Working Abroad: A Helping Hand for OFWs

Working Abroad: A Guide Based on My Experience Volume 1: Preparing to Work Abroad by Franz David Lim is a helping hand for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). There are several movies and books available about being an OFW, but most of them tackle the horror stories of being an expatriate worker. In the 90s for instance, there were movies about Filipina helpers who were unjustly sentenced to death. In the 2000s, there were movies about long distance relationships between Filipino workers. This is why this book is such a breath of fresh air. The focus is on having the best possible chance of thriving in another country. And as someone who does not have any plan to work overseas, I still found this book to be informative and entertaining. 

I would like to commend the author for his easy to understand text and relatable stories. He does not write with a condescending, know it all tone. I like how he emphasized the importance of learning the language of the country where you plan to work. While English is the universal language, speaking the native language will give you more chances of succeeding in your chosen field and city. It will also help you befriend people and have an active social life.

Another emphasis in this book which I found valuable was culture. Understanding the cultural nuances of the place where you will work is key to having a smooth transition. It will also enable you to appreciate local customs and traditions.

At the end of the day, being an OFW is a choice. The author helps the reader choose wisely, from his education to his foreign language lessons, in order to succeed in his career in a different country. This book is an easy read for those who would like to begin again outside of their comfort zones.

Working Abroad: A Guide Based on My Experience Volume 1: Preparing to Work Abroad by Franz David Lim is now available!

It Ain’t Winning If Without You: A Focused Love Discussion

It Ain’t Winning If Without You by Michelle Ayon Navajas is a reminder that love is everywhere. Since I frequently join focused group discussions, this book has reminded me of the FGDs that I have previously been part of. The focus of this book is love, whether it is told through the lens of pain, or of longing, or of celebration. The poems written by the author have always moved me, and the ones in this book were no exception. This book made me feel that winning is a shared experience with the one who inspires you the most.

I appreciate that the author has also tackled grief in this book, which is uncommon as most authors choose to tread along conventional topics. I also appreciate how the author presented time and location as mere actors in her theater of love. Certain settings remind her of the person who means the most to her, and her poems show that moving along this love means moving alongside this person.

I remember in the author’s previous book Locker how she used flash fiction to encapsulate big feelings into bite-sized stories. This book does the same, albeit in a different format. Poems have the power to capture deep emotions in one page. The author may have used fewer words this time, yet she has managed to show a multitude of feelings in this collection of poems. I appreciate her gift, and it has moved me just the same.

This book is recommended for those who are starting to appreciate poetry, as the author’s works are relatable and pleasant to read. It is also perfect for those who are going through challenges, because it reminds the reader that life happens in phases, and better days will eventually come.

It Ain’t Winning If Without You by Michelle Ayon Navajas is now available!

Wayward to Wayfinder: A Workbook for Success

Wayward to Wayfinder: My Leadership Journey through Mental Models by Richard S. Javier is an effective workbook for success. I have answered the worksheets in his book, and I learned how to fix a broken system. This broken system was fixed through regrouping and transforming my fears into opportunities for growth.

We all have different definitions of success. The author has expertly shared his personal and career trajectories in his book without sounding like he was bragging. While he does not preach about his own methods, he encourages his readers to also define success in their own terms through the worksheets that he includes in this book. He was able to illustrate that fear is not the end of one’s journey, but rather something that can be worked with. He also included many worksheets on calculating risks and analyzing threats in order to properly balance them with resources and opportunities. While I still have yet to apply what I have learned in this book, I can say that the results of my worksheets look promising. I was able to map out some paths which I should take and which opportunities I should continue to pursue. I was also inspired by his years in leadership, because he was not only able to mold people. He was also able to shape his own growth mindset.

I can see this book being useful to students, mentors, jobseekers, employees, freelancers like myself, and even stay-at-home parents. Everyone has their own paths to take and their own fears to conquer. What matters most is how these paths are pursued and how those fears are analyzed and reframed. The worksheets have a universal appeal, and everyone can benefit from them.

Wayward to Wayfinder: My Leadership Journey through Mental Models by Richard S. Javier is now available!

The Designated Route: The True Path: A Conversation with Oneself

The Designated Route: The True Path by Angeles Quimson Feliciano has initially prodded me to judge it by its cover. It featured a headless man who is staring into the sea. The horror movie fan in me was initially fascinated by the prospect of a scary plot, but its title invited me to look beyond its cover. Once I read its introduction, I realized that I was holding a spiritual journey in the form of a readable book.

You see, not all spiritual books are readable. Some are stiflingly boring. Others are painfully deep, that they are already unrelatable. This one, however, does the job of both entertaining its reader and engaging them with its simple prose. Before I knew it, I was on an introspective trip into my own inner world. I was reading the book while unknowingly facing my own uncomfortable truths.

The author expertly tackles difficult topics such as disillusionment and purpose without sounding preachy. Indeed, her many years of experience in running a formation center has given her the skills to move the unmoveable. My favorite part of the book was about courage. As someone who loves hiking, I like that the author has written her book as if it were a journey. The destination may not be a summit or a waterfall, but rather the knowledge that the route in itself is the most important part of the path. This lesson has given me a sense of peace which I have been yearning for. I am definitely exploring this and I will be reflecting more on it moving forward. And following the author’s advice, I will no longer dwell on my failures. Instead, I will continue working on myself and accept that many things are beyond my own control.

The Designated Route: The True Path by Angeles Quimson Feliciano is now available!

The Kingdom I Came to Love: A Celebration of the Mundane

It is easy to dismiss The Kingdom I Came to Love by Fernando G. Ting as the average boring memoir. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying this book even if I do not have any connection whatsoever to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I have come to appreciate the author’s simple writing in plain English. His straightforward style has given me an in-depth look into his years in Saudi, making his life a momentary source of entertainment and wisdom for yours truly.

As someone who does not have any close ties with Overseas Filipino Workers or OFWs, it was fascinating to learn about life as an expat. For example, recording your voice on blank cassette tapes sounds so nostalgic yet efficient in communicating before the age of emails and voice messages. Coincidentally, one of my most treasured heirlooms from my late grandfather is a Rado watch, and the author mentioned haggling and purchasing one. These mundane details gave me a personal connection to the author, even if his industry is worlds apart from my own. 

Additionally, I appreciated the author’s mention of celebrating holidays overseas, dealing with natural disasters, surviving multicultural work environments, and the photos of documents during his working years. These stories and photographs paint a colorful picture of a life well-lived, and a career that has supported his family. 

There are many intriguing parts about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, yet this book demystifies work in that country through human connections and memories. I am sure that this book will resonate with readers who have family members who work abroad, as well as to those who plan to become OFWs as well. It can also become a valuable resource for students who are still discerning about their career options.

The Kingdom I Came to Love by Fernando G. Ting is now available!

Under One Umbrella: A Shared Vision

Under One Umbrella by Alvin B. Cruz is a shared vision in the form of poetry. I have been a fan of the author for many years now, and his works have always been approachable and direct to the point. He does not disappoint in his latest collection of one hundred haiku, senryu, and tanka. I found myself reading his new book on a rainy day, and the sound of the raindrops provided the perfect scoring for my afternoon read.

Alvin has always been an expert in weaving nature in his poems. He has artfully formulated a method of writing poetry which combines common themes that bind us all, and most of them can be found in the world around us. In this book, I could sense a yearning for companionship. Loneliness is a repeated theme, and they are tackled with calculated measure. He effortlessly balances his solitude with poems on his exploits with nature.

The photographs taken by the author have given his poems a moody feel. While poetry is not for everyone, nature has its own universal appeal which the author has successfully anchored on in this book. The photos invite the reader to ponder on their own forays in the mountains and by the sea, while delving deep into the author’s words.

