The Dawn offers a reflective take on the holiday season with “Maki-Pasko”

The Yuletide-inspired tune serves as their first release with Sony Music Entertainment

Iconic Filipino rock band The Dawn has thrown their hat into the ring for the next big holiday classic.

The Enveloped Ideas act makes a little space for love with “Maki-Pasko,” their debut Christmas single under Sony Music Entertainment. Known for their timeless rock anthems, the band takes a fresh and introspective approach to the season with a track that blends holiday warmth with personal reflection.

According to Jett Pangan, lead vocalist of The Dawn, “Maki-Pasko” was inspired by the feeling of longing that often accompanies the holidays, particularly for those who find themselves separated from loved ones. “I’ve experienced holidays away from my family, so I drew from that personal experience when writing the lyrics,” Panganexplains. “The song speaks to those moments of solitude and the desire to be with someone during the festive season.”

“Maki-Pasko” marks the band’s foray into writing a Yuletide-themed song—a concept they discussed for years but only decided to pursue after their initial meeting with Sony Music Entertainment. The collaboration with their new record label pushed the band to explore the challenges and creative nuances of producing a holiday tune, and refine the process along the way. 

Francis Reyes, guitarist of The Dawn, reflects on co-writing the song, especially on its initial stages: “I was messing around on guitar at home, in a reflective mood. It started with that feeling, and a couple of chords and a riff that, in my mind, reflected a bit of sadness but also sounded hopeful. Personally, I think of it like any other song we’ve written that can be played in any other season. We were probably hesitant to write a Christmas song for so long because we were overthinking what it should sound like.”

Produced by guitarist Rommel “Sancho” Sanchez and bassist Bim Yance, “Maki-Pasko” conveys the essence of the holiday season without falling into the typical tropes of festive music. The song incorporates subtle touches of sleigh bells and tambourines, gently invoking the seasonal vibe, but its deeper emotional resonance comes from its universal themes of longing, hope, and togetherness.

“We didn’t want it to be just another ‘holiday song’—we wanted it to be a good song that happens to be about Christmas,” adds drummer Junboy Leonor. “Ultimately, it’s about the feelings that the season brings, without being tied to a particular moment or celebration.” 

The Dawn’s “Maki-Pasko” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

Clara Benin releases deluxe edition of befriending my tears with new tracks, remixes, and live recordings

Listen to the new track “all I do is cry,” co-produced by Clara Benin and The Ringmaster

Filipino singer-songwriter Clara Benin has dropped the deluxe edition of her critically acclaimed album, befriending my tears, now available worldwide under Sony Music Entertainment. The expanded version, titled befriending my tears (and then some), adds ten new tracks, including two fresh originals, five remixes, two live recordings, and a fan-favorite early demo, offering a deeper dive into Benin’s introspective musical journey.

Reflecting on the process, Benin shares, “This deluxe version gave me the opportunity to explore the more nuanced aspects of music production—whether it’s about satisfying my curiosity with different sonic textures, reworking instrumental arrangements, or experimenting with vocal harmonies. I wanted to create something immersive, something that resonates both on record and in a live setting.”

In addition to revisiting the themes of vulnerability and self-discovery explored in the original album, the deluxe edition features two brand-new tracks that continue the emotional narrative: “hiding in the bathroom” and “all I do is cry.” These new songs mark a more intimate exploration of self-acceptance and emotional honesty, while adding new perspectives to her brand of storytelling.

“The process of making befriending my tears helped me understand myself more,” Benin explains. “With these new songs, I wanted to lean into that same honesty—embracing vulnerability and learning how to sit with discomfort. It’s about letting go of any shame around our feelings, no matter how messy they might be.”

The new track, “all I do is cry,” co-produced with The Ringmaster, confronts Benin’s emotional depth and sensitivity. The song reflects her ability to embrace both the highs and lows of her feelings, finding catharsis in the act of crying as part of the process of growth and healing.

“I’ve always been deeply sensitive to my emotions, and crying has been one way I process everything,” she admits. “The older I get, the more I feel the contrast between contentment and grief. This song is a reflection of that duality—how love and loss can coexist, and how tears are sometimes necessary for personal evolution.”

In addition to the new material, befriending my tears (and then some) also features remixes from some of the most innovative producers in the local indie and electronic music scenes, including crwn, Kenyama, Kvtvlv, Tim Marquez, and The Ringmaster. The deluxe edition also includes live versions of fan favorites “small town” and “momentary,” recorded during her sold-out performance at the Music Museum last year.

For Benin, the deluxe album is more than just an extension of the original work—it’s a reflection of her ongoing quest to find beauty in life’s struggles, particularly the healing power of embracing her emotions—both the good and the bad. “I hope these songs encourage listeners to embrace their own journey, that whatever they're going through, there is always hope waiting for them on the other side. I hope they feel seen, understood, and reminded through these songs, that healing and growth are possible, even in the hardest moments.”

Clara Benin’s befriending my tears (and then some) is now available on all major digital music platforms via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

We Are Imaginary marks new era as an indie rock duo with new single “Pinkish Hue”

The hypnotic track chronicles the slow deterioration of a love that was once vibrant and promising

After celebrating their fifteenth anniversary with the release of their fourth studio album, Swan Songs for Drifters last year, We Are Imaginary continues to evolve as a dynamic indie rock duo. Comprised of founding members and brothers Ahmad Tanji (vocals and guitars) and Khalid Tanji (guitars), the band remains steadfast in its commitment to crafting compelling, emotive music.

Reinvigorated by a streamlined two-member lineup and bolstered by a fresh group of collaborators, We Are Imaginary returns with “Pinkish Hue,” the first single marking a new chapter in their musical journey. 

This hypnotic guitar-pop track blends shoegaze and ’90s alt-rock influences, imbuing their sound with dramatic flair. “Pinkish Hue” explores the slow erosion of a love once vibrant and full of promise, now fading—along with the memories it once held. 

“I wrote the entire track,” Ahmad explains. “It’s actually one of the leftovers from my previous project. When Khalid showed me an unfinished sketch with the same chord progression, it inspired me to present the song to the band. They immediately loved it.”

As a gifted singer-songwriter with an affinity for poetic melancholia, Ahmad paints the slow deterioration of romance with a bittersweet tone of a sunset: beautiful, yet fully aware that its end is inevitable. “You’re so far away,” he sings with resigned contemplation, while the thick, shimmering textures envelop the track, underscoring the sense of finality and longing.

The song’s vibrant, layered sound owes much to a team of all-star collaborators who brought the track to life. Producer and mixer Joey Santos and recording engineer Angee Rozul steered the song’s sonic direction, while drummer Jerros Dolinocontributed dynamics, enriching the song’s moody, theatrical atmosphere. 

“Trust was there, fueled by lots of caffeine and mutual respect,” Ahmad shares, when asked about being able to pull in some of the most notable names behind the scenes to work on their highly anticipated comeback. “They all were very much involved and open to whatever crazy ideas we have. It was just a smooth collaboration from the beginning.”

According to Ahmad, “Pinkish Hue” is part of a larger sonic vision the band is currently developing, and it will feature on their upcoming fifth album, slated for release in both digital and vinyl formats next year.

We Are Imaginary’s “Pinkish Hue” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via new indie label floppydisks.

 Source: Nyou

IMP. Releases New Song “Michishirube”, Featured as Ending Theme for TV Tokyo Drama “Qros No Onna”

🎞️✮⋆˙ Watch the official music video HERE
🎧 Listen to MICHISHIRUBE HERE

Download press image here (Credit: ©TOBE Co., Ltd.)

Japanese boy band IMP. has unveiled their latest single, "Michishirube," a thrilling track that serves as the ending theme for the TV Tokyo drama series Qros No Onna. Produced by the powerhouse team of Nijiiro Samurai Zuma, Matt Cab, and Tamami, the song's dynamic sounds perfectly mirror the drama's intense narrative. With lyrics that delve into the uncertainties and determination of the characters navigating the weekly magazine industry, "Michishirube" captures the spirit of forging ahead despite challenges.

“Michishirube” Music Video Now Streaming
The music video for "Michishirube" is now available on IMP.'s official YouTube channel, offering fans a visually captivating experience. The MV combines powerful imagery with intense emotion, featuring the members surrounded by mysterious hands. Suspenseful shutter sounds and flashing lights heighten the cinematic tension, reflecting the drama's gripping atmosphere. Fans can explore the layers of storytelling embedded in this striking visual presentation.

