Kai Del Rio releases comeback single “Ang Nag-iisa”

Photo by Dee Cruz

Kai Del Rio (formerly known as Kai Honasan) has finally dropped her new single “Ang Nag-iisa” via Underdog Music.

The bluesy pop-rock anthem serves as the Filipino singer-songwriter’s comeback single, smashing her way out of her confines with unapologetic rage and grit.

A proof of Kai’s versatility as a solo star with so much potential, “Ang Nag-iisa” is a brash, sobering look at a woman coming to terms with her own pain and disappointments in life, carefully put together for the world to deservedly hear.

“Ang Nag-iisa was written from a need to find a place to put down my anger, shares Del Rio. “The past few years as a songwriter, I’ve had massive writer’s block and didn’t know who I was as a singer anymore. One day, I just asked myself, ‘What is the biggest emotion I am feeling right now,’ and the answer was rage. It was pain. It was disappointment. It was sadness. Then just like that, the words flowed.” 

Kai adds, “It took me a few weeks to finish, because I kept second guessing myself and thinking, “maybe this is too real?” But to be quite honest, what we need more of is raw emotion. That, I feel, creates the best art. Whether it’s pure, shameless joy or the isolation of heartbreak, what is real will always feel the most authentic.”

“Ang Nag-iisa” is written and performed by Kai Del Rio, and produced by veteran musician Karel Honasan. Kai and Karel also gathered an all-star band to fully execute the ideas behind the drawing board into reality, recruiting the likes of Ira Cruz on guitars, Nikko Rivera on keys, and Rickson Ruiz on drums. With the help of Tower of Doom sound engineer Macoy Manuel, they took the song and turned chaos into art.”

“I don’t know how many times I cried in that session, but I couldnot have imagined a more amazing group of musicians to take hold of this song, and I will be forever grateful,” says the Liwanag act.

Next week, Kai Del Rio will drop the piano ballad “Storm Like Me” as part of her non-consecutive “double single” release. The stripped-down track, a stark contrast to Ang Nag-iisa's ferocious energy, delves into Del Rio's confessional vulnerability, a skillthat she has expertly covered in her previous releases.

The former The Voice of the Philippines season 2 semi-finalist reveals, “As a way to balance out the fire of Ang Nag-iisa, I wanted the other side, a calm energy. A classic ballad. But still the same heart. I gathered the same team again to do lay on the drama for this song and they effortlessly killed it. Once these two songs were done, Gabi Na Naman Productions and Underdog Music came into the picture, and took on the task of making sure these songs were properly unleashed into the world.”

Kai Del Rio’s “Ang Nag-iisa” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Underdog Music.

Source: Nyou

YOJIRO NODA ANNOUNCES NEW SINGLE “PAIN KILLER”

LISTEN HERE

SOLO ALBUM 'WONDER BOY'S AKUMU CLUB'

COMING SEPT 25

PRE-SAVE ALBUM HERE

September 13th, 2024 –  Yojiro Noda, the frontman for the much acclaimed Japanese rock band RADWIMPS, is excited to unveil his new single “PAIN KILLER” today. This track is a glimpse into his forthcoming solo album, 'WONDER BOY’S AKUMU CLUB,' which is scheduled for release on September 25. Listen to “PAIN KILLER” here: https://lnk.to/PAIN_KILLER  

The album is a collection of Yojiro’s personal stories boasting a total of 13 tracks, including “EVERGREEN feat. kZm”, released this April, which features much acclaimed Japanese rapper kZmand “KATATOKI,” a collaboration track with American rapper J.I.D featured on the game “Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name”.

The Limited Edition CD comes with a T-shirt featuring an original character AKUMU-KUNcreated by the manga artist and illustrator PosukaDemizu. Originated from Noda’s idea to express his solo project with an icon that can freely embody his music, through numerous exchanges of ideas between Demizu and Yojiro, the one-and-only AKUMU-KUN came to life as a universal and invincible character based on the image of Yojiroas a model.

ABOUT YOJIRO NODA

Yojiro Noda is the frontman, guitarist and pianist for Japanese rock band RADWIMPS. As the primary songwriter for the band, his music is as diverse as his love for it. Yojiro’s music doesn’t live in just one genre, and his lyrics dive into philosophy and passion, covering everything from romance to his view of life and death. The band is known for their musical contribution and soundtracks for Makoto Shinkai’s hit anime films 'Your Name.,' 'Weathering With You' and most recently, Golden Globes nominated 'Suzume'.  All three of these soundtracks have won Best Music Award at the Japan Academy Film Prize. In addition to writing music for other artists, Noda is also involved in a broad array of activities, including acting in movies and dramas.

