The latest episode of the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE features the Filipino boy band SB19.

Episode 449 marks SB19's first appearance on THE FIRST TAKE. The five-member group gained international recognition as the first Southeast Asian artist nominated for Top Social Artist at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards.

SB19 will perform their hit song “GENTO,” known for its catchy phrase and unique dance moves on TikTok. The song conveys the message that small efforts lead to success, and this special version is available exclusively on THE FIRST TAKE.

“It was a true first take, so we were very nervous and overwhelmed, but it was fun and an amazing experience,” SB19 shares. “Above all, we are grateful for this opportunity and for being able to represent the Philippines by performing our song here. We are honored to showcase our music and culture to the world through THE FIRST TAKE.”

THE FIRST TAKE is a Japanese YouTube channel that invites top singers and artists from all over the world to perform a song recorded in one take. Videos on The First Take are filmed in a studio, with shots of the performing artist and a microphone, set to a background that is usually white.

SB19 on the other hand, is the first Southeast Asian group and the first Filipino to be invited in the influential music media outlet. After the initial announcement, HALA THE FIRST SB19 skyrocketed at No. 1, 2, and 35 of X’s trend list in the Philippines, Japan, and Worldwide, respectively.

Aside from this recognition, the Philippines' five-member boy group also recently bagged a nomination for Favorite Asian Act in the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards.

SB19’s performance airs at 9 pm today, Manila time via THE FIRST TAKE’s YouTube channel. Watch it here.

About THE FIRST TAKE

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

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

Follow THE FIRST TAKE on socials:

Website: https://www.thefirsttake.jp
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_firsttake
Twitter: https://twitter.com/The_FirstTake
X: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_first_take
THE FIRST TIMES: https://www.thefirsttimes.jp

The girl group, BINI, has brushed off allegations that their hit song "Salamin, Salamin" promotes witchcraft. This controversy erupted after a religious content creator claimed to have evidence that the song was linked to dark practices. However, BINI members were quick to dismiss these claims, clarifying the true, endearing nature of the song.

BINI Colet couldn’t help but laugh when she saw the post, mentioning that the group often encounters amusing interpretations of their music. "Actually, nakita ko po yung post na yun, nakakatawa po, pero mas meron pa po nakakatawang post bukod dun. Natatawa na lang po kami kasi may nabubuo na po silang kwento sa mga kanta namin," she said. (Actually, I saw that post; it's funny, but there are even more funny posts besides that. We laugh about it because they are creating a story in our songs.)

Meanwhile, BINI Maloi confidently labeled the claims as "fake news" and reiterated that "Salamin, Salamin" is simply a good song. "Fake news po. Hindi po witchcraft ang ‘Salamin, Salamin.’ Maganda lang po ‘yung song,” she affirmed. (It’s just fake news. ‘Salamin, Salamin’ doesn’t promote witchcraft. The song is just nice.)

The misunderstanding likely stems from the song’s use of the phrase "mirror, mirror on the wall," reminiscent of the evil queen’s line from the Snow White fairy tale. The phrase might evoke images of magic and witchcraft, but the lyrics of "Salamin, Salamin" are far from sinister. Instead, they tell a tale of a girl’s longing for her crush to notice her, wrapped in the relatable context of youthful infatuation and hope.

The song's lyrics express a common teenage experience: the uncertainty and excitement of a crush. Lines like "Mahiwagang salamin kailan ba niya aaminin, Kaniyang tunay na pagtingin" (Magic mirror, when will he admit his true feelings) capture the mix of hope and anxiety familiar to anyone who has ever had a crush.

Darren Espanto, the singer who stole hearts as a young contestant on "The Voice Kids Philippines," is set to celebrate a major milestone in his career. On June 1, Espanto will take the stage at the Araneta Coliseum for his highly anticipated "D10" concert, marking ten years of remarkable achievements in the music and entertainment industry.