Upcoming Double A-Side Single: “BAM-BOO/Michishirube”
The new track will also feature on IMP.’s upcoming third double A-side single, "BAM-BOO/Michishirube," set for release on Monday, December 16, 2024. This highly anticipated physical release will be available in three editions. Limited Edition A and Limited Edition B will contain 3 songs each, while the Regular Edition will include 4 songs. The Blu-ray will feature the Music Video, Music Video Behind The Scenes, and CD Jacket/Booklet Behind The Scenes.
 
Fans purchasing all three editions will receive a special original illustration sticker as a bonus.

Download artwork here
 
LISTEN TO MICHISHIRUBE HERE
WATCH MICHISHIRUBE MUSIC VIDEO HERE

About IMP.

IMP., a seven-member male group, burst onto the music scene with their digital single "CRUISIN'" on August 18, 2023. Since then, they’ve achieved remarkable success, including reaching #2 on Billboard JAPAN’s JAPAN Hot 100 with their debut single and #2 on the Hot Albums chart with their first album DEPARTURE in May 2024.

IMP. held their first solo arena concert "DEPARTURE" at Tokyo's Ariake Arena in June 2024. The group has also performed at major events like China’s Strawberry Music Festival and Bangkok’s MIXEDPOP BANGKOK2024, solidifying their presence in the global music scene. Their song "BAM-BOO" was recently selected as the theme song for Xgames Chiba2024, where they also performed live.

IMP.’s connection to Qros No Onna is further strengthened by leader Takuya Kageyama’s role in the series, adding a unique layer of authenticity to their latest release.

Stay tuned for more updates on their official YouTube channel, updated every Monday and Wednesday at 20:00 JST.

Source: Blackstar

Explore the fantastic world of Filipino folklore at REP’s Jepoy and the Magic Circle

This new RTYA prod will be REP’s debut show at its new home in Eastwood!

Meet a friendly and enchanting troupe of tikbalang, kapre, and engkanto as they fight for their home and discover the fantastic world of Filipino folklore as Repertory Theater for Young Audiences (RTYA) presents Jepoy and the Magic Circle starting October 5. This production is the first-ever Repertory Philippines (REP) show to be staged at its new home, REP Eastwood Theater at Eastwood City Walk, Eastwood City in Quezon City.

Directed by the esteemed Joy Virata, the interactive fantasy musical for children of all ages is based on the Palanca Award-winning short story The Magic Circle by cultural icon and literarylegend Gilda Cordero Fernando. The English adaptation is written by the award-winning playwright and director Rody Vera, marking his first collaboration with REP. Ejay Yatco is behind the Music and Lyrics and serves as the musical director.

Jepoy and the Magic Circle tells the story of Jepoy, a young boy who lives with his mother, Aling Barang, and their dog, Galis, at the edge of a vast forest. What begins as an ordinary laundry day quickly turns into an extraordinary adventure when Galis snatches a dress and runs into the woods. As Jepoy follows, he stumbles into a magical realm brimming with legendary Filipino characters and creatures who are fighting for the preservation of their home.  

“Jepoy and the Magic Circle introduces children to Filipino magical creatures and animals through vibrant costumes, songs, dances, and puppetry,” says Virata. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to gain an appreciation of their Filipino culture and heritage and understand the importance of taking good care of the environment, and of course, experience quality children’s theater.”

Sharing the role of Jepoy are Noel Comia Jr., a three-time AliwAward winner and the youngest-ever Cinemalaya Best Actor; Elian Dominguez; a Philippine LEAF Award nominee who honed his talent in university theater; and Yhuan Gatbunton, a singer-songwriter, music producer, and actor who has appeared in various TV, commercial, and theater projects. Joining them are Gawad Buhay awardee Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante as Aling Barang, with Abi Sulit and Ring Antonio alternating in the role. Different versions of the mischievous dog Galis are brought to life by versatile actors Francis Gatmaytan and Cara Barredo.

The Kapre, a central figure in the story, is depicted by the experienced Hans Eckstein, Julienne Mendoza, and Joey Vargas; while Paqui is portrayed by Joshua Cabiladas, Stephen Viñas, Luis Marcelo, and Franco Ramos. The enigmatic Doña Geronima is played by the renowned Pinky Marquez, along with Sulit and Antonio. Playing Pedro are Lance Soliman and Sean Nolasco, while Silveria is brought to life by Monica Tulio and Ayla Garcia. Bradshaw-Volante and Paula Paguio alternate as Maria Sinukuan, Barredo and Barbara Jance are Maria Makiling, and Jay Barrameda and Mica Fajardo are Maria Cacao.

The ensemble includes a diverse and talented group of performers. Completing the cast are Chesko Rodriguez, Broey Divinagracia, Ado Villanueva, JV Fulgencio, Jae Valencia, Deo Dela Cruz, VJ Cortel, Kenny Isidoro, Jay Pangilinan, Chan Rabutazo, Dindo Divinagracia, Gabo Tiongson, Pablo Palacpac, Sebastian Katigbak, Ian Hermogenes, Bea Remollo, Jana Cabiladas, Katie Bradshaw, Alyanna Wijangco, Nyla Festejo, Jacqui Jacinto, Cheska Quimno, Meg Salud, Francesca Mata, Daniella Albano and Ayam Eckstein.

The creative team is equally impressive, with Barredo assisting in the direction and Viñas handling the choreography with Gatmaytanas associate choreographer. The magical world is brought to life by Mio Infante for set design, Raven Ong for costume design with Hershee Tantiado as associate costume designer, Kayla Teodorofor puppet design, GA Fallarme for projection design and John Batalla for lighting design.

REP President & CEO Mindy Perez-Rubio expresses how Jepoyand the Magic Circle marks an exciting new chapter for the theater company as the first production to be staged in Eastwood.

“The REP Eastwood Theater at City Walk, Eastwood marks a significant milestone for REP. We can’t wait to welcome a new generation of theater enthusiasts and further contribute to the thriving theater scene in the Philippines,” says Perez-Rubio. “We’re proud to celebrate a new dawn for REP with a production that puts our Filipino culture and heritage front and center, as we look forward to enriching more lives through the power and magic of theater.”

Jepoy and the Magic Circle runs until February 2025.

For show-buying and ticket inquiries, contact REP at 0966-905-4013 or 0962-691-8540 send us an email at promotions@repphil.org or sales@repphil.org.

For updates and show schedules, visit www.repertoryphilippines.ph, or like and follow repertoryphilippines on Facebook and Instagram.

 Source: Buensalido Public Relations

Higher Brothers’ Member KnowKnow releases first melodic EP “Mr. Enjoy Da Melody” in collaboration with 88rising is now available worldwide

Listen to the EP HERE

Following the success of the singles Velvet and No Pressure, KnowKnow's EP with 88rising, Mr. Enjoy Da Melody, is out now! This release radiates charm and energy, seamlessly weaving together five distinct tracks into a vibrant musical journey centered on melody.

The EP's focus track, No Halo, stands out with its irresistible allure. Velvet wraps listeners in warmth and intimacy, while Play It Coolcaptures the bittersweet tension of unspoken love. Don’t Matterdelves deep into heartbreak, and No Pressure exudes a carefree, uplifting vibe. To top it off, the bonus Chinese version of No Halooffers a captivating twist, making this EP a must-listen.

Download Cover Art HERE

ABOUT KNOWKNOW:
Recognized by The New York Times as the vocal anchor of the breakthrough Chinese hip-hop group Higher Brothers, KnowKnowis a well-known figure in the music industry. Born in 1996, this talented melody-maker has already released two official solo albums and stirred waves globally with singles like "R&B All Night," "Lover Boy 88," "Midsummer Madness," and "Made in China," accumulating over 450 million streams worldwide.

From the release of the first official Higher Brothers album *Black Cab* in 2017, which saw sold-out tours both in China and internationally, to being featured on Forbes China's "30 Under 30" list in 2018 alongside his group members, KnowKnow has consistently made headlines. The group's second album *Five Stars*, released in 2019, featured collaborations with hip-hop greats like Schoolboy Q, Denzel Curry, Soulja Boy, and J.I.D. In 2019, KnowKnow collaborated with Snoop Dogg to release the track "Friends and Foes," becoming the first Chinese rapper to create a theme song for a US television show alongside a Western rapper.

