ONE OR EIGHT Kicks Off Back-to-Back Single Releases With “Young & Reckless” - First of Their “Anthems of Challenge”

Stream the Single Here

ONE OR EIGHT consists of YUGA, MIZUKI, NEO, TAKERU, TSUBASA, REIA, RYOTA, SOUMA (L to R)

On 29th August, rising global boy group ONE OR EIGHT will release two consecutive singles, each serving as an “anthem of challenge” for dreamers and those embracing their individuality.

The first track, “Young & Reckless” (out 29th August), captures the concept of “Like a kid”, an uninhibited spirit that embraces challenges without fear of judgment. Produced by Kavi (co-producer of Tommy Richman’s “Million Dollar Baby” which debuted at No. 2 on U.S. Billboard Hot 100) and Edwin Honoret of PRETTYMUCH, the song blends futuristic electronic textures with nostalgic 90s-00s boyband influences, channeling the rebellious, free-spirited energy at the heart of ONE OR EIGHT. The accompanying music video will premiere on 29th August at 9PM JST, stream it here. Together with the upcoming follow-up single “BET YOUR LIFE”, it forms their “anthem of challenge” series, each track spotlighting a different dimension of boldly facing life. Through “Young & Reckless”, ONE OR EIGHT delivers a powerful statement on living life to the fullest.

Download “Young & Reckless” cover artwork here

Stream “Young & Reckless” here

Since their debut in 2024, ONE OR EIGHT has quickly built a global presence, making two consecutive appearances on Korean music programmes with “DSTM” and “365”, an unprecedented achievement for an all Japanese group, and holding fan meetings in six countries within their first year.

Their breakout single “DSTM” made history as the first by a Japanese boy group to enter the U.S. Mediabase Top 40 radio chart. Building on that momentum, the group has also signed a major global deal with Atlantic Music Group, marking a significant step forward in their international journey. With these milestones, ONE OR EIGHT is steadily expanding their global presence and shaping the foundation for long term success worldwide.

ABOUT ONE OR EIGHT

ONE OR EIGHT is an eight-member Japanese boy group - MIZUKI, NEO, REIA, RYOTA, SOUMA, TAKERU, TSUBASA and YUGA - whose name is derived from the Japanese idiom “ippuku ka yoka” (one or eight, meaning “all or nothing”). With the tagline “BET ON YOURSELF”, they embody a spirit of risk-taking and ambition, inviting fans to dream big and take bold chances alongside them.

They debuted on 16th August 2024, with “Don’t Tell Nobody”, produced by One Republic’s Ryan Tedder (Taylor Swift, Adele, Jonas Brothers) and David Stewart (BTS), debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Japan HeatseekersSongs chart. Their 2024 collaboration with Big Sean, “KAWASAKI (with Big Sean)”, peaked at #5 on the U.S. iTunes Hip-Hop/Rap Song chart. In 2025, they were named one of Nikkei Entertainment!’s 100 New Leading Artists and won Upcoming Dance & Vocal Group at MTV VMAJ in 2025.

Follow ONE OR EIGHT:

Official Fan Club | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | X | Facebook

For enquiries please contact Blackstar Asia at mabuhay@blackstar.space

Singapore's Indie Darling Shye Unveils Haunting Dream-Pop Number "Shed"

LISTEN HERE

Singapore's indie pop sensation, singer-songwriter and producer Shye returns with her newest single, "Shed"—a song about carrying the quiet weight of the past which we cannot change. Known for her ability to blend vulnerability with atmospheric soundscapes, Shye delivers yet another track that's both sonically immersive and emotionally resonant. Fans can stream the song HERE. 

"Shed" is a meditation on acceptance, forgiveness, and finding connection through shared pain. "It's a conversation between me and the listener," Shye explains, "where we see our own wounds reflected in each other, even if we've never met." The track explores the idea that some scars never fully fade and instead of fighting to erase them, real healing, Shye suggests, comes from learning to live with it, with compassion for others and for ourselves.

Shye – "Shed" (Official Video)

"I wanted the mix to feel immersive, almost like stepping into a fog where every sound hangs in the air just a little longer than it should... I hope listeners can find comfort in its honesty, feel seen and feel less alone in their own unspoken experiences."

— Shye

Inspired by songs that feel "post-apocalyptic", "Shed" immerses listeners into a shimmering sonic world where beauty and melancholy coexist. Shye blends airy dream-pop textures with shoegaze-inspired walls of sound—layering lush guitars and reverb-soaked synths—while a steady drum rhythm keeps the track grounded, preventing it from floating too far into the ether. Her vocal delivery is intentionally raw—close, intimate, and almost like a whispered confession echoing through ruins—as if she's speaking directly to the listener's inner world.

With "Shed", Shye set out to create a safe space for anyone carrying unshakable memories or regrets. More than anything, the song is a reminder that healing doesn't always mean forgetting—but learning to live with the parts of ourselves we cannot change.

As her momentum continues to build across Southeast Asia, "Shed" marks a bold new chapter for Shye—emotionally rich, sonically expansive, and unmistakably her. This September, she brings her magnetic live presence to the regional stage with performances at AXEAN Festival in Bali and Music Matters Live in Singapore, continuing to resonate with audiences far beyond her home city.

Stream "Shed" here
Watch the video here
 

About Shye

Shye is an independent singer-songwriter and producer known for her dreamy blend of indie-pop and alt-rock. Entirely self-taught, she writes, records, produces, mixes, and masters all her music, crafting an unmistakably DIY sound that's both intimate and expansive.

Shye first emerged onto the scene at just 16, becoming the youngest-ever winner of the Vans Musicians Wanted competition in 2018. Since then, she's released a steady stream of work, including her debut EP 'Augus7ine' (2018), followed by the genre-blurring 14-track debut album 'days to morning glory' (2020), which won 'Album of the Year' at the Youth Music Awards in Singapore in 2021. Next came the experimental EP 'hello TRINITY'  (2021), 'idk it’s complicated' (2022), and her latest project '9LIVES' (2023), alongside a series of singles throughout 2024, all of which were entirely self-produced. In 2025, Shye continues her momentum with a string of new singles leading up to an album later in the year.

Shye has performed at music festivals such as Tiger Den SXSW in Austin Texas (2023), Axean Festival in Singapore (2023), Asia Rolling Music Festival in Taiwan (2022), Urbanscapes in Malaysia, (2019), Baybeats in Singapore (2023, 2019), Asiya Festival in the Philippines (2024), and virtually for Music Lane Okinawa (2021) and Bangkok Music City (2020). Shye performed at the swearing-in ceremony of Singapore's new Prime Minister in May 2024, and wrapped up a performance at The Alex Blake Charlie Sessions in December 2024 alongside international acts. In February this year, she performed at Taiwan's Emerge Fest and played her first-ever headline show in Bangkok in April, marking a major milestone in her growing regional presence. 

Her presence has since extended far beyond Singapore: from gracing a Times Square billboard for Spotify's EQUAL campaign to being named Freshmusic's 'Best New Artist' in 2021 to 'Best New Act from Asia' at the 2022 BandLab NME Awards and receiving the KKBOX 'Rising Star Award' the same year. Shye has also been featured on Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 (2023), Tatler Asia's Gen. T Leaders of Tomorrow (2024), Prestige 40 under 40 and Dazed 100 Global and Asia.

Shye has supported international acts such as Daniel Caesar, Clairo, Superorganism, Sales, Men I Trust, and The Chairs during their tours in Singapore. In addition, she has represented Singapore in regional music reality TV shows such as 青年派计划 (Youth π Plan) in China and Chuang Asia in Thailand. Shye was also featured in the 2021 National Day theme song, "The Road Ahead" and earlier this month, she took the stage at Singapore's National Day Parade 2025, performing as part of the country's SG60 celebrations.

Beyond music, Shye was invited by Chanel to attend her first overseas fashion show, the Chanel Cruise Replica Show in Hong Kong last November, an event attended by celebrated musicians such as G-DRAGON and Angèle. She also broke ground as the first Singaporean invited to Chanel's Paris Fashion Week show in March as a celebrity guest. Shye has graced the covers of magazines such as FEMALE, Men's Folio, Prestige, Her World, Grazia, Aplus and ELLE Singapore. Most recently, she features on the cover of FEMALE's August issue. Over the years, she has also worked with numerous brands, further cementing her influence as a creative force across music, fashion and culture. 

Whether onstage or in her bedroom studio, Shye is guided by her love for music and storytelling. With every song released, Shye invites listeners into her world, journeying together with them, one self-made track at a time.

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Reality Club Returns with a Confident New Era on 'Who Knows Where Life Will Take You?'

LISTEN HERE

‘Who Knows Where Life Will Take You?’ is the title of Reality Club’s fourth album and also a fitting reflection of the Jakarta-based quartet’s journey so far. The album features 13 tracks, led by the focus single “Now I’m a Diplomat”. Fans can stream the album here.

Written over a nine-day songwriting retreat in Ubud, Bali in May 2024, the songs were later recorded at Tree Recording Studio in Bangkok with producers Brad Oberhofer, Iga Massardi and Wisnu Ikhsantama. For vocalist-guitarist Faiz Novascotia Saripudin, vocalist Fathia Izzati, drummer Era Patigo and bassist Nugi Wicaksono, this record marks their most personal and confident work to date.

Romance remains the beating heart of Reality Club’s music, particularly through Faiz’s witty yet heartfelt lyricism on “Muted Sirens” and “You’ll Find Lovers Like You and Me”. This time, though, he injects more humor, as heard on “Lost Myself in Reveries”, “Finding a Catholic Man to Love the Love of My Life”, “Shut Up, Behave” and “Thank You for Hijacking My Existential Crisis”. Stylistically, the album revisits the carefree indie-rock spirit of their debut while carrying the polish and growth earned over nine years together.

“Looking back, we made 'Never Get Better' just so we could play our own songs in the car; on 'What Do You Really Know?', we were trying to prove to people that we were cool and edgy; and on ‘Reality Club Presents…’, we challenged ourselves with genres, an orchestra, and movie-like videos,” Faiz recalls. “On this album, we’re not trying to prove anything—not even to ourselves. That’s why it feels closest to our first”.