Darren's journey began in 2014 when he wowed audiences with his powerful voice and captivating stage presence on "The Voice Kids Philippines," finishing as a runner-up under the mentorship of Sarah Geronimo. Since then, Darren has grown into one of Asia's most beloved pop artists, known for his wide vocal range and emotive performances.

The Ransom Collective’s Muri will soon release “Afternoon,” the first song from her debut EP, which is coming out this year.

The Filipino singer and violinist shared the release date and song title on her social media.

Muriel Gonzales said “Afternoon” is about her own experiences as a young woman dealing with work and life problems by herself, in a country far from home.

“I’ve been working on this song for quite a while,” she admits. “Without revealing too much about the creative and thought process behind Afternoon, I actually find it freeing to open up about being vulnerable and share a piece of myself through songwriting. Sometimes, expressing what you really feel helps you gain a deeper understanding of yourself as a person and as an artist. Making the entire track was both a journey and a reflection. I can’t wait to share it with the rest of the world.”

Currently based in London and Paris, Muri is working on her solo EP, with plans to perform her new material in Europe and Asia sometime this year.

Muri is best known for her work with indie folk collective The Ransom Collective as a violinist and singer. As a solo artist, she has earned a nomination for Wishclusive Contemporary R&B Performance of the Year at the prestigious Wish Awards and Favorite Female Artist at the 35th Awit Awards for her pre-debut 2022 single “Letters.” In the subsequent year, she collaborated with electronic producer LUSTBASS on a remix of "Thunder," which garnered a nomination for Best Remix Recording at the 36th Awit Awards, the Philippines' equivalent of the Grammys.

Filipino music superstar James Reid has once again captivated fans with his latest single, "Hurt Me Too," marking his debut project under Sony Music Entertainment. This emotional ballad delves deep into the theme of heartbreak, showcasing Reid's talent for combining raw emotion with compelling storytelling.

With a career spanning over a decade, James Reid has become a key figure in contemporary pop and R&B music in the Philippines. His chart-topping records, sold-out tours, and successful brand campaigns have made him a household name. But it’s his ability to balance commercial success with artistic integrity that truly sets him apart.

In "Hurt Me Too," Reid presents a stripped-down ballad that hits hard emotionally. The song, produced by Tim Marquez, finds Reid at his most vulnerable, reflecting on past heartbreak with a mix of fondness and pain. "I wrote the song three years ago together with Seth Reger, an artist from LA," Reid shares. "He really helped me tap into these emotions that I didn’t even know I was feeling at that moment."

Reid's exploration of heartbreak in "Hurt Me Too" marks a significant shift in his musical direction. Known for hits like "Cool Down," "Turning Up," and "16B," Reid's previous work has often leaned towards upbeat, feel-good tracks. However, this new single introduces a more introspective side of the artist.

"For this next album I’m working on, I wanted to focus on the core of who I am as a songwriter with minimal but intentional music production," Reid explains. "Hurt Me Too is like a palate cleanser for me in a way that it introduces a change in sound and direction."

The heartfelt tune is complemented by a music video directed by Elena Virata, a close friend of Reid's. "The concept was simple but powerful, focusing on unreleased emotions and frustrations," he adds. The video’s simplicity allows the song's emotional depth to shine through, creating a poignant visual experience for listeners.

James Reid's music has always resonated with fans due to its authenticity and relatability. His ability to connect with listeners on a personal level is evident in his extensive catalog, which includes popular tracks like "Right There," "On Top," and "The Life." These songs, much like "Hurt Me Too," showcase his knack for blending heartfelt lyrics with memorable melodies.

Reid's journey in the music industry began with his win on the reality show "Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Clash 2010." This victory catapulted him into the limelight, leading to a successful career in both music and acting. Over the years, Reid has continued to evolve as an artist, consistently pushing the boundaries of his craft.

Joining Sony Music Entertainment is a significant milestone for Reid, aligning him with other prominent Filipino artists such as SB19, Ben&Ben, and Clara Benin. This partnership is expected to further elevate Reid's career, providing him with new opportunities to reach a global audience.