Stream “PAIN KILLER” here: https://lnk.to/PAIN_KILLER

Pre-save 'WONDER BOY’S AKUMU CLUB' here: https://lnk.to/WBAC_EC

For more information: Secret Signals

Follow Yojiro Noda: Instagram | TikTok | Website | RADWIMPS Instagram

Source: Secret Signals

Buy My Books!

Forever grateful for my @centralbooksph @publishondemand family for giving me the chance to become a published author. Dito po ako nagsimula. ❤️

I am a PWD author! Please buy my books and help support my medication. Buy them here: https://s.shopee.ph/9KPEAwYZfu ✨ #authorlife #speakbloglive #speakwritelive

Commuting for Free is Liberating

Transit Dialog has published my article here: https://www.facebook.com/share/CXJXqej1WV4ugiQN/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Buy My Books on Shopee

Hello! It’s me again with my books! Buy them here: https://s.shopee.ph/6phsTCujOV 🇵🇭 My goal is to inspire more people to read books. When more people read, more people will be moved to write. ✍🏼 My books can teach you how to write YOUR story in your own terms, and at your own pace. If I can do it, then I know that you can also become an author someday 💪 @publishondemand @centralbooksph #speakbloglive #speakwritelive #authorlife

Culture Wars to open LANY’s shows in Asia. New Single Miley out on 12 September, EST

Texas Austin’s Culture Wars make honest, expertly crafted, ambitious rock music built to resonate with a diverse audience. Their upcoming debut album if not now, when? is ready to connect with a generation starved for authenticity and provocation in their rock bands. They have already garnered an audience with “Heaven” and “Lose Money” that blew up on streaming services. “Leave Me Alone” was featured on the GRAMMY-nominated Bill & Ted Face the Music soundtrack, enjoyed an organic boost from mega-influencers and became Culture Wars’ first Top 30 Alternative Rock hit.

Culture Wars’ innovative approach to pop rock captivates audiences with a unique blend of nostalgic and modern influences such as The Police, Harry Styles, Third Eye Blind, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Oasis, The Strokes, and The Killers.

The sound Culture Wars developed blends the most vital rock and alternative music elements, earnestly emphasizing actual guitars. Their new single and video “Miley” that pays homage to the romantic pop of the ‘80s will be released on September 12 and they are coming to Asia in September and October to open for LANY shows in multiple cities.

Asia Tour Dates:

20 Sep  Singapore (Spore Indoor Stadium)

22 Sep  Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Axiata Arena)

25 Sep  Tokyo, Japan (Tokyo Garden Theater)

27 Sep  Osaka, Japan (Zepp Namba)

29 Sep  Seoul, Korea (Kintex Hall 9)

  2 Oct   Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong (Asiaworld-expo Hall 10) 

  4 Oct   Yan Cheng District, Taiwan (Kaoshiung Music Center)

  6 Oct   Bangkok, Thailand (UOB Live)

  9 Oct   Jakarta, Indonesia (Beach City Intl Stadium)

10 OCt  Jakarta, Indonesia (Beach City Intl Stadium)

12 Oct   Manila, Philippines  (Philippine Arena)

13 Oct   Cebu, Philippines  (Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino)

14 Oct   Cebu, Philippines  (Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino)

15 Oct   Cebu, Philippines  (Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino)

Members

Alex Dugan - vocals, electronics

David Grayson - drums

Dillon Randolph - bass

Caleb Contreras - guitar

Josh Stirm – guitar

ABOUT CULTURE WARS

Austin’s Culture Wars’ debut album arrives ready to connect with a generation starved for authenticity and provocation in their rock bands. Recorded at Sonic Ranch Recording Studio, 30 minutes outside El Paso, Texas; Hollywood’s United Recording (Sinatra, Radiohead); and Sunset Sound (The Doors, Prince), the young group’s moving debut album is set to be a breath of fresh air full of ambition and pure intentions. As the band’s name implies, seemingly disparate passions battle within the songs, somehow beautifully making peace.

Culture Wars initially built a following through word-of-mouth and energetic live performances. Songs like “Faith” and “Lose Money” blew up on streaming services, contributing to the group’s widening audience. “Leave Me Alone,” featured on the GRAMMY-nominated Bill & Ted Face the Music soundtrack, enjoyed an organic boost from mega-influencers and became Culture Wars’ first Top 30 Alternative Rock hit.

Their new work combines the past, present, and future with bold swagger. They make honest, expertly crafted, ambitious rock music built to resonate with a diverse audience. The sound Culture Wars developed blends the most vital rock and alternative music elements, earnestly emphasizing actual guitars.

Website | TikTok | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT CANGLO

Mark Bonifacio (Marketing Consultant- PH)

+639175498288, mark.bonifacio25@gmail.com

Source: Canglo

Buy Samantha Lucas Books Now!