The themes also expand to stories drawn from family life. Era’s boisterous opener “I’ll Do It Myself” captures his wife’s workplace frustrations, while Fathia dedicates the lullaby “Mama’s Coming Home” to her son, pokes fun at her brother Faiz’s love life on “Quick! Love!”, and honors their father’s journey from small-town boy to globetrotting ambassador on the jaunty “Now I’m a Diplomat”. She also contributes the haunting “Enough for You”. “It took a lot of living to write this album,” says Fathia. “As individuals, we’ve grown so much”.

Another milestone comes with “Close to You/Jauh”, Reality Club’s first-ever Indonesian-language song, adapted by Nugi from a Fathia original. It also marks his songwriting debut, alongside his rocker “Does It Happen?”. “Whenever people asked if we’d ever make a song in Indonesian, the other members always pointed to me,” he laughs. “I can’t wait to see how people react”.

Determined to capture a more authentic energy, the band recorded live in Bangkok with all members including longtime live guitarist Gerry Roithart and new synth player Upi Maajid playing together in the same room. The strict 10-to-5 studio hours sharpened their focus. “It forced us to be efficient, and that pressure made us more creative,” says Era. “The microphones didn’t just capture our instruments but every look, emotion and laugh”.

Each producer brought a distinct touch: Oberhofer on songs like “Quick! Love!” and “Mama’s Coming Home”; Massardi with his guitar-forward vision on “I’ll Do It Myself” and “Shut Up, Behave”; and Ikhsantama, who shaped tracks such as “Muted Sirens” and “Close to You/Jauh” while also mixing the entire record. “Tama has this way of understanding the story and emotion behind each song before working on it,” says Faiz.

Following the ambitious 'Reality Club Presents…', expectations were high—but the band sees this record as their most fulfilling yet. “It already feels like a success because we love it,” says Faiz. “That has always been our number one measure.” Nugi agrees: “It’s our most personal album, and all four of us feel deeply connected to it”.

So, who knows where ‘Who Knows Where Life Will Take You?’ will lead Reality Club? Wherever the path goes, they hope their loyal Goddess Rockstars join the ride. “This album taught me so much through the recording and the stories we shared,” says Era. “I hope it improves our listeners’ lives the way it did mine,” Fathia adds: “I just hope people find their own meaning in these songs”.

Above all, the band has learned to appreciate themselves. “I don’t know if it’s talent or magic or connection, but we do have something,” Faiz reflects. “Maybe we’re not small-time fries anymore. Maybe we do deserve what we’ve had. Whatever comes next, that’s not for us to decide. But what we already achieved—we deserve that”.

'Who Knows Where Life Will Take You?' 
Tracklisting
1. I'll Do It Myself
2. Lost Myself in Reveries
3. Enough for You
4. Does It Happen?
5. Shut Up, Behave
6. Finding a Catholic Man to Love the Love of My Life
7. Muted Sirens
8. Close to You/Jauh
9. Quick! Love!
10. Now I'm a Diplomat
11. Thank You for Hijacking My Existential Crisis
12. You'll Find Lovers Like You and Me
13. Mama's Coming Home

Stream 'Who Knows Where Life Will Take You?' here

About Reality Club

Reality Club stands out as one of the most sought-after acts in Indonesia. Established in late 2016, the band consists of Era Patigo on drums, Faiz Novascotia Saripudin on vocals & guitar, Fathia Izzati on vocals & keys, and Nugi Wicaksono on bass.

Their popularity soared following the release of their breakout hit single, "Anything You Want", in April 2022. The track went viral across TikTok and Instagram, amassing over 100 million streams on Spotify to date. Since then, the band has collected AMI Awards, embarked on a North American tour, and opened for superstar NIKI across Southeast Asia. Yet despite these milestones, Reality Club soon found that their biggest challenge lay within themselves.

“We’d already made three albums and had great achievements we were grateful for. But we’d always had a bit of impostor syndrome and downplayed our achievements,” says Faiz. “This time, we decided to stop it. So ‘no more impostor syndrome’ was the whole mantra of the album”.

Recently, Reality Club successfully concluded their 'Reality Club Presents... Asia Tour', a series of performances in various countries across the Asian continent including Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The tour also included a solo concert at Balai Sarbini, Jakarta, with 1,500 audience members. The band continues to dominate the region with the Philippines at #2 followed by Malaysia at #3, Singapore at #5, Thailand at #6, and Taiwan at #7 among their  top 10 streaming markets globally!

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Jewel Owusu drops music video of “spark”

Filipino-Ghanian artist Jewel Owusu has dropped the music video for “spark.”

A visual companion set in the haze of a late-night club, the MV follows Jewel Owusu navigating the crowded dance floor, barely keeping up with the frenetic energy and the people around her.

[MORE PRESS PHOTOS HERE]

[MUSIC VIDEO LINK]

According to Owusu, the video evokes the sensory experience of being in a club but completely alienated from its lively, bustling vibe. “It’s one of those nights where you show up, but you’re not actually having a good time. You’re caught in your own head while everyone else around you is on a completely different wavelength. It feels as if you are moving through space in an alternate reality.

A notable motif woven throughout the music video is the recurring imagery of a mouse—a symbol Owusu has revisited across her work.

“To me, it symbolizes feeling small, finding ways to survive, and moving quietly through spaces—themes that often reflect my experiences,” shares the Australian-based electro-pop newcomer. “Lately, people have even been saying that mouse girl winter is in full swing, which I love because it shows that the idea has grown beyond me and taken on a life of its own.”

With “spark,” Jewel Owusu continues to carve out a distinct voice in contemporary electro-pop, one that thrives on vulnerability and refusal to conform to expectation.

“spark” will be part of Jewel Owusu’s upcoming new EP, set to be released sometime this year. Late last year, she captivated audiences with the propulsive but minimalist track “Time Machine,” which features acclaimed Filipino singer-songwriter and producer ena mori.

About Jewel Owusu

Jewel Owusu has always felt like she lives in the space in between—between sounds, between cultures, and between versions of herself that are constantly shifting.

As a Filipino-Ghanaian artist and producer, she’s forging a new path in alternative electronic pop—one that’s as unfiltered and dynamic as she is.

Born in Hong Kong and raised in New Zealand, Jewel’s music is a melting pot of influences. Combining elements of electronic, dance, indie pop, rock, and more, her sound blends every experience that inspires her.

Now based in Melbourne, Australia, Jewel has been garnering eyes through international shows, showcases at SXSW Sydney and Music Matters in Singapore, national tours, and an overflowing headline show.

She has been recognized as an artist to watch, won Triple J Unearthed's collaboration competition, and caught the eye of major outlets such as Rolling Stone, Complex, Colors Studio, MTV, Triple J, and TikTok.

In Jewel’s world, music and visuals are more than just art—they are spaces for transformation and self-expression, where imperfection is not only welcomed but celebrated.

Source: Nyou

Rising Japanese Singer-Songwriter Rol3ert Releases New Single “say my name”

19-year-old singer-songwriter Rol3ert releases his fifth single, “say my name”, worldwide on 27th August via Exciter Records and FRIENDSHIP. The track arrives on the heels of growing momentum across Southeast Asia — with Indonesia now ranking as his #1 Spotify market and the Philippines driving over a quarter of YouTube views for his previous single “Nerd”.

“say my name” marks a new chapter for Rol3ert as his first-ever alternative ballad, co-produced with Yuto Uchino lead vocalist of acclaimed Japanese indie band The fin.. Built around weeping guitar riffs, live drums (performed by Yusuke Okada of indie pop band BROTHER SUN SISTER MOON) and shimmering synths, the track wraps his vulnerable, near-crying vocal in a quiet yet powerful soundscape. The lyrics reflect on life, death, symbolic love, and the lingering of a name, intertwining loss with the desire to leave a lasting presence. Rol3ert, who usually builds near-complete demos on his own, invited Uchino to join him on this track, enriching its scale and atmosphere. He describes it as one of his proudest works to date.

Speaking on the collaboration, Uchino shared:

“The production began the moment I heard the demo — sounds instantly formed in my head. Meeting Rol3ert and experiencing his presence and personality made it feel like everything about him was transforming into music.

Recording vocals and drums, I saw him genuinely enjoying himself — it reminded me of the pure joy I felt when I first started my band. I’m thrilled to witness the moment he spreads his wings from Japan to the world, and I can’t wait to see where his journey takes him.”

The accompanying music video for “say my name’ premieres on 27th August at 10:00PM JST on YouTube, preceded by Rol3ert’s first Instagram Live in six months at 9:30PM JST. Linked to the single’s cover art, the music video contrasts two symbolic worlds: a “white” Rol3ert roaming a seaside and a “black” Rol3ert in an underground space - a visual metaphor for the duality of afterlife and reality, memory and existence.

STREAM “say my name” HERE

WATCH “say my name” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO HERE

Rol3ert will return to the stage for his second solo headline show “katachi” on 27th February 2026 at Shibuya WWW X. Tickets will go on sale 30th August 2025 at 12:00PM JST (ticketing details here).

Since debuting officially in January 2025, Rol3ert has sold out his first solo headline show “Rol3ert 1st live ‘3mpty’” in July and performed on the prestigious FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL ’25 stage, delivering emotive performances that builds his reputation as a bold new voice in Japan’s global-facing music scene. With “say my name”, he reveals his most vulnerable side yet, setting the stage for greater impact at home and abroad.

About Rol3ert

At just 19, Rol3ert is quickly emerging as one of Japan’s most distinctive young voices, balancing intimate songwriting with global ambitions. Born in the U.S. and raised in Japan, he crafts music that bridges cultures — pairing contemporary, globally minded production with the emotional resonance of Pop storytelling.

In less than a year since his debut, Rol3ert has already made remarkable strides: his singles “meaning”, “hope” and “nerd” have found traction on international playlists, his Tokyo headline show sold out within weeks, and his festival appearances at FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL ’25 and SWEET LOVE SHOWER 2025 have marked him as an artist to watch. Known for his raw, heartfelt delivery and ability to weave vulnerability into expansive soundscapes, Rol3ert is carving out a unique space for himself on the world stage.

Follow Rol3ert

Website | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X

Follow Exciter Records

Instagram | TikTok

For more information, contact mabuhay@blackstar.space

Gracenote steps into the spotlight with Walang Makakapigil concert

The Filipino alt-pop band will treat fans to a career-spanning setlist and never-before-heard songs

Manila, Philippines – Filipino alternative-pop band Gracenotewill be taking the center stage for their solo concert titled Walang Makakapigil, happening on September 6, 2025, at Teatrino, Promenade in Greenhills, San Juan City.