Reflecting on his career, Reid expresses gratitude for the support he has received from fans and collaborators alike. "I’m grateful for the journey and the growth I’ve experienced over the years," he says. "Each song, each album is a part of my story, and I’m excited to share this new chapter with everyone."

As "Hurt Me Too" gains traction on digital music platforms worldwide, fans are eagerly anticipating Reid's upcoming album. This next phase promises to delve deeper into his personal experiences, offering listeners a more intimate glimpse into his life and emotions.

James Reid’s ability to convey profound emotions through his music is a testament to his talent as a singer and songwriter. "Hurt Me Too" is not just a song; it’s a reflection of his journey, his struggles, and his growth. It’s this authenticity that continues to endear him to fans, old and new.

Reid's work stands out for its enduring impact. His songs have the power to evoke memories, inspire reflection, and provide comfort. With "Hurt Me Too," James Reid reaffirms his place in the music industry, proving that true artistry lies in the ability to touch hearts and minds.

James Reid's "Hurt Me Too" is available now on all digital music platforms. As he continues to explore new themes and sounds, one thing remains certain: James Reid is an artist whose music will continue to resonate for years to come.

Yeng Constantino, a name resonates to everyone in the Philippine music scene, has embarked on yet another musical venture, captivating audiences with her latest single, "Babala." After 17 remarkable years in the industry, Constantino continues to evolve, staying true to her roots while fearlessly exploring new musical territories.

South Korean singer and songwriter 10CM, also known as Kwon Jung-Yeol, is gearing up to captivate Manila with his upcoming Closer to You Asia tour. Scheduled for August 31st at the New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Quezon City, this concert promises an unforgettable evening of indie pop melodies and heartfelt lyrics.

Having made waves in the Korean music industry, 10CM's music transcends borders, particularly through its inclusion in various KDramas. From "Crash Landing On You" to "Start Up," his songs have become synonymous with emotional storytelling and captivating narratives, earning him a devoted fan base both in South Korea and abroad.

The announcement of BINI's first solo concert at the New Frontier Theater sent waves of excitement through the P-pop community. However, what truly caught the attention of fans was the unexpected decision to extend the concert series to three days, marking a significant departure from the initial plan of a single-day event.

For many, the question arises: Why did BINI choose to expand their solo concert to three days? Was it a strategic move to capitalize on their soaring popularity, or simply a gesture of appreciation for their dedicated fanbase, the Blooms?

According to industry insiders, the decision to add two additional dates to BINI's solo concert was a carefully calculated move aimed at accommodating the overwhelming demand for tickets and ensuring that as many fans as possible could experience the magic of BINIverse.

Sometimes it takes just the right blend of emotion, melody, and relatability to ignite a global phenomenon. Such is the case with Shaira's cover of "Selos," originally penned by Lenka as "Trouble is a Friend." Despite being a cover, Shaira's rendition has captured hearts and sparked a wildfire of attention, transcending borders and languages.

A beat that transcend beyond boundaries. Mindanao's beloved singer and "Queen of Bangsamoro Pop," Shaira, is set to reclaim the spotlight as her hit song "Selos" makes its comeback on streaming platforms. The recent takedown of "Selos" sparked discussions surrounding copyright concerns, particularly its resemblance to Australian artist Lenka's 2008 track, "Trouble Is A Friend."

Acknowledging the similarities, Shaira and her agency, AHS Productions, swiftly initiated talks with Lenka's team to secure a cover license for "Selos." These conversations paved the way for the song's imminent return, with no legal repercussions faced by Shaira or her production team.

In a heartfelt video shared on her Facebook account, Shaira expressed gratitude to her supporters and emphasized the significance of this resolution not only for her but also for fellow Bangsamoro artists and the Filipino community at large.



