FILIPINO-AMERICAN HIP-HOP ARTIST MBNEL RELEASES“8 TO INFINITY”TO VISIT THE PHILIPPINES THIS JANUARY

MBNel has embodied the hunger and hustle of Stockton, California's 8th Street, and shared it with the world. The second-generation Filipino-American artist with nearly 40 music videos on YouTube and over one million views has only broadened through his most courageous release to date, late 2023's 8 To Infinity. The Muddy Boyz/EMPIRE album expands on Nel's melodies, musicality, and vulnerability. Songs like "Tear Drops" and "Restart" show MBNel's star power and his resonance with new global audiences on a project that features artists such as Mozzy, Yung Bleu, and Millyz. "I've been experiencing different things, and I'm telling a different story musically. I feel that I'm going to a new place creatively," Nel admits. He is bringing 8th Street along for the ride. The album also features the focus track “Bag Chasin.”

Nel is the oldest child of first-generation immigrants. He first applied his family's tireless work ethic to his endeavors in the street, then the studio. His father is a DJ, which exposed him to music at an early age. In his teens, Nel took to rapping. At 19, the Muddy Boyz artist looked for an alternative to a dead-end life in the street. He took money from a menial job to finance his "Love My Gang" music video. Through talent and a unique story, MBNel became a Stockton standout. Lil Baby followed him online. Say Cheese posted his videos. Thousands listened in.

Since his 2017 breakthrough, MBNel has shown that he is built to last. 2019's "Feelings" garnered over 35 million streams across platforms, while the "In My City" video achieved over 10 million views. Nel brought new attention to his Northern California city while attracting fans worldwide. His song "Born To Win" is often used by the San Francisco 49ers. He performed at Los Angeles' Rolling Loud after selling out his 2021 West Coast run, and did a packed London ‘22 set. In 2023, Nel shared the stage with Ez Mil for a sold-out show at New York City's SOB's as part of Filipino Heritage Month. The October event followed an appearance on Ez Mil's Shady/Aftermath debut, where executive producer Eminem also guested. "It was a crazy feeling," Nel recalls. "He is a dope dude," Nel says of Mil, who has cited him as an inspiration.

Inspiring and motivating others is core to MBNel's 2024 vision. He is visiting the Philippines for the first time since childhood. It marks his first time to visit as a professional artist, along with other planned stops in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. "I'm really excited to go back," he shares. "I want to shoot some videos. I want to meet the kids in the trenches," he adds, with plans to bring gifts to the youth who can see an international star with a shared identity. "A lot of my music is speaking on life experiences. It's like a journal that I express through music." Meeting people who can relate and benefit has only charged Nel's battery to make bolder, better songs.

Even as he grows his following and expands his range, he is true to his roots. He is planning to launch at least two Stockton business ventures in 2024. 8 To Infinity includes "Like Me," the latest Mozzy collaboration. Nel considers his Sacramento neighbor a Top 5 artist, and the two connected upon Mozzy's release to make a moment. He crossed the coast to bring New England's hard-nosed rapper Millyz as well as Mobile, Alabama's melodic Yung Bleu. Nel says, "I want to collaborate more, make different styles, and experiment."

Nel's gruff voice sounds rich and dynamic on 8 to Infinity, and it is all by design. "From starting where I come from, and taking it to a whole different height, was never seen," he explains. MBNel turns the "8" on its side to show that anything is possible, as he lives out that message and sets out to prove that opportunities for those who dream big are truly infinite.

Source: Empire

Buy My Book Speak Write Live!

I paid the @centralbooksph @publishondemand HQ a visit yesterday! It was lovely to see everyone, and I also got to align with Rachel about my participation in their book fairs and signings this 2024. They published my first two books, and if you also want to learn how to write your own book, buy my work Speak Write Live here 📖 Thank you for your continued support!🩵 #authorlife #speakwritelive #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam

I Am a Proud Ukiyoto and Scribblory Author!

It was an honor to grace @ukiyotopublishinghouse’s first in-person event for 2024 in collaboration with @scribblory! I did a book reading of my work, Date Yourself First, which you can purchase here ✍🏼 It is also the beginning of my partnership with Scribblory, Ukiyoto’s Filipino corporate partner for learning opportunities, events, distribution, and marketing. I am excited to work with them on getting my books out there!🤍 Thank you for your continued support! I look forward to more author events and book fairs this 2024. 🩵 #authorlife #dateyourselffirst

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FORMER KING & PRINCE MEMBERS SHO HIRANO, YUTA JINGUJI AND YUTA KISHI REUNITE AS NUMBER_I WITH NEW SINGLE “GOAT”

LISTEN TO THE SINGLE HERE

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEOHERE

Tokyo, Japan - Former members from powerhouse J-pop group, King & Prince, reunite to form a new sensational music group, Number_I. This dynamic trio composed of Sho Hirano, Yuta Jinguji, and Yuta Kishi, is all set to leave their mark on the music industry, and they're doing it in style under the renowned TOBE record label.