I am incredibly proud of my two books under my Filipino publisher, @centralbooksph @publishondemand! I am grateful for all the people who have helped me build my writing career. ✍🏼

BUY MY BOOKS HERE: https://s.shopee.ph/30V8Kt4J5w 🇵🇭 #authorlife #speakwritelive #speakbloglive

NBDB Registered Author

My @nbdbphilippines registration certificate as a Filipino author (and a working one at that!) is the best part of my @manilabookfair haul ✨

Lightweight Eyeglasses

Buy my glasses here: https://s.shopee.ph/9A5kfo7zHf 🤓 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam

Gary Valenciano, Dulce, Morissette, Donny Pangilinan, Sam Concepcion and Many More Artists Come Together for the Biggest Worship Concert of 2024: “Beyond Measure”

CBN Asia, the producer of The 700 Club Asia and Superbook, is set to make a historic night of music, thanksgiving, and praise with its grand 30th Anniversary Worship Celebration, Beyond Measure, happening on September 24, 5:00 p.m., at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

This highly anticipated event will bring together some of the biggest names and rising stars in the industry—uniting on one stage to celebrate God's faithfulness over the past three decades are Gary Valenciano, Dulce, Morissette, Donny Pangilinan, Sam Concepcion, Angela Ken, John Roa, Acel, Dave Lamar, Isay Alvarez, Robert Seña, Keiko Necesario, Tricia Amper-Jimenez, Jonathan Manalo, Hazel Faith, Caleb Santos, and many more!

This special night will also feature electrifying performances from Reverb Worship artists, Gab Valenciano, ManoeuvresIgnite, LSDC-Street, and the cast of Trumpets’ Joseph the Dreamer. Award-winning musical arranger and director Mon Faustino takes on the musical direction.

Meanwhile, Peter Kairuz, President and CEO of CBN Asia and host of The 700 Club Asia, will deliver a powerful message to relive the organization’s 30 years of proclaiming Christ and transforming lives, and inspire the audience on how God will remain faithful in the years to come.

The event kicks off at 5:00 p.m. with Reverb Worship LIVE, setting the stage for an evening of praise, followed by the Beyond Measure Worship Celebration at 6:00 p.m.

As a multi-faceted, non-profit organization committed to proclaiming Christ and transforming lives through media, prayer counseling, humanitarian aid, and cross-cultural missions training, CBN Asia’s Beyond Measure anniversary concert is also a fundraising event for the benefit of CBN Asia Family of Ministries, Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines, and the Asian Center for Missions.

“It is my hope that all supporters of CBN Asia and everyone who has been touched by this ministry will join us in worshiping the Lord as we reflect on His goodness to all of us over the past 30 years,” CBN Asia’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Valdes Tan said.

Come and be part of history. Get your tickets now as you donate through cbnasia.org/beyondmeasure and experience worship beyond measure! For inquiries, call 8-737-0700 or contact 0908-887-5602.

Source: CBN Asia

AXEAN Festival 2024 releases full lineup

The Jansen, The Panturas, Navicula and more join the regional showcase festival’s well-curated roster

More photos here

AXEAN Festival has officially revealed its complete lineup for this year’s edition!

After establishing its foothold in the international festival circuit with a consistent track record and a compelling success narrative, AXEAN Festival 2024 continues to hit the high mark with a diverse roster of music acts from Southeast Asia and beyond.

New addition to the lineup

Joining the previously announced batch of performers are some of the biggest artists in Indonesia: The Jansen, a lo-fi indie punk duo known for blending poetic lyrics with brash, unapologetic music; The Panturas, a surf rock band formed in 2016; and Navicula, one of the most prominent rock acts in Bali.

“The reason why we wanted to invite them, and also other popular local artists wherever we host our event, is because these talented artists may be big in their home markets but could be unknown to the rest of the world,” AXEAN Festival co-founder and team leader Piyapong Muenprasertdee explains. “We believe that local talents can reach an international audience if they are put in front of the people who can bring them to the global market. And having local heroes spearhead this attempt, other smaller local artists can have the courage and confidence to follow suit, resulting in more attention from the world to our region's music, pushing for that tipping point to put Southeast Asia on the global music map.”

Other newly added artists in the lineup include Assia Keva, Rafi Sudirman, Skandal, and Spella Ruby from Indonesia; Golden Mammoth, Lust and Zee Avi & The Good Thingsfrom Malaysia; Mix Fenix from the Philippines; BLACKARMATUS x DJ XULALIT from Thailand; and Dattie Do from Vietnam.

       Jimbaran Hub, the venue for this year’s AXEAN Festival 2024

Introducing TAICCA’s Taiwan Beats Showcase

Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA) also returns as one of the festival’s major partners and continues its involvement in supporting artist development initiatives through its Taiwan Beats Showcase at the AXEAN Festival 2024.

