SB19 drops new single "Moonlight," with acclaimed producers Ian Asher and Terry Zhong

The catchy dance track is SB19’s first release since 2023’s global smash “Gento”

SB19 delivers another club anthem just in time for the summer!

The P-Pop powerhouse links up with US-based producer/DJ Ian Asher and Chinese electronic producer Terry Zhong for their new single “Moonlight,” released today under Liquid State/Sony Music Philippines.

Infused with sweat-spangled beats and deep, infectiousgrooves, the dance-pop banger channels romantic desires in the best way possible. As the chorus sums it up, “Doing what we do in the moonlight / I’ll be loving you, baby all night,” the award-winning pop quintet expresses the song’s sensual pining with remarkable finesse, basking in the glow of the night’s blissful moment.

According to the P-Pop kings, working with Ian Asher and Terry Zhong was truly an inspiring experience, and it gave them an entirely different perspective when it comes to music-making.

“We’ve met Ian Asher during our tour in the US, and we were surprised at how talented and prolific he is at such a young age,” SB19 shares in a press statement. “This kind of music is new to us. The production is very current yet experimental, but it also gives us room to explore and expand our horizons as artists. The collaboration really brought out the best of all worlds, and being part of the process, really opened our creative realm to exciting new possibilities.”

“Moonlight” was produced by Ian Asher, Terry Zhong, and Lenno Linjama, with mixing by Serge Courtois, who has worked with some of the biggest music stars, including Carly Rae Jepsen, Alessia Cara, Nick Jonas, LANY, Madison Beer, and more.

The release of “Moonlight” comes with a music video conceptualized and directed by SB19’s Justin De Dios. The minimalist vibe of the MV is paired with slick choreography that finds the multi-talented boyband embracing a fun but eclectic persona in all their ‘poker face’ glory.

Justin explains, “The song has euphoric undertones lyrics-wise, so I wanted to play around with that concept and inject a little bit of craziness and out-of-this-world treatment. It’s a very simple but minimalist take, but the dance choreography really elevates the visuals to a different level. I can’t really explain the concept without revealing too much. I’m just excited that this MV is in a totally different lane from anything that we’ve done in the past.”

"Moonlight" serves as SB19’s first release since 2023’s “GENTO,” which became a viral sensation on TikTok and other similar platforms in the Philippines and Asia.
The P-Pop group recently wrapped up their successful “PAGTATAG!” World Tour in Japan on April 29, and is currently gearing up for a two-day concert in Manila on May 18 and 19 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

SB19’s “Moonlight” (with Ian Asher and Terry Zhong) is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Liquid State/Sony Music Philippines. The official music video will drop tonight at 7 p.m.

Other photos:

SB19:  

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1GBu_Ya43r7eg0drB_tZbLj-pG2vVVzIR?usp=sharing

Ian Asher:

https://sm01.box.com/s/72w97fa6r1aoc58csp74m6nbe0a8h4s3

Terry Zhong:

https://sm01.box.com/s/q2n79aixgyacg4g8ga40yk9tyxe2rdqh

--

About Liquid State

Liquid State, founded by Sony Music and Tencent Music Entertainment, is the home for electronic artists from the Asia region and internationally. The label focuses on developing and showcasing the abundant existing local talent across the continent, while providing unrivalled support for international electronic artists. Since its inception in 2018, the label has over 15 billion streams across its catalogue, with original music releases from the likes of JVKE, Alan Walker, Alesso, R3HAB, Stray Kids, Steve Aoki, Jolin Tsai, Zhou Shen, BOBBY (iKon), CORSAK, Lay Zhang, Imanbek, WUKONG, Monsta X and Kang Daniel among many more.

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here. 

Source: Nyou

Thai R&B duo PURPLECAT links up with Filipino siblings act YSANYGO for collab single “Sunny When I’m With You”

The smooth, laid-back track marks the first collaboration of Purplecat with an international artist

Thai duo Purplecat teams up with Filipino siblings duo Ysanygo on “Sunny When I’m With You,” a new single that celebrates the magic of being in love.

The smooth R&B track showcases the best of both worlds, inviting listeners into a realm where every moment is a little more illuminated—a little sunnier.