Presented by Soupstar Music, in partnership with Redlines Productions, EMI Records Philippines, and UMG Philippines, the concert will showcase some of the pop-rock quartet’s most memorable hits, along with their hidden gems and brand-new songs, all in one exciting night.

Walang Makakapigil stands as a powerful testament to the band’s resilience, passion, and enduring presence. It’s an inspiring response to the challenges that they have faced and overcome throughout more than 15 years together.

“As individuals and as a band, we never let setbacks stop us. We picked up lessons along the way, and those experiences made us stronger. Until now, walang makakapigil sa amin.”

Rising indie act Hey June! will join as a special guest, bringing youthful energy to the show.

After more than a decade in the music industry, Gracenote believes that the timing is perfect.

“We’ve been a band for over a decade, and we wanted to celebrate that milestone with a show that captures who we are,” the band shares in a collective statement. “Walang Makakapigilreflects the way we have always moved through the industry, doing our own thing. We spent many years as an indie band under Soupstar Music, and when EMI Records, our major label, joined us, it opened up more possibilities to make this concert happen. The timing was perfect, and this celebration feels not just special but meant to be.”

Secure your tickets now. Check out the prices:

• Regular: PHP 1,500

• Walk-in: PHP 2,500

 Source: Nyou 

THE FAVORS (FINNEAS AND ASHE) RELEASE NEW TRACK “TIMES SQUARE JESUS”

LISTEN HERE

DEBUT ALBUM THE DREAM OUT VIA DARKROOM RECORDS ON SEPTEMBER 19

AN EVENING WITH THE FAVORS

COMING TO LOS ANGELES, RED ROCKS & NEW YORK CITY

The Favors press photo – credit: Alex G Harper (hi-res HERE)

The Favors (FINNEAS & Ashe) release “Times Square Jesus,” the final new track ahead of their debut album The Dream (September 19 on Darkroom Records). Listen HERE.It follows their romantic, harmony-drenched single “The Hudson” and the announcement of An Evening with The Favors, a run of shows as a band at iconic venues in Los Angeles, Red Rocks, and New York City.

“Times Square Jesus” revolves around delicately strummed guitar and airy strings as they sing, “Everybody knows that you’re my weakness. You’re an open secret I’m afraid.” The bright harmonies and alternating solo verses follow naturally from the intimate dialogue that characterizes “The Little Mess You Made” (Listen & Watch HERE) and “The Hudson” (Listen & Watch HERE).

“In Times Square and Hollywood, you have Jesus, the Naked Cowboy, Elmo, or whoever else you walk by and pay your respects to,” Finneas describes. “Even if you don’t live a religious life, you’re still confronted by religion. When you are, you can’t help but think about your own life, regrets, desires, or baggage. If the ‘Times Square Jesus’ told you to confess, you might think of the person you’re secretly in love with.”

The Favors are set to take the stage in Los Angeles, Red Rocks, and New York, treating fans to an unforgettable evening as they perform their upcoming album at iconic venues: Hollywood Forever Cemetery (9/18), Red Rocks Amphitheatre (9/26), and SummerStage in Central Park, NYC (10/1). In addition to new music, audiences can also look forward to performances of fan favorites from FINNEAS’ and Ashe’s solo catalogs. Tickets for this Live Nation–produced tour are available now atwearethefavors.com.

THE FAVORS TOUR DATES:

September 18: Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Forever Cemetery

September 26: Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre

October 1: New York City, NY @ Central Park Summerstage

October 3: Austin, TX @ Austin City Limits Music Festival

October 10: Austin, TX @ Austin City Limits Music Festival

Longtime friends and collaborators – award-winning singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and composer FINNEAS and multi-platinum artist Ashe first captured hearts with their 2019 hit “Moral of the Story” and followed it up with 2021’s “Till Forever Falls Apart.”

Drawing deep inspiration from the golden era of the Laurel Canyon, The Favors songs that are equally appropriate for the last dance in a smoky bar circa 1977 or a sunset slot at Coachella in 2027. The Dream channels the intimate storytelling and sun-soaked melancholy of artists like The Mamas and the Papas, Carole King and Crosby, Stills & Nash, Simon and Garfunkel and Fleetwood Mac—filtered through a cinematic lens that stretches coast to coast. Largely written and recorded in Nashville where Ashe resides and Los Angeles where FINNEAS is from, The Dream is a no-rules project that revives the warmth and groove of '70s pop with razor-sharp songwriting, lush harmonies, and a distinctly modern edge.

“This is the way every artist dreams of making an album,” grins Ashe. “People don’t sing together anymore when they’re recording, but it was so romantic and fun.” FINNEAS adds, “It’s a true ‘long-play album’ in its real intended meaning. Hopefully, you can have friends over, cook a meal, and play this on vinyl front-to-back.” Ashe concludes “I want you to feel simultaneously warm, fuzzy, and heartbroken at the same time.”

For all media inquiries, please contact:
mabuhay@blackstar.space

Ebe Dancel returns with 20-piece orchestra for 25th anniversary concert

The iconic singer-songwriter brings timeless hits and new songs to life with The Manila String Machine in a monumental repeat concert directed by Paolo Valenciano

Manila, Philippines – Good news for OPM fans: acclaimed singer-songwriter Ebe Dancel returns to the big stage with another major solo concert.

Titled Ebe Dancel with The Manila String Machine: The Repeat Concert, the highly anticipated event will take place on November 15, 2025, at the New Frontier Theater.

Following the success of his sold-out first run, Dancel celebrates his 25th year in music with a night of timeless songwriting, powerful storytelling, and sweeping orchestral arrangements that breathe new life into his storied catalog.

For the second staging of his monumental concert, Ebe will be joined by a 20-piece orchestra led by Chino David, with Paolo Valenciano directing the whole show. The concert promises to be a showcase of his legacy both as a solo artist and as the lead singer/principal songwriter behind pop-rock powerhouse Sugarfree.

“I’ve had a long love affair with orchestras, dating back to my days with Sugarfree,” Dancel shares. “As a solo performer, I did a show with the Manila String Machine exactly two weeks before our government announced the lockdown due to Covid. To be back onstage with them now, with fans in front of me, feels like a full circle moment.”

The setlist, he reveals, will strike a careful balance between nostalgia and discovery. “I want it to be a mix of old and newer songs. I thought of my audience mainly when I chose songs from the Sugarfree catalog, but I also want them to experience the new songs with an orchestra.”

The repeat concert also is Ebe’s way of deepening his connections further with trusted collaborators. “Paolo [Valenciano] is a dear friend. I have so much respect for him as a concert director, so he was my only choice to do this show again. For me to work on something this big, I need to be able to fully trust the guys running the show. Hence Paolo Valenciano, and as musical director, Chino David.”

Tickets for Ebe Dancel with The Machine String Machine: The Repeat Concert go on sale this August 30, 2025, at 12 pm via Ticketnet online and all authorized Ticketnet outlets nationwide.

Ebe Dancel stands as one of OPM’s most enduring voices. From his early days as frontman of Sugarfree to his acclaimed solo career, he has built a body of work defined by sincerity, emotional depth, and artistry. With multiple hit songs, award-winning albums, and sold-out shows, his legacy continues to inspire generations of listeners—young and old, and everything in between.

 Source: Nyou 

RUEL ANNOUNCES SOPHOMORE ALBUM "KICKING MY FEET" OUT OCTOBER 17, VIA GIANT MUSIC

SHARES NEW SINGLE “THE SUBURBS” — OUT NOW
LISTEN HERE

(Photo Credit: Michelle Grace Hunder)

AUGUST 21, 2025 - Australian pop phenomenon Ruelannounces the release of his highly anticipated sophomore album, Kicking My Feet, arriving October 17 via Giant Music. Available for pre-order HERE. Alongside this announcement, he shares a brand-new single, “The Suburbs” - listen HERE - a dreamy, emotionally rich bop with some of the industry's top names involved in its making. Ruel took over Apple Music Radio yesterday from their brand-new Los Angeles studio, debuting “The Suburbs” alongside two unreleased tracks and officially announcing Kicking My Feet.

“The Suburbs” is written by Ruel with collaborators Fran Hall(Charli XCX, Kelly Clarkson), M-Phazes (Demi Lovato, Madonna), Chelsea Lena (Sabrina Carpenter, Joji) and Elias Danielsen. The song is an ode to intimacy and imagining a simpler life with the one you love. With lyrics like “I can see us in the Suburbs, Never thought I’d be that person, but with you it sounds like paradise” Ruel taps into a soft vulnerability that builds on the expansive pop vision he introduced with his previous single, “I Can Die Now.”

It’s been pretty daunting to offer up this level of honesty in my songwriting but seeing the way it’s already connected so personally with fans has calmed my ‘pre-album’ nerves in a huge way - Ruel

Released just a month ago, “I Can Die Now” set the stage for Kicking My Feet in a big way. Premiering in New York’s Times Square on MTV, the track hit over a million streams in just days, and earned immediate commendation from media outlets around the world. The A+ reviews came in thick and fast, including praise for ICDN as:

…capturing “an all-encompassing love” while hinting at the sonic direction of Ruel’s forthcoming album, noting its “propulsive bass line” and “thudding percussion - Rolling Stone

Kicking My Feet marks the start of a new era for Ruel; one that feels creatively liberated, emotionally nuanced, and sonically bolder than ever. After relocating from Sydney to Los Angeles and signing with Giant Music, Ruel immersed himself in a new creative ecosystem and began building the album from the ground up.

I knew I wanted to push myself on this new album, but it wasn’t until I had to finalise the track list that I realised I’d actually made over 200 songs for Kicking My Feet - Ruel

He worked closely with some of the industry’s most celebrated and genre-shaping producers, including Julian Bunetta(Sabrina Carpenter, One Direction), Joel Little (Taylor Swift, Gracie Abrams), Kenny Beats (Dominic Fike, Ed Sheeran), Dan Wilson (Adele, Taylor Swift, Chris Stapleton), and longtime collaborator M-Phazes (Eminem, Kehlani, Ruel’s debut album). Together, they crafted a record that is sonically adventurous and deeply personal, blending pop, alt and R&B, into a cohesive, modern sound. The result is a genre-blurring, emotionally relatable album that reflects Ruel’s evolution as both a person and an artist.