This year’s showcase will spotlight three outstanding Taiwanese talents: The Chairs, a Golden Melody Awards (GMA) winning band; I’mdifficult, an experimental pop band known for their 'sophisti-pop’ sound; and the vibrant Jurassic-Pop duo, The Dinosaur’s Skin. Presenting the dynamic and eclectic music scene from Taiwan, TAICCA will host a networking event, connecting Taiwanese talents with key figures in the music industry.

TuneCore participating in the fourth-year running

TuneCore, the leading independent development partner for self-releasing artists—owned by Paris-based Believe, one of the world’s leading digital music companies—returns to AXEAN Festival for the fourth consecutive year as a stage sponsor. This year, TuneCore presents "TuneCore Village," a dedicated stage showcasing independent artists from across the region. A total of 18 artists from the Believe Group will be featured in this year’s lineup, with 6 artists represented by TuneCore and 12 by its parent company, Believe.

Cyrus Chen, Head of TuneCore SEA, emphasizes TuneCore’s commitment to providing resources and opportunities for regional artists to connect with global audiences. “Southeast Asia has such a rich and diverse music culture, and we are committed to helping indie artists thrive and be heard globally. Festivals like AXEAN help pave the way for the next generation of musicians."

More about AXEAN Festival 2024

Happening at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, from September 28-29, 2024, the first intra-regional showcase festival in Southeast Asia promises to be a “celebration across borders” where music, culture, and arts come together to create an unforgettable experience for its patrons and new attendees.

Aside from the showcase performances featuring over 40 emerging and established acts, the festival also puts a spotlight on the music conference format with industry mixers and networking activities on the side. The acclaimed international showcase festival also recently introduced a private songwriting camp as part of its artist-centered programming. As explained earlier in the first press release, “The initiative aims to foster a spirit of creativity and inclusivity in a globalized setting while nurturing cross-cultural collaboration amongst the finest and most promising songwriters, producers, and artists in the ASEAN region and also from other regions of the world.”

Given how the SEA region is “rich with musical cultures and thriving local music scenes consisting of traditional and all imaginable modern music genres and sub-genres that are virtually invisible to the world,” Piyapong holds great expectations for AXEAN's potential to serve as a platform that empowers artists and music professionals to navigate this constantly evolving landscape and emerging trends. “To put it simply, I believe from the facts and numbers I have researched, our regional music industry is much smaller than our potential! Thus, we need to have the support of our artists, our music communities, our music businesses, and hopefully our governments and commercial sponsors to help export our artists and grow our presence on the global music stage!”

The AXEAN co-founder from Thailand adds, “Whether you already are a fan of one or more of our showcasing artists, or you’ve never heard of them before, we’d like to invite you to come and show support to your local and regional artists, give a warm welcome to the interregional artists who’ve traveled from faraway, and discover new music and artists! And of course, come enjoy and experience the beautiful island paradise - Bali!”

About AXEAN Festival

Birthed in 2020 as a virtual music showcase festival, AXEAN Festival—formerly named ASEAN Music Showcase Festival or AMS—launched into the “real world” in 2022 and grew to become an internationally recognized platform that features musical talents from Southeast Asia and beyond whilst providing a place for artists and music industry professionals from around the world to connect through genuine face-to-face networking opportunities.

The latest edition (AXEAN 2023) was held at Goodman Arts Centre, Singapore, between October 27-29, 2023 and was attended by:

·  50 artists, including 39 artists from all 10 countries of ASEAN and 11 international artists from France (1), Hong Kong (3), India (1), Japan (2), South Korea (1) and Taiwan (3) were featured on 2 outdoor and 2 indoor stages;

·  74 international talent buyers or “delegates” from 16 countries located in Southeast (38), East (14) and South (3) Asia; Australia (8); Europe (9) and North America (2)—plus over 14 Singapore-based delegates; and

·  More than 7,700 audiences estimated by automatic body counters installed at the venue’s entranceways over the course of 2 days.

About Believe

Believe is one of the world’s leading digital music companies. Believe’s mission is to develop independent artists and labels in the digital world by providing them the solutions they need to grow their audience at each stage of their career and development. Believe’s passionate team of digital music experts around the world leverages the Group’s global technology platform to advise artists and labels, distribute and promote their music. Its 1,919 employees in more than 50 countries aim to support independent artists and labels with a unique digital expertise, respect, fairness and transparency. Believe offers its various solutions through a portfolio of brands including Believe, TuneCore, Nuclear Blast, Naïve, Groove Attack, AllPoints, Ishtar and Byond. Believe is listed on compartment B of the regulated market of Euronext Paris (Ticker: BLV, ISIN: FR0014003FE9). www.believe.com