Delivering a captivating mellow sound with lightheartedarrangements and lo-fi beats, “Sunny When I’m With You” exudes the beauty of being romantically swept away by someone whose company brings light and sunshine to your everyday routine.

“This is a love song written from a place of honesty and confidence,” Purplecat shares in a collective statement. “It expresses the feelings of falling in love with someone at first sight and relishing in the excitement of spending time together with the person you’re pining for.”

For their part, Ysanygo came up with the melody of the chorus first and produced the song for Purplecat, who in return, penned the lyrics that entail situations of going on a date with the subject of affection.

The eclectic duo adds, “We’re really grateful to Ysanygo for being open-minded throughout the entire process. We love their work so much that we don’t want to change anything, except for a few parts.”

“Sunny When I’m With You” serves as Purplecat’s first international collaboration and marks the duo’s plan to expand their reach on a global scale, particularly in Southeast Asia where there’s demand for their music. The R&B duo is composed of Mon Napasin Chaisri on vocals, who provides soulful delivery with a touch of melancholy, and Palm Pholrutt Sirirutt, who injects cool synthesizer sounds and rap verses to the mix.

Ysanygo is a genre-fluid sibling duo from the Philippines, composed of Ysabel and Yñigo Ferraz. The alt-pop pairing is part of this year’s Spotify RADAR, an annual program committed to bringing emerging talent to the forefront of the global music landscape.

Purplecat and Ysanygo’s “Sunny When I’m With You” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

Source: Nyou

LAUFEY: 'BEWITCHED: THE GODDESS EDITION' OUT NOW

LISTEN HERE: laufey.ffm.to/goddessedition

ANNOUNCES SEPTEMBER ASIA TOUR DATES PRE-SALE ON 6 MAY

Photo credit: Gemma Warren

NEW SINGLE “BORED” VISUALIZER WATCH HERE

Singapore – 'Bewitched: The Goddess Edition', the new release from GRAMMY®-winning   Icelandic-Chinese   artist,   composer,   producer   and multi-instrumentalist Laufey, is now available worldwide via AWAL. The expanded edition featuresfour brand-new original songs that Laufey wrote in the wake offinishing her 2023

critically celebrated album 'Bewitched', including “Goddess” and new single “Bored”. Fans can watch the official visualiser for "Bored" here and stream 'Bewitched: The Goddess Edition' here: laufey.ffm.to/goddessedition

Additionally, Laufey recently starred in a short film for “Goddess”, directed by Academy Award-nominated, Golden Globe-nominated and Spirit Award-winning director Celine Song (Past Lives). The picture also features Will Gao (Netflix’s “Heartstopper” and Wasia Project), and was shot in Brooklyn, NY on 35mm film. Watch it here: laufey.ffm.to/goddessvideo

'Bewitched: The Goddess Edition' is also available on vinyl, cassette, and CD. The expanded package includes dark blue vinyl, an updated booklet, and a custom board game.

On the heels of her upcoming sold-out back-to-back shows in Manila (with Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, 28-29 May) and herheadline slot at this year's Java Jazz Festival in Jakarta (25 May), Laufey just announced that she is bringing her sold-out "Bewitched: The Goddess Tour" to the rest of Southeast Asia in August with pre-sales starting on 6 May.

Laufey's "Bewitched: The Goddess Tour" 2024: Southeast Asia

Pre-sales: 6 May General sales: 7May

26 August – Bangkok – Summer Sonic

27 August – Kuala Lumpur – Plenary Hall, KLCC 29 August – Hong Kong – AsiaWorld Expo Hall 10 31 August – Taipei – TICC

2 September – Manila – SM Mall of Asia Arena

4 September – Singapore – Singapore Expo

Get tickets for Bangkok Summer Sonic here Get tickets for the rest of the shows here

Laufey - "Bored" (Official Visualiser)

2023 was a standout year for Laufey. 'Bewitched' was the biggest debut for a jazz album on Spotify in history. It debuted at #2 onSpotify’s Global and U.S. Album Charts, as well as #23 on theBillboard 200, #1 on Billboard’s Independent Albums Chart,and #1 on Current Traditional Jazz Albums Chart. The album’s hit single “From The Start” is now RIAA-certified Platinum. In February, Laufey won the 2024 GRAMMY® for “Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album”, the youngest person to ever win in that category.