The group's hit single "Gongxi Facai" has over 400,000 TikTok videos and more than 4 billion global views. In 2018, KnowKnowteamed up with Joji, Rich Brian, and August 08 on the 88rising summer album's lead single "Midsummer Madness," becoming the only Chinese rapper to receive RIAA Gold certification for the song, which also topped Spotify's "Global Top 50" chart. His 2019 romantic hit "R&B All Night" sparked a nationwide cover challenge, amassing over 200,000 TikTok interactions and over 200 million streams, topping major streaming platforms.

KnowKnow’s debut solo album *Mr. Enjoy Da Money* showcases his multifaceted talents, blending top-tier Chinese hip-hop with irreplaceable Know-style hits. The album features strong collaborations with fellow Higher Brothers member MaSiWei and pop artist Jackson Wang. In 2020, KnowKnow took on the role of mentor for the first time on Bilibili's S+ level variety show *Rap for Youth*, joining the stage with Huang Zitao, Rich Brian, MaSiWei, Li Yuchun, and MC Hotdog, breaking records with over 1 billion views per episode. There’s no doubt that with his unique musical style, impactful lyrics, and boundless creativity, KnowKnow is leading the new generation of Chinese hip-hop.

ABOUT 88RISING:

88rising is a pioneering global music and media company representing the best of Asian talent. Since its inception, 88rising has paved the way for many music industry firsts: the first to have an Asian artist top the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop charts, Spotify’s Weekly Global Albums chart and enter the top 10 on Mediabase’s Top 40 chart, the first to launch an all-Asian radio channel in North America, and the first and only record label to have a main stage slot at Coachella. 88rising is also most notably the first company to launch an Asian-centric music festival in the United States, Head in the Clouds Music & Arts Festival, in partnership with powerhouse promoter Goldenvoice. The flagship festival expanded globally, for the first time, to Jakarta Indonesia and Manila Philippines in 2022. 88rising continues its film endeavors with Jamojaya which premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival,  and stars multi-hyphenate Rich Brian and is executive produced by 88rising founder & CEO Sean Miyashiro. Previously, in 2019, 88rising was awarded Label of the Year by NetEase, one of the largest music streaming platforms in China. With over 160 million followers across global social media platforms and over 50 billion total streams and views, 88rising’s global influence is undeniable.

More of KnowKnow on :

Instagram | Weibo | YouTube

Source: Blackstar

Filipino singer-songwriter syd hartha encourages listeners to pause and savor life on new song “damdamin!”

The young recording star teams up with acclaimed producer Brian Lotho on another future fan favorite

Filipino singer-songwriter syd hartha makes her highly anticipated return with the release of her new single, “damdamin!,” available today via Sony Music Entertainment.

The evocative track showcases the Awit Award-winning artist’s growth as she embraces the present moment, reconnecting with her sense of self while learning to reciprocate love and affirm her right to happiness.

“Having experienced disappointment and heartbreak in both relationships and life, I used to be weighed down by the anxiety of losing someone or something important to me,” syd reflects. “Letting that fear take over only held me back from experiencing true happiness. Over time, I’ve realized that I can’t predict how long people or situations will stay in my life. Embracing this uncertainty has helped me view every experience as meaningful—something that’s meant to happen for me. I’ve learned that, despite the unknowns, I deserve joy, and I have the right to fully embrace it when it comes.”

“damdamin!” marks a pivotal moment in syd’s ongoing journey of self-discovery. The song, unapologetically about love and its transformative power, speaks to her evolving understanding of how to live in the present. On this track, she sheds the autopilot mindset that once held her back, allowing herself to feel deeply, to confront her emotions with honesty, and to let go of what cannot be changed. In doing so, she embraces the moment without hesitation or inhibition.

As syd explains, the lilting, guitar-driven pop track is a call to pause and savor life, especially the good music and great moments it has to offer.

“Life moves so fast, and it’s easy to let meaningful moments pass us by without fully appreciating them,” she says. “Everything is temporary. Tell the people you love that you love them. Take care of what you have. And when good things come to you, know that they’re a reflection of what you truly deserve.”

For syd, “damdamin!” represents a departure from her usual process of channeling pain and healing into her music. The song began with words taken straight from her personal journal entries, which she then turned into a musical story, crafting chords and melodies to complement its message.

“Writing damdamin! felt deeply fulfilling,” she says. “It started from such a personal place and turned into something that I could share with others. It was a process of growth, and I feel like the song reflects where I am now—at peace with myself, happy in my relationship, and learning to let love and gratitude guide me forward.”

The single also marks a shift in syd’s musical direction. Co-produced by her frequent collaborator Brian Lotho, “damdamin!” features a lighter, more minimalist arrangement than her previous work, with fewer elements to let the song’s core message shine through.

“I was persistent in wanting to keep a distinct Filipino sound in the track,” she adds. “It was important for me to preserve that touch, while still creating something fresh and authentic.”

syd hartha’s “damdamin!” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the official music video of “damdamin!” here.

Source: Nyou

HipHop/R&B-inspired girl group XG will make their Coachella debut in 2025 as the only Japanese act in the lineup!

One of the biggest music festivals in the U.S., the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival 2025, has announced its lineup, and girl group XG is set to make their debut at the event.

Held in the Coachella Valley desert in Indio, California, the festival will take place over two weekends: April 11–13 and April 18–20. XG will perform on both April 13 and 20, standing out as the only Japanese artists in the lineup.

This year’s headliners include Travis Scott, Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post Malone, Missy Elliott, Charli XCX, and Megan Thee Stallion. XG is listed on the second tier of the lineup—just below the headliners—a first for Japanese female artists, highlighting the buzz around their appearance.

XG, made up of seven members—JURIN, CHISA, HINATA, HARVEY, JURIA, MAYA, and COCONA—debuted in March 2022 with their single Tippy Toes. Since then, they’ve made waves globally, becoming the first Japanese artists to top the Billboard Hot Trending Songs Powered by Twitter chart and appearing on the cover of Billboard magazine as the first Japanese girl group to do so. They’ve also performed at major festivals like Head In The Clouds.

In 2024, XG launched their first world tour, "XG 1st WORLD TOUR: The first HOWL", performing in roughly 30 cities worldwide. The tour has drawn 120,000 fans across Asia and 50,000 in North America. Currently, they’re performing in six European cities, including Manchester, London, Berlin, Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam.

On November 8, XG released their second mini-album, "AWE", which debuted at No. 3 on both the Oricon Weekly Album Ranking and Billboard Japan’s Hot Albums chart. Globally, it reached No. 12 on the Apple Music Worldwide Album Chart and charted in 48 countries and regions on Apple Music's Top 200 Albums. The lead track, HOWLING, trended on YouTube in 10 countries and landed at No. 8 on the U.S. Billboard Rap Digital Song Sales chart, cementing their reputation as a rising global phenomenon.

STREAM THE ALBUM AWE HERE

XG 

2nd Mini Album AWE

Tracklist:

1. HOWL

2. HOWLING

3. SPACE MEETING Skit

4. IYKYK

5. SOMETHING AIN'T RIGHT

6. IN THE RAIN

7. WOKE UP REMIXX (FEAT. Jay Park, OZworld, AKLO, Paloalto, VERBAL, Awich, Tak, Dok2) 

8. IS THIS LOVE

Through their first mini-album NEW DNA, XG introduced themselves to the world as a new presence—an "X-GENE"—marking the beginning of their unique universe.

Now, they aim to connect even more deeply with the world through the universal language of music. When something new emerges, it often stirs both fear and curiosity in people, leading to a psychological process of "awe" as they come to embrace it.

XG's second mini-album seeks to evoke this sense of awe while offering a special experience—one where their music becomes a meaningful part of everyday life.

###

About XG

XG is a seven-member HIPHOP/R&B girl group consisting of JURIN, CHISA, HINATA, HARVEY, JURIA, MAYA, and COCONA. Debuting in March 2022 with their single “Tippy Toes”, XG is part of the global entertainment production "XGALX", an organisation committed to fostering bold culture and nurturing artists with unique worldviews.

In September 2023, XG released their first mini album, NEW DNA, which soared to the top of the Billboard Japan "Hot Albums" chart. The same year, they held their first solo live showcase, "XG 'NEW DNA' SHOWCASE in JAPAN", at PIA Arena MM. With an emphasis on global reach, XG has performed at major music festivals across the Unites States, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, the UAE, and more. They’ve made history as the first Japanese act to top Billboard’s "Hot Trending Songs Powered by Twitter" chart and became the first Japanese girl group to feature on the cover of Billboard magazine, achieving multiple groundbreaking milestones internationally.