"Selos" enthusiasts can now rejoice as the song prepares to once again grace their playlists. Shaira's journey highlights the importance of legality in acquiring cover licenses, ensuring that artists can share their talents without legal constraints.

Amidst the negotiations, Shaira also took a moment to extend her appreciation to Lenka, whom she regards as an idol. The smooth communication between the two camps underscores the importance of respectful collaboration within the music industry.

As "Selos" returns to the airwaves, fans eagerly anticipate experiencing its captivating beat once more. Through adherence to legal protocols and respectful engagement with fellow artists, Shaira continues to inspire with her music, fostering a community of creativity and collaboration.

Lenka's catalog, which includes hits like "The Show," "Heart Skips A Beat," and "Everything At Once," serves as a testament to the power of musical expression, transcending geographical boundaries to captivate audiences worldwide.

As Shaira's journey unfolds, her resilience and dedication serve as a beacon for aspiring artists navigating the complexities of the music industry. With "Selos" back in action, the stage is set for Shaira to share her unique sound with an even broader audience, spreading joy and inspiration one melody at a time.

P-Pop sensation Josh Cullen and acclaimed rapper Al James have joined forces for their latest hit single, "Yoko Na," now available through Sony Music Entertainment.

The lyrics of "Yoko Na" delve into the unspoken sentiments amidst a relationship's decline. It recognizes the bittersweet reality that even the most promising love can falter, despite earnest efforts to salvage it.

The song embodies the essence of a summer anthem, featuring catchy rap verses from both artists, a memorable chorus, and a dynamic arrangement fusing contemporary hip-hop and R&B elements with emotive undertones.

Producer Brian Lotho, collaborating with Josh, skillfully captures the song's essence with unwavering determination. He enhances its authenticity by incorporating unique sound effects like shattering bottles and flipping tables, adding depth to the portrayal of irreparable heartbreak.

Don't miss out on "Yoko Na," a poignant musical journey through the complexities of love and loss, brought to life by two talented artists.

Filipino rapper Alex Bruce delves into themes of resilience, achievement, and empowerment with her latest single "SWOOSH," released through Sony Music Entertainment.

Timely for International Women’s Month, the energizing hip-hop track carries a weighty beat and a powerful message. Originally crafted for a campaign by NIKE, a global activewear brand, in collaboration with FIBA, where Bruce serves as an ambassador, the song champions the spirit of 'Just Do It!'

In Bruce's words, "SWOOSH" embodies the ethos of NIKE's iconic slogan, urging individuals to take action in all aspects of life. Beyond mere lyrics, the track stands as an anthem, celebrating determination, self-belief, and seizing opportunities.

The young rapper unveiled "SWOOSH" during a halftime performance at FIBA 2023, marking a significant moment in her career. Reflecting on the experience, Bruce reminisces about the thrill of showcasing her artistry to a global audience. She particularly highlights the camaraderie shared with her fellow performers, including the dynamic ATEAM dancers, whose vibrant energy enhanced the show's impact.

“Performing at the FIBA halftime show was ‘the’ experience,” the BLING artist fondly shares. “Not only was I thrilled to be showcasing my artistry on such a huge stage, but I was also super excited to be joined by the amazing talents of ATEAM—sixteen dancers whose energy and passion added extra flavor and dimension to the performance.”

“SWOOSH” was produced for her by GOODSON and SHAQUIRO. Alex also vouched for her frequent producers’ level of talent and range and credited their mutual respect as one of the grounding elements that made the success of the collaboration possible.

“Plus, I am friends with them, which makes the working environment more fun and conducive to ideas,” Alex Bruce shares.

“SWOOSH” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

P-Pop sensation Josh Cullen has teamed up with Filipino rapper Yuridope for the official remix of “Get Right.”

The collaboration between the two artists was seamless, as they brought their unique styles together to revamp the song with energy and passion. Their goal was clear: to elevate the beat, amplify the verses, and deliver a performance that rivaled the original.