I look forward to reading more of the author’s works in the future. His works have given me hope during dark times.For now, his poems on solitude and longing accompany me in my own quest to find my place in this chaotic and ever-changing world.

In a sense, nature has always been comforting and present. Yet, human connections define our best memories, and Under One Umbrella highlights the need for shared experiences amidst life’s unexpected downpours.

Under One Umbrella by Alvin B. Cruz is now available!

Rock Opong finds beauty in goodbye with new single “We Tried”

The Filipino recording artist opens up about regret, growth, and the silent strength in letting go

Filipino singer-songwriter Rock Opong drops his latest single, “We Tried”—out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

“We Tried” captures the bittersweet journey of letting go, growing, and finding peace after love is lost. The tender, piano-led ballad tells the story of two people who gave their best to love each other, but in the end, had to walk away. There’s no drama and no betrayal, just the silent heartbreak of trying, failing, and remembering.

“It came from a very real and honest place,” the promising newcomer shares. “There was no big fallout—just two people trying so hard to make something work, and it still wasn’t enough. That kind of heartbreak can be the hardest to understand, and I wanted to give it a voice.”

The song’s emotional weight is matched by its minimalist production. Built around intimate piano lines, fingerpicked acoustic guitar, and hushed harmonies, “We Tried” lets each lyric breathe. Nothing is overproduced. Every sound is intentional and organic, echoing the raw honesty of the story.

“I didn’t want to hide behind metaphors,” says Opong. “I wanted it to feel like the conversation you wish you had before it ended. It represents closure that you carry in your own head, even if you never get to say it out loud.”

The song began almost by accident. During a casual Instagram Live, Opong offhandedly said, ‘We tried’—a phrase that lingered in his mind for weeks. When he finally sat down with his guitar, the words and melody came quickly and effortlessly. It was one of those rare songwriting moments when clarity and emotion align.

“So many people carry the weight of what-ifs in love,” Opong reflects. “This song is for them: for those who loved deeply, lost gently, and are still finding peace in the remembering. I hope it reminds them that it’s okay to mourn something that didn’t break, just faded.”

Rock Opong’s “We Tried” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the official music video of “We Tried” on Rock Opong's YouTube channel premiering at 6PM.

Source: Nyou

TECNO POVA 7 Series Lands in PH!

June 22nd, 2025 – TECNO, an AI-driven innovative technology brand, unveils the POVA 7 Series today with the most significant performance and design leap in its record in Philippines. Designed for the next generation of users, the new series combines futuristic, minimalist, and premium aesthetics with next-level AI capabilities and high-performance hardware tailored for immersive gaming and all-day entertainment. In a major announcement, TECNO Philippines revealed the POVA 7 series as the official smartphone partner for the PUBG MOBILE Challenges League Southeast Asia (PMCL SEA) and PUBG MOBILE Super League Southeast Asia (PMSL SEA). This strategic partnership underscores the series' elite gaming credentials and positions it at the heart of Southeast Asia's premier mobile esports battlegrounds.

The POVA 7 Series debuts with three groundbreaking devices in Philippines: the flagship POVA 7 Ultra 5G, the style-forward POVA Curve 5G, and the performance-packed POVA 7. The POVA 7, launching on June 22, redefines value with its colossal 7000mAh Mega Battery, lightning-fast 45W Flash Charge, striking Interstellar Spaceship Design, and the potent MediaTek Helio G100 Ultimate Processor. Available in two configurations – 16GB RAM+256GB ROM & 16GB RAM+128GB ROM (with 8GB extended RAM) – the POVA 7 opens for sale on June 26th. Topping the lineup, the interstellar-inspired POVA 7 Ultra 5G brings flagship power with a durable 6000mAh battery, 70W Ultra Charge, and 30W Wireless Fast Charge, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Ultimate AI Processor for top-tier gaming and multi-tasking. The POVA Curve 5G marks the POVA Series’ debut curved screen, merging a futuristic edge-to-edge display with bold performance and elevated style, expanding the family’s appeal to gamers and trendsetters.

“With the POVA 7 Series, we’re delivering not just raw power, but intelligent power that adapts to our users' real-world needs—from seamless gaming experience to immersive entertainment and AI-enhanced creativity,” said Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO. “It definitively establishes new benchmarks not just in performance, but in trend-tech aesthetics - redefining what a smartphone can achieve through the fusion of advanced technology and contemporary style."

A Futuristic Statement of Style, Built for the Bold

Introducing an all-new design language for the POVA lineup — bold yet refined, futuristic yet elegantly minimalist — the POVA 7 Series makes a confident visual statement for the next generation.Inspired by “Interstellar Spaceship Design,” the POVA 7 Series stands out with bold, sleek lines and a minimalist, pure style designed to capture the imagination of a new generation of users. Its signature triangular geometry emblem punctuates purity with personality.

The technological progress also seamlessly converges with software revolutions in HiOS 15 Special for POVA 7 Series - marking the most significant OS evolution in POVA's history. For the first time, TECNO introduces system-wide customization with user-defined icons, fonts, and dynamic wallpapers, alongside a clean, bloat-free experience. This major update delivers a uniquely expressive and distraction-free interface, brought to life by neumorphism-inspired design and POVA’s exclusive typeface, setting a new standard for personalization and purity across the TECNO ecosystem.

Power Without Limits: Next-Level Gaming and Off-Grid Connectivity

The POVA 7 Series is engineered to effortlessly power through demanding days and thrilling gaming sessions. POVA 7 empowers users to dominate games, stream content, and stay connected from sunrise to well beyond sunset, eliminating everyday compromises. At its core, the MediaTek Dimensity G100 Ultimate processor (Antutu Score: 446,335) ensures buttery-smooth performance for both daily tasks and intense gaming. Banish low-battery anxiety: the massive 7000mAh Mega Battery delivers an astounding 36.76 hours of daily use (DOU), supported by 45W Flash Charge (Smart Charge Mode) that juices up 50% in just 30 minutes and achieves a full charge in 70 minutes. Engineered for longevity, the battery withstands over 1800 cycles, promising safe and durable performance for up to four years.

Gamers gain the edge with the HyperEngine Game Engine for optimized smoothness and battery life, the advanced Hyper Cooling System, ultra-precise multi-touch controls, WiFi low-latency tuning with horizontal grip signal optimization, and immersive Dolby Atmos®-powered dual speakers. For adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, the groundbreaking FreeLink feature enables peer-to-peer calls and messages over distances up to 1km without any cellular signal, keeping you connected even off-grid during hikes or emergencies. This is seamless power, perfected for real life.

Unlock Practical TECNO AI — Smarter Features, Accessible to All

For the first time, AI is fully integrated across the entire POVA 7 Series, strategically aligning with the brand's AI-driven intelligent ecosystem. Outshining same-tier brands, POVA 7 Series combines comprehensive AI integration with best-in-class multilingual processing capabilities, setting new intelligent performance standards for its category.

At the heart of it is the AI Anywhere Portal, a one-stop command center offering seamless access to all core AI tools and daily shortcuts. One tap opens a world of productivity and creativity.

● Ask Ella: A dynamic smart assistant designed to help you schedule tasks, summarize content, or rewrite text. Whether it’s for work, study, or daily life, Ella adapts to your needs with natural precision. For instance, if the user is exploring a new city and encounters an unfamiliar landmark, simply snap a photo and ask Ella for instant information, bridging the gap between curiosity and knowledge effortlessly.

● AI Full-Link Call Assistant: Including AI Call Translation, Noise Cancellation, Auto Answer, and Call Summary — for clearer, multilingual conversations, even on the go.

● AI Writing: Built-in tools for generating text, proofreading emails, and summarizing articles, triggered right from your selection. Perfect for content creators, students, and multitaskers.

● Circle to Search: Just draw a circle around any visual element — a landmark, outfit, or product — and get instant, relevant results. Travel smarter, shop faster, and explore deeper.