In 2024, XG embarked on their first world tour, XG 1st WORLD TOUR 'The First HOWL', captivating audiences worldwide. The name "XG" stands for "Xtraordinary Girls", and through their dynamic music and performances, XG aims to inspire and empower fans from diverse backgrounds around the globe.

Follow XG

Official Website | XG OFFICIAL FANCLUB 'ALPHAZ' | IG | YT | TikTok | Weverse | X | FB | XGALX

Source: Blackstar

Stream live sports, Korean dramas, and more for Free at Jungo Pinoy

AWSN, Hallypop, telenovelas, and an expanded library of Filipino movies are free to watch at jungopinoy.com and on your phone when you download the app

Jungo Pinoy is giving Filipinos one of the best gifts we can get for the holidays – exciting entertainment you can stream for free!

Created by Los Angeles-based media company Jungo TV who believes that top-quality entertainment should be accessible to everyone, Jungo Pinoy is making that vision into a reality by opening its full library of quality content for Pinoys to freely access on jungopinoy.com. Viewers can also stream anytime, anywhere on their mobile phones when they download the Jungo Pinoy app.  

With the streaming service announcing that yes, “Libre na Lahat!”, all the good stuff from its groundbreaking new sports network, K-fan favorite channel, to what’s touted to be the next soap opera obsession after the hit show Marimar, Jungo Pinoy is ready for viewers to enjoy its awesome, free-to-watch content.  

Live matches on the All Women’s Sports Network

Jungo TV teamed up with EGOT winner, producer, and advocate for equality Whoopi Goldberg (her long list of blockbusters includesGhost, Sister Act, The Color Purple, and The Lion King) and launched the All Women’s Sports Network or AWSN, the game changing channel dedicated to airing women’s sports.

Now available for free on Jungo Pinoy, AWSN carries live games from nine major sports, including basketball, volleyball, tennis, beach volleyball, table tennis, soccer, American football, cricket, and field hockey. The channel airs sports matches from some of theworld’s most popular women’s leagues such as the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), and the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL).

According to JungoTV CEO and Co-Founder George Chung, “Thisbold new venture represents a significant step forward in the representation and celebration of female athletes everywhere.” He also mentions the possibility of adding women’s sports leagues in the Philippines to their programming in the future, “We are seeking to showcase some of the top leagues and athletes in the Philippines to a global audience.”

Top notch Korean entertainment

Fans of K-dramas, K-pop, and K-variety shows can rejoice because Jungo Pinoy has an extensive and free roster of Korean entertainment content. Popular channel Hallypop is on the streaming service with its programming lineup of music and lifestyle shows, and live concerts.

Viewers can stream amazing original language and Tagalog dubbed K-dramas like the hilarious and uplifting All-Boys High starring actor and South Korean band N.Flying member Kim Jae Hyun and Lee Seung Hyub, who aside from acting is also a South Korean rapper and songwriter. There’s also the Ok Taec Yeon (of boy band 2PM fame) and Fight for My Way and Marry My Husband actress Song Ha Yoon-led romance Touching You.  

The Telenovela Comeback

A story of passion, betrayal and triumph, that’s Tagumpay ng Pag-ibig, the Mexican telenovela that is following on the heels of megahit Marimar. Also from Televisa, the major Latin American mass media corporation and largest producer of Spanish-language content, this show has all the elements that Filipinos love. From a pretty but down-on-her-luck orphan protagonist to root for, the rich and handsome male lead she falls in love with, to some villains we can collectively feel some type of way about.

Tagumpay ng Pag-ibig, together with Rebelde, the story of six teenagers attending a prominent private school and whose different lives and personalities converge through their vocation and passion for music, are leading the dramatic soap opera comeback on Jungo Pinoy.

The app is also proud of its expanded library of Filipino films from drama, action, sexy, romance, comedy, horror, and even the classics.

One thing that the audience can look forward to, which Jungo Pinoy anticipates announcing very soon, is offering SETATNTA SPORTS for a month at no cost.

SETANTA SPORTS brings the excitement of the world’s best sports rights to your screen. With exclusive coverage of top-tier leagues and tournaments, Setanta is your go-to channel for live action. Catch the thrilling games of the NBA, Australian Basketball League, Premier League, La Liga, and PFL. Whether you're a basketball enthusiast or a football fanatic, SETANTA SPORTS offers an unmatched viewing experience. Launch date will be added soon.

As Miguel Santos, JungoTV COO puts it, “When we say Jungo Pinoy is making quality content accessible, we mean it. And the best part is we’re always working on adding more content and channels and perks for all our Filipino viewers.”

Libre na lahat sa Jungo Pinoy! Stream the good stuff for FREE at jungopinoy.com or download the app today.

About JungoTV, LLC

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Source: Jungo Pinoy

Ace Banzuelo drops dreamy new single “Bighani”

The sophisticated pop track conveys the feeling of instantly harboring a romantic connection with someone

Ace Banzuelo, one of the Philippines’ most promising solo acts, has released his highly anticipated new single, “Bighani,” today via Sony Music Entertainment. This dreamy pop track captures the magic of experiencing a profound connection with someone—an encounter that feels as though you’ve known the person for years, or even decades.

With “Bighani,” the Filipino singer-songwriter/producer blends neon synths and lush instrumentation with his brand of heartfelt lyricism, delivering a smooth, sophisticated sound that nods to the cosmopolitan allure of ’80s pop. The track is a testament to his growth as both a producer and songwriter, showcasing his ability to create emotionally resonant songs with top-tier production.

“Bighani is about this instant-growing connection you have with a person after a few encounters,” the Muli chart-topper reveals. “A lot of people know that my music gravitates toward the dreamy, intricately layered approach, especially with the ballads that I’ve put out. I'm actually surprised that I was able to come up with this dreamy indie pop dance track.”

Written, recorded, and produced by the multi-talented young artist himself, “Bighani” was made during a time of transition as he moved between different places. Despite these changes, the song maintains a compelling sense of continuity, pulsing with a retro-futuristic energy that makes it the perfect soundtrack for late-night drives through the city.

“I like to think of this track and my upcoming musi, as anachronistic,” says Ace. “It feels like I’m time-traveling, never settling for the first version of a song. The creative process always takes me on unexpected journeys, and I just let the mood guide me.”

With over 150 million streams on Spotify alone, Ace Banzuelo continues to rise as a force in the local music scene. His breakout single “Muli” topped the charts as the most streamed OPM song, and his impressive catalog includes hit songs such as “Malayo,” “Himala,” and his recent release “minsan.”

Ace Banzuelo’s “Bighani” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Check out the official lyric visualizerhere.

Source: Nyou

H1-KEY Releases Remix Single “Re: Thinkin' About You” in Collaboration with SB19's JOSH CULLEN

Remix Single [Re: Thinkin' About You]

November 20, 2024 I 6PM KST

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H1-KEY has released 'Re: Thinkin' About You' in collaboration with SB19's JOSH CULLEN.

'Re: Thinkin' About You' is a remix track of 'Thinkin' About You,' the first series from H1-KEY's 'H1-KEYnote' released in January this year. SB19's JOSH CULLEN, a member of the globally loved group known for 'GENTO,' participated in writing the rap lyrics in the form of a response track."

'Re: Thinkin' About You' is a warm and cozy pop track that contains JOSH CULLEN's response to a realistic and mature breakup. The emotional vocals of H1-KEY's members, which blend perfectly with the cold season, are impressive, and JOSH CULLEN's unique rap adds to the track, allowing listeners to experience their story from two different perspectives on the same breakup.

< Track Credit >

01. Re: Thinkin' About You

Lyrics by 라이언전, Martin Stilling, Moa Pettersson Hammar, KIDDO & JOSH CULLEN

Composed by 라이언전, Martin Stilling, Moa Petterson Hammar, KIDDO

Arranged by 라이언전, Martin Stilling

Vocal Directed by 시우(SIU), 김민구(NiNE)

Background Vocals by 페리(Perrie)

Programming - 라이언전, Martin Stilling

Recorded by 박정호 @Titan Recording Studio

Digital Edited by 김지현 @doobdoob Studio

Engineered for Mix by 박남준 @GLAB Studios

Mixed by 신봉원 @GLAB Studios

Mastered by 권남우 @821 Sound Mastering

Original Publishers: STARTION, Whizz Kid Publishing GmbH / Hanseatic Musikverlag GmbH, The Very Good Music Publishing/Sony Music Publishing Scandinavia AB (STIM)

Sub-Publishers: STARTION, Warner Chappell Korea, Sony Music Publishing Korea

PRESENTED BY GLG

Source: Nyou

LISA ANNOUNCES HIGHLY ANTICIPATED DEBUT SOLO ALBUM ALTER EGO

OUT FEBRUARY 28, 2025

PRE-ORDER/SAVE HERE

Alter Ego Album Artwork

Photo Credit: Wontae Go

(November 19, 2024) – Today, world renowned rapper, singer, dancer, and style icon, LISA announces her highly anticipated debut solo album, Alter Ego, will be released on February 28, 2025 via LLOUD Co./RCA Records. LISA first began teasing the new album last week with a series of social media posts hinting at the album title while also touring Asia for her five-city sold-out limited run of fan meet dates. In her official Alter Ego announcement video, LISA emulates five characters each representing a unique personality. They are represented by the five points on a star, which has become a key emblem in the campaign. The announcement of LISA’s debut solo album comes at the tail end of a record-breaking year full of exciting new solo music and high energy performances. 