Los Angeles-based Laufey (pronounced lāy-vāy) was raised between Reykjavík and Washington, D.C. with annual visits to Beijing. In 2020, while still a student at Berklee College of Music, Laufey released her debut single “Street by Street”, which went on to top the Icelandic radio charts. In 2022, she released her debut full-length, 'Everything I Know About Love', which reached #1on Billboard’s Alternative New Artist Album chart. The album featured the RIAA-certified Gold singles “Valentine”, which peaked at #1 on the Spotify Jazz Chart, and “Let You Break MyHeart Again”. Today, she has over 2 billion streams across all platforms and is the biggest streaming artist from Iceland in the world.

Watch "Bored" here

Stream 'Bewitched: The Goddess Edition' here

###

For more information: Secret Signals | AWAL

Follow Laufey: Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok | Facebook| Website

Source: Secret Signals

Developing Asia and the Pacific Unprepared for Challenges of Aging Population

TBILISI, GEORGIA (2 May 2024) — Developing Asia and the Pacific is unprepared to secure the well-being of its rapidly aging population as the growing share of older people in the region faces challenges from low pension coverage to health problems, social isolation, and limited access to essential services.

While longer lifespans reflect the region’s development success, comprehensive policy reforms are urgently needed to support the welfare of older people, according to Aging Well in Asia: Asian Development Policy Report, released today by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at its 57th Annual Meeting.

The number of people aged 60 and older in developing Asia and the Pacific is set to nearly double by 2050 to 1.2 billion—or about a quarter of the total population—significantly increasing the need for pension and welfare programs as well as health care services. At the same time, economies have an opportunity to reap a “silver dividend” in the form of additional productivity from older people, which could boost gross domestic product in the region by 0.9% on average.

“Asia and the Pacific’s rapid development is a success story, but it’s also fueling a huge demographic shift, and the pressure is rising,” said ADB Chief Economist Albert Park. “Governments need to prepare now if they’re going to be able to help hundreds of millions of people in the region age well. Policies should support lifetime investment in health, education, skills, and financial preparedness for retirement. Family and social ties are also important to foster healthy and productive populations of older people and maximize their contribution to society.”

According to the report, 40% of people over age 60 in Asia and the Pacific lack access to any form of pension—with women disproportionately affected, as they are more likely to do unpaid domestic work. As a result, many older people in the region have no choice but to work well beyond retirement age to survive. Among those still working at age 65 or older, 94% work in the informal sector, which typically doesn’t provide basic labor protections or pension benefits.

Physical and mental health challenges also increase with age. Around 60% of older people in Asia and the Pacific do not attend or receive regular health checks, while 31% report depressive symptoms owing to illness, social isolation, and economic insecurity. Older women in the region are also more likely than older men to suffer from ill health, from depression to diabetes and hypertension. 

The report recommends a wide range of policy measures to support healthy and economically secure aging. Among these are government-assisted health insurance and pension plans, improved health infrastructure, and free annual check-ups and lifestyle evaluations. Policy makers should aim for universal health care coverage, while basic labor protections should be extended to older informal workers, according to the report.

By making mandatory retirement ages more flexible, helping older people stay healthy, and providing them with suitable work opportunities as well as lifelong learning and skills development, economies in the region can help older people stay productive longer.

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

Mama Mary and Her Children Book 8

My story is part of this book! Buy our book here: https://shope.ee/7Uu8FIQNY6 🙏🏼

May is the Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary! Read about her unfailing intercession in “Mama Mary and Her Children: Book 8” 🙏📿💙

Fr. James B. Reuter, SJ started the book series in 2008. The 8th installment features a foreword by Fr. Victor Y. Apacible and 41 true stories from Marian devotees, including Mary Grace Dimacali of Mary Grace Cafe. 📚❤️

Order online on our official stores on Lazada (bit.ly/AnvilLazada) and Shopee (bit.ly/AnvilShopee). It’s also available on www.nationalbookstore.com and in select National Book Store branches nationwide. 🛒

#iReadAnvil #MamaMaryAndHerChildren #BlessedVirginMary #MotherMary #MamaMary #catholic #book #booksph #booksbooksbooks #bookstagram #addtocart #shoponline @rowiejuanmatti @anvilpublishing

Taytay Dress from Shopee

This dress can go from day to night! Buy it here: https://shope.ee/7Uu8Dn2UHL 👗 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam @blusaatbpbysasha

Japanese alt-rock band Hitsujibungaku to perform in Manila for the first time in July 2024!