● AI Studio for image AI creation and editing: Create social-ready visuals using AIGC Portrait 2.0, AI Eraser, and AI Image Extender — allowing users to transform, retouch, or expand photos in seconds using touch or voice.

The TECNO POVA 7 Series officially rolls out across the Philippines starting June 2025. Marking its debut, the POVA 7 (16GB RAM + 128GB ROM & 16GB RAM + 256GB ROM, 8GB Extended RAM) goes on sale June 26th during the Online Back to School Sale Campaign. It will be available in Geek Black, Magic Silver, and Hyper Titanium at the following Suggested Retail Prices (SRP):

• 16GB+128GB: PHP 6,999

• 16GB+256GB: PHP 7,999

Special Launch Offers:

• TikTok First Sale (June 26): Grab the POVA 7 (16GB+128GB) at an exclusive launch price of PHP 5,999.

• Shopee First Sale (June 26): Snag the POVA 7 (16GB+256GB) at a special introductory price of PHP 6,749.

The flagship POVA 7 Ultra 5G and the stylish POVA Curve 5G will launch in the Philippines in Q3 2025.

                                                                               -END-

About TECNO

TECNO is an AI-driven innovative technology brand with a presence in over 70 markets across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in global emerging markets, TECNO relentlessly pursues the perfect integration of contemporary aesthetic design with the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive ecosystem of AI-powered products, including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, smart gaming devices, the HiOSoperating system, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing,” TECNO continues to pioneer the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and AI-driven experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and brightest futures. For more information, please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com. ​​

 Source: TECNO Philippines

RISING STAR AUDREY HOBERT UNVEILS NEW SONG “BOWLING ALLEY” + VIDEO

SELLS OUT LIVE DEBUTS IN NEW YORK AND LOS ANGELES

“Bowling alley” single art, credit Kyle Berger

June 20, 2025—Breakout star Audrey Hobert unveils a new song, “Bowling alley,” today via RCA Records. Entirely written by Audrey, the track arrives alongside a self-directed video. Watch here and listen here.

“‘Bowling alley’ is about thinking nobody wants you to go to their party even though you were cordially invited (self-involved feeling), and also about people who you’ve known for years only acknowledging you when you do something exciting artistically and in the public eye,” says Audrey. “I’ve experienced both things, and I thought, ‘Heck, put it to music girl.’ ‘Bowling alley’ is one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written. If Audrey Hobert were a song, it would probably be this one.”

Furthermore, Audrey played her first ever live shows at The Slipper Room in New York last week with two sold out sets and will make her L.A. debut on June 24 at The Elysian Theater with another sold out night.

Audrey’s debut single, “Sue me,” also delivered with a self-directed video, has been streamed more than 8 million times and seen explosive viral success in the few weeks since release. The track continues to receive critical acclaim:

“With ‘Sue me,’ Hobert hits a home run right out the gate, a fearless, capital-P pop song that will be stuck in your head all summer. And she’s just getting started…It’s not Audrey Hobert Summer. It’s Audrey Hobert’s World…she, even one song in, has already established what will soon become known as the Audrey Hobert touch: straightforward, arresting lyrics (a throwback to her anti-poetry days) that don’t take themselves too seriously.”—NYLON

“While stans across the internet are scavenging for this year’s song of the summer, Audrey makes a stellar case with ‘Sue me’ and its self-directed music video. The buzzing indie sleaze-influenced production bridged with Audrey’s careless confessionals are giving pop the fresh take it’s been craving.”—Cosmopolitan

A lifelong singer, musical theatre devotee and dancer, Audrey got her first taste of songwriting when childhood best friend and then-roommate Gracie Abrams pulled Audrey into the making of her album The Secret of Us. Together, they wrote some of Gracie’s standouts like “I Love You, I’m Sorry” and “Risk”—for which Audrey directed the music videos—as well as current global hit “That’s So True.”

Working a job in T.V. writing at the time, Audrey had no intention of becoming a songwriter, let alone an artist. But she enjoyed the experience immensely, and when she went back to writing songs after Gracie’s album, thinking she was writing for other artists, she realized she was writing them for herself.

Audrey is a one woman show—writing songs, directing and editing videos, fully realizing all aspects of her music from start to finish. “Bowling alley” is just another taste of what’s to come.

Press photo, credit Kyle Berger

For more information, please contact
Reid Kutrow or Carla Sacks at Sacks & Co., 212.741.1000,
reid.kutrow@sacksco.com or carla@sacksco.com.

CRAVITY Second Full-Length Album Dare to Crave Out Now Lead Track “SET NET G0?!” Unveils a Dreamy Summer Vibe

Watch Here 

(Credit: Starship Entertainment)

For immediate release - K-pop group CRAVITY, comprised of SERIM, ALLEN, JUNGMO, WOOBIN, WONJIN, MINHEE, HYEONGJUN, TAEYOUNG, and SEONGMIN, is back with their second full-length album, Dare to Crave, available on all major streaming platforms now. This release marks a bold new chapter in their ongoing exploration of youth and longing, as they dive deeper into the concept of yearning.

Dare to Crave symbolises the audacity of embracing one’s desires and instincts. Building on the narrative they’ve crafted since debuting in 2020, CRAVITY now turns their focus to “craving” - revealing raw emotions and further expanding their artistic universe. Nearly three years after their first full-length release, this album captures the group’s authentic voice and creative growth.

The 12-track album, led by the electrifying single “SET NET G0?!”, also introduces unit tracks for the first time - three songs that each explore personal aspects of their shared identity. WOOBIN produced “Rendez-vous”, a track about encounters that awaken blurred emotions. SERIM makes his composing debut with “Marionette”, which delves into the complex feelings within intense relationships. WONJIN composed “Wish Upon a Star”, a soft, reflective piece about promises kept after a long wait. Each track has its own distinct tone, yet together they form a cohesive whole, marking a meaningful leap for CRAVITY as individuals and as a group.

“SET NET G0?!” is more than a call to action—it’s a declaration of unwavering determination. Backed by dreamy pluck synths, a driving bassline, and addictive vocal chops, the track encapsulates youthful energy and freedom, inviting listeners to surge forward through life’s uncertainties with refreshing vocals and exhilarating performances.

As they celebrate their fifth debut anniversary this year, CRAVITY also unveiled a major rebranding: a new logo inspired by grapes and grapevines, and a refined group name blending “CRAVE” and “GRAVITY” to convey the powerful message, “Our craving is as strong as gravity.” Now, with Dare to Crave, they bring that craving into vivid form.

STREAM DARE TO CRAVE HERE

WATCH “SET NET G0?!” MUSIC VIDEO HERE

Dare to Crave album cover artwork (download here)

Tracklisting

1. On My Way

2. SWISH

3. SET NET G0?!

4. Rendez-vous

5. PARANOIA

6. Straight Up To Heaven (performed by JUNGMO, WOOBIN, SEONGMIN)

7. Stadium (performed by ALLEN, WONJIN, HYEONGJUN)

8. Marionette (performed by SERIM, MINHEE, TAEYOUNG)

9. Underdog

10. Click, Flash, Pow

11 Love Me Again

12. Wish Upon A Star

About CRAVITY

Since debuting in 2020, CRAVITY has maintained relentless momentum, sweeping Rookie of the Year awards at various music ceremonies in Korea. Their debut album hit No. 1 on the U.S. iTunes Top K-Pop Albums chart, making them the first 2020 rookie group to achieve this feat. Shortly after, they made a splash with a No.12 debut on Billboard's Social 50, becoming the fifth-fastest South Korean group to enter the rankings. Since then, their profile has risen, Variety named them an “Up-and-Coming Group to Know” in 2022, Forbes spotlighted them as “Ones to Watch”, and in 2024 they triumphed on Mnet’s Road to Kingdom: ACE OF ACE.