Today’s album announcement follows an exciting week for LISA who recently made headlines on the cover of Billboard as their first ever global cover star. She graced the cover of the magazine for ten Billboard editions including Billboard US, Billboard Arabia, Billboard Brazil, Billboard Canada, Billboard Espanol, Billboard Italia, Billboard Japan, Billboard Korea, and Billboard Philippines. The magazine declared, “LISA has star power in spades” and heralded her as “one of pop’s most exciting stars.” Read the full story here. Earlier in the week, LISA was also featured as one of the cover stars of Vanity Fair’s highly coveted Hollywood Issue in anticipation of her debut acting role in season three of HBO’s The White Lotus. See the cover and read the story here. 

LISA’s most recent single from the forthcoming album, “Moonlit Floor”, showcases both her ethereal vocals and immense talent as a rapper while interpolating the 90s hit classic, “Kiss Me,” by Sixpence None the Richer. Listen to “Moonlit Floor” HERE. LISA also saw success with her preceding singles “New Woman,” featuring GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter Rosalía, and “Rockstar” which quickly propelled to the top of the charts following its release. “Rockstar” 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 also held the #1 spot in Thailand on Spotify, LISA’s home country, for 10 consecutive days and now has nearly 427 million streams. The official music video for “Rockstar,” directed by Henry Scholfield and choreographed by Sean Bankhead, amassed an impressive over 265 million views to date and hit #1 on YouTube’s global weekly chart following release. 

Along with the release of the three singles, which all appear on Alter Ego, LISA gave electrifying performances at Global Citizen Festival in NYC and the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. LISA also returned to the VMA stage in September where she performed a medley of “New Woman” and “Rockstar” - watch her performance HERE.  She took home the moonperson for Best K-Pop for her single “Rockstar” that night and broke a new record as the first solo act to win in that category multiple times. Additionally, LISA won two awards earlier this month at the MTV EMAs for Best Collaboration for her hit song “New Woman" feat. Rosalia and for Biggest Fans. 

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 105 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.

Most recently, LISA joined forces with GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter Rosalía for her latest single, “New Woman,” via LLOUD Co./RCA Records. Back in June, LISA also released her single, “Rockstar,” via LLOUD Co./RCA Records which was 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. 

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. Last month, LISA graced the cover of ELLE Magazine’s highly coveted September issue and 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. 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

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.

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 RCA Records, please contact:

Jamie Abzug | jamie.abzug@rcarecords.com

Source: Sony Music Philippines

TRAILBLAZER XIN LIU DROPS ADDICTIVE TRACK “TAKE A SIP ”

LISTEN TO “TAKE A SIP” BY XIN LIU 

WATCH “TAKE A SIP” VISUALIZER HERE

Los Angeles, CA – Multifaceted singer, dancer, and music producer XIN LIU returns with her latest English single, “Take a Sip,” available now on all digital streaming platforms. "Take a Sip" effortlessly blends the smooth, sensual vibes of Alternative R&B with her distinct lyrical sensitivity, drawing listeners into an atmosphere of intimacy and tension.

Following her previous releases like "Reality," "Walls," "Unwind," and “Never Forget,”  this new full English track marks another significant step in XIN’s journey towards international recognition. The song captures the subtleties of affection, with pulsating rhythms and ethereal melodies that create a deeply immersive experience. It invites listeners into a world where every heartbeat and whispered word feels like a secret shared in the dark. This release not only showcases XIN’s versatility as an artist but also emphasizes her dedication to global expansion. With “Take a Sip,” she reinforces her position as a forward-thinking artist who continuously evolves her sound while staying true to her unique artistic vision. It also continues to cement XIN’s status as one of the most promising voices in contemporary pop and R&B, building on the momentum of her critically acclaimed "O, Vol.1” EP.

Having skyrocketed to fame in China, the international star 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 album, “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 debuted in the U.S. with her mesmerizing solo stage performance at Coachella earlier this year.  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)

PRESS KIT

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ABOUT XIN LIU

XIN LIU is not only one of the biggest artists to emerge from China in recent years, but she's also the most intriguing. An artist who's created a name for herself not only as a singer, but as a dancer, producer, and fashion icon. An artist whose hook-laden, genre-splicing pop is eminently danceable, but also impressively wide-ranging: she can deliver emotive ballads with the same ease as her vocals on a gritty, trap hi-hat banger. 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 of China. Add to this mix her compelling live shows and you can see why XIN has won herself a legion of fans to the tune of 24+ million followers on socials and 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, with over 7 million albums sold.

Follow XIN LIU

INSTAGRAM | WEIBO | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY | APPLE MUSIC

Source: Blackstar

Benj Pangilinan unveils acoustic version of “Nandito Na Ako,” a song he co-wrote with Moira, Over October’s Josh Buizon and Angela Ken

The stripped-down version gives the song a renewed charm and intimacy that makes it a perfect fit for romcoms and coming-of-age films

Benj Pangilinan introduces a fresh, stripped-down rendition of “Nandito Na Ako”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

Co-written by Pangilinan with Over October’s Josh Buizon, award-winning artist Moira, and rising music star Angela Ken, the song first captured the hearts of its listeners with its catchy pop melodies and irresistible appeal.

Now with this new acoustic arrangement, the promising solo act offers a more personal take on the track, featuring a toned-down treatment with soothing guitars and a voice that resonates with warmth.

Exploring the beauty of young love in its undiluted form, Benj replaces some of the lyrics with a new version that music fans can enjoy any time of the day. Its sweetness and effortless allure make it a potential soundtrack for coming-of-age romcoms, elevating its charm to a new place of heartwarming lightness.

The track also marks Benj Pangilinan’s musical milestone as it presents his first venture into writing songs in Filipino. This pushed his creative boundaries and enabled him to channel his feelings on a more intimate level.

“I wrote the song with my Tita Felichi Buizon, my cousin Josh Buizon (frontman of Over October), Angela Ken, and another songwriter friend, Moira. Initially, I wanted to write a happy nostalgic OPM song, but as the project progressed, it naturally evolved to the song we have today.”

“Nandito Na Ako” was initially released in June 2024 with fellow singer-songwriter Angela Ken. The original version, which balances classic Pinoy pop songwriting with unassuming edginess, has racked up more than three million streams on all combined platforms, giving both acts another hit of their own.

Benj Pangilinan’s acoustic version of “Nandito Na Ako” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

Kenshi Yonezu releases “Azalea” from the Netflix series, Beyond Goodbye

Global crossover J-pop artist KENSHI YONEZU continues to reach new heights with his new song “Azalea”, a song written as the theme song for the global Netflix series Beyond Goodbye. The music video is directed by Yuka Yamaguchi, capturing Yonezu in a scenery before dawn in the azure cityscape.

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The Netflix series started airing on Thursday, November 14, 2024 on the said popular streaming platform. Reminiscent of the main character, Saeko’s experience in the series, the song talks about a painful, inevitable goodbye to one’s greatest love. While touching on this unavoidable fate, the song embodies the hope found in the enduring memories of love and being loved — memories that provide encouragement as life goes on. The series has already made history as the first Japanese entry to be featured at this year’s Busan International Film Festival Onscreen Category, which honors outstanding streaming dramas. Helmed by director Hiroshi Kurosaki, this project marks another collaboration with Yoshikazu Okada following their work on the NHK serial TV novel Hiyokko.

Yonezu shares, “Beyond Goodbye opens with the unusual scenario of Saeko meeting the person who received the heart of her deceased fiancé. While the realities of this world dictate that the chances of this happening are highly unlikely, I think there is an important element to the story that will resonate personally with everyone. As I worked on this song, I reflected on Saeko’s predicament of not knowing where her lost fiancé begins or ends, along with the inner turmoil she faced as she deliberated on whether to maintain her distance. I hope you enjoy listening to this song.”