The trio behind the ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ finale song are set to headline a four-city tour across Asia

It’s official: Japanese alternative rock trio Hitsujibungakuwill be staging their first headline show in Manila this July 6, 2024 (Saturday) at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City, Philippines.

Their upcoming Philippine debut will be part of a four-city Asian tour, which includes major stops in key cities across Asia, including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong.

Tickets will be available on May 1, 2024 via bit.ly/hitsujibungakuph, from 12 noon onwards.

Hitsujibungaku: Live in Manila is presented by GNN Entertainment Productions and The Rest Is Noise PH. The two production outfits recently teamed up to bring Taiwan’s Elephant Gym last year, which sold out in less than a month of availability.

About Hitsujibungaku

Hitsujibungaku is composed by Moeka Shiotsuka (vocals, guitar, songwriting), Yurika Kasai (bass) and Hiroa Fukuda (drums).

Melding dreamy vocals with shoegaze riffs and syrupy, noise-pop arrangements, the critically adored band has gained cult following thanks to the popularity of their song “More Than Words,” which served as the finale song for the S the second season of the hit anime series, Jujutsu Kaisen. In December 2023, the globally renowned band released their fourth studio album, 12 hugs (like butterflies), which was received with universal acclaim from both music critics and fans.

Source: Nyou

Linen Romper from Shopee

This linen romper has become one of my summer staples. Buy it here: https://shope.ee/20ZAAOnjNU 🌞 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam @blusaatbpbysasha

GNN to celebrate 9 years in the local music scene

The events production company celebrates its ninth year in the local music scene with a show at 123 Block

GNN (Gabi Na Naman Productions), an events production company, is throwing a birthday party to celebrate nine years of producing local and international shows for the Filipino audience.

Dubbed #GNN9, the special showcase aims to honor the production company’s commitment to honing a safe space for music fans through concerts and events that champion the Filipino creative spirit.

#GNN9 will take place at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City on May 25, 2024 (Saturday), from 6 p.m. onwards. This year’s edition includes some of GNN’s personal favorites, including UDD, Ang Bandang Shirley, Cheats, Ena Mori, Clara Benin, Gabba, and Chicosci.

This time around, GNN wants to celebrate their milestone with a simple, intimate gathering that focuses more on the live music alone, built on community building and inclusivity.

Tickets to #GNN9 are available via bit.ly/gnn9 for PHP 800 only (early bird price) for limited quantities only.

Source: GNN

Henry Moodie to perform in Manila for the first time!

Admission to the busking session is free

Henry Moodie is coming to Manila in a few days!

As announced on the social media pages of Sony Music Philippines, the future global pop superstar will be holding a free busking session on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at MOA Sky, Level 3, Entertainment Mall.

Moodie will also participate in an exclusive meet and greet (M&G) and question and answer (Q&A) with select Filipino music fans who have been supportive of his music journey since day one.

Aside from Manila, the international music star is slated to visit Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from May 5 to 6, and Jakarta, Indonesia, from May 7 to 8, 2024, for similar engagements.

The promising newcomer became a formidable name in the Asian region, thanks to the crossover success of his previous single “drunk text,” which peaked at No. 1 on streaming platforms in Malaysia and Indonesia, and charted across Southeast Asia. The aforementioned song also gained traction and virality in the region, with notable covers from NCT (popular K-Pop boy group) member Chenle, Paolo of Ben&Ben, and Paolo Sandejas.

Following the significant attention and acclaim that “drunk text” received in Southeast Asia, Henry Moodie released the alt-pop gem “beat up car” on March 29, 2024, on all digital streaming platforms worldwide. This year, he will be performing at several music festivals across Asia, such as Summer Sonic in Tokyo and Osaka, Japan.