FOLLOW CRAVITY

INSTAGRAM | FB | X | YOUTUBE | TIKTOK

For more information contact mabuhay@blackstar.space

December Avenue's "Saksi Ang Langit" Charts After Zeinab Harake and Ray Parks' Wedding

Photo Credit: Bram Asuncion

June 23, 2025 – Manila, Philippines - Initially released in November 2022, December Avenue’s ‘Saksi Ang Langit’ recently gained attention after they performed it at Zeinab Harake and Bobby Ray Parks Jr.’s wedding on June 1, 2025. In a message published online, the band expressed their appreciation to the couple, stating, “Thank you for the trust, for the warmth, and for reminding us all what it means to love. May your bond be a testament to faith—to a love that always chooses to stay, even against all odds.”

A week after the wedding, Zeinab also uploaded a wedding film on YouTube featuring their song, which quickly garnered over ten million views. At the 30-minute mark of the video, ‘Saksi Ang Langit’ played as fireworks lit up the sky, featuring heartwarming wedding highlights. Touching moments such as the couple exchanging vows and dancing to the band’s live performance brought warmth to the newlyweds’ idyllic milestone. Furthermore, this resonated with viewers, driving the viral moment that boosted the song’s streams.

Following its resurgence, it earned a spot on two Spotify charts—peaking at #2 on Viral 50 Philippines and #2 on Top 50 Philippines. The band also placed #3 on Spotify Top Artists Philippines and peaked at #31 on the Viral Top 50 Global chart, marking a major milestone for the group.

Unlike most December Avenue songs that mainly tackle heartbreak, ‘Saksi Ang Langit’ depicts a promising and unwavering love, with the band’s signature cinematic and melodious sound. The official music video originally portrayed it as a heartrending story of a father’s love for his daughter, inspired by drummer Jet Danao’s daughter when he and frontman Zel Bautista wrote the piece. Moreover, after the wedding, the song took on a fresher and more hopeful meaning, reflecting the couple’s commitment to one another.

Not long after the wedding video was posted, Tower of Doom posted a Tower Sessions live performance of ‘Saksi Ang Langit’ on their YouTube channel and is now trending for music at #13 on the streaming platform.

Zeinab Harake and the December Avenue members have further solidified their friendship with this opportunity. Previously, Zeinab attended the exclusive listening party for December Avenue and Morissette’s collaborative track, ‘Ahon’, held on April 22, 2025, at Teatrino Promenade Greenhills.

###

Follow December Avenue:

Website | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok

For media opportunities, please contact:

Janine Fenequito

jfpmusicmarketing@gmail.com | +63 9209 488410

The Kid LAROI releases new single ‘HOW DOES IT FEEL’

GRAMMY nominated, multi-platinum chart-topping global superstar The Kid LAROI releases his highly anticipated new single, “HOW DOES IT FEEL” via Columbia Records. LAROI officially announced the single on socials earlier this week, attracting buzz from eager fans. The track features a special appearance from renowned musician, Thundercat, playing the song’s hypnotic baseline. LAROI also dropped the flirty new video counterpart starring actress Talia Ryder alongside himself, directed by CALMATIC (Kendrick Lamar, The Rolling Stones), showcasing his

smooth dance moves at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.

“HOW DOES IT FEEL” follows LAROI’s first release of 2025, “ALL I WANT IS YOU.” Last year, he released the deluxe version of his full-length debut album, THE FIRST TIME, featuring five new tracks. He also embarked on The First Time Tour, which brought him across Europe, North America and Australia. He released three new singles “Girls,” which he debuted live on tour ahead of the release, “Aperol Spritz,” and ended the year with “Slow It Down” featuring Quavo. LAROI was also recently featured on Tate McRae’s new album with their song “I know love.” With no signs of slowing down, LAROI continues to excite fans with his chart-topping hits and cinematic videos.

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Follow The Kid LAROI:
Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | Twitter | Facebook | Website

Source: Nyou 

BENSON BOONE RELEASES HIGHLY ANTICIPATED NEW ALBUM 'AMERICAN HEART'

LISTEN HERE

PREMIERES VIDEO FOR
"MR ELECTRIC BLUE"

Photo Credit: David Roemer

June 20th, 2025 – Grammy-nominated global pop sensation Benson Boone continues to level up in 2025 with the release of his second studio album 'American Heart', out now via Night Street Records/Warner Records. Fans can stream the album here. 

Arriving alongside the album is the electrifying focus track, “Mr Electric Blue” — a song Benson Boone wrote about his father. Bursting with driving percussion, vibrant melodies, and soaring vocals, the track channels emotion through momentum, capturing Boone’s signature flair for transforming personal stories into bold, stadium-ready moments. First teased on TikTok with a spirited clip, the song blends heartfelt intention with feel-good energy — making it a standout hit in the making. Amplifying the release even further, a music video directed by frequent collaborator Matt Eastin will premiere alongside the track.

Benson Boone - "Mr Electric Blue" (Official Music Video)

Earlier this month, Benson kicked off a series of live performances from his new album, starting with a guest appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where he performed his heartfelt track "Momma Song" — and made history as the first guest to backflip off Jimmy’s desk during an interview. Benson also lit up the stage at the American Music Awards on May 26th with an electrifying performance of single "Mystical Magical" which is currently climbing the charts.  Last month he also made his Saturday Night Live debut performing both "Mystical Magical" and "Sorry I’m Here For Someone Else.". 

In February, he delivered a show-stopping performance of his break-through smash hit "Beautiful Things" at the 67th annual Grammy Awards, where he was nominated for Best New Artist. The hitmaker took over the Coachella main stage in April, where he brought out surprise guest Brian May of Queen for an acclaimed, viral performance of “Bohemian Rhapsody".

Boone’s 5x-Platinum hit “Beautiful Things” was the #1 most streamed song in the world last year, earning the IFPI Global Single Award for 2024. The chart-conquering track has now surpassed 2 billion streams on Spotify and over 4 billion total streams since its release last year. Most recently, it broke the record for the longest run of a single music video on YouTube's US Music Video Chart, with over 70 consecutive weeks and counting. With a social following of over 25.9 million, Benson Boone’s fanbase continues to grow across Southeast Asia — with the Philippines and Indonesia ranking #3 and #9 respectively among his top global streaming markets.

Featured on his acclaimed, Platinum certified debut album 'Fireworks & Rollerblades', the viral smash logged an impressive 7 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Global 200 chart, hit #1 at Top 40, Hot AC, and AC radio, and vaulted to #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also earned Boone two Billboard Music Awards, an MTV Video Music Award, an iHeartRadio Music Award, the BMI Champion Award, and multiple global accolades.

Last year, Benson opened for Taylor Swift’s 'ERAS Tour' in London at Wembley stadium, following a performance with Lana Del Rey at Hangout Festival in May, in addition to embarking on his own fully sold-out 'Fireworks & Rollerblades Tour', playing shows across the globe. Benson is showing no signs of slowing down in 2025 as he continues to push the boundaries of his musical artistry.
 

'American Heart' Tracklisting: 
1. Sorry I'm Here For Someone Else
2. Mr Electric Blue
3. Man In Me
4. Mystical Magic
5. Reminds Me Of You
6. Momma Song
7. I Wanna Be The One You Call
8. Wanted Man
9. Take Me Home
10. Young American Heart

Stream 'American Heart' here: https://bensonboone.lnk.to/AmericanHeart
Watch the music video for "Mr Electric Blue" here

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Indie Rock Project of Soyoon Hwang SE SO NEON Unveils Immersive New Single "Remember!" in Korean and English Versions, Announces New Album '' Out August 15

Photo Credit: Tanner Deutsch

June 20th, 2025 - Philippines — Today, genre-defying South Korean band, SE SO NEON premieres the second single off their upcoming record, "Remember!", alongside an English version of the track. The new song is also accompanied by a music video that was shot in Seoul and self-directed by front woman, Soyoon Hwang. In addition to the release, the band announces their long awaited new album '<NOW>', due out August 15th. Fans can stream the single HERE and watch the music video HERE.