Chronicling heartbreak and destiny, the new romance drama Beyond Goodbye is written by the renowned Yoshikazu Okada (The 8-Year Engagement, The Last 10 Years), the series stars Kasumi Arimura (We Made a Beautiful Bouquet, Call Me Chihiro) and Kentaro Sakaguchi (The Last 10 Years). The newly released main trailer and key art offer a glimpse into this bittersweet tale.

Beyond Goodbye tells the story of Saeko (Arimura), who loses the love of her life, Yusuke, in an accident on the day he proposes to her. Naruse (Sakaguchi) receives Yusuke’s heart in a transplant, giving him a new lease on life. Drawn together by fate, Saeko and Naruse meet, and Yusuke’s memories begin to awaken inside him. Set against the backdrop of Hokkaido and Hawaii, this story explores the enduring power of love.

ABOUT NETFLIX

Netflix is one of the world's leading entertainment services, with 278 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films, and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching, as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.

ABOUT KENSHI YONEZU

After gaining success with Vocaloid music under the stage name Hachi, Kenshi Yonezu began producing under his real name in 2012. In addition to music, he has attracted attention for his album cover illustrations and video productions. The video for his hit single “Lemon”, the long-running theme song for the TV series Unnatural, is the most-viewed music video in Japan, and topped Billboard Japan’s year-end charts for two consecutive years, leaving a mark on music history both in Japan and abroad.

His 2020 album STRAY SHEEP set a record of 1.9 million copies sold with the highest-placing Japanese artist ever to appear on the IFPI year-end global ranking chart. He continued to work tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic, including performing as the first Asian in a virtual concert hosted by the online game Fortnite. Collaborated globally with UNIQLO on their UT collection with the storefront collaboration displays in NY and other 8 UNIQLO stores worldwide. He was awarded an AAC Award, listed in Forbes’ 100 Asian Digital Stars, and received the Minister of NEWS RELEASE Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology’s Art Encouragement Prize for New Artists.

In 2022, he released “M87” as the theme song for the film Shin Ultraman, and “POP SONG” as the theme song for a PlayStation commercial. His single “KICK BACK,” the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, made Spotify’s Global Top 50, and became the first Japanese-language song certified Gold by RIAA®. He was also selected as the first and only Japanese artist to be a part of the “RIAA Class of 2023”, with which the association summarized the artists who had flourished in the year.

In 2023, Yonezu released “Tsuki Wo Miteita - Moongazing” as the theme song for the RPG game Final Fantasy XVI, and “Chikyugi - Spinning Globe” – the theme song Studio Ghibli’s animated film The Boy and the Heron (Academy Award Winner for Best Animated Feature, 2024), directed by Hayao Miyazaki.

In 2024, Yonezu wrote “Garakuta – JUNK”, the theme song of the movie LAST MILE, and released his sixth studio album, LOST CORNER. Yonezu has also announced a new world tour – KENSHI YONEZU 2025 TOUR / JUNK – in which the J-pop icon will take his new album across the world with shows in Asia, including his first-ever dome performance in Japan and his first-ever headlining dates in Europe and the United States, with stops in London, Paris, New York, and Los Angeles.

As for Yonezu’s music videos, “Lemon” has surpassed 890 million views, continuing to break the records of Japanese artists.  It is one of the 16 music videos of his songs that garnered him a commanding record of surpassing 100 million views each (“Lemon,” “Eine Kleine,” “LOSER,” “Peace Sign,” “Haiirotoao (+Masaki Suda),” “orion,” “Flamingo,” “Kanden,” “Fireworks,” “Paprika,” “Shunrai,” “Uma to Shika,” “Spirits of the Sea,” “KICK BACK,” Foorin’s “Paprika” and Masaki Suda’s “Machigaisagashi”). He has over 7.39 million subscribers on his official YouTube channel.

 Source: Nyou

KENSHI YONEZU IMAGE: DOWNLOAD

CONNECT WITH KENSHI YONEZU: WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM| X | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and Justin of SB19 give back to local communities in Manila through “Season of Giving” campaign

The initiative aims to engage the country in a fight to alleviate food insecurity

More photos here

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines, in collaboration with Justin of SB19, have teamed up with Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP) to provide aid to impoverished communities in Manila affected by the recent typhoon and economic challenges.

This initiative is part of Sony Music Group’s (SMG) global ‘Season of Giving’ campaign, where the company and its artists are paying it forward to the countries in which the international music label operates. The campaign embodies the label’s unwavering commitment to making apositive impact around the world, and while supporting communities where music is created and enjoyed.

On November 7, 2024, Christmas came early for the kids at Better World Tondo as Justin of SB19, the rising solo artist and member of SB19, visited the area for a day filled with exciting games, spectacular performances, and nutritious meals. The children were visibly delighted as their idol, serenaded them with his captivating version of Maroon 5’s “Sunday Morning,” before treating them to two more stunning performances—his solo hit “surreal” and SB19’s “Ikako.”

In addition to his performances, Justin of SB19 brought even more joy to the kids with interactive games like Bring Me, and even personally served their healthy menudo rice meals with papaya slices.

Justin of SB19 expressed happiness in taking part of the campaign, which is focused on providing much-needed food aid to local communities and offering a sense of joy and relief through entertainment. “I’ve been involved in several advocacies before, but working closely with Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and RAHP has somehow expanded my understanding of the power of using my platform for positive change. There was something incredibly fulfilling about seeing the children’s faces light up during my performance, and it was a special moment to personally serve them the food. This experience will always be a core memory for me, and I’m looking forward to being part of more initiatives like this in the future.”

“Justin of SB19 is incredibly warm, caring and generous with the children,” said Leni Renton, Program Lead at Rise Against Hunger Philippines. “They connected with him instantly, enjoying his performances and having a blast playing games together. This special experience, thanks to Sony Music, will remain a cherished memory for these kids for years to come. We are deeply grateful to Sony Music for their continued support and generosity.”

Renton also commended SMG’s Season of Giving initiative for not only providing the attendees with much-needed nourishment, but also for creating an unforgettable experience. She adds that Sony’s commitment to support Rise Against Hunger Philippines advocacies serves as a “powerful demonstration of their commitment to communities in need.”

“Beyond providing healthy meals, their involvement brings something truly special—an unforgettable moment of music and fun with the children,” Leni Renton shares. ‘Through this partnership, Sony Music not only nourishes their bodies but also inspires and uplifts their spirits by connecting them with aspiring artists who ignite their hopes and dreams.”

By supporting the feeding program and bringing live performances to the children, the international record label has created lasting memories and showed the importance of giving back to those who need it the most. Through this collaboration, Sony Music Group has shown how the power of music and kindness can make a meaningful impact.

--

About Sony Music Entertainment

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

Source: Nyou

NIKI ANNOUNCES DETAILS FOR BUZZ WORLD TOUR IN ASIA

(Tour Flyer, credit: Courtesy of NIKI/88rising — download HERE)

Jakarta-born, LA-based singer-songwriter and producer NIKI, one of today’s most dynamic artists, is bringing her Buzz World Tour to Asia in 2025, produced by Live Nation. Following successful shows across North America and Europe at legendary venues such as the Greek Theatre (Berkeley) and OVO Arena at Wembley (London) this year, NIKI will kick off her Asia tour in February 2025, marking her debut show in Hong Kong and returning with stops in beloved cities such as Manila, Jakarta, Bangkok and Singapore where she sold out shows in 2023.

“My Asia and Australia fans have been patiently waiting, and I am excited to finally announce the Buzz World Tour official dates and venues. I am so proud of this show and can’t wait to share it with everyone.” – NIKI

TICKETS - ASIA: Tickets for shows in Asia will be available starting Wednesday, November 20. Details at nikizefanya.com.

2025 Asia Tour Dates:

Feb 9 – Hong Kong, AsiaWorld-Expo Hall 5 & 7

Feb 11 & 12 – Manila, SM Mall of Asia Arena

Feb 14 & 16 – Jakarta, Beach City International Stadium

Feb 18 – Singapore, Singapore Indoor Stadium

Feb 20 – Taipei, Taipei International Convention Center (TICC)

Feb 22 – Bangkok, IMPACT, Exhibition Hall 5

Feb 25 & 26 – Kuala Lumpur, Mega Star Arena

(press photo, credit: Courtesy of NIKI/88rising — download HERE)

NIKI’s third studio album, Buzz, released on August 9 via 88rising, captures the feeling of being on the precipice of discovery across thirteen introspective tracks. It includes fan-favorites such as the summer anthem “Tsunami”, the astrologically-inspired “Blue Moon”, the playful lead single “Too Much of a Good Thing”, the bittersweet title track “Buzz”, and the emotionally raw “Did You Like Her In The Morning?”.