Admission to the Henry Moodie: Busking in Manila is FREE. Check out the PH announcement of his upcoming Manila visit via TikTok.

…

LISTEN TO ‘beat up car’ HERE

FOLLOW HENRY MOODIE ON SOCIALS

INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

 Source: Nyou

Buy My Books on Shopee

My books are on Shopee! Know that with every purchase, you are helping me buy medicines as a PWD author. My books can be purchased here: https://shope.ee/2LBqvkz0B8 ✍🏼 #pwd #authorlife #speakbloglive #speakwritelive #shopeesambassador @publishondemand @centralbooksph

Joselle Feliciano Brings Bossa Nova Flavor to Christian OPM With “Wala Nang Hahanapin Pa”

Jazz artist Joselle Feliciano takes listeners on a unique musical and worship experience with her latest single, Wala Nang Hahanapin Pa—now available on all major streaming platforms worldwide!

Crafted in collaboration with esteemed arranger and producer Gino Cruz and released by Reverb Worship PH, Wala Nang Hahanapin Pa offers a unique blend of bossa nova and Christian contemporary genres. A heartfelt ode to the wonders of God’s creation, this self-penned release captures life’s beauty and abundance—from nature’s miracles to the simple pleasures of daily life.

“I am over the moon to finally release a song that I have written myself, and am immensely grateful that I get to express my praise and worship in a genre we don’t often get to hear in Christian contemporary music—bossa nova,” Joselle shared.

Along with soothing vocals, mellow rhythm, and joyful lyrics that nod to Pinoy culture, the song’s elements flow seamlessly together in an experience that’s perfect for personal headphones as listeners pray or read, or as background music in worship gatherings.

“I wanted to focus on God's attributes of beauty, generosity, and perfection. He is the source of all the beautiful and delightful things we see and experience in this world, and I believe He has given us these gifts to make His love even more tangible to us.”

The Love and Light singer invites listeners to appreciate the creation, and most importantly, the Creator, “I hope the song inspires people to appreciate the abundance of His gifts, find completeness in what He has provided, and respond not only in awe of all these things but in praise for the mindful love of our great Creator.”

Stream “Wala Nang Hahanapin Pa” on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and all digital streaming platforms worldwide! To catch the latest updates about the song, follow Reverb Worship on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Source: CBN Asia

WARREN HUE: The 21-year-old rising star opens up about his cross-country relationship on “SPLIT,” new single and music video, out now via 88rising.

The 21-year-old rising star opens up about his cross-country relationship on “SPLIT,” new single and music video, out nowvia 88rising.

“SPLIT” music video — “SPLIT” streaming link — assets folder

(artwork and press photo courtesy of 88rising)

Fresh from making his mark with the 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE music collective, where he contributed to five tracks alongside Offset, Amaarae, De La Soul, Cuco and MILLI on the album, Hella, Warren Hue drops his most personal single, “SPLIT.” Out now via 88rising with an official music video, “SPLIT” finds the 21-year old rising star introspectively examining the highs and lows of being in a cross-country relationship. “SPLIT is a song that I wrote detailing an experience in a long-distance relationship,” Warren shared. “I wanted to create a song based on split lifestyles and how pressure and insecurity can take over your emotions. Trust is a big theme in the song, telling my significant other to believe in me and vice-versa.” The day-in-the-life music video captures Warren’s twenty something lifestyle, a mix of finding his place in a new city and letting loose, while pursuing his dreams. The alternative hip-hop track is produced by frequent-collaborator, Chasu, and is the latest offering ahead of a larger release from Warren. Check out “SPLIT” here and stay tuned for more news.