Photo Credit: Michelle Grace Hunder

About Ruel

Australia’s pop prodigy Ruel is growing up and it shows on his highly anticipated sophomore album Kicking My Feet, available Oct 27 via Giant Music. Pop’s newest It Boy has been on the rise since he was a teenager, adorning his studio walls are an ever-growing collection of platinum plaques and award statues from the likes of RIAA, MTV, ARIA and Nickelodeon.

He has amassed over three billion streams, sold out multiple world tours and regularly attends fashion shows at the invitation of luxury haute couture such as Louis Vuitton and Hermès. Away from the runway, Ruel’s admiration for unique, highly conceptualised style can be seen in his editorials with Prada and Fendi, and through his extensive list of features on the pages of Vogue, GQ, NME and The Face. Around the world, eyes have been keenly watching Ruel’s career ascent; notably by Sir Elton John and Zane Lowe, both of whom have sung the praises of the UK-born, Sydney-raised talent, calling him a "superstar."

Kicking My Feet showcases the 22-year-old’s sharpened songwriting as he explores the innocence and embarrassment of being young and in love, as the album title teases. Alongside frequent collaborator M-Phazes, the album has Ruel expanding his roster of creative partners, including Dan Wilson, Joel Little, Kenny Beats and Julian Bunetta. The experimentation with his sound and artistry, has Ruel evolving himself into a bolder musician on an unmissable trajectory.

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RUEL PRESS CONTACT:
mabuhay@blackstar.space

AXEAN Festival 2025 drops full and final lineup!

Featuring 45 acts across three stages, this year’s festival highlights collaboration with TuneCore and The Orchard in supporting Asian indie talents

[More press photos here]

July 31, 2025 – Bali, Indonesia – ​AXEAN Festival 2025 has officially announced its final lineup for this year’s edition.

The stage is set for the first intra-regional showcase festival in Asia, as it welcomes 43 music acts across three stages at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, from September 13 to 14, 2025.

Completing the final round of performers are some of the most prominent and emerging names in the Indonesian music scene, including metal/hardcore quintet AVHATH, beloved folk duo Banda Neira, rising indie act Gozal, alternative rock outfit Grizzly Cluive, genre-bending band Morbid Monke, indie rock powerhouse Sandstorm of Youth, melancholic indie group sourmilk, multi-talented musician Xandega, and a special collaboration set between Bandung-based punk rock band Dongker and acclaimed singer-songwriter Jason Ranti.

The announcement also brings an exciting mix of Asian talents, such as trailblazing Malaysian R&B artist Alextbh, Laotian musician BIGPOM, Thai indie rock act LEMONY, Thai rock band Cvptain Morgans, Japanese singer-songwriter Kiwako Ashimine, J-indie artist Mettya Bizin (めっちゃ美人), Vietnamese indie/dream pop project Milkiwav, Vietnamese indie act Nghịch, and Filipino genre-fluid band Weejah.

These artists join an already diverse roster that includes Billyrrom., Blindfold, Capt’n Trips and the Kid, Confined White, DJ Love, DOOR PLANT, Fauxe, Feel Koplo x Toxicdev!, Jangar, Johnny Mafia, Kelompok Penerbang Roket, La Cima Cartel, L’Alphalpha, Lustbass, MANJA, Ministry Of, One Click Straight, Shanghai Quitian, Shye, SIMILE LAND, S.O.L.E., Su San, Terrer, Valentina Ploy, and XANDEGA.  

TuneCore’s key role in curating the final batch of lineup

This year, TuneCore plays a pivotal role in shaping the final lineup, expanding its position as one of AXEAN Festival’s most important partners. Through a four-month, multi-stage submission and rigid selection process spanning five countries in Southeast Asia, TuneCore helped discover and elevate standout independent voices that have made a mark in their niche markets.

Cyrus Chen, Head of TuneCore Southeast Asia, recalls the selection process that they went through before picking the finest acts that show global potential. “It began with open biweekly submissions, attracting over 600 entries,” Cyrus explains. “Selected artists progressed to monthly live showcases at local venues, with each monthly winner advancing to country finals. Out of the 27 finalists, our local panels chose the six artists performing at AXEAN. The biggest surprise was probably the incredible depth of undiscovered talent. We found remarkable hidden gems across diverse and often genre-blending styles. What was particularly striking was how many of these artists hadn't formally released music yet.”

When asked about the criteria in picking the artists who made it to TuneCore’s AXEAN stage, Cyrus emphasized the importance of authenticity and range, and how beyond raw talent, there’s a need to prioritize artists whose music authentically integrates local flair and cultural influences. “Showcasing a diverse spectrum of genres was also essential,” he adds.

For their part, the top global distribution and label services company, along with AXEAN Festival, promises to use their platform to foster real-world opportunities, apart from empowering artists digitally. “We actively nurture talent by providing platforms for exposure, facilitating live performance experience at scale (from local venues to major festivals), educational opportunities (workshops and masterclasses to upskill artists), and connecting artists directly with new audiences and industry stakeholders across borders. We go beyond distribution to open doors for market access and career growth that are often out of reach for independent artists.”

The Orchard-AXEAN Festival partnership

The Orchard, a prominent music distribution company operating in over 49 cities worldwide, has expressed its support for AXEAN Festival through a strategic partnership. Both music entities share a vision of empowering artists to broaden their horizons and access new music markets beyond their turfs. Together, both AXEAN and The Orchard are keen on dismantling barriers and enabling Southeast Asian creative communities to showcase their music on a global stage.

As Prahlad Prabhas, The Orchard’s Senior Director, Southeast Asia, explains it, “This [collaboration] aligns perfectly with The Orchard's philosophy of helping artists grow outside their home markets. We’re thrilled to be part of that journey this year by sponsoring a stage. For us, it’s more than just about the music—it’s about celebrating the creativity and energy of this region and sharing it with the world.”

Tickets are now available via:

Indonesia: https://bit.ly/TicketAXEAN2025Indo

International: https://bit.ly/TicketAXEAN2025Inter

China: https://bit.ly/TicketAXEAN2025China

About AXEAN Festival

The AXEAN Festival is a prominent Southeast Asian music export platform, combining a music conference and showcase festival.

Launched in 2020 during the pandemic by music professionals across Southeast Asia, AXEAN Festival has successfully hosted both virtual (2020-2021) and in-person (2022-2024) events. Over five editions, it has featured 200 artists from 20 countries, attracted 240 delegates from 32 countries, and reached over 46,000 virtual viewers, along with close to 15,000 live attendees.

With its growing international reputation, AXEAN has firmly established itself as Southeast Asia’s leading music export platform. Its first venture into a new market beyond its original home base in Singapore and Bali garnered widespread acclaim among attendees, music industry professionals, and participating artists.

About TuneCore

TuneCore is the leading independent development partner for self-releasing artists to build audiences and careers – with technology and services across distribution, publishing administration, and a range of promotional services. TuneCore Music Distribution services help artists, labels, and managers get their music on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, TikTok, YouTube Music, and more than 150 download and streaming stores and platforms worldwide, while retaining 100% of their sales revenue and rights for a low annual flat fee. TuneCore Music Publishing Administration assists songwriters by collecting royalties stemming from the use of their compositions – including mechanical royalties from download and streaming services, performance royalties from radio, TV and live performances, and synchronization royalties from film, TV and advertising – in over 200 countries globally. TuneCore is based in Brooklyn, NY, and is owned by Paris-based Believe, one of the world’s leading digital music companies.

About The Orchard 

THE ORCHARD: DELIVERING INDEPENDENT MUSIC SINCE 1997

The Orchard is a leading music distribution company operating in over 49 cities worldwide. With a comprehensive artist & label services offering including full-service marketing, synch licensing, video services, transparent data analysis, advertising, rights management, digital and physical distribution and more. The Orchard empowers creators and businesses to grow and adapt in the dynamic global industry.

 Source: Nyou 

Grammy-Winning Artist Laufey Reveals Highly-Anticipated Album 'A Matter of Time'

LISTEN HERE

LAUNCHING "A VERY LAUFEY DAY"
FAN ACTIVATIONS ON AUGUST 24TH GLOBALLY 
INCLUDING: 🇲🇾 KL, 🇸🇬 SINGAPORE,  🇵🇭 MANILA, 🇮🇩 JAKARTA & MORE

Photo Credit: Emma Summerton

August 22nd, 2025 – ‘A Matter of Time’, the highly-anticipated new album from GRAMMY®-winning LA-based Icelandic-Chinese artist, composer, producer and multi-instrumentalist Laufey, is now available worldwide via Vingolf Recordings / AWAL. The album release is accompanied by the new focus track, “Mr. Eclectic” (featuring backing vocals from Clairo). Fans can listen to the album here. 

With ‘A Matter of Time’, Laufey strips back the polished veneer of elegance she’s often associated with, offering her most vulnerable and unguarded work to date. The album captures a wide range of emotions, expressed through the stories woven into each track. It’s Laufey at her most revealing, unafraid to challenge preconceptions of grace and instead embracing the messy, complicated, and deeply human sides of herself.

Laufey - "Mr. Eclectic" (Official Lyric Video With Chords)

Additionally, August 24th marks the 3rd annual “A Very Laufey Day”—a global activation where fans across the world are invited to experience a curated “Laufey-inspired day” tailored to their city, complete with various hand-picked activities in each market (75+ cities this year including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Jakarta, Bangkok & Taipei). Activities include “Laufeycore” clothing racks at local thrift stores, specialty “A Matcha of Time” drinks at cafés, exclusive frozen yogurt/gelato flavours, Laufey Book Club selections at reputable bookstores, and more. The day will culminate in a special performance by Laufey straight from Los Angeles, which will be officially streamed on TikTok LIVE via a global partnership with the entertainment platform. For further details on each city's local partnerships, visit AVeryLaufeyDay.com!
 

'A Matter of Time' Tracklisting
1. Clockwork
2. Lover Girl
3. Snow White
4. Castle in Hollywood
5. Carousel
6. Silver Lining
7. Too Little, Too Late
8. Cuckoo Ballet (Interlude)
9. Forget-Me-Not
10. Tough Luck
11. A Cautionary Tale
12. Mr. Eclectic
13. Clean Air
14. Sabotage
 

Stream 'A Matter of Time' here
Watch the visualizer here
Find out more about A Very Laufey Day here
 

About Laufey

Laufey (pronounced lay-vay) has captivated a generation with virtuosic songs of love and self-discovery by manifesting her vision of jazz-and classical-infused pop music. She has become a bridge for the older music she adores, from Chet Baker to Carole King to Ravel, by offering her bold interpretation to a younger crop of listeners who have become deeply connected over time. This was all by design — Laufey’s self-assigned raison d’être — and it worked, allowing her to bring to life the whimsical universe known as “Laufey Land”.