In Buzz, NIKI’s songwriting remains as intimate as ever, inspired by lane-paving female artists like Joni Mitchell, Stevie Nicks, Carly Simon and Liz Phair, of whom influenced her confessional, honest lyrics and guitar-driven sound. To capture the album’s exploratory spirit, she tapped producers Tyler Chester (Madison Cunningham, Sara Bareilles) and Ethan Gruska (Fiona Apple, Phoebe Bridgers) as collaborators, who helped bring a new depth to her creative and personal sea change.

For NIKI, things have been happening progressively since she was a high schooler in Jakarta, Indonesia, where she penned lovesick poems in English class and performed acoustic guitar covers of American pop songs on YouTube. With a six-string in hand, and her family and classmates cheering her on from the audience, Nicole Zefanya then staked her claim to global stardom as NIKI.

With over three billion streams worldwide, sold out shows on multiple continents, massive sets at festivals across the globe, front row seats at Paris Fashion Week, four songs on a Marvel film’s soundtrack, and some of the most phenomenal, confessional songs being released in 2024, NIKI has established an impressive career before turning 25.

FOLLOW NIKI:

WEBSITE | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK

Source: Blackstar 

For more information, please contact:

mabuhay@blackstar.space

NERIAH IS BACK WITH YET ANOTHER FIRE SINGLE "RED FLAG" OUT NOW

LISTEN HERE

DEBUTED RECORD ON TOUR WITH eaJ IN NORTH AMERICA

November 15th, 2024 –  Today, NERIAH’s latest single, "Red Flag," is out across all streaming platforms. Listen here: https://symphony.to/neriah/red-flag

After a summer full of embracing her Lover Girl era, releasing uplifting music that embodies the feeling of being young and in love, NERIAH is back with vengeance, calling out her toxic ex’s for what they’ve put her through.

"Red Flag" dives deep into the experience of being trapped in a toxic relationship—one that makes you question yourself and feel like the issue. But as the story unfolds, it's all about reclaiming your worth; recognising the damage they caused and reclaiming your power. Co-written and co-produced by Grammy nominated hitmaker, Rami Yacoub, "Red Flag" has a beat that hits hard and lyrics that cut even deeper. NERIAH is currently on tour with eaJ, where fans have been the first to hear this energy-packed anthem live.

NERIAH shares, “I wrote 'Red Flag' in the thick of a healing journey. This song became my way of taking my power back after being treated so badly by my ex. For so long, I made excuses, convinced myself to love him more, and stayed in an unhealthy relationship despite the pain because I was too afraid to walk away. Now, years later, I see how destructive he really was. He made me believe I was the problem, but all he did was turn me into a red flag.”

Following her tour with eaJ, NERIAH will be back on the road for her first headline tour across the US in 2025, and lots of new music on the way. Stay tuned for more details!

ABOUT NERIAH

NERIAH, breakthrough singer/songwriter, puts everything - the good, the bad, and the ugly, honest truth into her music. From happiness and love, to hardships and heartbreak, NERIAH’s music takes you on the rollercoaster of emotions that everyone goes through, with each song letting her audience know they’re not alone on this unpredictable and beautiful adventure of life. Having received praise from Rolling Stone, Travis Mills, Zane Lowe, People Magazine, Flaunt Magazine, and more, NERIAH is embarking on this new and exciting era. With an audience exceeding 1 million monthly Spotify listeners and 245K Instagram followers, her top streaming countries include Indonesia 🇮🇩 (#2), Philippines  🇵🇭 (#2), and Malaysia 🇲🇾 (#8). With cosigns from influential artists like SZA, Halsey, Ashe, NERIAH's influence radiates far and wide. She is also opening for Jillian Rossi later this summer for her EU/UK tour.

Stream "Red Flag" here: https://symphony.to/neriah/red-flag

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For more information: Secret Signals

Follow NERIAH: Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube | Website

 Source: Secret Signals 

ATEEZ RELEASE THEIR 11TH EP “GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2”

THE OCTET WRITES THE SECOND STORY TO THEIR LATEST MUSIC SERIES, CAPTURING THEIR MOST CHERISHED MOMENTS IN AN EP FEATURING SIX SONGS - LED BY THE TITLE TRACK “ICE ON MY TEETH”.

PURCHASE HERE | LISTEN HERE | WATCH HERE

DOWNLOAD PRESS SHOTS AT THE FOLLOWING LINK:⬇️

[LINK: https://bit.ly/ateez-goldenhour2]

IMAGE CREDIT: KQ Entertainment

Global K-pop sensation ATEEZ continues to solidify their legacy, capturing their moments of artistic exploration and maturity through the release of their 11th EP, GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2. The EP is out now via Sony Music Korea/RCA Records – click here to listen.

GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2 showcases ATEEZ’s diverse musicality with a dynamic mix of tracks that push genre boundaries and take listeners on an emotional journey. The album invites fans to experience the “golden hour” of ATEEZ’s musical growth, enchanting audiences with the sheer grandeur of the preview teasers even before release. The title track, ‘Ice On My Teeth’, is an anthem that underscores ATEEZ’s unique sound, with soaring vocals, and choreography that will thrill audiences worldwide.

In addition to the title track, GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2features a total of six songs, each capturing the group’s evolution and experimental style. The album embodies the intense, raw energy that has made ATEEZ an international powerhouse in the K-pop industry.

GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2 is so quintessentially ATEEZ, with members HONGJOONG and MINGI taking part in writing the lyrics for five out of the six tracks on the album. The EP is infused with a unique charm that only the octet can pull off.

This 11th EP release comes after a record breaking year of achievements and performances, from their featured exhibition at the GRAMMY Museum and the Coachella 2024 performance early in the year to their subsequent performances in major festivals around the world including Summer Sonic in Japan, and headlining at Grand Mint Festival in Korea and Mawazine in Morocco.

Known for their genre-defying sound and unique artistic approach, they’ve created a distinct presence in the music industry. The group continues to rise to even higher peaks, releasing their new EP to high anticipation.

LISTEN TO ‘GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2’  HERE

[GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2] TRACK LIST

01. DEEP DIVE

02. Scene 1 : Value

03. Ice On My Teeth **title track**

04. Man on Fire

05. Selfish Waltz

06. Enough

This EP comes following the announcement of their Europe [TOWARDS THE LIGHT : WILL TO POWER] world tour, after the conclusion of the North American leg of the tour. ATEEZ will be heading to 12 cities from January to February in Europe. Known for their intense and immersive performances, the group is ready to deliver an unforgettable show with intricate choreography, captivating visuals, and deep fan interaction.

2025 ATEEZ WORLD TOUR [TOWARDS THE LIGHT :WILL TO POWER] IN EUROPE Dates:

January 18 - Lyon-Décines – LDLC Arena

January 20 - Milan – Unipol Forum

January 23 - Zürich – Hallenstadion

January 27 - London – The O2

January 28 - London – The O2  *second show*

January 30 - Manchester – AO Arena

February 03 - Amsterdam – Ziggo Dome

February 07 - Barcelona – Palau Sant Jordi

February 11 - Cologne – Lanxess Arena

February 14 - Copenhagen – Royal Arena

February 18 - Berlin – Uber Arena

February 19 - Berlin – Uber Arena  *second show*

February 22 - Paris – La Défense Arena

February 25 - Brussels – ING Arena

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About ATEEZ:

ATEEZ, short for ‘A TEEnager Z’, is an eight-member South Korean group that has taken the world by storm immediately after their debut in October 2018. Known for standout performances, the octet have turned storytelling into a full musical experience. The eight members of ATEEZ are HONGJOONG, SEONGHWA, YUNHO, YEOSANG, SAN, MINGI, WOOYOUNG, and JONGHO. Though the initial meaning of their group name stood for ‘everything teenagers need from A to Z’, they have since evolved and grown as artists alongside their fans (named ATINY) to become ‘everything you need from A to Z’. Establishing themselves as top artists early on in their career with a sold out global tour only four months after their debut, they continue to break their own records. With a unique narrative that starts from the very first release in the ‘TREASURE’ album series and continues through the ‘FEVER’ and ‘THE WORLD’ masterpieces, the group combines bestseller narratives with personalized music that speaks to their generation. Beyond the multitude of titles they’ve earned throughout the years as the ‘Next Generation Act’ and ‘Best World Performer’ in award ceremonies, ATEEZ have attained the distinction of becoming a ‘million seller’ group with the release of their 8th EP. In 2024, they dominated on the global stage, taking over festivals around the world with performances at Coachella (US), Summer Sonic (JPN), and even headlining at Mawazine (MAR). Their second studio album, 'THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL' broke their personal record on the global charts, debuting at No.1 on the Billboard 200 for the week of December 11 and charting for six weeks. Their followup release ‘GOLDEN HOUR :Part.1’ continued the momentum, capturing No.2 on the Billboard 200 and ranking in at No.7 on the Billboard 2024’s Midyear Top 10 Selling Albums in U.S. The second chapter of their ‘GOLDEN HOUR’ series, ‘GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2’, led by the title track ‘Ice On My Teeth’, writes the stories of their most cherished moments.