Warren Hue has catapulted from hometown hero to international sensation in less than two years since making his artist debut with his album, BOY OF THE YEAR, in the summer of 2022. His most conceptual project to date, BOY OF THE YEAR, which included features from tobi lou and yvngxchris, displayed Warren’s versatility and starpower. Born and raised in Jakarta, Indonesia and now based in Los Angeles, the Gen Z star has run up an impressive highlight reel, including being named one of Forbes Asia 30 Under 30, all prior to turning 21. He has also been named one of “NME 100: Essential Emerging Artists” for 2022, one of the “18 Emerging Artists To Watch Out For In 2022” by Bandwagon, and one of the “25 Artists To Watch In 2022” by Ones To Watch. His biggest accolades include his recent features on the album, Hella, released earlier this year, with the music collective 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE, which brought together the industry’s biggest names, such as Offset, Rick Ross, Ghostface Killah, Busta Rhymes and more. Warren was also featured in four songs on Marvel Studios’ Shang-Chi & the Legend of the Ten Rings official soundtrack and has partnered with brands like Honda, GUESS, Samsung and Microsoft. Warren made his Coachella debut during the Head in the Clouds Forever 2022 set. Last year, he performed at the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, opened for Rich Brian’s sold outarena tour (10k fans per stop) in China, and was on the line-up for both Head in the Clouds Festivals in New York and Los Angeles. This summer, he will be returning to the festival in New York. A multi-hyphenate artist, Warren draws his inspiration from niche art forms to create his ever-evolving sound. From R&B to house, electronic, alternative hip-hop and industrial genres, Warren is unafraid to explore and veer towards the unconventional, while sharing his journey of self-discovery. His latest offers, “TENNESSEE” and “SPLIT,” detail Warren’s growing confidence as a star in the making.

For press inquiries and additional information :

Mark Bonifacio at mabuhay@blackstar.space

More of Warren Hue on :

YouTube —  Instagram  — Twitter — TikTok

Audience :

● 150M+ total streams

● 193K Instagram  followers

● 35K TikTok followers, 600K+ likes

● 570K+ Spotify monthly listeners

Discography :

“TENNESSEE” (MV)

BOY OF THE YEAR (2022)

“IN MY BAG” (with tobi lou) (MV)

“HANDSOME” (MV)

“W” (with yvngxchris) (MV)

“RUNAWAY W ME”  (MV)

Other Highlights :

1999 WRITE THE FUTURE (2024)

Amaarae, Warren Hue - “cOoL WATeR foR thE nIGHT” (MV)

Cuco, Warren Hue - COuGhDrOPs (,,Ծ‸Ծ,, ) (MV)

Rich Brian, Zion.T - WORLD STOP TURNING (feat. Warren Hue) (MV)

Offset, Warren Hue - SLOPES (MV)

MILLI, & Warren Hue - WOWoW! ✎ (❁ᴗ͈ˬᴗ͈) (MV)

Source: Blackstar

The Rain in España

I met Gwy Saludes and shared with her how her books has helped me heal as I am battling my illness. I told her how her stories have given me something to look forward to and how the shows that have been based on them have cheered me up throughout my PWD journey so far. Buy The Rain in España here: https://shope.ee/7AHD4ZGzo9 📕 @gwysaludes @preciouspagesbookstore @nbdbphilippines @bookfestph #authorssupportingauthors #theraininespaña #safeskiesarcher

Denim Shorts from Shopee

These shorts are flattering! Buy them here: https://shope.ee/8pPPRfk91X 🩳 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam

Cargo Trousers from Shopee

Wore these cargo trousers to a seminar and the Philippine Book Festival all in one day! Buy my comfortable trousers here: https://shope.ee/5fSLztqXXG 💃🏻#shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam

Luke Hemmings ushers in new era with the release of new EP, boy

BUY/STREAM HERE + NEW SINGLE “BENNY” HERE

VISUAL EP PREMIERE ON YOUTUBE AT MIDNIGHT HERE

HERE FOR HIGH RES ART

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Luke Hemmings has released his highly-anticipated new EP, boy, via Arista Records. The record, co-produced with longtime collaborator Sammy Witte (Maggie Rogers, Harry Styles, Freya Ridings), is a concise and cohesive 7-track coterie of songs, each offering a new sense of maturity, growth, and humanity for Hemmings. Arriving alongside the project is a stunning official visual EP consisting of all seven tracks which premiered globally for eager fans on YouTube at midnight. Watch here. Hemmings today also released his deeply felt single “Benny” and its companion visualizer. “Benny’s” dreamy soundscape is an ode to family, but one that aches with the loss of a life sometimes lived on their periphery.