Led by producer and multi-instrumentalist, Soyoon Hwang, the group has crafted their own brand of lo-fi and vintage sound, displaying a wide spectrum of musical influences varying from blues and psychedelic rock to new wave and synth pop. Sung primarily in Korean, their music is rooted both in the present and in nature, making '<NOW>' relatable regardless of any language barrier. "People will feel my energy and my soul," Soyoon proclaims.

SE SO NEON – "Remember!" (Official Music Video)

Co-produced by Soyoon and Jon Nellen (Nick Hakim) and mixed by Nathan Boddy (Pink Pantheress, Geordie Greep), "Remember!" has a dynamic and emotionally expressive tone, with significant shifts in energy throughout—ranging from gentle, introspective moments to more intense, powerful peaks. The sound is polished and immersive, with a rich stereo mix and cinematic atmosphere that conveys a heartfelt as well as nostalgic theme.

"Sadly, there are times when I come to understand myself through the death of others," says Soyoon. "Perhaps because I haven't experienced death very often, it seems to hit me even harder. When my friend, mentor, and respected musician, Ryuichi Sakamoto, passed away, I found myself not wanting to forget the emotions I experienced. His death left me with a determination never to forget who I am and to be able to throw myself entirely into both time and music within his support. And the way of remembering him is to hold onto this."

After releasing her second solo album, 'Episode1: Love' in 2023, Soyoon felt anxiety about the band's next move. She decided she needed a change of scenery, so she traveled to New York City to work on the next phase of SE SO NEON's music. Being in different surroundings and spending almost 10 hours a day in the studio proved invigorating and it also made her realise that she needed to worry less about the future and live more in the present. "That's why the album title is '<NOW>'," Soyoon says. "I had been thinking, 'I'm done. I'm not going to do music anymore.' But after that New York experience, I felt hope."

Soyoon's guitar playing is key to '<NOW>', aiming to defy genres to create a wholly unpredictable, yet utterly natural landscape, much like the ones she marvelled at as a child in Korea and as a young adult in Los Angeles. "I love nature—sky, sunshine," she furthers. "'<NOW>' is about nature, because I'm from nature."

'<NOW>' Tracklisting:
1. Twit Winter 
2. Remember! 
3. New Romantic 
4. Now
5. Secret Police 
6. Small Heart 
7. Eden 
8. Jayu
9. Kidd
10. Revolution 
11. Pandq
12. O

Stream "Remember!" here
Watch the official music video here
Pre-order '<NOW>' here
 

About SE SO NEON

SE SO NEON was formed in 2016 by Soyoon. Mirroring their sonic dexterity, the band has seen various iterations with Soyoon remaining the consistent anchor. Winning Rookie of the Year and Best Rock Song of the Year at the prestigious Korean Music Awards in their debut year, SE SO NEON instantly became a leading figure of South Korea's indie scene.

In 2020, SE SO NEON released their EP 'Nonadaptation', which was featured in Pitchfork's 'The 35 Best Rock Albums of 2020' and Paste's 'The 40 Best Rock Albums of 2020'. In addition, the band was also selected as one of Fender's 'Next Artists of 2020'. SE SO NEON was also the only South Korean band to be selected for YouTube Music's global artist development program, YouTube Music Foundry. 

With over 145 million global streams to date, SE SO NEON's growing popularity is reflected in their strong Southeast Asian fanbase, with key regional cities #2 Jakarta, #3 Bangkok, #5 Singapore, #6 Taipei, and #7 Kuala Lumpur ranking among their top global listeners.

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JADE returns with new single Plastic Box

Global music superstar JADE returns today with her new single 'Plastic Box'.

Written by JADE with GRADES and Lauren Aquilina and co-produced by Oscar Görres, the track is a pulsating electro synth-pop song about jealousy and irrational emotion.

JADE says: "Plastic Box is about that irrational and toxic insecurity within us when we think about our partner's previous relationships, even though we know everyone has a past. It’s a happy-sad pop song and one of my favourite songs I've ever written."

'Plastic Box' is taken from her upcoming hugely anticipated debut solo album 'THAT’S SHOWBIZ BABY!'. The album will be released on September 12th and sees JADE work with a variety of A list collaborators on the project including Mike Sabath, Lostboy, Cirkut, RAYE and Pablo Bowman.

JADE also recently announced the dates for her first solo UK and Ireland tour 'THAT’S SHOWBIZ BABY! – THE TOUR', which has already completely sold out. JADE will hit the road in October and November of this year visiting Dublin, Belfast, Brighton, Manchester, Glasgow, Leeds, Birmingham, Bournemouth and Newcastle, before finishing at London's prestigious Roundhouse.

JADE has hit 190 million streams for her solo music in just 10 months. She recently performed two triumphant shows at Radio 1's Big Weekend and Mighty Hoopla, and played 'Plastic Box' at both to a thunderous reaction. She was also recently nominated for a prestigious Ivor Novello Award for 'Best Contemporary Song’ for her debut solo single 'Angel Of My Dreams', and will play a special full orchestral concert at the BBC Proms in Newcastle on July 25th.

JADE triumphed at this year's BRIT Awards winning 'Pop Act' and delivering the stand-out performance of the night, performing her superhit 'Angel Of My Dreams'.  The performance video has been viewed over 2 million times, with The Guardian calling it ‘An episodic live performance so peculiar it stole the show’, whilst NME said it was ‘A staggering, theatrical performance’. Clash Magazine named it one of the greatest BRITS performances of all time.

JADE finished 2024 by winning the Trailblazer Award at The Rolling Stone UK Awards and appearing on the cover of the magazine. She was also included on many of the end of year 'Best Of' lists. 'Angel Of My Dreams' was named the No.1 song of 2024 by DIY Magazine and a Top 10 song by The Guardian, DORK, Clash and NME. In addition, Dazed named JADE’s ‘Angel Of My Dreams’ video of the year.

'Angel Of My Dreams' has been a huge commercial success. The track has accumulated over 100 million streams to date, entering the UK Official Singles Chart at No.7, the third highest new entry for a British artist last year. The accompanying video was a No.1 YouTube trending video for 10 days and has had 13 million views. The song remained in the Official UK Singles Chart Top 20 for two months. 

Since then, JADE has dropped four more tracks, 'Midnight Cowboy', a sultry, understated bass heavy bop about owning your sexuality, the sleek disco-tinged 'Fantasy', complete with a video directed by the iconic David LaChapelle, the bold anthem 'IT girl' and the electrifying and dramatic 'FUFN'.

This Summer will see JADE perform at even more festivals including Glastonbury, All Points East, TRNSMT and the Montreux Jazz festival in Switzerland.

Source: Nyou

Rising Indie Rock Artist Chris LaRocca Drops Introspective Single 'slow dance in the diner'

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Photo Credit: Ted Belton

June 20th, 2025 – Artist, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Chris LaRocca releases his third single of the year, “slow dance in the diner”, from his forthcoming EP ‘dog years’, via Red Bull Records/Wonderchild. Fans can stream the song here. 

“slow dance in the diner” is somber, smitten, bold, and honest all at once. Listeners witness LaRocca reflect on spending time with his person, and his gratitude for the smallest moments. Sonically, he’s as detail-oriented as ever — with raw vocals, unfiltered lyrics, and a crisp, emotional guitar line. This track showcases yet another facet of his artistic depth and marks a significant shift towards the musical storytelling he has long admired but never sought to create – until now. Drawing inspiration from Americana and folk greats, he grounds this single around the traditional stylings and simplicities of each genre.