The group's name, Number_I, carries profound meanings such as 'Only One' and 'Love', signifying not only a message but also a commitment to their fans to traverse this musical journey together.Number_I represents a thrilling new chapter for these exceptionally talented artists. With the release of their highly anticipated digital single, GOAT, they are set to embark on a journey that promises to redefine the current music landscape. The acronym "GOAT" stands for Greatest Of All Time, symbolizing not only the trio's fresh start but also declaring this upcoming track as the pinnacle of their musical careers.

This groundbreaking single is now available on various streaming platforms, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the innovative sounds of Number_I. Accompanying the release is a full-length music video, unveiled on the official YouTube channel of Number_I, providing a visual complement to the auditory experience.

Experience the magic of "GOAT" here and watch the captivating music video here. Join Number_I on their journey to set new trends and create musical history. 

Follow NUMBER_I:

Website | YouTube | 平野紫耀Instagram | 神宮寺勇太 Instagram | 岸優太 X Instagram

Source: Blackstar

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Journey to the Lunar Seas: Poetry for the Science Geeks

Mark Carascal’s Journey to the Lunar Seas is a recent release from Publish on Demand and Central Books. The book features beautiful illustrations by Maville Carascal. I enjoyed this book because it presents poetry written by a scientist. It is not everyday that I encounter scientific poetry. It is a fresh concept which is new to the Philippine literary landscape. It is also a brave attempt to marry science and art, which are not conventional partners. It is a celebration of feelings, which cannot be quantified through formulae and equations.

The author writes about friendship, love, loss, and regret. In science, these concepts are not discussed. It is through his poems that the author tackles matters of the heart in relation to the seas of the moon. The poems humanize him, because the author typically writes technical papers. Given his professional background, he incorporates scientific terms into his poems. While I am aware that these terms could be easily searched on the internet, it would have been nice if the author included a glossary of terms at the end of his book. It is also a must these days to have a disclaimer at the beginning of books that tackle alcohol and drugs. Not everyone is comfortable reading about substances after all.

Having said those remarks, I look forward to the author’s upcoming work and creative journey. I hope that he writes more poems, especially those that are infused with scientific concepts.

Scientists in the creative scene is an emerging trend, and the author shines a light on both his professional background and his poetic skill. The Philippines needs more creative scientists. Science and art should not be at odds with each other. Poetry, like what the author writes, might just be the avenue for creative scientific expression.

Journey to the Lunar Seas is now available!

The Skeleton Key to Self-Awakening: A Journey Towards Self-Mastery

I was not prepared for the amount of learning that I gained in The Skeleton Key to Self-Awakening by G.L. Eroles. First of all, this book is beyond my comfort zone. But I was willing to take the challenge of reviewing a book about metaphysics and chakras, so I dove right into it with an open mind.

I appreciate that this book is written in simple English. The book is approachable and easy to comprehend. Also, it is entertaining! I like that journaling is one of the recommendations in this book because I also wrote about the benefits of journaling in my books. 

The recommendations prescribed in this book are practical and rooted in common sense. Continuous self-care should be practiced even if we are not trying to open any metaphysical door. Nurturing relationships is also important in establishing harmony and peace. Lastly, pursuing one’s passion is an ideal way to begin one’s self-awakening. It is effortless to grow as a person while doing what one loves. I like that the author teaches his readers that passions are worth pursuing and that they unlock creativity and enhanced self-knowledge.

I am personally going through heaps at the moment, and this book has helped me cope with my current and ongoing challenges. I only wish that the author presented footnotes or a glossary for some unfamiliar words. It would also have been helpful if he was able to share his social media handles or a website for continuous learning. He writes like a teacher, so it would have been nice to connect with the author about this methodology. He could also use these social media platforms to conduct workshops, webinars, and even start a podcast in the future! His material is rich in potential for future teaching opportunities. I am all for his unconventional yet practical lessons on self-discovery and self-mastery.

The Skeleton Key to Self-Awakening is now available!

That '90s Mixtape: A Trip Back in Time

That ‘90s Mixtape by Danna Rose is a nostalgic love letter to the decade of grunge. That was a magical time, as it was the golden age of OPM. Pinoy rock emerged as a powerhouse which even radio jocks could not ignore. This novel captures the magic of this period, and it was a treat to read this book in its entirety. 

The novel is filled with brands from the ‘90s- the mere mention of Benetton, Cattleya, Guess, Jingle Magazine, Filofax, and Giordano was enough to make me feel right at home. I grew up with these brands, and I am happy that some of them are enjoying a resurgence today. I still cannot get over the fact that they are known as vintage now, but the author was able to capture the magic of these brands in the novel. While places such as Mayrics no longer exist, the posh appeal of De La Salle University and Alabang still persists to this day. The author has definitely done her homework, making this book an informative journey back in time. 