Raised between Reykjavik and Washington, D.C., she learned piano and cello as a child, later studying at Berklee College of Music. There, she wrote her debut EP, 2021’s 'Typical of Me', whose striking single “Street by Street” debuted at No. 1 on Icelandic Radio—the first of many achievements that have grown to include 5 billion global streams, a social media audience of 25 million, the biggest jazz LP debut in Spotify history and an album in Billboard’s Top 20 (both for 'Bewitched'), a growing pile of Platinum plaques, a Forbes 30 Under 30 designation, and being named one of TIME’s 2025 Women of the Year. She’s sold out the Hollywood Bowl, Radio City Music Hall, and London’s Royal Albert Hall; performed backed by the LA Phil, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the China Philharmonic Orchestra; shared the stage with the likes of Jon Batiste and Raye; and collaborated on records with artists ranging from Beabadoobee to Norah Jones.

Now on 'A Matter of Time', Laufey further crystalizes her singular sound—one still rooted in her beloved influences, but which forgoes any strict standards or rules. “I’m constantly thinking about classical and jazz, how to properly preserve them and pay homage”. For this album she continues to do so while also noting, “I just wanted to let my heart wander”. To that end, she teamed with a pair of co-producers, one comforting and familiar—Spencer Stewart who worked with Laufey on her first two albums —and one new to her but deeply attuned to artists looking to open up: Aaron Dessner (Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran). Feeling sonically unrestrained gave Laufey the space to share new sides of herself while exploring sometimes heavier themes. “People expect a pretty façade of girly clothes, fantastical stories, and romantic music,” she says. “This time, I was interested in seeing how I could draw out the most flawed parts of myself and look at them directly in the mirror”. A Matter of Time finds Laufey at her most daring—and also playful—as she captures the experience of “real love” in its many forms and what it means to observe as it strips you down to your most vulnerable and anxious.

As Laufey began to craft 'A Matter of Time', she felt freer than ever. “Every new album for me is a blank book of stories to write,” she says, and it’s true. An artist who pours her life experiences into her work, she infused 2022’s 'Everything I Know About Love' with coming-of-age tales revolving around leaving home, and for 2023’s GRAMMY®-winning 'Bewitched' she dove headlong into young love. Brought to life with sweeping orchestral arrangements, interwoven strains of bossa nova and jazz, and Laufey’s honeyed alto, those albums cemented Laufey as a star who can make sounds from bygone eras feel timeless.

Earlier this year, Laufey announced The Laufey Foundation, with the primary mission of supporting young musicians with the resources they need, especially through youth orchestras, to reach their full potential. $1 of each ticket sold on the A Matter of Time Tour will go towards The Laufey Foundation.

Following her sold-out shows across Asia last year—including Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Japan, and Taipei—Laufey continues to make waves in the region, further cementing her status as a global sensation. She continues to see strong streaming numbers in the region, with the 🇵🇭 Philippines, 🇮🇩 Indonesia and 🇲🇾 Malaysia among her top 10 global streaming markets.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | AWAL

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Wolf Alice new album The Clearing, out now

Today, seminal British band Wolf Alice release their eagerly anticipated fourth studio album The Clearing, alongside focus track ‘Just Two Girls’, via Sony Music.

Speaking on the new track, Rowsell adds: “I was inspired by going for dinner with my friends — a couple of friends, at different times, just one-on-one. I noticed how much I was saying Oh my god yeah you’re so right! And I thought it was so nice to see how validating these conversations with my girlfriends are, how much I’m learning in these chats. I think I’ve been trying to figure out a lot of things, like getting older. I feel it’s really been a strange time of thinking about appearance. And these are things you hash out with your girlfriends and suddenly you don’t feel so shit about them again. I just felt like there deserved to be a song about that.”

Following a potent trio of singles ‘Bloom Baby Bloom’, ‘The Sofa’ and most recent ‘White Horses’ - each unveiling a distinct sonic direction - The Clearing arrives as a moment of crystallisation for one of the UK’s most inventive and emotionally charged bands. Written in Seven Sisters and recorded in LA with Grammy-winning producer Greg Kurstin, The Clearing is a widescreen collection of songs that are bold in ambition, full of heart, and the band’s most refined work yet. It’s a classic pop/rock album that nods to the ‘70s while remaining rooted firmly in the present. If Fleetwood Mac wrote an album today in North London, you’d get somewhere close to this run of effortlessly grand tracks, each as distinct as the last.

The band celebrated last night with a history-defining release show at The Dublin Castle in Camden, hallowed ground for a band whose impact in their native North London is impossible to measure. The celebration extended next door with a special pop-up event, where fans got an early listen to the album and access to exclusive merch.

At its core, The Clearing is a record about arrival - not at a destination, but at a sense of peace with the journey. Whether that’s the self-interrogation of ‘Thorns’, the yearning nostalgia of ‘Leaning Against The Wall’, or the raw intimacy of ‘Play It Out’, each track maps a waypoint in the band’s evolution. A landmark album in both concept and execution, The Clearing is less a reinvention than a recognition of the band’s full capabilities: fierce yet fragile, playful yet profound. Front and centre is Rowsell’s ever-evolving poetic storytelling alongside an innate desire for Ellie, Joff, Theo and Joel to have fun, secure in their ambition and ability at this unique moment in time.

From the rolling euphoria of ‘Bread Butter Tea Sugar’, to the assuring acceptance of ‘The Sofa’, the record captures a band unafraid to push themselves further than ever before. This is Wolf Alice fully in command - no longer searching, but stepping confidently into a new chapter.

The album’s title serves as both a quiet mission statement and emotional centerpiece. It finds the four piece meditating on what remains when the uncertainty, insecurities and self-deprecation of your 20s falls away. The sentiment - “Know who I am, that’s important to me. Do what I can to see the wood from the trees” (White Horses) - is less a declaration of triumph than of peaceful acceptance. The Clearing is Wolf Alice’s most accomplished and affecting work to date.

Wolf Alice have come a long way since the North London quartet first emerged in 2013 as a young band holding a mirror up to their own emerging generation. Today, Wolf Alice’s fourth album The Clearing finds them at the peak of their powers, grown into a band of generational importance. While the bruised euphoria of their debut My Love Is Cool, which featured the Grammy-nominated ‘Moaning Lisa Smile’, both captured and perfectly soundtracked the experience of youth first cutting their musical teeth, 2018’s follow up Visions Of A Life cemented their rise with a Mercury Music Prize, before the precious hurt of 2022’s Blue Weekend and its resultant UK number 1 and Brit Award for Best Group. In the process, lead singer Ellie Rowsell has grown into a storytelling icon, weaving cautionary tales of how your twenties will hurt you, but in valuable ways. Wolf Alice have also toured the world multiple times headlining sold out tours, gracing numerous festival stages and supporting an array of key artists including pop icon Harry Styles. Following a packed summer of historical festival slots at Primavera Sound, Radio 1’s Big Weekend and Glastonbury, the band will celebrate The Clearing with a sold-out tour across North America, Europe, the UK and Ireland this autumn, that sees the band headlining some of the biggest stages of their career to date including London’s O2 Arena.

(Album Artwork - Hi Res HERE)

The Clearing - Tracklist

1. Thorns

2. Bloom Baby Bloom

3. Just Two Girls

4. Leaning Against The Wall

5. Passenger Seat

6. Play It Out

7. Bread Butter Tea Sugar

8. Safe in the World

9. Midnight Song

10. White Horses

11. The Sofa

Source: Nyou

Pop Soul/R&B Singer-songwriter Jordan Astra Drops Funk-laced New Single "Famous", Announces New Record 'Time Will Tell'

LISTEN HERE

ANNOUNCES'TIME WILL TELL',
THE FINAL CHAPTER OF HIS TRILOGY, OUT SEP 19TH

Photo Credit: Justin Astra

August 22nd, 2025 — Jordan Astra isn't here to play it safe—he's here to make it impossible to stand still. Today, the Indonesian-Canadian artist and producer drops his infectious new single, "Famous"—a soulful, funk-laced groove—and officially announces the long-awaited third instalment of his music trilogy since 2023, 'Time Will Tell', out September 19th via Mind of a Genius Records. Fans can stream the new single HERE.

"Famous" was born on the final day of a week-long songwriting camp in Limoux, France, where Astra finally stepped into a room he'd been eyeing all week—outfitted with a Steinway piano, vintage drums, and live guitars. Set against the backdrop of rolling hills, horse stables, and centuries-old wine cellars, it became the perfect space to create something raw, soulful, and completely unfiltered.

More than a song, "Famous" is a feeling. It's not about chasing the spotlight—it's about capturing the magic of a moment. Pulsing with spontaneity and honesty, the track is a celebration of vibe, place, and presence—a reminder to embrace the moments that make life feel golden.

"I wanted to capture the feeling of that week in the south of France: something fresh, soulful, and free. Channeling Pharrell's "Beautiful", Jamiroquai's uptempo Funk and Anderson Paak's R&B,  I produced "Famous" with fellow creators Joris and Doane. The song's production was recorded live in one day, including the demo vocals which we never re-tracked to really capture that energy and feeling from that day." 

— Jordan Astra

Now, with 'Time Will Tell' on the horizon, Jordan Astra is swinging for the fences—bringing his signature blend of soul, funk, and groove into sharp, undeniable focus. It's a record steeped in vibrant R&B, sunlit funk, and pop sparkle—pulling from the effervescence of Pharrell, the swagger of Jamiroquai, and the show-stopping energy of Bruno Mars. With tracks like "Famous", "Honey", and "Driving Me Wild", his tunes are an unapologetic celebration of joy, connection, and the warmth we pass between one another.

Jordan Astra has carved out his lane with irresistible grooves, a magnetic stage presence, and a relentless work ethic—anchored by his personal mantra: "Repetition Sharpens Blades." It's a philosophy that has taken him from making beats in a university dorm room to headlining stages across continents, winning The Showcase Tour Finale and opening for the likes of Leikeli47. He was named one of NXNE's Top 40 Artists to Watch in 2022, and his global momentum shows no signs of slowing—streaming strong in cities like Jakarta (#3) and Bangkok (#4), where his sound continues to resonate.