On the inspiration behind the song, LaRocca shared: “”slow dance in the diner” reminisces on a trip I took with my partner to Halifax in the East Coast of Canada. After visiting Peggy’s Cove, we ended up at the only restaurant open at that hour of night called ‘The Finer Diner.’ They were playing old country music, and it was completely empty aside from the two of us and the guy behind the counter. While we were waiting for what felt like forever for him to come cash us out, we started slow dancing to pass the time. When I think back to that moment, it feels like it was a scene out of a movie, and was one of the few times in this life I have felt the warmth of true love. It was a realization that I rarely have the time to just slow down and live in the present moment, and a reminder to enjoy those moments thoroughly when they present themselves”.

LaRocca started off the year with singles “ladybug” and “laundry day”, giving listeners a taste of the EP’s versatility and themes around falling (and staying) in love. Each song is a new page out of LaRocca’s journal, and while their sonic makeup is different, they’re tied together by time. The EP was written over the course of a single year wherein LaRocca grew considerably as a person and as one half of a relationship. He captures the complexity of the tug-of-war between fulfillment and disbelief that comes with finding someone you want to spend forever with.

As more pieces to Chris LaRocca’s dog years are revealed, listeners are shown the many sides that make up the Toronto-born artist. His vulnerability shines through in every verse, where he consistently demonstrates the ability to turn life’s most complicated moments into relatable bodies of work.

Stream "slow dance in the diner" here: https://chrislarocca.ffm.to/slowdance

About Chris LaRocca
 

In a previous life, Chris LaRocca was a fixture in Toronto’s DIY scene, playing sweaty basements around North America with his post-hardcore band. As that chapter of his sound slowly faded into the rearview, LaRocca transitioned from the stage to the studio, establishing himself as a dynamic producer and sought-after collaborator for top-shelf names like Kali Uchis, Bryson Tiller, Russ, and Stray Kids.

He soon caught the attention of GRAMMY-nominated, JUNO Award-winning producer, WondaGurl, joining her Wonderchild roster in partnership with Red Bull Records. His first full-length, 'i cried my eyes out', featured the song “linger”, which he brought to the screen in a heart-wrenchingly beautiful short film that won a Cannes Lion, among other accolades. 

While he’d come a long way from his DIY days, there was a part of LaRocca yearning for the music that reflected his authentic identity. Cue his new EP, 'dog years'. In the year it took to create, LaRocca felt like he had lived through seven years' worth of challenges and personal growth. Going into 2024, he relocated from Toronto to the Canadian wilderness to follow the Americana, rootsy sounds that were calling to him.

Working with Daniel Lanois (Neil Young, Bob Dylan), Matt DeLong and Ben Cook (No Warning), Jahson Paynter, and Dave Marcus (21 Savage, Rico Nasty), LaRocca felt confident to not only traverse new genres, but to dive deep into his personal life. 'dog years' is both a time-lapse that sees his relationships bloom and a love letter to himself.
 

Chris is steadily gaining fans across Southeast Asia, with 🇮🇩Indonesia at #3, 🇵🇭the Philippines at #4, 🇹🇭Thailand at #5, 🇹🇼Taiwan at #7 and 🇲🇾Malaysia at #10 among his top 10 streaming countries worldwide.

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Simple Plan Unveils First Look at 'Simple Plan: The Kids in the Crowd' Documentary & Soundtrack via Amazon

WATCH TRAILER

OUT JULY 8TH IN CELEBRATION OF
THE BAND'S 25TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Photo Credit: Skyler Barberio

June 19th, 2025 — Multi-platinum-selling band, Simple Plan, has unveiled the first look at their upcoming documentary, 'Simple Plan: The Kids in the Crowd', which offers an intimate glimpse into the band's remarkable 25-year journey as Canadian punk rock fan-favourites. The documentary premieres July 8th on Prime Video across more than 240 countries and territories worldwide. Fans can watch the trailer HERE.

"We're thrilled to share this first look at our documentary. The film captures our journey, struggles, and most memorable moments together. Creating it has been deeply meaningful, and sharing our story is the perfect way to celebrate our 25th anniversary," said the band. "'The Kids in the Crowd' is about dreaming big and perseverance. It's a story of friendship, brotherhood, and music's transformative power. Our hope is that it encourages people to believe in themselves and inspires a new generation of kids to find their passion, follow their hearts, and maybe even start a band in their own garage or basement...just like we did!"

'Simple Plan: The Kids in the Crowd' (Official Trailer)

As a companion to the documentary, Amazon Music is offering fans an exclusive early demo version of "I'm Just A Kid", from the band's multi-platinum 2002 debut album, 'No Pads, No Helmets… Just Balls'. The full soundtrack will launch with the documentary on July 8th. The band is currently on their 'Bigger Than You Think!' Headline Tour across North America. 

'Simple Plan: The Kids in the Crowd' offers an unprecedented look into the band's journey from basement shows in Montreal to global stardom. The documentary chronicles the creation of hits like "Welcome to My Life", "I'd Do Anything", and "Perfect", and examines the band's continued impact as one of the most successful punk rock bands still selling out shows worldwide. 

Fans will experience never-before-seen archival footage, along with new interviews with band members and celebrated icons of the punk rock community, including Mark Hoppus (Blink-182), Avril Lavigne, Dexter Holland and Noodles (The Offspring), and Fat Mike (NOFX). 

The documentary is produced by Sphere Media with executive producers Bruno Dubé, Renaud Chassé, and Marie-Hélène Tremblay, and producer Samuel Sauvageau. Didier Charrette directs.

Watch the trailer here
Watchlist 'Simple Plan: The Kids in the Crowd' on Prime Video here
 

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About Simple Plan
For more than two decades, Simple Plan has been one of the most culturally and commercially successful bands in rock. Their multi-platinum 2002 debut album, 'No Pads, No Helmets… Just Balls' bore the smash singles "I'd Do Anything", "I'm Just A Kid", "Addicted" and "Perfect", while subsequent hits "Welcome To My Life", "Summer Paradise", "Untitled (How Could This Happen To Me?)", "Shut Up!" and "What's New Scooby-Doo?" have cemented their legacy as pop-punk legends.

In all, the Montreal-formed quartet has sold over 10 million albums worldwide, captivated the main stages of the Vans Warped Tour and When We Were Young, performed at the 2010 Winter Olympics and with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, sold out shows around the world and raised more than $3 million through the Simple Plan Foundation. Their videos have garnered more than a billion YouTube views, while their inescapable social media presence driven another billion views on the viral #ImJustAKid Challenge alongside videos from NSYNC, Ed Sheeran, Will Smith, and Venus and Serena Williams.
 

About Prime Video
Prime Video is a first-stop entertainment destination offering customers a vast collection of premium programming in one app available across thousands of devices. On Prime Video, customers can customise their viewing experience and find their favourite movies, series, documentaries, and live sports — including Amazon MGM Studios-produced series and movies 'Red One', 'Road House', 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power', 'Fallout', 'Reacher', 'The Boys', 'Cross', and 'The Idea of You'; licensed fan favourites; Prime member-exclusive access to coverage of live sports and acclaimed sports documentaries; and programming from partners such as Apple TV+ and Max. Prime Video is one benefit among many that provides savings, convenience, and entertainment as part of the Prime membership. All customers, regardless of whether they have a Prime membership or not, can rent or buy titles via the Prime Video Store, and can enjoy even more content for free with ads. Customers can also go behind the scenes of their favourite movies and series with exclusive X-Ray access. For more info visit www.amazon.com/primevideo. 

