James Reid reconnects with his mellow pop roots on new single “Sandal”

The stripped-down OPM track marks the new direction of his upcoming EP, to be released soon

Following the resurgence in popularity of his OPM smash “Randomantic,” James Reid returns to his mellow, pop-leaning roots with the release of “Sandal,” his new singleunder Sony Music Entertainment and Careless.

Stripped down the core with acoustic elements and smooth vocals, “Sandal” recreates the magical pull of his earlier records with a balance of accessibility and finesse.

As expected, Reid demonstrates his keenness to turn a simple gesture of romantic affirmation into a sterling piece of work. On “Sandal,” he is back with another serenade that has so much potential on both the commercial and artistic front.

“I just wanted to reconnect with my roots in music, blending my past music with my new sound and writing style,” the award-winning singer-songwriter and label mogul admits. “It’s also been a long-time request from my fans. Most of the songs in my new EP are written in Filipino.”

The recording superstar wrote the track together withLuke April of the Davao-based hip-hop and R&B group, Playertwo. Both Reid and April wanted to create a material that aims to easily comfort someone going through a tough time. As the former pointed out in his press statement, “The idea is that love is strength and vulnerability, and that I will be your sanctuary.”

James Reid adds, “This song means a lot to me personally. I wrote it for my girlfriend when she was having a terrible day. I wanted her to know that no matter what you’re going through, you can always lean on me.”

“Sandal” is also produced by Tim Marquez, who has helmed tracks for eclectic Filipino acts such as Ena Mori and Zild, and previously worked with James Reid on the piano ballad “Hurt Me Too.” Building on the initial ideas brought by Luke April, Tim approached Reid's new direction with a slow dance feel.

James Reid’s “Sandal” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainmentand Careless.

Source: Nyou

JORDAN ASTRA GETS LUCKY WITH ALLURING NEW SINGLE "SUNRISE ROULETTE"

LISTEN HERE

Photo Credit: @stan.islaw

August 30th, 2024 – Following the success of his latest single, "After Midnight," Indonesian-Canadian artist Jordan Astra is back with his new groove-laden release, "Sunrise Roulette." Listen here: http://ffm.to/sunriseroulette

In early 2023, Astra went to Puerto Vallarta to unwind and seek inspiration for his songwriting. When he returned, Astra worked with collaborators Jhyve and Sascha to bring "Sunrise Roulette" to life. The sunshine and beaches on his trip deeply influenced the track, and is evident in the blissful rhythm and tropical groove that brings to mind images of being bathed in the golden glow of the sun.

A student of Soul and R&B, Astra has crafted a sound that blends the musical styling of Pharrell and Jamiroquai with subtle influences from Bruno Mars and SG Lewis, creating something uniquely his own.

Astra started his career at university, where he was making beats. Over the years, he produced for local artists but felt collaborations never moved fast enough. This impatience pushed him to become the artist we know today.

With half of 2024 behind us, Jordan is looking ahead to his forthcoming project, ‘Far Deeper.’ The EP is the second instalment of his three-part series that delves into themes of unpredictability, uncertainty, and committing to that leap of faith. Recently signed to Mind of a Genius Records (Zhu, THEY., Gallant), Jordan Astra is now on the brink of breaking out as the artist that he knows he’s always been.

Stream “Sunset Roulette” here: http://ffm.to/sunriseroulette  

For more information: Secret Signals

Follow Jordan Astra: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok

 Source: Secret Signals

SB19's PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY, out in Philippine cinemas today!

The P-Pop kings open up about tour setbacks and career challenges on new documentary film 

SB19’s highly anticipated film, PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY marks its nationwide theatrical debut today!

The much-buzzed documentary provides an inside look into the group's collective and individual experiences on tour, while trying to navigate their ascension to global pop stardom with crippling fear of anxiety and pressure.

Aside from chronicling the P-Pop powerhouse’s journey as they “move forward to a new era of music, career, and emancipation,” the concert documentary also unravels never-before-seen moments that put their resilience and commitmentto the test.

Watch the trailer here

“Part of what makes the film even more special is that it doesn’t sugar-coat the learnings and experiences that we’ve endured during the entire era of the PAGTATAG! tour and album release,” SB19 shares in a press statement. “The year-long run was filled with multiple setbacks that added mental and emotional distress. But as the title explains it best, the documentary will show how we bounced back from the adversities in life and career, and how we managed to mount a series of shows despite going through a lot of internal and collective struggles. We hope that through this movie, we will be able to inspire our A’TIN to become stronger and more resilient when they face a similar ordeal in a not-so-distant future.”

SB19’s PABLO, who currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of 1Z Entertainment, emphasized that they’ve always thought about producing a documentary that captures the story behind the stage and the little moments that define the human aspects of mounting a tour of this scale and ambition.

“We’re grateful to First Light Studios and Jed Regala for helping us turn our vision into a reality,” PABLO reveals. “We’re lucky to have a team that understands the power of collaboration.”

The exclusive screenings will take place from August 28 to September 1 in cinemas nationwide.

Just recently, SB19 emerged triumphant in Billboard’s Fan Army Face-off, winning for the second consecutive year against some of the biggest and most iconic international music stars. The chart-topping five-piece act garnered 56.3 percent of the votes during the final round, beating Barbadian mega-star Rihanna. The GENTO hitmakers also represented the Philippines in Billboard Korea’s “Billboard K POWER 100” in Seoul yesterday (August 27), receiving the Voices of Asia Award for their groundbreaking contribution in putting Filipino music to the global stage.