About TuneCore

TuneCore is the leading independent development partner for self-releasing artists to build audiences and careers – with technology and services across distribution, publishing administration, and a range of promotional services. TuneCore Music Distribution services help artists, labels, and managers sell their music through Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, TikTok, Tencent, and more than 150 download and streaming stores worldwide while retaining 100 percent of their rights for a low annual flat fee. TuneCore Music Publishing Administration assists songwriters by administering their compositions through licensing, registration, worldwide royalty collections, and placement opportunities in film, TV, commercials, video games, and more. The TuneCore Artist Services portal offers a suite of tools and services that enable artists to promote their craft, connect with fans, and get their music heard. TuneCore, part of Believe, is headquartered in Brooklyn, NY, with offices in Los Angeles and Nashville, and operates globally through local teams based in the UK, Germany, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, South Africa, India, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam and Singapore across 5 continents. www.tunecore.com

 Source: Nyou

The Ransom Collective's Muri to launch debut EP 11ème with shows in Manila and Bali

The violinist/singer-songwriter’s forthcoming release is a “concoction of feelings, stories, and languages”

Muri is gearing up for the release of her highly anticipated debut EP, 11ème on all digital music platforms worldwide this Friday, September 20, 2024.

The indie soul-pop release will explore themes of adjustments, desolation, and challenges that one has to go through when settling in a new city far away from the comforts of home. This record is special to Muri as it allowed her to “try new things, challenge her assumptions about songwriting, and inject elements of multiple worlds.”

“Writing this EP was a journey of learning to let go, dealing with change, and rebuilding one’s self,” explains the globetrotting singer-songwriter and violinist. “We all learn to rewrite our own stories, but first we need to grieve, accept, and trust ourselves.”

For her new EP, Muri assembled a team of France-based musicians and worked with them together in different locations, including Beajoulais and Paris. The multi-talented artist, who also happened to be The Ransom Collective’s violinist, also collaborated closely with indie producer Sacha Arnaud in helping her vision come to life.

She also recruited Remi Klein and Tamino Edener as part of the musician pool and recorded the final output at Audioscope in France. The result is a sonically arresting release infused with dreamy synths, spoken word, and snippets of multiple languages.

“I’m excited to just share a little bit of my world with everyone,” Muri shares. “It's a concoction of stories, feelings, and languages. And I want the music to simply be an exchange, a conversation. I want the music to serve as a medium for sharing the insights I've gained from the world and for listening to and understanding the narratives of others as they engage with it."

EP launch and AXEAN Festival 2024

Muri will launch her new record, 11ème at Sari-Sari Cocktails in Makati City on Sunday, September 22. Her band The Ransom Collective will also reunite for a special set, along with performances by some of her music peers, including Leanne & Naara, Kai del Rio, Jerms, and Billz. Muri, on the other hand, will debut the songs from the EP live with her backing band.

Muri will also take the center stage at the AXEAN Festival 2024 in Bali, Indonesia, on September 28-29, 2024. The globally renowned showcase festival has grown to become an internationally recognized platform that features musical talents from Southeast Asia and beyond, while also providing a place for artists and music industry professionals from around the world to connect through genuine face-to-face networking opportunities.

Follow Muri:

Instagram / Facebook / YouTube / TikTok / Twitter /

Source: Nyou

Bizarre Bar’s Top-Rated Cocktail Celebrates Filipino Childhood

At the heart of Makati’s vibrant Poblacion district, Bizarre Bar has once again elevated its reputation with a cocktail degustation experience that transcends mere drinks—it's a heartfelt tribute to Filipino culture. The evening’s highlight, the ‘Ampaw’ cocktail, captivated guests with its fusion of traditional Filipino flavors and modern mixology.

For Bizarre Bar’s Beverage Director, Ian Libang, this dedication is deeply personal. The ‘Ampaw’ cocktail, named in honor of his mother, reflects Libang’s commitment to his roots and the bar’s mission to showcase the rich culinary traditions of the Philippines. By incorporating his mother’s cherished recipe into the final cocktail of the evening, Libang honored his background and reinforced the bar’s dedication to preserving heritage flavors.

Libang shared a touching childhood memory that inspired the ‘Ampaw’ cocktail. He reminisced about how his mother would make toasted rice treats from the burnt rice at the bottom of the rice cooker. “Every summer, when rice would spoil quicker, my mom would collect the burnt rice at the bottom to preserve it. She deep-fried it, sprinkled it with sugar, and served it on a newspaper cone. This practice was actually passed down from her father, as she grew up on a farm, ” Libang explained. 

This nostalgic recipe became the inspiration for the final cocktail of the night, blending a clarified wild turkey bourbon with toasted rice sorbet for a distinctive tasting experience. A swig of ‘Ampaw’ reveals the familiar smoothness of a classic bourbon, followed by the unexpected yet delightful punch of burnt rice and tangy flavors from the cold sorbet, contrasting beautifully with the warm, clarified spirit.