About KQ Entertainment:

KQ Entertainment is a fast-growing global entertainment and content company based in South Korea that continuously evolves with the expanding domestic and overseas markets. Using a system that considers the characteristics and needs of musicians to better nurture artist development, the label aims to create a positive impact on the music industry. The system in practice creates a virtuous cycle that establishes a new paradigm of artist discovery, support, and production between idol groups and musicians for a mutually beneficial relationship growth in innovating music. KQ Entertainment currently houses the global phenomenon ATEEZ, rising superstars xikers, as well as top producers and artists EDEN and Maddox.

 Source: Nyou

For more about ATEEZ, visit:

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY |APPLE MUSIC | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

SLOT MACHINE: Thai Rock Titans Usher in Bold New Chapter with Latest English Language Single, “Walk The Earth”, Delivering a Fresh Creative Synergy

Watch the official music video here

Download press images here (Credit: Tero Music)

For immediate release, 15 November, 2024 – Slot Machine, Thailand’s premier rock band, delivers an electrifying surprise featuring a collaboration alongside Grammy-winning artist and producer Ryan Tedder in their brand new English language single "Walk The Earth”, out now on all digital streaming platforms. This dynamic partnership merges two iconic forces from East and West, blending their styles into a hard-hitting anthem set to captivate audiences worldwide.

“‘Walk The Earth’ is about embracing life’s journey with all its complexities, finding resilience, and holding onto purpose amidst the chaos. It reflects our own paths as individuals and as a band, connected by a shared human experience. Working with Ryan Tedder and his team has pushed us to explore new depths musically and emotionally, marking a new chapter in our evolution. This song is a reminder of the courage to keep moving forward, and we can’t wait for fans to experience this new sound.” — Foet, lead vocalist of Slot Machine

“I’m a massive fan of Thailand, the Thai people, and lately have been also listening to the local Thai music scene - Slot Machine was one of the first artists I discovered and I really loved their intensity and distinct sound. The rich musical landscape of Thailand fascinates me, and I believe we’ve created something special that brings together different cultures and musical styles. Hopefully this is the first of many Thai artists I collaborate with.” — Ryan Tedder

Executive produced by Ryan Tedder and produced by Simon Oscroft, “Walk The Earth” was written by Robert Grace and Simon Oscroft, with Shane Edwards handling vocal engineering at Studio 28 in Bangkok.

The accompanying music video for “Walk The Earth”, directed by award-winning Thai filmmaker PaphangkornPunchantarak, features Slot Machine’s signature "Eye of Wisdom" logo, which draws inspiration from "The Eye of Providence" and "The Eyes of Buddha", and has evolved with added elements from crop circle patterns.

The "Eye of Wisdom" symbol plays a pivotal role in the visual storytelling, representing both a Time Machine and a central artistic theme, adding depth and meaning to the song’s concept. It resonates with cultures in Southeast Asia, where eyes often symbolise insight, protection and spiritual awakening.

The music video takes viewers on a journey through striking locations that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Thailand. Among these is the hauntingly beautiful Djittabhawan Temple, an abandoned church built more than 200 meters into the sea. The temple is a key location in the video, tying into the ancient Thai ritual of "Floating Tuesday", a ceremonial practice that honors deceased loved ones by symbolically sending their spirits to a peaceful place through water - a theme that echoes similar practices across the region, where water is often viewed as a purifying force that facilitates the journey of the soul.

WATCH “WALK THE EARTH” MUSIC VIDEO HERE

“Walk The Earth” adds to Slot Machine’s impressive history of international collaborations. In 2020, the 3-pc rock band worked with US producers Brandon Darner (Imagine Dragons and Envy Corps) and Justin Stanley (Beck, Mark Ronson, and Eric Clapton) on their second English-language album Third Eye View, which received worldwide acclaim. Two years later, they released the theme song “Free Fall” for hit BL drama series “KinnPorsche”, in both English and Thai versions, which drew in thousands of new international fans across the globe.

In 2022, Slot Machine ignited stages in Taiwan and the Philippines, further establishing their reputation as a dynamic live act. Their collaboration streak continued in 2023, when they teamed up with Chinese superstar Timmy Xu for the single “Super Cool”, a rock anthem that marked their powerful entry into the Chinese music scene.

With their innovative fusion of rock, electronic elements, and distinct Thai flair, Slot Machine has firmly positioned themselves as a leading force in Thailand's rock music scene. Their latest single “Walk The Earth”, executive produced by Ryan Tedder, and produced by Simon Oscroft, marks an exciting step forward, showcasing their evolving vision and continued commitment to connecting with global audiences, transcending cultural and musical boundaries, blending Slot Machine’s high-energy rock sound with Tedder’s world-renowned songwriting and production skills, the result is an anthem of unity, resilience, and the human spirit.

Download artwork here

LISTEN TO “WALK THE EARTH” HERE

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ABOUT SLOT MACHINE

The name

The band name Slot Machine isn’t about gambling - it’s about synergy – how a slot machine’s moving parts work together, appearing as separate components but ultimately creating a unified outcome. The three members see themselves the same way: three distinct individuals, each bringing something unique to the table, but together they create one powerful sound. Also, a slot machine is constantly in motion, and so are they – always evolving, pushing forward, and breaking new ground. Slot Machine the band is never static; they are all about movement and progression.

The symbolic gesture

The band's iconic hand gesture, representing the 'Eye of Wisdom’, is a creative evolution of the traditional Thai wai, symbolising intelligence and mindfulness. It reflects how wisdom transcends dualities like suffering and happiness, promoting balance and awareness. According to frontman Foet, the gesture embodies the concept of the third eye - the understanding that life has more than two sides. Fans will recognise this gesture, particularly during the song "Chan Chao", as part of Foet’s signature stage presence.

The career

From their early days competing in high school music contests to headlining sold-out shows for over 15,000 fans, Slot Machine has continually evolved, reaching new heights with their 2011 album Cell which swept nine major awards in Thailand, including Album of the Year. In 2013, they gained international recognition with a nomination for Best Southeast Asian Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards, and they performed alongside Jason Mraz to an audience of 70,000 at the MTV EXIT Live in Myanmar concert.

In 2014, they celebrated their 10th anniversary with a monumental concert, playing to 15,000 adoring fans. The following year, they embarked on their first UK tour, performing at iconic venues in London, including Camden’s Barfly.

2016 was a breakout year for the band internationally. They rocked The Dawn Concert in Taipei, a major New Year event organized by the Taiwanese Government, and performed at leading Asian rock festivals, including Fuji Rock in Japan, Super Slippa in Taiwan, Jisan Valley in Korea, and Clockenflap in Hong Kong. That same year, Slot Machine released their first English-language album, Spin The World, produced by Grammy-winning producer Steve Lillywhite.

A year later, Slot Machine joined Live Nation’s Asia On Tour, performing alongside Japanese superstar Miyavi and South Korean indie rock band Kiha & The Faces across North America. Upon returning to Bangkok, they headlined their own ‘Mothership Concert’, thrilling a wildly enthusiastic crowd.

In 2018, they collaborated with Taiwanese rock band MayDayto record a single, further expanding their cross-border influence.

Slot Machine’s releases promise a dynamic blend of rock, spirituality, and cultural symbolism. Their thoughtful integration of Thai elements, paired with their globally appealing sound, continues to captivate both long-time fans and new listeners.

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CONNECT WITH SLOT MACHINE:

OFFICIAL WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

 Source: Blackstar