Get your PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY tickets here.

ABOUT SB19

SB19 is a multi-awarded five-member boy group from the Philippines. The group is composed of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin and debuted in October 2018 with their single ‘Tilaluha.’ They gained popularity with their second single ‘Go Up’. Since their debut, SB19 has amassed fans (A’TIN) across the globe and was recognized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as the Philippine’s Youth Ambassadors. The “SB” in SB19 stands for “Sound Break,” which represents their aspirations of disrupting the music scene and bringing Filipino music and culture into the international spotlight. SB19 broke into the global spotlight as the first Southeast Asian and Filipino act to be nominated in the Billboard Music Awards as Top Social Artist in 2021. They are also the first Filipino act to land on the international Billboard Social 50 and Next Big Sound Charts. Their latest release, "GENTO", debuted at #8 on the Billboard World Digital Sales Charts.

SB19 is self-managed by 1Z Entertainment, a company built and managed by the members of SB19.

Website: https://www.sonymusic.co.jp/artist/SB19

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4v7afBTnJKRm4SlfHJzyg

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsb19

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsb19

 Source: Nyou

International breakout star Dhruv releases debut album, Private Blizzard

Press photo, credit: Stefan Kohli

Private Blizzard, the debut album from breakout vocalist, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Dhruv, is out today via Little Worry/RCA Records—get it HERE.

“When I was in high school and felt completely alone in my queerness, music held my hand and saw me through my private blizzard,” Dhruv says. “In this latest period of life, which has been turbulent in different ways, I have again found a sense of rootedness in making songs. No matter how far I stray, it’s what it has always come back to. I'm so grateful for what this album has done for me and so happy for it to be out in the world.”

Private Blizzard features Dhruv’s new single “One and Only” alongside previously released tracks “Grieving,” “Speed of Light,” “How?,” which Ones to Watch praised as “spellbinding,” and “Tragedy,” Dhruv’s first new music of 2024 which he performed on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” for his late night T.V. debut in February.

Recorded in Nashville with Grammy-nominated producer JT Daly (Noah Kahan, Bully, Benson Boone), Private Blizzard reflects the full range of emotions Dhruv felt as he set out to make his debut album from a place of creative honesty. “I started in a place of numbness, and I didn’t really understand why I felt that way,” Dhruv shares. “The songs that I started out with were trying to help me unpack that feeling. The further along I got, I started feeling better—I just felt lighter.”

Allowing intuition to guide him more than in the past, Dhruv focused on developing his vocal range to give himself a larger canvas to express his changing emotions. From a sonic perspective, he and Daly worked together to arrive at a sound that incorporates classic live elements while retaining a modern feel. The result is an album that, above all else, feels true to Dhruv.

Born and raised in Singapore and of Indian descent, Dhruv’s fascination with music dates back to the age of five, hearing Bollywood soundtracks on the T.V. at his grandmother’s house. After years of writing songs privately, he put his studies at Yale on hold to make a go of music in earnest and began producing from his bedroom.

Dhruv burst into the spotlight after his 2019 single “double take” exploded globally, racking up hundreds of millions of streams worldwide. Soon after, he signed with Little Worry and RCA and, in 2022, he released his debut EP Rapunzel. He’s toured with Joji, sold out headline stops across the U.S. and the U.K. and a handful of dates in Asia in 2023, including two rare headline shows in India. NME praised Dhruv for creating “vital, anthemic” pop, while PAPER celebrated the power of his “intimate love songs” and CLASH hailed his “open and completely relatable” songwriting.

DHRUV—PRIVATE BLIZZARD

1. Ode To Boredom

2. California Winter

3. How?

4. Any Day

5. Tragedy

6. Grieving

7. Speed of Light

8. Lonely City Waltz (interlude)

9. Daggers

10. The Morning

11. Illusions

12. One and Only

DHRUV
WEBSITE ï TIKTOK ï INSTAGRAM ï YOUTUBE

 Source: Nyou

BRIGHT DELIVERS UNFORGETTABLE DEBUT PERFORMANCE OF NEW SINGLE "LONG SHOWERS" AT NHK MUSIC EXPO 2024

🎬 Watch BRIGHT’s NHK performance online here
📸 NHK Photos here
♫ “Long Showers” song teaser here

BRIGHT, the multi-talented Thai megastar, debuted his highly anticipated new single, “Long Showers,” during a stunning live performance at Japan’s prestigious NHK Music Expo aired on August 22nd.

“Long Showers” is an emotionally charged ballad that explores the heartache and turmoil of moving on from a past relationship. The track’s haunting melodies and BRIGHT’s evocative vocals captivated viewers during the live performance, leaving an indelible impression on both fans and critics alike.

The single, set to be officially released later in September, will be BRIGHT’s first music release under 88rising, signaling a new chapter in his already flourishing career. Known for his exceptional talents as an actor, singer, and entrepreneur, BRIGHT continues to push boundaries in the entertainment industry, both in Thailand and internationally.

The performance at NHK Music Expo 2024 was a major milestone for BRIGHT, solidifying his place as a global force in music. As anticipation builds for the release of “Long Showers,” fans can look forward to a deeply moving and soulful experience that showcases BRIGHT’s versatility and artistry.
 