The ‘Ampaw’ cocktail emerged as a standout conclusion to the evening, rounding off a night of expertly crafted cocktails and thoughtfully paired bar bites. It left a lasting impression on guests and solidified Bizarre Bar’s reputation for delivering culturally rich and unforgettable dining experiences. 

Libang noted that the ‘Ampaw’ delivered effectively as a celebratory toast like he intended. He added that the well-balanced cocktail was meant to surprise guests and cement a special experience with Bizarre, saying, “People come in expecting that the dessert is the final course of the night. With the unexpected Ampaw, the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, along with textures and temperatures cleanses the palate and etches Filipino heritage flavors in the memory of guests even after they leave Bizarre.”

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Assistant Secretary Dale De Vera, a guest and advocate of Filipino culture, praised the ‘Ampaw’ cocktail. “We are always grateful for businesses that spotlight Filipino culture and traditions. Bizarre Bar’s cocktail degustation, with its unique offerings and compelling storytelling, truly elevates the Filipino brand. The ‘Ampaw’ toast was a remarkable end to an unforgettable evening,” De Vera noted.

Bizarre Bar’s commitment to celebrating Filipino heritage through innovative cocktails like ‘Ampaw’ reflects a broader trend in the local dining scene. This approach highlights traditional flavors while giving them a modern twist. As more establishments embrace this trend, diners enjoy exceptional food and drinks alongside stories that connect them to Filipino culture.

Experience Filipino storytelling through mixology at Bizarre Bar in Makati’s Poblacion. Book a table today at http://www.thebizarrebar.com.

Source: Nyou

Halsey releases new single “Ego”

GRAMMY® nominated, genre-blending artist Halsey has released her latest single, “Ego”. Alongside the new single, Halsey also premiered the 90’s-inspired video for the song, which she directed and plays both lead roles.

Halsey unveiled the artwork and trailer for her forthcoming 5th studio album, The Great Impersonator, which will be released on October 25th. The Great Impersonator, described as a “confessional concept album” is an exploration of time and fate, and what type of artist Halsey would be if she existed in different decades.

As an extension of the concept, for the album artwork reveal, Halsey shared clues to fans to discover time capsule boxes hidden around the world. The first cover was located in London, with four additional decade themed covers found in New York, Toronto, Los Angeles, and Sydney. The additional covers are available for pre-order as vinyl variants.

Additionally, her cover of PAPER MAGAZINE, in celebration of the publication’s 40th anniversary was released last week.

“Ego” follows the releases of “Lonely is the Muse”, “Lucky” and "The End". Halsey is set to perform “Ego” at the MTV Video Music Awards on September 11th at 8 p.m. ET/PT from New York’s UBS Arena.

Halsey has amassed more than 50 billion global streams, over 75 million RIAA-Certified adjusted singles, with all 4 of her previous albums RIAA-Certified. She is one of the only artists ever to have four different songs hit 1 Billionstreams on Spotify, as well as have 2 RIAA-Certified-Diamond records.

 Source: Nyou

FOLLOW HALSEY

http://instagram.com/iamhalsey

http://twitter.com/halsey

https://www.facebook.com/halsey

Polarized Shades in Bacolod!

Bacolod, the City of Smiles 🙂 Buy my polarized sunglasses here: https://s.shopee.ph/6KlWAr0z6A and my cotton blouse here: https://s.shopee.ph/7Ke3MlHhKS 🌞 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam @blusaatbpbysasha @sorrentosunwear

Philippines, it's time from the Mariah Carey

If you haven’t seen yet, Mariah Carey marks start of Christmas season in PH thru a post. 😊

Let’s all have a merry Christmas season.

Check post here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/cbKz2ZER2TSPFprd/

 Source: Sony Music

GLOBAL SUPERSTAR JENNIE SIGNS TO COLUMBIA RECORDS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH HER LABEL ODDATELIER

NEW SOLO SINGLE COMING IN OCTOBER

Photo Credit: Songyi Yoon

(NEW YORK, NY September 8, 2024) History-making global superstar, entrepreneur, actress, and style icon JENNIE officially announces her signing as a solo artist to Columbia Records in partnership with her record label and entertainment company ODDATELIER. Under this newly minted partnership, she will unveil her new solo single in October.

In 2023, she broke records and reached rarified air when she teamed up with The Weeknd and Lily-Rose Depp on the smash “One of the Girls,” which has been streamed over one billion times to date on Spotify. As part of the track’s stratospheric success, she not only staked out a spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for 20 weeks but is “the first female Korean soloist to achieve a RIAA platinum song.”

It’s just the beginning of what promises to be her biggest, boldest, and best era yet.