Astra's rise hasn't been overnight. Since going solo in 2018 to escape the drag of slow-moving collaborations, he's been grinding with purpose—touring, experimenting, and refining a sound that's both dance floor-ready and lyrically rich. His 2023 EP, 'Man From East' was a homecoming diary after eight transformative years abroad, while 2024's 'Far Deeper' dove into the thrill (and terror) of the unknown. Together, they set the stage for his forthcoming record, 'Time Will Tell'—his most ambitious, colourful, and groove-drenched project yet.

From poolside escapes to candlelit backrooms, Astra's music drops you into scenes you can almost touch. He's not just making tracks—he's building worlds where rhythm reigns and optimism feels like currency. And with 'Time Will Tell', Jordan Astra is proving that in the right hands, repetition isn't just practice—it's power.

Stream "Famous" here
 

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Doja Cat returns with new single and music video “Jealous Type”

Fifth studio album Vie drops September 26, followed by announcement of first-ever ‘Ma Vie World Tour’ dates across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia

GRAMMY award-winning global superstar Doja Cat returns with her new single and music video “Jealous Type” out now via Kemosabe Records/ RCA Records. Doja Cat’s new track “Jealous Type” was produced by Jack Antonoff (Taylor Swift, Lorde) and Y2K (Ariana Grande, Tate McRae), with the music video directed by Boni Mata and filmed in Los Angeles. Doja Cat first teased her new track “Jealous Type” in her Summer '25 campaign with Marc Jacobs. “Jealous Type” will appear on her highly anticipated fifth studio album, Vie, which is slated for release on September 26^th. Pre-save album HERE.

Additionally, Doja Cat announced her first-ever tour across New Zealand, Australia, and Asia with the “Ma Vie World Tour”, launching Tuesday, November 18^th in Auckland at Spark Arena. The tour will include stops in Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Manila, Tokyo, and more, before wrapping on Sunday, December 21 in Kaohsiung at Kaohsiung Arena. The announcement follows her highly successful 2023 outing, “The Scarlet Tour”.

(Download Tour Art HERE)

TICKETS - NZ + AUS: Tickets for the New Zealand and Australia dates will be available starting with an artist presale beginning Monday, August 25 at 10am local time. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning Thursday, August 28 at 11am local time at http://dojacat.com/tour.

TICKETS - ASIA: For the Asia dates, onsale start times and dates vary by market, check your local listings for more information. Tickets will be available at dojacat.com/tour.

VIP: The “Ma Vie World Tour” will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert adventure to the next level. Packages vary but include tickets, access to the pre-show VIP Lounge, exclusive VIP merch item, early entry into the venue & more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit: https://vip.livenation.asia/ or https://www.livenation.com.au/vipexperiences

MA VIE WORLD TOUR 2025 DATES

Nov 18 – Auckland – Spark Arena

Nov 22 – Perth – RAC Arena

Nov 25 – Melbourne – Rod Laver Arena

Nov 29 – Brisbane – Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Dec 01 – Sydney – Qudos Bank Arena

Dec 07 – Manila – SM Mall of Asia Arena

Dec 10 – Singapore – Singapore Indoor Stadium

Dec 13 – Seoul – Kintex Hall 10

Dec 15 – Tokyo – K-Arena Yokohama

Dec 18 – Bangkok – Impact Exhibition Hall 5-6

Dec 21 – Kaohsiung – Kaohsiung Arena

Most recently, Doja Cat headlined the 2025 Outside Lands Music Festival in San Francisco, CA. During her electrifying set, she surprised fans by debuting “Jealous Type” live on stage. Following her performance, she hosted a surprise album listening after-party at San Francisco’s legendary drag venue, Oasis, where a select group of fans received an exclusive first listen to tracks from her forthcoming album, Vie.

Last year, Doja Cat released her deluxe album Scarlet 2 CLAUDE. The deluxe featured previously released hits such as “Attention”, “Paint The Town Red”, “Agora Hills”, alongside a collection of brand-new tracks and features. Doja Cat’s hit single “Paint The Town Red” spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming the first rap song to reach the top spot in 2023. The track also held the No. 1 position on the Billboard Global 200 chart for four consecutive weeks. Additionally, her fan-favorite track “Agora Hills” reached No. 1 on Top 40 Radio in February 2024, marking her eighth No. 1 at the format. “Agora Hills” also peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

(Photo Credit: Jacob Webster – Download HERE)

About Doja Cat:

GRAMMY award-winning global superstar Doja Cat made her first upload to Soundcloud in 2013 at just 16 years old. Having grown up in and around the LA area, she developed a knack for music by studying piano and dance as a kid and listening to the likes of Busta Rhymes, Erykah Badu, Nicki Minaj, Drake, and more. Signed to Kemosabe/RCA Records in 2014, she released her Purrr! EP followed that with her debut album Amala in spring 2018, but it was her August 2018 release of “MOOO!” which catapulted her into the mainstream and was met with critical acclaim. 

Doja Cat released her sophomore GRAMMY-nominated platinum album Hot Pink in November 2019 to mass critical acclaim; the album has garnered 7 billion streams worldwide. It features “Streets”, the viral sensation that soundtracked the ‘Silhouette Challenge,’ one of the biggest TikTok trends to date, and her GRAMMY-nominated #1 smash record “Say So” which has been RIAA certified 6x platinum and catapulted Doja Cat into global superstardom.  

With over 36 billion worldwide streams to date, Doja Cat’s creativity and showmanship as a performer have been praised time and time again, she has delivered unique and show-stopping performances on nearly all the major Award Show stages and music festivals throughout the world. Doja Cat’s GRAMMY award-winning album Planet Her came out in June 2021 and dominated the charts, debuting at #1 on the Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and #2 on the Billboard Top 200 and Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and generated the highest first day Spotify streams for an album by a female rapper. GRAMMY award-winning “Kiss Me More” ft. SZA, the lead single off Planet Her is certified 5x platinum by the RIAA and hit #1 at Top 40 and Rhythm radio with over 3 billion streams worldwide. That fall, Doja Cat became the first rapper to have 3 songs in the Top 10 at Top 40 radio. Her hit track “Woman” went to the top of the Billboard Rhythmic Airplay charts which ascended her to become the first woman to have four #1 hits from one album, other hits including “You Right” with The Weeknd and “Need to Know.” She went on to land at #1 on the Billboard Artist 100 chart for the first time. Amongst others, Doja Cat has won 5 AMAs, 5 Billboard Music Awards, 5 MTV VMAs, 3 BMI Awards, 2 MTV EMAs, 1 GRAMMY Award, and 1 NAACP Image Award along with garnering a total of 19 GRAMMY Award nominations. Additionally, Doja Cat has been nominated for 20 Billboard Music Awards, 18 MTV VMAs, 9 AMAs, 10 BET Awards, 8 MTV EMAs, 5 BMI Awards, and dozens more. Doja Cat was named one of TIME100’s Most Influential People of 2023, where she was featured on the April 2023 cover issue and performed at the TIME100 Gala in New York City.  

In September 2023, Doja Cat released her fourth studio album, Scarlet, which has been RIAA certified platinum and features smash hits “Agora Hills” (RIAA certified 2x platinum) and “Paint The Town Red” (RIAA certified 4x platinum). After releasing Scarlet, Doja Cat went on her first-ever North American headline tour, “The Scarlet Tour”. In April 2024, Doja Cat released her latest deluxe album, Scarlet 2 CLAUDE. In that same month, Doja Cat headlined Coachella 2024 and delivered an unforgettable performance. Doja Cat continues to redefine global pop stardom with her boundary-pushing artistry and undeniable impact on music and culture, solidifying her place as one of the most influential voices of her generation.

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ONErpm expands into the Philippines as it celebrates 15 years of global growth

The music powerhouse doubles down on Southeast Asia and the PH with a new local team, technologically-driven services, and a commitment to empowering Filipino artists

From left to right: ONErpm Philippines team composed of Louie Tamon (Project Manager), Presh Ong (A&R Representative), Alyssa “Pebs” Pe Benito (Marketing Manager), and Clark Cunanan (Senior Business Development Manager)

Manila, Philippines – ONErpm, a prominent force in the global music industry, celebrates its 15th anniversary with the announcement of its expansion into the Philippines. The milestone reflects the company’s commitment to innovation, as it continues to deliver transformative solutions and sustainable opportunities for artists to thrive in an increasingly dynamic and competitive music market.

Leveraging cutting-edge technology and a distinctive marketing approach tailored to the unique needs of each artist and project, the music company offers comprehensive services that extend far beyond traditional distribution. Today, it continues to provide solutions for creators of all sizes across distribution, full label services, catalogue deals, joint ventures and more.

“We have been able to scale sustainably by consistently innovating, putting in the work and creating healthy win-win scenarios and opportunities for our clients and partners,” said Isaac Miranda, ONErpm Associate Director for Asia. “Our strategy here is to meet artists where they are and build locally with global standards.”

ONErpm’s track record speaks for itself. Entirely self-funded and independent, it has become one of Youtube's top 5 global music partners, amassing over 25 billion monthly views. With strong performance across Asia, Africa and other high-growth regions, ONErpm is doubling down on its investment in Southeast Asia, with Philippines as a strategic hub.

Strengthening local presence with a new team

As part of the expansion, ONErpm has announced its dedicated team in the Philippines, tasked with driving client development, business strategy, and A&R in the market. The appointment stays truthful to the company’s long-term commitment to nurturing local talent and building infrastructure that supports sustainable growth, all while maintaining an independent, creator-focused mindset.

● Clark Cunanan, Senior Business Development Manager

A seasoned professional with experience at The Orchard Philippines and Universal Music Group, Cunanan brings a strong background in artist marketing, music production, and distribution.

He previously served as the Senior Label and Marketing Manager at The Orchard Philippines, Sony Music’s distribution arm, where he worked with both major and emerging labels to grow their artists’ digital reach. A Music Business Management graduate, Clark began his career in A&R at Universal Music Group Philippines before becoming a touring and session musician, performing with Juan Karlos, dwta, syd hartha, and Benj Pangilinan. He also shares his expertise as a college instructor in music production at MINT College.

With a solid foundation in the industry and reputable experience, Clark continues to bridge creativity and strategy to help Filipino artists build their presence and connect with audiences worldwide under ONErpm.