About BRIGHT:
BRIGHT (Thai: ไบร์ท), is a multi-talented Thai actor, singer, and entrepreneur. He has gained widespread recognition for his roles in the films Love You To Debt and Congrats My Ex!, and in the series F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers and 2gether: The Series. BRIGHT’s artistic range also shines in the music industry, with notable albums such as Adolescentand Lost & Found. He is the founder of ASTRO Stuffs, which is a consumer products brand, and Cloud9, his entertainment agency. In 2024, Forbes acknowledged BRIGHT’s impact by including him in their 30 Under 30 Asia Entertainment and Sports category and this year he also notably was the first Thai star to attend the prestigious Met Gala in New York City, where he was dressed by Burberry. He is a beloved icon and trendsetter for the youth throughout Southeast Asia, Japan, United States and China.
 
BRIGHT’s influence extends to global brands, where he serves as the global ambassador for Burberry and the brand ambassador for Calvin Klein, Adidas, and Bangkok Bank M Visa in Thailand. He has graced the pages of prestigious fashion publications including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Esquire, GQ Thailand and many more. In 2023, he was honored with the debutant "Golden Cane Award" from the Chaplin Awards Asia, and he continues to captivate audiences with his diverse talents and entrepreneurial spirit, making a lasting impact on the global entertainment industry.

CONNECT WITH BRIGHT
Instagram -  X 

Source: blackstar

Barbie Almalbis explains overcoming internal struggles on new single “homeostasis”

The song serves as the second single off her upcoming fifth album, to be released at the end of the year

Photo by Nina Sandejas

Following the critically acclaimed comeback single “Desperate Hours” last month, Barbie Almalbis makes her early-awaited return to deliver another eclectic follow-up to mark the continuation of a new music era.

The award-winning singer-songwriter has released her second single, “homeostasis,” which was derived from a biological term that illustrates our body’s regulating process as a way to adjust to changing external conditions.

“I’m no scientist, so I’m using this concept very loosely and explaining it in the simple way I understand it,” explains the Dahilan pop-rock visionary. “It’s the process by which our body always returns to equilibrium, a balanced state, like how we involuntarily sweat when we’re too hot and shiver when we’re too cold. It’s the same with emotions: our body doesn’t want us to stay too ecstatic or too sad; it tries to bring us back to a steady state.”

Almalbis was undergoing a very challenging phase in her life, and felt the need to channel her frustrations into art. She couldn’t do anything to change the situation, so she thought of making a song that perfectly describes what she was experiencing at that moment.

The influential music figure reveals, “Homeostasis was giving me hope, that everyday my body is going to adapt, I’d feel less and less terrible in time, because it has that built-in function.”

Her constant collaborator Nick Lazaro of Eclectic Kissarranged and produced the song, with Almalbis penning the material on guitarlele and brother/bandmate Karel Honasan writing the instrumental parts. The result is another riveting, non-conventional track that combines Almalbis’ confessional and poetic lyrics with edgy, art-rock production and minimal synths: think of St. Vincent or PJ Harvey, but with a more saccharine take in terms of vocal delivery.

“I love how Lazaro put all the dance and synth pop elements on it, as well as the more aggressive guitar riffs,” says Almalbis. “I’ve been interested in that dance pop/rock genre for a while. I had some songs like Run For Cover and Wicked Heart, but I love how Nick was able to do it this way, where the rock and edgy sound is more present; it kind of sounds closer to how we play these songs live too.”

Barbie Almalbis’ “homeostasis” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

Source: Nyou

Ace Banzuelo documents bouts with betrayal on new single “minsan”

His latest track blends dream pop elements with electronic and R&B edge

Filipino singer-songwriter and producer Ace Banzuelo marks the beginning of a new era with the release of “minsan,” a melancholic track that merges R&B with dream pop influences.

Inspired by personal and common experiences with friends, “minsan” expresses his bouts with betrayal and heartbreak. But this time around, Ace treats confessional woundedness as a form of therapy, a way to protect the remaining dignity that he has in his heart, and a commitment to keep the walls in place, hoping there’s room for restoration in the future.

“Talking about it with friends really helped me heal from what I went through,” shares the Muli hitmaker. “I think the music can speak for itself.”

While the song represents a recurring theme in Ace’s songwriting playbook, the aching ballad resonates with Ace on a more intimate level, delivering a snapshot of a recent event in his life that proved to be a learning experience for him.

“A lot of the lyrics are based on a real-life encounter,” Ace reveals. “A wonderful chunk of my work somehow shares the same DNA as this song. But what makes minsanstandout is how it hits the poignant center with a sense of immediacy. I think people who have experienced being cheated on and manipulated by their partners will understand where the pain comes from, lyrically speaking.”

Furnished with subdued, impressionistic details and dreamy vocals, “minsan” reveals that from the emotional ruins emerges a chance to find peace and rebuild one’s sense of self-love.

The song serves as his first single since 2023’s “Pag-ibig(Merun Ba)” and documents his newfound love for dream pop as a genre and musical inspiration. The release of the track highlights a new pivot in Ace’s musical direction as an artist, taking consideration his affinity for non-conventional experimental soundscapes and production style, while retaining a pop-oriented approach towards songwriting.

“Lately, I find myself experimenting with a lot of hazy textures and dream pop elements,” the young recording artist explains. “I remember we pushed for a dream pop/shoegaze gig in my hometown so I can try doing this live and achieve the balance that I want for my sound. It’s new, but at the same time, it’s something that is familiar to what I’m used to doing.”

Ace Banzuelo’s “minsan” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

J-POP ROYALTY ANNOUNCE RELEASE OF FIRST FULL ALBUM "NO.I"

🎬 WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR LEAD SINGLE "INZM" HERE

Download press image here

The musical phenomenon continues to sweep Japan and the globe with the announcement of the highly anticipated release of Number_i’s first full album, No.I(Number One), set to drop on 23rd September. This album marks a new chapter for the J-Pop trio following a string of achievements that have solidified their place in the music scene.
 