“When I thought about doing a remix for 'Get Right' with a local artist, Yuridope immediately came to mind,” said SB19's lead rapper and vocalist. “He's not just talented; he's authentic. And his verse? It was like magic, effortless and impactful.”

 

Two rising stars in the Filipino R&B scene, Denise Julia and DENȲ, have joined forces to release their latest single, "don't matter," under Sony Music Entertainment.

This collaboration marks the first time the two artists have worked together on a music project. Denise Julia revealed in a recent Instagram post that the idea of collaborating had been brewing for three years, back when they were both aspiring musicians trying to break into the industry.

The track, produced by J. Greg, Duaneinsane, and Denise Julia, and co-written by Denise Julia and DENȲ, features a smooth, soulful groove over which the two artists trade verses effortlessly.

With "don't matter," Denise Julia and DENȲ showcase their talent and chemistry, delivering a sultry and laid-back jam that is sure to resonate with fans of R&B music.

With Denise Julia’s powerhouse vocals blending perfectly with DENȲ’s sensual coos in the most exciting way possible, the song transforms into a charming, sing-along bop that’s centered on empowerment, freedom, and self-love—three virtues that triumph over the prospect of everything going wrong in a leap of faith.

In a dynamic collaboration, the accomplished actor-rapper, Elijah Canlas, and the chart-topping singer-songwriter, TONEEJAY, are set to grace the stage at SCRUBB: Live in Manila on February 10, 2024. The event is scheduled to take place at the 123 Block in Mandaluyong City, commencing at 6 p.m.

Elijah, recognized by his mononym, is an award-winning actor celebrated for his roles in critically acclaimed films and TV series, including the widely successful Senior High. Beyond his notable acting achievements, Elijah is venturing into the realm of music as a burgeoning hip-hop artist, with his latest track "kilala kita" gaining viral traction in recent times.

TONEEJAY is a fast-rising solo artist who used to be the lead singer of Munimuni, one of the most prominent folk-pop bands in the Philippines. His new single “711” has reached No. 1 on the Spotify Philippines Top 50 for several weeks and continues to gain viral traction from various streaming and social media platforms.

Both award-winning artists will be performing as guest acts to the Thai duo’s highly anticipated set, which will feature songs off the official soundtrack of 2gether: The Series, which stars global BL icons Vachirawit Chivaaree (Bright) and Metawin Opas-iamkajorn (Win).

Aside from the OST, Scrubb is set to entertain Filipino fans with new and old materials spanning six studio albums that they’ve produced throughout the course of their career. To date, Scrubb has graced several sold-out shows in Bangkok and key cities across Asia. The internationally renowned music act is composed of Thawatpon Wongboonsiri and Torpong Chantabubpha.

Tickets to SCRUBB: Live in Manila are now available for fans to purchase: bit.ly/scrubbmnl.

According to event organizer GNN (formerly known as Gabi Na Naman Productions), fans can buy tickets at Ticketmelon for the following tiers: SVIP tickets at PHP 5,200, VIP tickets at PHP 3,200, and Gen Admission tickets at PHP 1,800. Both SVIP and VIP packages have fan benefit inclusions with varying perks.

SCRUBB: Live in Manila is presented and produced by GNN, in partnership with KATINKO and 123 Block.

 

Singer and musician Anton Paras, known for his songs and playing multiple instruments, brings us a new single titled "Can't Wait" under the label Alt G Records. In this song, he shows us that love and hope can stay strong even when we're apart.

In this heartfelt song, a man shares his feelings about being far apart from the person he loves. The song draws inspiration from the difficulties long-distance couples and families endure when their loved ones work abroad, like Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Anton holds onto hope that, in the future, they will come together again and be whole.   

Angela Ken and Raven, two talented singer-songwriters, have joined forces to create a new song celebrating the happiness of feeling confident in a romantic relationship and desiring to build a future together with the person you cherish.

In a fittingly named song called "Pangako," two Filipino musicians express their sincere promises of dedication, resonating with a wide audience, from the young to the old, and everyone in between.