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Filipino singer-songwriter dwta releases “Kung Ikaw Ay Masaya,” from the Flower Girl soundtrack

Helmed by filmmaker and screenwriter Fatrick Tabada, the comedy-drama stars award-winning actress Sue Ramirez

Filipino singer-songwriter dwta releases “Kung Ikaw Ay Masaya,” a melancholic folk-pop track under Sony Music Entertainment.

The song is featured in the official soundtrack for the upcoming comedy-drama Flower Girl, starring Sue Ramirez.

Directed by multi-awarded filmmaker and screenwriter Fatrick Tabada, the quirk, fun, and deeply introspective film centers around Ena, a young woman in search of her lost “womanhood.”

Tabada offers nothing but high praises for dwta’s latestsong, pointing out its pivotal role in supporting the lead character’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance. “Amid the film’s absurdity, the song grounds Ena and brings out her humanity,” Tabada adds. “Though Ena may come off as unlikeable at first, Kung Ikaw ay Masayareminds the audience that she is a woman in the process of rediscovering her humanity—and that she, too, is allowed to stumble in her journey toward self-worth.”

WATCH THE FLOWER GIRL TRAILER HERE

“When I watched the trailer, I already felt that the story was very different,” shares the Bicol-born, Manila-based artist. “It’s not the usual love story you see in movies. That’s also how the song connects to the film. The original nursery rhyme is for kids but the way we used it in the song gave it a more serious feel, kind of like how the film talks about stuff people don’t usually talk about. It’s like both the song and the film took something familiar and made it feel more real and grown-up. It proves that even things that seem light can carry real weight.”

True to her roots as a storyteller and film enthusiast, dwtahas always gravitated towards narratives that challenge convention. She sees Flower Girl as the type of film that aligns with her vision as an artist.

“it’s not just any movie,” she explains. “It’s bold, it’s unique, and it talks about things that are rarely depicted in mainstream Filipino cinema. “And with big stars like Sue Ramirez, KaladKaren, and other amazing actors in the cast, it’s a huge honor to be part of something this incredibly meaningful.”

DWTA’s “Kung Ikaw ay Masaya” serves as the soundtrack to Ena’s penultimate chapter in her search for true love. Amid the film’s absurdity, the song grounds Ena and brings out her humanity. Though Ena may come off as unlikeable at first, “Kung Ikaw ay Masaya” reminds the audience that she is a woman in the process of rediscovering her humanity—and that she, too, is allowed to stumble in her journey toward self-worth.

The song’s main hook, which also serves as its chorus, reimagines the beloved nursery rhymes of the same name. dwta’s take turns the familiar childhood melody into a haunting serenade that conveys the frustration of being at the receiving end of mixed signals and false hopes. She transforms what is typically lighthearted and innocent into something deeply personal.

LISTEN TO “KUNG IKAW AY MASAYA” HERE

The ’Santigwar” act reveals, “I ended up enjoying the process so much that I made a list of other nursery rhymes/ children games I could write songs from. Kung Ikaw Ay Masaya is one of them. I guess what inspired me the most was the idea that even the simplest, happiest songs can have deeper meaning if you look at them from a different angle.”

This isn’t her first foray into nursery rhymes-inspired music. Earlier, she released “Sampung Mga Daliri,” a nostalgic track turned bittersweet duet with SB19’s Justinand “Nasusunog (Pants On Fire).” The emotional juxtaposition between childhood joy and adult heartbreak, she explains, is what gives the songs their resonance.

“Nursery rhymes are nostalgic for us and we usually associate them with childhood and happy times. But when you pair that song with a different story like heartbreak, it hits differently.”

Produced by long-time collaborator Brian Lotho, “Kung Ikaw Ay Masaya” keeps things understated and intimate, with a stripped-back arrangement featuring only violin, guitar, and keyboard.

dwta’s “Kung Ikaw Ay Masaya” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.”

Flower Girl is out now in cinemas nationwide.

Source: Nyou

Peter $un Releases Anticipated Album 'Rent Was Due...' and Teams Up with R&B Singer Joyce Wrice for "Double Standards"

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Photo Credit: Aiden Weber

Rapper, producer, and singer-songwriter Peter $un today unveiled his full-length album ‘Rent Was Due…’ on Red Bull Records/Mind of a Genius. The nine-track project arrives with the new single “Double Standards” featuring breakout R&B star Joyce Wrice. Fans can stream the album here and watch the music video here.

Unpacking the meaning behind the single, Sunny shared: “I wrote "Double Standards" based on the dynamics of a toxic relationship. It’s about calling your partner out on some shit, meanwhile you’re doing all the same things to them”. 

Sunny’s verses flow with ease, and when Joyce Wrice joins in, their synergy is undeniable. They exchange playful arguments about relationship imbalances over a laid-back beat that creates an effortless groove. On collaborating with Joyce, Sunny added: “Working with Joyce Wrice on the track was amazing. She has this great energy whenever she pulls up – she really killed it on this one”.

The release will be accompanied by an official music video set at a house party, featuring Sunny, his date, and a crowd of beautiful women who tempt him to look away from the one sitting across from him.

Peter $un – "Double Standards" featuring Joyce Wrice (Official Music Video)

In the lead up to his album release, Peter $un (Sunny) has been warming up fans with summer-ready singles all season, including the feel-good track, “All That I Want” featuring Bay Area rapper Rexx Life Raj and the backyard BBQ anthem, “Weight On Me” featuring SoCal rapper Buddy. While “Double Standards” dials down the dancefloor energy, it showcases another side of the Virginia native, highlighting his soulful roots and nostalgic R&B influences. 

The album introduces brand new tracks like the jazz-inspired opener, “Get Down”, which borrows from Kool and the Gang’s iconic “Get Down On It”, and the old school rap track, “Keep the Faith”. Sunny bounces between different eras, genres, and sonic landscapes throughout the album, pulling from his dynamic West Coast community and the fabric of the Richmond scene. While each piece of the project has its own musical identity that flexes Sunny’s versatility, together they form a cohesive narrative on ‘Rent Was Due...’.

Piecing it all together, Sunny reflects: “The album is deeply personal to me – it’s life imitating art. Creating it gave me a way to express joy during a difficult time and reminded me of the control I have over that little voice in my head. We wanted to dance through the chaos and now, we’re celebrating”.

Sunny created this album from a real need to make rent – a challenge that many rising artists face in monetizing their passion – and for his existing fans, it only re-emphasizes his commitment to transparency. It’s both raw and relatable, yet it never succumbs to the difficulties Sunny faced at the time. Looking toward a brighter future, he chose to find the silver lining and that hope shines through in the colorful tones of ‘Rent Was Due...’. 

‘Rent Was Due...’ Tracklist

1. Get Down
2. U Got Me
3. Weight On Me (feat. Buddy)
4. Frames
5. Double Standards (feat. Joyce Wrice)
6. All That I Want (feat. Rexx Life Raj)
7. Close To You
8. Keep The Faith
9. Want You
 

Stream 'Rent Was Due...' here: https://petersun.ffm.to/rentwasdue
Watch the music video for "Double Standards" here: 

About Peter $un

For Peter $un to find bliss, the Richmond, Virginia-born rapper/singer first had to get honest about his circumstances before arriving at his new project, ‘Rent Was Due…’. $un, also known as Sunny, has lived in Southern California for close to seven years and has encountered similar hardships that fellow residents face. Fitting the ‘starving artist’ trope and working multiple jobs to sustain his musical passion. Dealing with the stresses of fluctuating housing and grocery costs. But even amid adversity, Sunny finds the silver lining on his lively and summertime-friendly album.

“I always look at the best in everything. I'll be going through something, and I'll see the light rather than the dark in it,” he continues. “I was going through a situation where I wasn't able to pay my rent at the time while I was making this project. Even though that was the situation, I was still trying to make the best music I could; nobody wants to be depressed and make depressing shit”.