“The song is about guilt I spend a lot of time away from my family and live in a different country than them.  As you get older and life moves on, things happen at home and it’s the guilt of not being there and missing moments.  It’s hard to miss the good moments, but even harder to miss the bad moments. You can’t be there to fix it all and be there for the ones you love,” revealed Hemmings. Watch here.

boy’s 7 dynamic new tracks, showcase Hemmings' lyrical and sonic evolution right from the start with the EP’s opener, "I'm Still Your Boy." Launching with the hazy strum of an acoustic guitar and lashings of stacked vocal tracks, the production ebbs outwards, contracting for the pre-chorus before exploding out on the chorus, Hemmings, mantra like, repeating the phrase: “I’m still your boy.” Lyrically, the track anchors the EP’s larger narrative theme of the liminal space between youth and adulthood. Guided by an introspective Hemmings, still grappling to hold on to his fading boyhood, each subsequent song draws listeners further into the artists dreamlike realm where themes of youth's departure, fear, solitude, and hope reverberate powerfully throughout the project.

When asked about the inspiration for boy, Hemmings explains, “The majority of the songs for boy were written at a time in my life when I was a stranger to stillness. The songs were born on planes and hotel room notepads, muttering under my breath while walking through new cities each day.  I was disoriented and overwhelmed by the world and my place in it. Those emotions weaved themselves through this project. The longing for more emotional understanding within myself, the isolation, grief, love, sadness and hope. They’re not intended to be consumed as autobiographical facts, but as an overly dramatic, cathartic, poetic stream of my consciousness. As if you’ve opened my diary and can only read a line from each page.”

boy Track List

1. I'm Still Your Boy

2. Shakes

3. Benny

4. Close My Eyes

5. Garden Life

6. Close Enough to Feel You

7. Promises

Today’s multiple releases not only usher in a new and exciting sonic era for Luke Hemmings and his fans around the world but they lay testament to an evolving artist, who as Dork Magazine proclaimed, “bares his introverted soul, creating a love letter to nostalgia and a quest for self-discovery.”

About LUKE HEMMINGS

As the lead vocalist of 5 Seconds of Summer, 27-year-old Luke Hemmings has sold millions of records, toured the globe numerous times, accumulated billions of streams, and become one of Australia’s most successful musical exports. As a solo artist, Luke has turned his creative process inward, finding a place for self-discovery, exploration, and experimentation. The first result of which was his critically acclaimed debut solo EP, When Facing The Things You Turn Away From released in 2021 and lauded “equal parts mesmerizing and immersive” by Rolling Stone. 

Recorded in New York with Grammy-nominated producer Sammy Witte (Maggie Rogers, Harry Styles, Freya Ridings), his next project, boy was released on April 26, 2024. The EP is a result of continued introspection into maturity and humanity paired with the influence of LCD Soundsystem, My Bloody Valentine, The Verve, and Cocteau Twins culminating in a body of work highlighting both Luke’s personal evolution and his craft as a songwriter.

 Source: Nyou

CONNECT WITH LUKE HEMMINGS:
 Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Tik Tok

BIBI & JACKSON WANG TEAM UP ON NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO FOR “FEELING LUCKY”

DOWNLOAD SINGLE ARTWORK (CREDIT: Lindsey Blane) HERE

For immediate release - On the heels of their explosive surprise performance at Coachella, South Korean it-girl BIBIand global superstar Jackson Wang have thrilled fans with the release of their new single and music video, "Feeling Lucky." This exciting collaboration, which debuted to viral acclaim at Coachella 2024, marries BIBI's captivating vocals and Jackson's dynamic presence into a sultry pop duet.

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO HERE

Directed by Jason Ano, the “Feeling Lucky” music video opens with close-up shots that see BIBI and Jackson in a seductive embrace while singing the lyrics to the track. As the video unfolds, their chemistry intensifies, offering fans a front row seat to BIBI and Jackson succumbing to their deepest desires, encapsulating the essence of the lyrics: “The way you think about me, I think about you, I do, it's true.”