● Alyssa “Pebs” Pe Benito, Marketing Manager

With over a decade of experience in the music industry, Pebs has led successful campaigns that delivered viral hits and charting records. She has built a dynamic career spanning marketing, live events, artist development & management, and new business ventures. Beginning in the indie scene, she launched passion projects and created initiatives that helped grow emerging talents and laid the foundation for her career. This grassroots journey led her to a major label, where she focused on artist marketing and strategy spearheading campaigns that translated into impactful artist growth.

Drawing from her background in marketing and advertising, coupled with an entrepreneurial spirit and creative vision, she continues to bridge artistry with innovation by developing campaigns that resonate with audiences, empower artists, and drive success in today’s ever-evolving music landscape.

● Presh Ong, Business Development and A&R Representative

Widely recognized as “DJ Alice” from her decade-long tenure on Wish 107.5’s The Roadshow, Ong brings over 11 years of industry expertise in artist relations. This celebrated tenure as a broadcaster cultivated an extensive professional network, hands-on music industry knowledge, and deep industry credibility. This foundation propelled her to a leadership role at independent record label, Radical Music, where she was instrumental in driving two viral hits between October 2024 and May 2025.

Since joining ONErpm in June 2025 as a Business Development and A&R Representative, Presh has been passionately focused on discovering new talent and empowering artists. Her mission-driven approach to artist advocacy aims to foster a more supportive industry, directly aligning with ONErpm's vision of becoming a "record label of the future." Presh's unique ability to blend her on-air charisma and strong relationships with artists with her strategic business acumen helps in significantly strengthening the company's position in the Philippine music market.

● Louie Tamon, Project Manager

Prior to joining ONErpm, Louie gained industry experience at Wish 107.5 and KDR Music House, building a strong background in music distribution and artist relations. Currently, Louie oversees artist onboarding and provides support to artists and labels on backend operations, ensuring a seamless experience on the platform. He also leads in pitching releases to digital streaming platforms (DSPs).

A Record Label of the Future

Miranda believes that with the newly revamped team, ONErpm is ready to meet artists where they are and build locally with global standards.

“The Philippines already has the talent pool, a passionate music scene, and strong export potential, which allows us to add considerable value through flexible deal structures, transparency, incredible local personnel, and our tech stack,” Isaac Miranda added. “Our goal is to provide global reach with local execution. We have A&R, marketing, and partnerships teams staffed locally, but backed by a platform and network that already moves hits across continents.”

By redefining what it means to be a record label, ONErpm aims to deliver growth-driven strategies, holistic support, and scalable opportunities for creators across every stage of their careers. The company’s expansion into the Philippines is both a celebration of its 15th year journey and a bold step toward shaping the future of music in Southeast Asia.

Source: Nyou

BAD OMENS RETURN WITH NEW SINGLE “SPECTER” & CINEMATIC VIDEO

WATCH “SPECTER” MUSIC VIDEO

LISTEN TO “SPECTER”

  (Credit: Bryan Kirks)

Chart-dominating rock band Bad Omens is back with theirhighly anticipated new single, “Specter,” out today viaSumerian Records. After teasing their next chapter withcryptic “goodbye, friend” messaging for the past few months, the band now takes the stage with a track that promises to taketheir sound to new heights.

Beginning with delicate, atmospheric production, “Specter” builds into a passionate, hard-hitting chorus, complete withominous, otherworldly electronic flourishes that providedynamic layers to the song. This carefully crafted soundscapepairs perfectly with its  cinematic music video counterpart, a visual staple for the band that adds an extra layer ofstorytelling to their already powerful track. Directed by Noah Sebastian & Nico, the video injects viewers into a darkfantasy world that explores themes of loss, betrayal, and thesupernatural. The visual was teased with cinematic clips featuring actor Ryan Hurst (known for Sons of Anarchy andRemember the Titans), adding an extra layer of intrigue aheadof the release.

“Specter” marks the band’s first new release since their RIAA Gold-certified THE DEATH OF PEACE OF MIND - thealbum that propelled Bad Omens into the upper echelons ofrock. With over 2.7 billion streams globally, a Platinum-certified #1 Alternative Radio single (“Just Pretend”), and two Gold singles (“Like A Villain” & “Death of Peace ofMind”), Bad Omens have proven themselves to be anunstoppable force. In 2024, the band released CONCRETE JUNGLE [THE OST], an experimental expansion of theiracclaimed album, further cementing their reputation forpushing musical boundaries.

The band's 2025 festival run is only adding fuel to theirmomentum, with notable performances at Summerfest, Welcome to Rockville, Rock Fest and upcoming headliningslots at Louder Than Life and Aftershock. As highlighted byLive Nation, heavy rock is taking over the live music scene, experiencing a 14% rise and owning 13% of arena and stadium shows - and Bad Omens is one of the key playersleading this charge.

Fans can look forward to more from Bad Omens as theycontinue to dominate both the live stage and the charts.

ABOUT BAD OMENS:

Bad Omens are coming off a wildly successful three yearswith the explosive success of their breakthrough third studioalbum The Death of Peace of Mind (2022). Hailed as “a stunning fusion of dark, Weeknd-esque pop and industrializedmetalcore” (Revolver), the project has garnered over 1.8 Billion Streams, with the catalog surging over 2.7 BillionStreams. The album is RIAA certified Gold.

The hardworking bands ascension was driven in part by thealbums hit-single “Just Pretend” experiencing a viral TikTok moment that yielded a growing, dedicated fandom whocatapulted them into the spotlight. Becoming the band's firstRIAA-certified Platinum single, “Just Pretend” reached #1 at US Alternative Radio and smashed multiple Billboard Year-End charts coming in at #1 on Hot Hard Rock Songs, #6 onAlternative Airplay Songs, #11 on Rock and Alternative Airplay Songs, #11 on Mainstream Rock Airplay Songs, #14 Hot Rock & Alternative Songs, and #23 on Hot Alternative Songs. The genre-defyers continued their climb with thealbum's seductive RIAA certified title track, “The Death ofPeace of Mind” reached the top 10 on US Rock and Alternative Airplay Billboard Charts. Their radio success alsoearned Bad Omens a nomination for Best New Artist (Alt & Rock) at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards.

Gaining momentum online and over the airwaves, Bad Omenspersistently surged ahead, captivating their rapidly expandingfanbase with electrifying live shows at numerous sold-outtours and festival performances worldwide. The band spent2024 extensively touring, including UK dates with Bring Me The Horizon and the CONCRETE FOREVER Europeanheadline run with opener Poppy, with numerous US performances and a lineup of festivals into the 2025 season.

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Filipino-Ghanian artist and producer Jewel Owusu releases new single "spark"

Her infectious dance-pop confessional reframes fleeting attraction into a deeper conversation about love, self-confidence, and desire

Filipino-Ghanaian artist and producer Jewel Owusu dives into the complexity of desire in her new single “spark”—out on all digital music platforms worldwide this Thursday, August 21, 2025.

The suave electro-pop track dabbles between introspection and dance-floor energy, reflecting on fleeting thoughts about someone else that arrive uninvited. Rather than framing them as dangerous and destructive, Owusu examines them as symbols of freedom and excitement and of the aliveness that can sometimes feel distant in a settled routine.

Lyrically, “spark” is part confession, part liberation. Owusu explains, “The song explores how easily a craving for aliveness can be mistaken for the thrill of someone new, when deep down it is really about wanting to feel more connected to yourself again and wanting to feel sexy and confident.”

Owusu adds, “It’s a bit of a breather amidst the more introspective songs, a moment for listeners to let loose and just have fun on the dance floor. That said, if there’s a deeper message, it’s this: don’t mistake the craving for excitement in life for the need to find someone new or dive into a relationship. Kill the spark for that random person and find your spark for life.”

By turning a potentially taboo thought into an honest conversation, Owusu reimagines longing as an invitation to rediscover joy within, rather than seek it elsewhere.

Produced by close collaborator Aria Wood, “spark” matches its thematic duality. Conceived during an impromptu studio session, the song pairs shimmering synth layers with rhythmic precision. One intriguing production choice—a robotic voice delivering the word “heat” in place of Owusu’s vocal—has become a recurring motif in her current body of work, lending a futuristic edge to the track’s sensual undertones.

Owusu reveals that she played around with different details to make each chorus and drop feel a little different every time. “A fun detail comes right before the second drop, where we knew we wanted something wild, like a siren or a shout,” the eclectic pop newcomer shares. “I recorded tons of whoosh sounds for the riser and experimented with different shouts. After a lot of trial and error, we landed on a scream, which felt perfect. A similar thing happened before the final drop in the last chorus. We knew we needed something unique in that moment, but we weren’t sure what. After experimenting, we decided on the word “whatever,” which adds a playful vibe and sound.”

Though anchored in personal reflection, “spark” ultimately thrives in movement. With its propulsive beats and infectious drops, Owusu hopes the song provides a moment of release: a soundtrack for letting go, even if just for a few minutes.

“spark” will be part of Jewel Owusu’s upcoming new EP, set to be released sometime this year. Late last year, she captivated audiences with the propulsive but minimalist track “Time Machine,” which features acclaimed Filipino singer-songwriter and producer ena mori. The song garnered attention from numerous music publications in Asia, including Billboard Philippines and Bandwagon Asia.

About Jewel Owusu

Jewel Owusu has always felt like she lives in the space in between—between sounds, between cultures, and between versions of herself that are constantly shifting.

As a Filipino-Ghanaian artist and producer, she’s forging a new path in alternative electronic pop—one that’s as unfiltered and dynamic as she is.

Born in Hong Kong and raised in New Zealand, Jewel’s music is a melting pot of influences. Combining elements of electronic, dance, indie pop, rock, and more, her sound blends every experience that inspires her.

Now based in Melbourne, Australia, Jewel has been garnering eyes through international shows, showcases at SXSW Sydney and Music Matters in Singapore, national tours, and an overflowing headline show.

She has been recognized as an artist to watch, won Triple J Unearthed's collaboration competition, and caught the eye of major outlets such as Rolling Stone, Complex, Colors Studio, MTV, Triple J, and TikTok.

In Jewel’s world, music and visuals are more than just art—they are spaces for transformation and self-expression, where imperfection is not only welcomed but celebrated.