The journey began on 1st January, with the digital release of their debut single "GOAT". The accompanying music video quickly went viral, amassing over 10 million views within just three days and clinching the global #1 spot on YouTube's daily music video ranking as of 3rd January. The track also soared to the top of the Billboard JAPAN comprehensive song chart, the "JAPAN Hot 100."
 
Building on this momentum, the three-piece male group released their "GOAT" EP on 6th March, featuring the titular debut track alongside additional 5 songs (including “Blow Your Cover”), quickly reaching #1 on the Billboard Japan Weekly Single Sales Chart. It also achieved the highest first-week digital download numbers of the year on the Oricon chart, further cementing their status as breakout stars.
 
Their dynamic performance at the "88rising Futures" special stage during this year’s Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on 14th April caught the attention of a global audience. Following this performance, "GOAT" skyrocketed to #10 on the US iTunes overall chart and secured the #3 spot on the Hip-Hop chart, generating substantial buzz and acclaim.
 
27th May saw the release of the Mini Album No.O-ring-, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Japan comprehensive album chart "Hot Albums". The music video for its lead track "BON" achieved a remarkable milestone, surpassing 10 million views within two days and ranking 2nd globally on YouTube's daily MV ranking as of 27th May. The song also held the #2 position on the Billboard JAPAN comprehensive song chart, the "JAPAN Hot 100".
 
Anticipation builds as the lead track "INZM" (Inazuma) from the forthcoming album No.Iwill be released on streaming services on 19th August. Produced by Yuta Jinguji, "INZM" promises to be an electrifying addition to their discography, following the success of tracks like "GOAT" and the Sho Hirano-produced "BON".

insert “INZM” single artwork here
STREAM “INZM” here
WATCH “INZM” official music video here

The album No.I will feature a total of 13 songs in its limited first edition, while the regular edition will include an additional bonus track, bringing the total to 14. This release showcases the group's evolution and artistic range, poised to captivate audiences around the world.
 
About Number_i:
Rising from the legacy of J-pop phenomenon King & Prince, Number_i emerges as a new sensational musical force. Comprising former members Sho Hirano, Yuta Jinguji, and Yuta Kishi, this dynamic trio, under the esteemed TOBE record label, is poised to redefine the music industry as they embark on a journey symbolizing greatness and a fresh start, promising to captivate audiences and shape the future of music.
 
The group's name, Number_i, carries profound significance, representing both 'Only One' and 'Love'. This emblematic moniker reflects not only a message but also a pledge to their fans to journey together through the realms of music. For Sho, Yuta, and Yuta, Number_i embodies an exhilarating new chapter in their artistic endeavors.

CONNECT WITH Number_i:
Website | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok
平野紫耀 Instagram | 神宮寺勇太 Instagram | 岸優太 X

Source: Blackstar

Ena Mori to celebrate birthday with second installment of Ena Matsuri

The acclaimed Japanese-Filipino pop star co-produces and programs a club-themed show featuring long sets by Ena and “friends”

Following the success of the inaugural edition of her birthday show, Japanese-Filipino indie artist Ena Morireturns with the second offering of Ena Matsuri, promising a more club-leaning, endorphin-inducing experience for her dedicated fan base and music fans alike.

The special event will take place at Justin Bella AlontePhotography Studio in Makati City on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. onwards.

With a lineup that boasts an all-electro/rave/hyper-pop/dance/rhythmic lineup from the scene’s buzziest underground, Ena Matsuri combines music, dance, art, and interactive elements to create an immersive environment that celebrates the best of what modern pop, youth, and online culture has to offer.

“Last year was my first Ena Matsuri event and it started off as a little celebration of my birthday,” shares the award-winning experimental pop star. “This year, we are doing something different. I wanted to focus on more electronic and rave-y elements, which correlate to what I’ve been listening to lately.”

Aside from a special set featuring Ena Mori and friends, the gig will feature an art market that puts a spotlight onsmall and independent merchants, as well as some intriguing surprises in terms of staging and format.

Ena Mori herself co-produced, curated, and conceptualized Ena Matsuri, with assistance from Offshore Music and GNN Entertainment Productions.

Early bird tickets are available at PHP 500 until August 31, 2024 only. Get it via enamatsuritwo.helixpay.ph.

About Ena Mori

Ena Mori is an award-winning FIlipino-Japanese artist known for her eclectic sound and captivating stage presence. With influences that range from art-pop to electronic music, ‘80s club music to hyper-pop, Ena’s work continues to captivate the global audience, while delivering classical nuances and contemporary flair with futurist edge.

Her full-length debut album, DON’T BLAME THE WILD ONE!, was selected as the Best Asian Album of 2022 by international music publication NME, and gave her a 5-star rating for being a “triumphant rallying cry for the dejected, filled with pop hooks that reach for the stars.”

Ena Mori has also graced several international music festivals, including SXSW Austin Texas, AXEAN Festival, Wanderland Music & Arts Festival, SXSW Sydney, So Far Sounds UK, Asian Pop Festival, and Jakarta Music Con—among many others!

Follow Ena Mori on socials:

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok

Source: Nyou

Kalahating Bahaghari by Ricky Lee: Pre-order today!