PURCHASE & STREAM THE SINGLE HERE

BIBI continues her impressive streak with "Feeling Lucky," having previously topped the charts in Korea with "Bam Yang Gang" and broken into the US Top 40, a first for a Korean female solo act. Meanwhile, Jackson Wang is riding high from the success of his latest album, 'MAGIC MAN,' debuted at #15 on the Billboard 200 & reached #3 in Top Album Sales, including a recent sold-out world tour. Together, they're setting the stage for a major global crossover.

BIBI is a singer, songwriter, and actor based in South Korea. As one of the fastest-rising stars in Korea, she has amassed 5M+ monthly listeners on Spotify, and is the first South Korean female solo R&B artist to chart on US Top 40 radio, and break into the Top 30 (with the highest peak position being #29). BIBI’s hit single “BIBI Vengeance” from her debut album Lowlife: Princess Noir has 118M+ streams on Spotify alone and 47M+ views on YouTube. An earlier track from the artist titled “The Weekend” charted on All Access Top 40/Mainstream Cool Music, peaking at #3, and played on radio stations across the nation including KIIS LA, Ryan Seacrest’s “America’s Top #40,” Most Requested Live, and iHeart Radio’s “The Vibe.”  In 2023 , BIBI teamed up with award-winning artist Becky G for the hit single, “Amigos,” which PEOPLE called “…a playfully provocative story that toes the line between guilt and seduction.”

Jackson Wang: The multi-hyphenate Chinese performer Jackson Wang cemented his status as an international superstar with the release of his sophomore album MAGIC MAN in 2022 and adjoining MAGIC MAN World Tour. The project, which was met with widespread critical acclaim, debuted at No. 15 on the Billboard 200 and No. 3 on Billboard’s Top Album Sales Chart. Jackson has made history as the first Chinese artist to perform at Coachella a third time. Jackson is also a fashion designer, creative director, and founder of TEAM WANG, and has amassed over 100 million followers across social media.

Source: Blackstar

Follow BIBI

INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | X | SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE

Follow Jackson Wang

INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | X | SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE

Philippine Book Festival 2024

My books are now at the Philippine Book Festival! I am thankful that my publisher @centralbooksph @publishondemand brings my books to book fairs! Please consider supporting by purchasing copies of my books. Your support can help sustain me as a PWD author. Buy my books here: https://shope.ee/2LBqvkz0B8 📕 #authorlife #speakbloglive #speakwritelive #pwd

Crwn teams up with Jason Dhakal on new single “Good Enough”

The R&B singer-songwriter is the first artist featured from the Séance universe

Photographed by Renzo Navarro

After a long wait, King Puentespina, also known as crwn, finally unveils "Good Enough," his first single release in over a year. As anticipation mounts for his debut album set to hit shelves in May, crwn introduces his first featured artist, Jason Dhakal, signaling the start of the unfolding universe of Séance.

The track offers a glimpse into the album's dance-centric theme, showcasing crwn's iconic production style intertwined with Jason Dhakal’s introspective exploration of self-doubt. Together, they effortlessly draw listeners into a deeply personal narrative.

Crwn introduces Jason as one of his old collaborators featured on his debut album through an illustration that is reminiscent of a tarot card. The card, aptly titled "The Doubter," serves as a mirror to the central character of the song "Good Enough." When flipped, it unveils a message: "Looks inward where cracks reveal the beauty of vulnerability," inviting listeners to explore the depths of self-discovery.

The first single of the album came to life during a sit-down session in crwn's home studio. As Puentespina laid down a beat, Jason Dahkal channeled his emotions, drawing from personal experiences of betrayal to write the lyrics. The resulting intimacy of the writing perfectly complemented the track's bouncy and upbeat production, creating a head-bopping track. This exemplifies their undeniable chemistry, further solidified through collaborations like "XX:XX," released in 2020.

The rest of the collaborators are rumored to share the same deep connection, having already worked with the Manila-based producer over his notable 11-year career.

Crwn is expected to reveal details about his much-awaited album in the upcoming weeks, building anticipation among fans and critics alike. Adding to the excitement, Jason is said to be joining crwn at his album launch party this May 11th at Nokal, Makati. Secure your spot now with early bird tickets available at bit.ly/seancebycrwn.

'Good Enough' is now available on all major streaming platforms.

Source: Nyou