“It’s about being ready to love that special someone for a lifetime,” raven states. According to the rising bedroom pop artist, the song was created for two people in a committed relationship who share a strong bond, celebrating each other and supporting one another through life's challenges.

“I was inspired specifically by my Tito’s wedding when I wrote it,” he shares. “It’s my dream to make a song that goes well with an SDE video: a soundtrack that complements a couple’s montage, all while bringing the sugary feels in one go.”

The original version of “Pangako” was produced by raven with the assistance of his mentor, Rico Blanco. Acclaimed artists and producers Zild and Tim Marquez came into the picture for the duet version and added layers of newness and intricacy to the production. The result is a heartwarming ballad that brims with intricate harmonies and gorgeous instrumentation, painting a picture of romantic bliss, the youthful kind.

“it’s not the typical arrangement that you would normally hear in my songs,” Angela reflects. “And I guess that’s where the magic appears: the intricate details that the producers incorporate in the song and the way they preserved the inherent simplicity of what made it stand out, on a lyrical and emotional level. This collaboration is really for the books.”

Both raven and Angela Ken have gained significant attention at the height of the pandemic, sparking the curiosity of casual music fans with their brand of relatable songwriting and pop-infused melodies. Angela rose to prominence with 2021’s “Ako Naman Muna,” which racked up more than 40 million streams on Spotify alone, while raven’s steady rise in the music industry and incredible musical instincts captured the attention of Rico Blanco, which resulted in bagging a management deal with Balcony Entertainment and a record deal with Sony Music Entertainment.

raven and Angela Ken’s “Pangako” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Former contestants from the popular reality show "Pinoy Big Brother," Vivoree and Benedix Ramos, have teamed up to bring their unique touch to the classic track "Sayaw ng mga Tala," giving it a fresh and exciting spin.

Their thrilling collaboration on the song "Star Music" breathes fresh vitality into the track by presenting it in a pop style that highlights their impressive singing abilities.

Kapamilya singer-songwriter Lian Dyogi unveils her distinct life perspective through a pair of fresh singles, namely "Tulips" and "Watercolor Tears," both of which have been concurrently launched under the Star Music label.

In the self-composed and self-produced track "Tulips," Lian tells the romantic story of a long-lasting love that has withstood the ups and downs of life.

Renowned global sensation, Halle, has taken the music scene by storm with the highly anticipated release of her inaugural single, "Angel." Crafted under the masterful guidance of Theron "NeffU" Feemster, an illustrious name in the realm of music production, songwriting, and composition, boasting accolades such as the prestigious GRAMMY® Award, the track unfurls an immersive auditory experience. A fusion of cinematic allure and a pulsating R&B rhythm, adorned with sweeping orchestral arrangements, envelops the listener. Amidst this symphonic tapestry, Halle's vocal prowess soars to unprecedented heights, her mellifluous tones harmonizing with the poignant lyrics that resonate: "Heaven knows your wings can weigh you down, but angels make a way somehow."

Basking in the aftermath of fervent discussions sparked by The Little Mermaid, Halle's "Angel" extends an introspective narrative. It becomes a manifestation of Halle's unwavering dedication to embolden and elevate the aspirations of young women across the globe. Amidst the ebb and flow of life's challenges, the song's lyrical refrain reinforces the message of resilience, painting a vivid canvas where even in adversity, we find ourselves cushioned by the embrace of clouds. In this musical revelation, Halle not only showcases her musical prowess but also offers a heartfelt testament to her vision of empowerment. Listen to the anthemic track HERE.

The track arrives with an exquisite official video directed by Wendy Morgan (Alicia Keys, Janelle Monae, Lous And The Yakuza), watch HERE. “Angel” made its global premiere on BET Soul, BET Her, MTV Live, MTVU, MTV Biggest Pop and across MTV’s global network of channels, as well as on the Paramount Times Square billboards.