Pre-order na tayo ng latest novel ni Sir @rickyleeph! Click here to order: https://s.shopee.ph/7Uwt64IaNq 📖 #shopeesambassador

SB19 drops THE FIRST TAKE versions of “GENTO” and “MAPA” on streaming platforms

P-Pop royalty SB19 continues to captivate music fans from all over the world with the release of “GENTO” and “MAPA” from THE FIRST TAKE sessions on all digital music platforms via Sony Music Entertainment.

The new versions feature the award-winning group’s performance at THE FIRST TAKE, a popular YouTube channel with nearly 10 million subscribers under its belt. The show's format features Japanese and international music guests performing a song in one take, filmed with shots of the artists and a microphone against a minimalist and usually white backdrop.

To date, THE FIRST TAKE renditions of “GENTO” and “MAPA” have amassed more than 4.5 million views on YouTube, becoming one of the most viewed performances from an Asian pop group/band.

“We’re eternally grateful to THE FIRST TAKE for giving us an opportunity to showcase our work on a platform known not just for its massive global following but for elevating the audio-visual experience of music fans with much-needed authenticity and rawness,” SB19 shares in a collective statement. “The performances really challenged us to work within our limitations and deliver with the best of our abilities. We’ve always considered performing as a sanctimonious process that deserves utmost preparation, love, and respect. Constantly reminded by THE FIRST TAKE that we can only perform the songs once, we had to reconnect with our roots and embrace the beauty of spontaneity.”

SB19 is the first Southeast Asian group and the first Filipinoartist to be invited on the globally renowned platform, which also served as host to several acclaimed performances by other artists such as aespa, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, Hitsujibungaku, MANESKIN, ITZY, (G)-I-DLE, imase, Maluma, and more.

For THE FIRST TAKE version of “GENTO,” SB19 delivered a genuinely compelling performance that highlights the five-piece act’s incredible talent and range in harmonizing, singing, and rapping.

The chart-topping hitmakers also took musicality on a different level with their rousing version of “MAPA,” which SB19 redressed with a soaring arrangement and an inspiring gospel-infused delivery.

Both versions are now available for streaming and are bundled with its original versions:

Gento: http://sb19.tunelink.to/gento-fromtft 

MAPA: http://sb19.tunelink.to/mapa-fromtft

About THE FIRST TAKE

THE FIRST TAKE is a YouTube channel that clearly captures the performance of musicians and singers performing in a single take. With the concept “capture the take. This moment. This sound. THE FIRST TAKE. It only happens once,” THE FIRST TAKE presents pure music in overwhelming quality with no exaggerated performance.

The channel started on 15 November 2019 and has now hit 9.69 million subscribers (as of 7 June 2024). Total views have exceeded 1.4 billion, and contents have been viewed from over 220 countries and regions around the world. Growing as a comprehensive music platform, new initiatives have been launched and become viral contents. THE FIRST TAKE INTERNATIONAL features international music stars such as Harry Styles, Avril Lavigne, V from BTS, Jason Chan and Jolin Tsai, having them to give their 1TAKE performanceexclusively on the channel.

Follow THE FIRST TAKE on socials:

Website: https://www.thefirsttake.jp

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/The_FirstTake

X: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_first_take

THE FIRST TIMES: https://www.thefirsttimes.jp

ABOUT SB19

SB19 is a multi-awarded five-member boy group from the Philippines. The group is composed of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin and debuted in October 2018 with their single ‘Tilaluha.’ They gained popularity with their second single ‘Go Up’. Since their debut, SB19 has amassed fans (A’TIN) across the globe and was recognized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as the Philippine’s Youth Ambassadors. The “SB” in SB19 stands for “Sound Break,” which represents their aspirations of disrupting the music scene and bringing Filipino music and culture into the international spotlight. SB19 broke into the global spotlight as the first Southeast Asian and Filipino act to be nominated in the Billboard Music Awards as Top Social Artist in 2021. They are also the first Filipino act to land on the international Billboard Social 50 and Next Big Sound Charts. Their latest release, "GENTO", debuted at #8 on the Billboard World Digital Sales Charts.

SB19 is self-managed by 1Z Entertainment, a company built and managed by the members of SB19.

Website: https://www.sonymusic.co.jp/artist/SB19

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4v7afBTnJKRm4SlfHJzyg

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsb19

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsb19

Source: Nyou

Ely Buendia releases new single "Bulaklak Sa Buwan"

His latest track serves as his first solo release since 2021’s “Metro”

Ely Buendia enters a new era of his solo music careerwith the release of “Bulaklak Sa Buwan.”

The fuzzy, alt-rock number serves as the first single off his upcoming sophomore album, Method Adaptor, which will be out on November 8, 2024, via Sony Music Entertainment and Offshore Music.

The track’s release coincides with the prevalence of fabricated stories and propaganda-driven atrocities in online spaces, challenging listeners to raise awareness for factual truth and combat misinformation.

“I’ve been watching documentaries a lot, and I tried to distill everything in one song,” the legendary Pinoy rock artist explains. “The track is all about the quest for the truth. It's about seeking knowledge while resisting the confines of dogma.”

Sonically, “Bulaklak Sa Buwan” stands out without the need to constantly show off. The disarming pop gemcontinues Buendia's knack for composure and effortlessness: his gift for melodies is still as sharp and instinctive as his best output with his previous bands, and his guitar work is still at its most ferociously sounding in over two decades.

Ely Buendia’s frequent collaborator and Pupil bandmate Jerome Velasco produced the song, delivering a pristine but straightforward production approach that doesn’t take away the material’s anthemic charm.

“I wanted it to be buoyant-sounding and surprising,” shares the award-winning OPM icon. “The song is very upbeat, and I utilized several modulation techniques to make it seem like the music goes higher and higher every time.”