FOLLOW JENNIE

Website | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube

ABOUT JENNIE:

Since bursting onto the scene in 2016, Jennie has impacted culture and made history via her music, acting, fashion, and entrepreneurship. The world initially met her during 2016 as one-fourth of powerhouse BLACKPINK, breaking countless records such as becoming “the only Korean band to headline Coachella,” “the highest-charting female Korean act on the US Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard 200” and their ‘Born Pink World Tour’ being the highest-grossing concert tour by a female group and Asian act in history.

Renowned for her inimitable style and elite fashion sense, she has graced the covers of countless publications (Vogue, Rolling Stone, Elle, and more) and collaborated with everyone from Chanel to Adidas to Beats to Gentle Monster. She is a frequent attendee of the Met Gala and Paris Fashion Week with the multiple brands she works with.

At the helm of her very own record label and entertainment company ODDATELIER, JENNIEhas commenced her next creative chapter.

Source: Sony Music

GLOBAL SUPERSTAR XIN LIU RELEASES NEW EP “O, Vol. 1”

Award-winning Chinese pop sensation and fashion icon unveils new body of work as the first volume in her artistic evolution

LISTEN TO THE EP “O, Vol. 1” BY XIN LIU

WATCH “UNWIND”  VISUALIZER HERE

Los Angeles, CA – September 6, 2024 – Chinese multifaceted singer, dancer, and music producer XIN LIU released her new EP, ‘O, Vol.1’ today on all digital streaming platforms. This body of work represents the first part of her expansive project “O,” capturing her journey from struggle to self-reflection and acceptance.

“O, Vol.1”  features five captivating tracks, including previously released singles - “Reality” & “Walls’ that she premiered live at Coachella during the "88RISING FUTURES" showcase in April 2024. The EP delves into a range of emotions and musical styles that XIN executes flawlessly. The first track, “Reality” represents a playful and refreshing take on love, blending a lighthearted electro-pop sound with a catchy hip-hop vibe that embraces the reality of relationships. The next track “Walls” serves as an empowering anthem of self-liberation. With its electronic and rhythmic elements to portray her journey of self-growth through every challenge she faces. The focus track, "Unwind," envelops listeners in a smooth R&B sound and offers a soothing and introspective experience, exploring the desire for emotional intimacy and finding comfort in vulnerability. "Never Forget" injects the EP with an upbeat pop energy while the Chinese ballad "看着月亮想你" (Under The Moon) adds nostalgic depth and an intimate touch.

As the first part of this comprehensive project, “O, Vol.1” sets the stage for Vol. 2, promising a continued evolution of XIN's artistic journey.

“O, Vol.1” Tracklist

1. Reality

2. Walls

3. Unwind

4. Never Forget

5. 看着月亮想你 (Under The Moon)

XIN, having skyrocketed to fame in China, is now set on making her mark in the global music scene. After winning first place on the second season of the Chinese reality survival show “Youth With You 2”, she quickly solidified her status as one of China’s most influential artists. Her last EP, “Xanadu” shattered sales records, selling over 54 million copies worldwide and becoming the best-selling Chinese physical album. She brought the album to life through her sold-out arena tour in 2023. Beyond music, she is recognized for her dynamic presence as a dancer and was the first female captain in the history of the Chinese dance competition show “Street Dance Of China”, guiding her team with expertise. She is also a fashion icon, having graced the covers of Harper’s Bazaar, VOGUE, Cosmopolitan, and GQ, and served as Dior’s brand ambassador in China. Her versatility is evident through all her projects, and she continues to bridge cultural divides as a global artist. With over 25 million followers on social media and millions of streams on all major digital streaming platforms, XIN is not just an artist; she’s an international sensation that is just getting started.

ASSETS

PRESS PHOTOS (Photo credit: Courtesy of Xin Liu)

###

ABOUT XIN LIU

XIN LIU is not only one of the biggest artists to emerge from China in recent years, but she’s also one of the most intriguing. She has made a name for herself not only as a singer but also as a dancer, producer, and fashion icon. Her hook-laden, genre-splicing pop is eminently danceable, yet impressively wide-ranging—she can deliver emotive ballads with the same ease as gritty, trap-infused bangers. Her talents, along with her instantly recognizable style, have landed her on the covers of Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, and GQ, as well as a coveted spot as the Dior brand ambassador in China.

Add to this her compelling live shows, and it’s clear why XIN has amassed a legion of fans—over 25 million followers on social media and more than 2.05 million on streaming platforms—and she’s just getting started. Hailing from Guiyang, China, XIN LIU has carved out her path by breaking the traditional mold of Chinese female artists. She first rose to fame in 2020 after winning the Chinese reality show “Youth With You 2,” and her 2021 debut album broke platform sales records in China, selling over 7 million copies.