My only complaint about this book is that I wish it could go on and on as a series. Evie is a likable protagonist whose appeal lies in not knowing that she is a cool girl. She is appealing without trying at all. We need more self-propelled female lead characters to influence today’s youth. They do not need a love interest in order to create an impact, but if they do find someone who makes their hearts sing, then they should balance love with their own passions. 

That ‘90s Mixtape by Danna Rose still tugs at the heartstrings of readers in the 21st century. Set in the grunge era and peppered with OPM rock tracks which make great reading companions, it is a timeless tribute to youthful chutzpah and the guts to be yourself. It is now available under Central Books!

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Bakit Mahirap Mag Move-On: A Guide to Healing

Bakit Mahirap Mag Move-On was the perfect book for me during the breakup of a well-known Filipino celebrity couple. I grew up watching them, and even if they are total strangers, I feel as if I know them well. I felt heartbroken because I was rooting for them since they were both teenagers. After reading this book written by the talented Tita Clem, I realized that their relationship is none of my business. And that while this book is a work of fiction, it still has a lot of practical advice for the brokenhearted.

I also experienced a painful breakup when I was younger, and I can say that I can wholeheartedly relate to Tes. The book’s heroine was initially filled with self-doubt about her ability to move on from her cheating ex, but she was able to find ways to recover and grow as a person. Her road to recovery is easy to emulate, and Tita Clem’s writing is witty and entertaining. I especially loved her Spotify QR codes for the corresponding songs to her story. The soundtrack made her book feel like a movie, and this gave me a pleasant and memorable reading experience.

I hope that Tita Clem will release more books in the future. Her writing has immense commercial potential, especially for the younger generation. The young have a lot to learn from her wisdom and lighthearted wit. She has a creative mind, and I am sure that people will always have a place in their hearts for lessons on moving on and self-growth.

This book is one of my favorite releases for 2023. I am thankful that I found this book when I am already in a stable relationship. I hope that this book will help more people move on, whether from their own breakups or those of their celebrity idols.

Bakit Mahirap Mag Move-On is now available!

A Constellation of Almosts: A Diary of Recovery

I was touched while reading A Constellation of Almosts by Bella Coronel. As a mental health advocate, I understand the nuances of mental illness. The author states in her introduction that she was diagnosed with a mental illness. This work is her diary of recovery, so to speak, and it was a privilege to take the journey with her.

She wrote with honesty, especially when dealing with painful subjects such as loss and longing. To have a mental illness and to get hurt by people whom she cared for were not easy to deal with. She also wrote about worrying, which I could totally relate to. As a serial worrier, I know how it is to endlessly analyze an outcome which has not yet happened. I also know that this is a tendency of those with mental illnesses, and I empathize with the author. I hope that she is getting the treatment that she deserves.

I saw her humanity in her poetry. She gave her mental illness a face and poetic representation. Her work is lyrical without being too cliche. I appreciate her usage of simple English, and I could tell that her work comes from the heart. 

In this day and age where mental illness is more than just an advocacy but also grounds for disability status, it is important to have literature written by those affected by mental conditions. People undergoing these illnesses need to know that there is hope, and that it is possible to have a creative outlet while recovering from mental illness. Bella Coronel is a shining example of empowering herself, while inspiring others to look after themselves, and their minds. After all, mental health is healthcare.

A Constellation of Almosts is now available! It is an inclusive and empowering book which I highly recommend for all readers.

Locker: The Perfect Traffic Companion

I brought the copy of Locker: A Collection of Poetic Flash Fiction Stories by Michelle Ayon Navajas during a busy day of errands. I rode the train, and I was also caught in some Manila traffic. Since it was a holiday, my commute turned out to be longer than usual. I did not feel bored during my trip because I thoroughly enjoyed reading my book. I consider it to be the perfect traffic companion.

Poetic flash fiction deals with short stories of 1,500 words or less, which are told in a literary manner. This collection resonated with me because the author creatively incorporated everyday experiences into her work. My favorite was Cry because it appealed to my sense of empathy. In an age where people move fast and time never seems to slow down, it is important to consider how others feel, even if they are paid to do tasks which we ask them to do.

The author speaks of the Dreamer in her Forewords, and the theme of dreams is interwoven into her stories. She is a shining example of never giving up, as she has published her work in her 40s. She speaks of longing, expectations, pain, and hope. Her stories give me hope in the Filipino writer, as she gives a well-rounded set of themes in this book. She also celebrates being alone and the self-growth that goes with knowing yourself. I admire her tendency to tackle seemingly everyday themes in a lyrical manner. I also like how this book does not need to be read from cover to cover. But I did just that, and I had an enjoyable time. I hope that the author will continue to write poetic flash fiction stories because she is innately skilled in doing so.

Locker: A Collection of Poetic Flash Fiction Stories is now available!