“Bulaklak Sa Buwan” is accompanied by the release of a music video directed by Niko Cezar and Aimee Aznar of KNYA Collective. According to Ely, the visual narrative finds him wandering in the woods looking for a particular flower. “Upon finding it, I get into some upside-down vibes (like Stranger Things), getting transported into another dimension.”

Ely Buendia’s “Bulaklak Sa Buwan” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide. Watch out for the official music video on August 16, 2024, Friday at 6pm on Ely Buendia’s official YouTube channel.

Source: Nyou

LISA FT. ROSALÍA “NEW WOMAN” NEW SINGLE OUT NOW

(August 16th, 2024) – Today, world renowned rapper, singer, dancer, and style icon, LISA (Lalisa Manobal) joins forces with GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter Rosalía for her new single, “New Woman,” out now via LLOUD Co./RCA Records. Listen to “New Woman” HERE. The collaboration, produced by Max Martin & ILYA,  perfectly combines LISA’s talents as a vocalist and rapper with Rosalía’s sultry vocals and distinctive style. Lisa first began teasing the new single on social media earlier this month to an outpouring of fanfare and excitement across the world. 

In tandem with the song release, LISA has also shared the official music video for “New Woman.” Directed by Dave Meyers and shot in Los Angeles, the Y2K inspired visual showcases LISA and Rosalía both as incredible performers along with their impeccable style through a series of high fashion vignettes. Watch HERE.

The new single follows the release of her latest hit single “Rockstar” which quickly propelled to the top of the charts following its release. The single produced by Ryan Tedder and Sam Homaee debuted at #1 on the Billboard Global Ex. US Chart and #4 on the Billboard Global 200 weekly while debuting at #8 on Spotify’s Global Daily Chart and charting in more than 20 markets worldwide. The single has also held the #1 spot in Thailand on Spotify, LISA’s home country, for 10 consecutive days and has three times the streams as the #2 song. The official music video for “Rockstar'', directed by Henry Scholfield and choreographed by Sean Bankhead, amassed an impressive 143.5 million views to date and hit #1 on YouTube’s global weekly chart. 

Since the release of “Rockstar” earlier this summer, LISA is showing no signs of slowing down. Along with today’s new single, last week, LISA received four MTV Video Music Award nominations including Best K-Pop, Best Editing, Best Choreography, and Best Art Direction for “Rockstar.” And on Monday, LISA graced the cover of ELLE Magazine’s highly coveted September issue. See the stunning images, shot by Gregory Harris and styled by Nicola Formichetti, and read the piece here. 

Aside from making music history, LISA continues to lead the way in the fashion space. Just a few weeks ago, Louis Vuitton announced LISA as their newest House Ambassador and she continues to be the face of Bulgari. Keeping the momentum going, LISA was also announced as a co-headliner for this year’s Global Citizen Festival in New York City’s Central Park on September 28. This will mark LISA’s first festival performance as a solo artist. LISA joins previously announced headliners Post Malone, Doja Cat, Jelly Roll and Rauw Alejandro, and Global Citizen Ambassador Hugh Jackman as host. Global Citizen is the world’s leading international advocacy organization on a mission to end extreme poverty and tickets to the Global Citizen Festival are free and can be earned by taking action on the Global Citizen app or at globalcitizenfestival.com to defeat poverty, defend the planet and demand equity. 

LISA is best known as a member of one of the most popular K-pop girl groups BLACKPINK. Beyond her success with BLACKPINK, LISA has broken several records globally as a solo artist with singles “Lalisa” and “Money” charting in the top 10 of theBillboard Global 200 and “Money” holding the record as the longest-charting song by a solo female K-pop artist on theBillboard Hot 100 in the US and on the U.K. Singles Chart

LISA broke three Guinness World Records in 2023 as the most Instagram followers for a K-pop artist (currently at 104 Millionfollowers on the platform), she is also the first solo K-pop winner at both the MTV Video Music Awards and the MTV European Music Awards.

Outside of music, LISA is set to star in the upcoming season of the hit HBO Original series, The White Lotus, season 3. This role will mark her major on screen debut and is filming in her native Thailand.

Photo Credit:Tyler Kohlhoff 

Download hi-res assets here.

FOLLOW LISA: INSTAGRAM 

About LISA

Lalisa Manobal is a rapper, singer, and dancer best known as a member of the globally renowned K-pop girl group, BLACKPINK. LISA is best known as a member of one of the most popular K-pop girl groups BLACKPINK. Beyond her success with BLACKPINK, LISA has broken several records globally as a solo artist with singles “Lalisa” and “Money” charting in the top 10 of the Billboard Global 200 and “Money” holding the record as the longest-charting song by a solo female K-pop artist on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US and on the U.K. Singles Chart. LISA broke three Guinness World Records in 2023 as the most Instagram followers for a K-pop artist (currently at 104 Million followers on the platform), she is also the first solo K-pop winner at both the MTV Video Music Awards and the MTV European Music Awards.

LISA recently released her new single, “Rockstar,” via LLOUD Co./RCA Records and produced by Ryan Tedder and Sam Homaee. “Rockstar'' is LISA’s first solo single released under the new partnership with her management company LLOUD Co. and RCA Records. Launched earlier this year, LLOUD CO. was founded by LISA in an effort to create a platform to showcase her overall vision in music and entertainment that pushes boundaries. 

Outside of music, LISA is set to star in the upcoming season of the hit HBO Original series, The White Lotus, season 3. This role will mark her major on screen debut and is filming in her native Thailand.