Follow XIN LIU

INSTAGRAM | WEIBO | YOUTUBE

Source: Blackstar

Orange & Lemons to celebrate 25-year milestone with a major concert

award-winning Filipino band will be performing a three-hour set featuring timeless and obscure songs from their critically-acclaimed, four-album catalog

Filipino pop-rock band Orange & Lemons are staging a one-night concert to commemorate their 25 years of unforgettable musical journey.

The hitmakers behind the generation-defining anthems “Hanggang Kailan,” “Heaven Knows (This Angel Has Flown)” and “Just A Splendid Love Song” will perform the greatest hits of their career in a three-hour concert happening at the Metrotent Convention Center in Pasig City on October 18, 2024, from 7 p.m. onwards.

Dubbed “Now & Then: Orange & Lemons 25^th Anniversary Concert,” the special show serves as an important milestone for the four-piece band as they continue to grace the local music industry with captivating releases and memorable performances, albeit going through lineup changes through the years.

“Reaching this quarter-century milestone feels like a dream come true, and it’s a testament to the incredible community that surrounds us,” shares Clem Castro, the lead vocalist and guitarist of seminal alternative rock outfit, Orange & Lemons. “We normally play short sets on the big stage all over the country, leaving out most of our catalog in favor of more popular ones. For this concert, we want to bring to the big stage and perform live, if not all, a majority of songs from our past 4 albums. The albums that defined different eras of our career in the music industry from the beginnings—the shot to commercial success, the psychedelic, and the cultural eras.  Expect us to perform and tell our story for over 3 hours!”

As an established indie act who continuously pushes their boundaries from a genuine artistic standpoint, O&L promises to deliver a true concert experience like no other. The Bulacan-based alternative rock outfit considers the full-length concert as a special gift to their legion of supporters, who have been with them through highs and lows, from their beginnings as struggling artists to their well-received reformation.

O&L explains this profound love and respect for their fans in a collective press statement: “The music industry has seen a lot of changes, and being flexible and open to evolving with the times has helped us stay relevant. Our fans have been a cornerstone of our journey. Their support, enthusiasm, and feedback have inspired us to keep pushing boundaries and to stay true to ourselves. We’re always looking to grow and improve, whether it’s through honing our craft, exploring new musical avenues, or learning from our experiences. Building a genuine connection with our audience and staying true to our artistic vision has been key to our lasting presence. It also helped a lot to learn that we have to wear different hats, a business and a creative one that keeps us on check and balanced, staying focused on the bigger picture and not letting obstacles derail our journey. We intend to last as long as we can.”

"NOW AND THEN" 25th Anniversary Concert is produced by Orange & Lemons and Lilystars Records, in cooperation with GNN Entertainment Productions. Tickets are available at https://orangeandlemons.helixpay.ph with the following tiers:

General Admission (PHP 2,000) - access to the concert

VIP (PHP 2,500) – access to the VIP section and access to the Meet and Greet

SVIP (PHP 3,500): access to the VIP section, access to the soundcheck and the Meet and Greet, and limited-edition merchandise

 Source: Nyou

Paolo Sandejas takes alt-pop sound to exciting new places with “all the time”

The rising OPM star pens another lilting charmer suited for late-night drives and bedroom introspection

Filipino singer-songwriter Paolo Sandejas continues to carve his own lane with the release of his new single “all the time,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

Stepping up his craft with a more subdued but sophisticated sonic direction, Sandejas delivers another guitar-pop gem that throws listeners into a whirlwind of adolescent love and drama.

In a press statement, the Sunday Star act reveals that the lilting summer tune is all about “getting caught in your thoughts about someone” and wondering if they ever feel the same way.

“I was in a writing flow the day I penned the track and let it pretty much write itself,” the charming indie pop artist shares. “All the lyrics fit so naturally into the arrangement I made, and it was one of the quickest songs I’ve ever finished.”

 Written and produced by Paolo Sandejas with constant collaborator Xergio Ramos, “all the time” thrives in its carefree simplicity. Similar to his previously released track “Sirens,” Ramos refined Sandejas’ initial demo and worked closely with him during the entire production process. The result is a lovely little bop suited for a late-night drive.

 While it complements Sandejas' boy-next-door appeal and sincere demeanor, the indie pop charmer comes with the intention of making a song that's easy to sing along to with an engaged crowd live.

 “all the time” will be part of Paolo Sandejas’ highly anticipated full-length debut album to be released this year. Combining unapologetic lyrics with silky-smooth guitar arrangements and captivating melodic lines, the new album reflects Sandejas’ incredible musicianship that makes him a total standout from the pack.

Paolo Sandejas’ “all the time” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Follow him on socials: 

Facebook / x / Instagram / TikTok / YouTube

Source: Nyou