Although Sunny undergoes the extremely palpable feeling of having to make rent on ‘Rent Was Due…’, he tosses his worries aside for feel-good grooves. It makes sense for the artist, who scoured his father’s R&B-centric record collection throughout his childhood and found local artists like Missy Elliott, Timbaland and The Neptunes instrumental to his soulful psychedelic appeal. While on the come-up in his hometown, Sunny hustled his music on the underground scene and occasionally collaborated with friends on material that would be the springboard for his future projects. Apart from his VA upbringing, he cites essential neo-soul albums like Lauryn Hill’s 1998 solo breakthrough ‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’, and D’Angelo’s ‘Voodoo’ as his North Star, and remnants of both masterpieces shine through ‘Rent Was Due…’. 

Sunny gets flirtatious on the mellow opener “Get Down”, which appropriately interpolates Kool & the Gang’s classic “Get Down On It”. The amorous feeling continues on the breezy dance of “Weight On Me”, where Sunny gets an assist from Buddy and flips Trina’s 2001 cut “Pull Over”. When the celestial glow of “All That I Want” comes around, Sunny’s joined by Rexx Life Raj, with both aiming to attract women they have their eyes on. While ‘Rent Was Due…’ keeps it modern, it’s Sunny’s deep soul influences that make the album shine.

“It's always been something that's just in a part of my DNA. I wanted to do more melodic stuff and get into that energy, but I still love rap shit, too,” he explains. “I want to bring some smooth shit to the table and some passion and good energy, good vibes always. I love incorporating neo-soul ‘90s type of stuff in my music, but also bringing it to a more modern level”.

But when trying to maintain an upbeat mood, there can be moments of strife. That’s where songs like the battle of the sexes anthem “Double Standards”, featuring R&B vocalist Joyce Wrice, and the vulnerable, rap-focused “Keep the Faith” break through the surface on ‘Rent Was Due…’. On the latter track, Sunny sits with himself over a lo-fi, flipped version of Faith Evans’ “Soon As I Get Home” and expresses his looming dark thoughts. “Keep the Faith” also serves as a taste of Sunny’s follow-up project, where he’ll aim to return to his rap origins.

“You can be happy, you're not going to be happy all the time, though,” he continues. “I always like to bring that versatility to my projects, showing vulnerability, and showing the human experience to people through music. We can have all this happy shit and we can have a good time, but it's not always going to be like that. And in seconds, it could be horrible. We never know”.

As Los Angeles continues its process of restoration, keeping the vibes high on the West Coast is Sunny, who proves that after setbacks, hope can be revitalized. The artist knows the feeling all too well, as his 2022 EP ‘Phone Calls Gimme Anxiety’ centered on Sunny’s grappling with recurring bad news. Now, he’s in unity with other Los Angelenos, along with outside listeners going through their own plights, and offers ‘Rent Was Due…’ as a refreshing escape.

With over 21 million career streams and a soulful sound that continues to resonate globally, he’s found a growing fanbase across Asia — with 🇮🇩 Indonesia ranking #2 and 🇹🇼 Taiwan at #6 among his top 10 streaming markets worldwide!
 

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Rising Japanese Boy Group ONE OR EIGHT Unveils New Single and Video "365", Marks First Release With Atlantic Music Group

LISTEN HERE

OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO OUT NOW

WATCH HERE

June 18th, 2025 – Manila, Philippines – ONE OR EIGHT have released their latest single, “365”, out now. This marks the first release from the eight-member boy group following their recent announcement of a partnership with major record label Atlantic Music Group. Fans across the world have taken to social media to express their excitement for the group’s growth, calling it a source of national pride that they’ve been recognized by a major international label in less than a year since debut.

The new single “365” features acclaimed songwriter Nasri, known for his work with artists like Justin Bieber. Honest and emotional, the track blends a captivating melody with a distinctive, resonant beat as it expresses a heartfelt desire to be by a loved one’s side every day of the year. At its core, “365” is also a tribute to their fans, 1DERZ (fandom name) – a vow to maintain an unbreakable bond that will carry far into the future.

"'365' is ONE OR EIGHT’s first love song, and we wanted to express how it feels when you're thinking about a special someone. The title also represents the length of time of our auditions for WARPs DIG, which was the beginning of our journey to become ONE OR EIGHT. That’s why the number means so much to us. Through the lyrics, we want to express our immense gratitude and love for all of our fans, 1DERZ, who have been rooting for us over the past year and sharing many unforgettable moments with us.

To the 1DERZ who have been supporting us from the very beginning, as well as those who have recently discovered us, I hope you'll listen to ‘365’ with someone special! "
– REIA of ONE OR EIGHT

"I was so happy to find out that ONE OR EIGHT chose our song 365 that I wrote with my good friend Noah. It’s the perfect song for them and I hope their fans love it as much as we do. I’ve spent some time in Japan with my band “Magic!” Playing shows over the years and now I have new friends in one of my favorite places in the world," – Nasri, Writer of “365” 

"From the moment Mosaic and I produced the instrumental, I knew we had something special. I shared the beat with Nasri, who masterfully brought it to life with the 365 concept. Then ONE OR EIGHT jumped in—an electrifying young group with serious style and swagger—and put their own spin on it, turning it into something truly undeniable. From our hearts to the world... I can’t wait for everyone to hear this banger! " – Noah Barer, Producer of “365”

ONE OR EIGHT – "365" (Official Music Video) 

Accompanying the single release is the romantic music video for “365”, unfolding as a passionate and poignant recollection of every moment within 365 days spent thinking about a loved one and the feelings shared. Set against an emotional backdrop, the video weaves unforgettable memories of love and shared time into a cinematic narrative. The video was directed by Osrin, one of Japan’s leading creative talents and a founding member of the creative label PERIMETRON, who has worked with major artists including King Gnu, millennium parade, Mr. Children, and GLAY.

"While working on the MV for 365, I saw these guys that are jagged, rough-around-the-edges, silly and playful, but sincerely real. I took all of my favorite parts and pieced them together. When I was finished, I had grown to love each of them," Osrin (PERIMETRON) shares on directing the music video.

Following the success of their sold-out SHŪKAI fan meeting tour across five cities in North and South America in April, ONE OR EIGHT is set for upcoming events in Asia in Bangkok (July 26) and Japan (August 24 and 26).

With these events and more on the horizon, ONE OR EIGHT continue to blaze their own trail as a rising global force. Fans across Southeast Asia are invited to witness the SHŪKAI experience up close in Bangkok—the group’s first fan meeting event in the region. Tickets are available here.
 

Stream "365" here: oneoreight.lnk.to/365
Watch the official music video here

About ONE OR EIGHT

ONE OR EIGHT is an eight-member Japanese boy group consisting of MIZUKI, NEO, REIA, RYOTA, SOUMA, TAKERU, TSUBASA, and YUGA. Their name is derived from the Japanese idiom “ichi ka bachi ka” (meaning “all or nothing”), and under the tagline “BET ON YOURSELF,” they boldly take on global challenges together in pursuit of their dreams. The group made their debut on August 16, 2024, with the single “Don’t Tell Nobody”, produced by Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic.

This was followed by the release of “KAWASAKI (with Big Sean)” on December 6, 2024 — a collaboration with American rapper Big Sean, including a series of remixes for “KAWASAKI” featuring Felip (Ken of Filipino P-Pop boy band SB19), Vietnamese-American R&B sensation thủy, and Korean hip-hop leader pH-1, showcasing the band’s ability to push musical boundaries through multi-cross-border collaborations.

In 2025, they were named one of Nikkei Entertainment!’s “100 Breakout Talents of 2025” and received the special award “Upcoming Dance & Vocal Group” at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan. On March 19, 2025, they released “DSTM”, which officially samples the iconic track “Don’t Stop The Music” by global superstar Rihanna — a historic first.

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