Along with her global dominance in music and unparalleled stage presence, she is known for her unique fashion sense and trendsetting style, making her a prominent force in the global fashion industry. She has had several major partnerships and is currently the face of Bulgari. 

About Rosalía

Rosalía is a two-time Grammy and 12-time Latin Grammy Award-winning artist and producer who has rapidly ascended to the forefront of global pop with her innovative musical fusions and distinctive style. Her groundbreaking album "El Mal Querer" blended Flamenco with other timeless Spanish music styles, earning her a Grammy and eight Latin Grammys, including Album of the Year, and marking her as the first Spanish-language artist nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammys. In 2022, she released "MOTOMAMI," a critically acclaimed album she wrote, performed, recorded, and produced, which debuted at #1 on Spotify’s Global Album Chart, scored the highest Metacritic rating of the year, and fueled her sold-out MOTOMAMI WORLD TOUR. Rosalía's innovative performances, including on Saturday Night Live and a Grammy-nominated TikTok Live event, have further solidified her status as a trailblazer.

For more information on LISA, please contact The LEDE Company :

Christopher Iacullo |chris.iacullo@ledecompany.com 

Kristin Somin | kristin.somin@ledecompany.com

Alex Labrie | alex.labrie@ledecompany.com

For more information on Rosalía, please contact The LEDE Company:

Amanda Silverman | amanda.silverman@ledecompany.com

Cara Hutchison | cara.hutchison@ledecompany.com

Alex Labrie | alex.labrie@ledecompany.com

For more information on RCA Records, please contact:

Jamie Abzug | jamie.abzug@rcarecords.com

 Source: RCA Records

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Kai Del Rio announces first headline show in nearly a decade

The indie artist is also set to launch her back-to-back singles “Ang Nag-iisa” on September 13, 2024 and “Storm Like Me” on September 20, 2024

Filipino singer-songwriter Kai Del Rio (formerly known as Kai Honasan) gears up for an electrifying comeback with her first solo headline show in nearly a decade.

The former The Voice of the Philippines season 2 semi-finalist will perform her dual singles “Ang Nag-iisa” and “Storm Like Me” for the first time live on September 13, 2024 (Friday) at Sari Sari Cocktails in Makati City.

The back-to-back songs highlight Del Rio's versatility and range, with "Ang Nag-iisa" (to be released on September 13, 2024) revealing her grittier version with blues and alt-rock influences and "Storm Like Me" (to be released on September 20, 2024) taking listeners back to her stripped-down roots.

Kai shares that both tracks have the same message and heart at the core of it all, but are musically different by intention.

“When I considered returning to my solo work, I always envisioned releasing a double single as a way to showcase my duality right off the bat. Nagagalit tayo at nasasaktan tayo. When you experience so much pain, you eventually experience hope. These two songs show the spectrum of rage and sadness and how it manifests differently within the same person.”

The official launch will not only include the performance of the new original songs, which Underdog Music will release on all streaming/digital platforms on September 13 and 20 respectively, but it will also serve as a reintroduction of the indie singer-songwriter, complete with a new moniker, a new record label and management team, and a fresh perspective on the music-making process.

“I took my time because I wanted it to be as real, as sincere and as authentic as possible,” the Liwanag act explains. “These will be my first solo songs in a decade and I wanted to take my time with them from crafting the songs to building the team. That included finding the right musicians, the right group to work with, the right time. Everyone who has worked on these two singles are authentic, decent, good people, but above all they are insanely talented.”

Official poster by Dee Cruz

Kai Del Rio is co-producing the official launch alongside GNN Entertainment Productions and Locked Down Entertainment, with backing from Lightfirst and Underdog Music.

“For this reintroduction, trust and history were very important to me. Both the teams behind Gabi Na Naman and Locked Downhave been there at the first few years of my career in the indie scene, after the Voice and my time in a band. They know my story and are equally as invested as I am, and I could not ask for more from partners in this first chapter. In addition to them, this event will also be co-presented by Lightfirst, which is a lovely company that focuses on helping make high quality educational content available to schools all over the Philippines.”

Kai promises that the show will be worth the wait, as she’ll be performing alongside some of her peers and idols in the local music industry, as well as playing with a special setup for the headline show happening next month.  

“It’s very different from the ukulele or keytar girl you might have met before, but I hope you’re ready for the ride,” shares Kai. “It’s going to get real, but it’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Tickets to KAI DEL RIO: “ANG NAG-IISA x STORM LIKE ME” Double Single Launch are now available on bit.ly/kaidrlaunch.

Source: GNN Entertainment Productions

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The Itchyworms announce first-ever Canada tour: A bittersweet reunion and farewell

Manila, Philippines - August 14, 2024 — Get ready, Canada! The Itchyworms, one of the Philippines’ most beloved bands, are hitting the road for their first-ever Canadian tour this November 2024 with their “Akin Ka Na Lang Canada” tour.

The highly anticipated tour promises to be a memorable experience for fans across four cities: Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg, and Toronto.

A Bittersweet Reunion

The tour marks a special reunion with the band’s original guitarist, Chino Singson, who is now based in Vancouver. Chino, who migrated to Canada in 2022, last toured with the Itchyworms in the US in March 2023. After a year away, he’s back on stage with the band he helped create, bringing with him the magic that fans have missed.

