-up to “Betty Bruce,” a 2023 single that reasserts the young artist’s position as a feisty young rapper celebrating the importance of self-worth and womanhood. The 16-year-old hip-hop sensation recently headlined a FIBA halftime performance for international brand NIKE.
Alex Bruce’s “Bling” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Source: Nyou
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