 Source: Nyou 

Filipino King of R&B Jay R teams up with LA-based pop artist Shanice on “Never Ever”

The new track was helmed and co-written by multi-platinumproducer Mark Feist, who’s worked with globally renowned artists like Beyonce, Celine Dion, Outkast, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Lopez, and more

OPM icon Jay R links up with Los Angeles-based pop newcomer Shanice on their collaborative single, “Never Ever”—released on Friday, August 22, 2025 via Hitmakers Entertainment and Symphonic Asia.

Produced and co-written by Grammy-nominated Mark Feist, alongside Shanice and Jay R, the sophisticated R&B jam tackles a kind of love that stays and sticks even when the pieces don’t quite fit. With suave and soulful vocals that cut through a bed of lush strings, slow-burning grooves, and hypnotic instrumentation, “Never Ever” captures the soothing warmth of coming home to a loved one, pledging devotion even through life’s coldest seasons.

“Never Ever is about love and wanting it forever,” says Mark Feist, the chart-topping producer behind worldwide hits like Destiny’s Child’s Emotions. “It’s a tale as old as time, and something all people can relate to, whether it manifests in the form of love, loss, or longing.”

The track’s creative journey began with Shanice’s scratch melody, which Feist reimagined from a straightforward 4/4 into a sweeping 6/8 to give the song a more cinematic, flowing quality. From there, he restructured the arrangement, placing the hook at the forefront and refining the chord progression to build emotional momentum.

The recording took place between Los Angeles and Manila, with Shanice and Jay R laying their vocals in separate studios. Feist incorporated live instrumentation, tapping Erick Walls (Usher, Beyoncé, Michael Jackson) on electric guitar and Courtney Leonard (Chris Brown, Beyoncé) on bass. Every sonic detail was shaped to enhance the emotional arc of the lyrics, from the delicate intro to the soaring, anthemic chorus.

“Once the lyrics were complete and Jay R added his Tagalog parts, the song kind of produced itself,” recalls Feist. “I heard all of these amazing string parts in my head, wrote them down and built the track around that lush foundation. This is one of the productions that I’m most proud of—not only for the music, but the way it brought together incredible talent from two continents into one seamless piece of art.”

For Jay R and Shanice, the collaboration brought the best of both worlds, literally and figuratively. “Shanice wrote the song and presented it already perfect,” reveals the King of R&B. “I just added a few Tagalog lyrics to better fit our market. She’s incredibly talented, and we share a natural chemistry on stage.”

Shanice shares the same sentiment, praising Jay R for his commitment to the collaborative process. “Working with Jay R is so cool! The creative process was natural and easy. He’s so talented and experienced, and I learned so much from him. Never Ever has been one of the highlights of my journey so far.”

Guji Lorenzana, who oversees the project’s promotional efforts through Symphonic Asia, believes that while Never Everresonates in today’s music climate, it has a timeless edge that people from different generations would appreciate. He affirmsthat both artists have a promising future not just in the Philippines, but around the world.

“I think Never Ever feels especially relevant right now because we’re seeing a reemergence of that OG R&B sound, both in the Philippines and the USA,” the record label executive explains.  “It’s a style that instantly takes you back but still feels fresh today. For me, this track hits home the production is top-notch, the vibe is smooth, and the chemistry between Jay R and Shanice is undeniable. I hope listeners feel that same connection, whether it’s love at first listen or something that grows on them with every replay.”

Jay R and Shanice’s “Never Ever” is out on all digital music platforms worldwide this Friday, August 22, 2025 via Hitmakers Entertainment and Symphonic Asia.

About Jay R

Jay R, widely recognized as the "King of R&B" in the Philippines, is celebrated for his extraordinary talent and original artistry. Born in Los Angeles, California, his passion for music began early. He performed with The Howlers alongside his sister Jhing, under the guidance of their uncle Bob, and later refined his craft with the boy band First Impression before launching his solo career.

After relocating to Manila, Jay R released his debut album, Gameface, which achieved double- platinum status, firmly establishing him as an R&B icon. He followed up with acclaimed albums such as Soul In Love, OPM Love Classics, and Elevated, earning multiple platinum and gold certifications. His music remains popular and easily accessible on Spotify.

Beyond his music career, Jay R has been a sought-after brand ambassador for major companies like Colgate, Tropicana, and Bench. Currently, he is meticulously working on his next album,

dedicating countless hours in the studio to ensure every detail reflects his artistic vision. With an impressive 6 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Jay R continues to make waves in the music industry. His recent single, Sining, dominated the charts in the Philippines for over 45 days and secured his place in history as the first Filipino artist to enter the global Top 60 chart. It was also the fastest song to 200M streams in the Philippines, with well over 300M streams to date.

Now, releasing music through Hitmakers Entertainment (HME), alongside famed producer and label head Mark J. Feist (Destiny’s Child, Mary J. Blige, Celine Dion, etc.), Jay R’s most recent single through HME titled “Tunay” draws from the soulful R&B era of the early 2000s. His upcoming release on August 22, a duet with fellow HME roster mate Shanice, titled “Never Ever”, is an emotional rollercoaster sure to leave audiences captivated and eager for more.

About Shanice

Shanice is a 23-year-old pop artist living in Los Angeles, CA. Growing up in Bremen, Germany, she has a diverse background, with parents of Turkish, German, and Portuguese descent.Shanice's music is a reflection of her diverse upbringing, drawing inspiration from a variety of genres, including Pop, R&B, 80s music, rock and jazz, and influence from the likes of Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Cullum, Gang of Youths, Hozier, and so much more.

After graduating from Hurtwood House, Shanice went on to study music at Leeds Conservatoire, receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Pop Music. While there, she connected with Mark Feist, famed producer (Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, John Legend, etc.) and Hitmakers Entertainment Label Head, who signed her immediately upon graduation.

Shanice released her debut single, "I Got You" on August 25, 2023. The song is a self- empowerment anthem about knowing your worth and being confident in yourself. "I Got You" hasbeen praised for its catchy melody, powerful lyrics, and Shanice's stunning vocals. The official music video showcases her unbelievable performance and dance skills that rival the bestin the business.

Speaking on her music and writing, Shanice said, “I would describe my music as a relief for emotions. Every feeling, or memory you can’t put into words because it is too overwhelming, that is what I aim for my music to express. I want my songs to give a voice to all those sentiments that are so heartachingly powerful that you cannot describe them. I put my heart into all of my songs, so I hope with some of the things I address lyrically, I can help people and inspire them.”

Since then, Shanice has written and released over 25 masters and 8 official music videos. She continues to release a new song every month, experimenting with lyrics, performance, andbending genres to compete with the best that Pop has ever seen. With her unique sound and undeniable talent, Shanice is sure to be a star on the rise, as the world continues to experience the breadth of who she is.

Source: Nyou

CAVETOWN MARKS A NEW CHAPTER WITH VULNERABLE AND GLITTERY NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO ‘BABY SPOON’

CAVETOWN SIGNS RECORD DEAL WITH FUTURES MUSIC GROUP

LISTEN | VIDEO

BABY SPOON

Singer, songwriter, and producer Cavetown, the moniker of UK-born Robin Skinner, has shared his new single ‘Baby Spoon’ alongside it’s intimate and dreamlike music video, offering the first glimpse into his new chapter. With the new release comes the news of his signing with Futures Music Group (Mt. Joy, Phantogram, Barns Courtney, et. al), a joint venture between Neon Gold and Avenue A Records .

The signing follows a remarkable eighteen months for Cavetown, who has seen six of his singles earn RIAA Platinum certification, cementing his place as one of the most exciting new voices of his generation. He has played massive festivals, including Reading & Leeds, Glastonbury, Lollapalooza, and more as well as toured with AJR, Pierce the Veil, Mother Mother, and many more.

Since penning personal songs as a teenager in Cambridge, England, Cavetown has built a deeply devoted global fanbase, amassing billions of streams across a catalog that spans from lo-fi bedroom recordings to lushly self-produced indie-pop gems. His music has become a place of solace and connection, “soft hands offering understanding when the world felt too sharp.”

The track is a heartfelt meditation on vulnerability and self-acceptance, inspired by his relationship with his partner. “‘Baby Spoon is a reminder to my partner that I’ll always be there to talk to her and make her feel better. Growing up as a transmasc guy, I went through a phase of overdoing masculinity because I thought that’s what was expected of me. With her, I can be delicate, soft, I can be the baby spoon” says Robin Skinner about the song.

Cavetown also continues to champion causes close to his heart, including his This Is Home initiative, which has raised over $650,000 for LGBTQ+ organizations.

Baby Spoon is available now on all streaming platforms.

DOWNLOAD ARTWORK HERE

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RICH BRIAN ANNOUNCES WHERE IS MY HEAD? 2025 TOUR ACROSS ASIA AND BEYOND

(August 19, 2025) - Rich Brian is bringing his WHERE IS MY HEAD? Tour to stages across Asia and beyond this November and December! The six-date run will kick off in Jakarta before heading to Taipei, Singapore, Hong Kong, Manila and Honolulu.

The tour follows the release of Rich Brian’s latest album WHERE IS MY HEAD? on August 15th - his first full-length album since 2019 - promising an unforgettable experience of fresh music, fan favourites and connection with audiences worldwide. For ticketing details, visit http://richbrian.net

Tour Dates 2025

Nov 29th - Jakarta, Beach City International Stadium

Dec 1st - Taipei, Zepp New Taipei

Dec 3rd - Singapore, MediaCorp Theatre

Dec 6th - Hong Kong, Clockenflap Festival

Dec 8th - Manila, New Frontier Theatre

Dec 11th - Honolulu,The Republik

Written and largely self-produced, WHERE IS MY HEAD?showcases Brian’s pursuit of greater artistic control and authenticity. Across 15 tracks, the album explores themes of heartbreak and healing, ambition and alienation, memory and self-reinvention. Featuring collaborations with Toro y Moi, Charlotte Day Wilson, DAISY WORLD, Ski Mask The Slump God, Kurtis Wells and redveil, Brian reflects on the fallout of a long-term relationship, the guilt of missing key family milestones and his ongoing search for identity while navigating life between cultures and expectations.

Conceptually, the album presents two versions of Brian: Maestro, a conductor composing music for the dreams of Movie Brian, who unknowingly exists within the world Maestro creates. This surreal narrative unfolds through a series of music videos and visualisers directed by Jared Hogan, offering fans an immersive and emotionally charged experience.

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