Farewell to Mikey Amistoso

While the tour celebrates Chino’s return, it also serves as a heartfelt farewell to the band’s newest member, Mikey Amistoso. Mikey, who joined the Itchyworms in recent years, has brought fresh energy and talent to the group. This tour marks not only his last performances with the band but also his own migration to Toronto, making it an emotional and unforgettable experience for both the members and their fans.

A Global Push

The Canadian tour is part of the Itchyworms’ ongoing commitment to bringing their unique sound to audiences beyond the Philippines. Titled “Akin Ka Na Lang Canada,” the tour follows series of successful international shows, including performances in Australia, Japan, and Qatar. This venture into Canada is another step in their journey to share Original Pilipino Music (OPM) with the world.

Tour Dates & Ticket Information

● November 1: Vancouver - The Centre in Vancouver For Performing Arts (Tickets)

● November 3: Calgary - The Palace Theatre (Tickets)

● November 8: Winnipeg - Club Regent Event Centre (Tickets)

● November 10: Toronto - The Concert Hall - 888 Yonge (Tickets)

Tickets are available now on Simpletix and Ticketmaster, so don’t miss your chance to witness

this once-in-a-lifetime tour.

Produced by Vibeant and WAM Records

This historic tour is brought to you by Vibeant and WAM Records, who have joined forces to

bring the Itchyworms’ unique blend of OPM and rock to Canadian shores.

Join the Itchyworms for a night of music, memories, and a celebration of the past and future. This tour promises to be a mix of joy, nostalgia, and heartfelt goodbyes—a true Itchyworms experience you won’t want to miss!

For more information and updates, follow the Itchyworms on social media or visit their official website.

#ItchywormsCanadaTour #AkinKaNaLangCanada #OPM #Vibeant #WAMRecords

Source: Nyou

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TECNO is the Official Global Supporter of the AFC's Club Competition

Kuala Lumpur – August 13th, 2024

Innovative technology brand TECNO announced today that it has become the Official Global Supporter of the Asian Football Confederation’s newly unveiled club competitions, the AFC Champions League Elite™, the AFC Champions League Two™, and the AFC Women’s Champions League™ for the 2024-2025 season. This strategic cooperation underscores TECNO's dedication to enhancing its reach across its core markets in Asia, and to fostering a meaningful connection with every football fan that shares its “Stop at Nothing” spirit of progress and innovation.

The partnership was unveiled at an official signing ceremony in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where AFC representatives and TECNO executives expressed their enthusiasm and ambitions for the partnership.

“This partnership embodies the shared values of passion, excellence, and innovation between TECNO and the AFC. More than just a sponsorship, it is a milestone displaying the brand spirit of ‘Stop at Nothing’ and a celebration for both parties embarking on a new journey and creating more impactful experiences for fans across Asia” said Laury Bai, Chief Marketing Officer of TECNO.

“At TECNO, we always believe in the power of sports to unite communities and inspire progress. This collaboration allows us to not only empower every Asian football fan globally to have a more interactive and immersive experience at matches through our advanced technology, but to also build a deeper connection of shared passion between TECNO and football fans."

Datuk Seri Windsor John, General Secretary of the AFC, said: “As the AFC enters into a new era of innovation and transformation, spearheaded and driven by the revamp of our club competitions, we are delighted to welcome an entity that shares common values in global innovative technology brand, TECNO.

“We thank TECNO for recognising the ever-increasing global appeal of the AFC’s world-class competitions, which are poised to herald unprecedented levels of growth in the coming years, and we look forward to working in close partnership with them to create more engaging moments with the passionate fans of Asian football.”

By tapping into the vast fan base of AFC club competitions, with global television viewership close to 1 billion, TECNO is poised to connect with huge sports communities, enhancing the joy and excitement of football and encouraging people to bring the passion of the game into their daily lives. As digital experiences have grown to become an indispensable part the football fan experience, and as the demand for smart technology continues to rise across Asia, TECNO aims to expand its brand presence in various markets across the continent through its partnership with the AFC. By making cutting-edge technology and products more accessible, TECNO hopes to bring unique, immersive digital experiences to football fans to enhance the way they experience football in their daily lives.

Furthermore, the partnership underscores TECNO's enduring commitment to utilizing sports as a bridge to resonate with global consumers and create shared experiences amongst its audiences. The belief in the power of sports and technology to inspire individuals to make progress, chase dreams, and purse their passions is embedded in TECNO’s brand DNA, and the brand has been dedicated to bringing this belief to life by creating meaningful programs that motivate consumers to unlock their potential through sports.

In the past, through its sponsorship of the 34th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), TECNO created a lasting impact with a series of campaigns that made matches available to the entire football community in Africa by creating unique viewing experiences, in addition to making football accessible to more remote African communities by committing to renovating 100 football fields across Africa over the next five years. Through its partnership with AFC, TECNO will continue to elevate and innovate to deliver similar unforgettable experiences in Asia and inspire football fans to champion its “Stop at Nothing” spirit together to create more and build a better future together.

Source: TECNO Mobile Philippines

Queen of the South: A Night of a Thousand Chronicles

Let us support Queen of the South, A Night of a Thousand Chronicles!

Did you know that there is a thriving drag queen community in the South? Let us give them a chance to shine ✨ and sparkle ✨ on August 25, 2024, 8PM til late, at The Commune Molino.

This highly anticipated event is a promising spectacle of epic proportions

Queen of the South takes place on the last Saturday of each month. Electrifying drag performances await the audience, who will surely enjoy a celebration of queer drag artistry.

Drag is not just an art form, it is also a social commentary and a safe space. Come celebrate with the drag community in the South by attending Queen of the South!

Source: Clavel Magazine