Zsa Zsa Padilla, the Divine Diva, is celebrating her 42nd year in the music industry with the release of a new album, 'Pag Tinadhana, set to drop this Friday (May 16). The veteran singer will also mark the milestone with her concert, Through The Years, on Saturday (May 17) at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.

Reflecting on her long journey in the industry, Padilla couldn't help but feel nostalgic while performing at the Dolphy Theater, named after her late partner, comedy legend Dolphy. “It brings back so many memories. Performing here feels like he’s still watching over me,” she shared, her voice tinged with emotion.

Excited to perform tracks from her latest album, Padilla revealed that fans can expect familiar hits with fresh arrangements. “You will hear a lot of my hit songs. Para maging kakaiba siya, may mga rearrangements na mangyayari. I’m also introducing to my audience the new sound,” she shared.

Bandung-based band Road to Braga has reignited the local music scene with the release of their latest EP, Punk N Roll. Blending the raw energy of punk rock, the swagger of rockabilly, and the groove of classic rock ‘n’ roll, the five-track collection offers a high-voltage listening experience designed to both move and provoke thought.

The EP marks a bold transition in the band’s sound, shifting from rockabilly roots to a more punk-driven edge. Punk N Roll captures the spirit of youth—its freedom, frustration, and unfiltered emotion—in a sonic celebration of rebellion and self-expression.

Following the success of his debut single Bahagia dengan Mudah in January 2024, aajeebee returns with a new song, Membingkai Senyuman. Released on November 1, 2024, the track has already gained momentum, earning more than 22,402 streams on Spotify.

The Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is offering fans a rare surprise—a Pop-Up Performance Lottery during the theatrical run of their highly anticipated documentary. From March 21-23, 2025, the legendary band will appear at a random cinema, giving one lucky audience an unexpected live performance.

Producer and filmmaker Maria Diane Ventura says the details will remain a secret. “It’s a lottery, after all,” she says. “The excitement comes from not knowing—it could happen in any theater, at any time. Even I don’t know where it will be. But what’s certain is that those lucky ticket holders will experience the Eraserheads in a way that’s truly special and up close.”

Ventura adds that the pop-up show is meant to revive the excitement of watching movies in theaters, especially in an era where streaming has taken over traditional cinema.

“I think some movies are meant to be experienced in the cinema, shares Ventura. “And I feel Combo on the Run is one of those films. It’s in Dolby Atmos, a technology that lets the fans hear the Eraserheads’ music in a way they’ve never had.”

“Imagine having the band playing right after just watching their film. That would definitely heighten the audio-visual film experience. I’m excited for the lucky viewers that get to have that chance for such an immersive treat for the senses.”

The band’s idea for a pop-up performance was born from their desire to connect with fans in a fresh and unique way. “This is entirely their concept, and it’s original, fresh, and unprecedented,” Ventura adds. “There’s really nothing like it out there. It’s an extraordinary way for fans to experience the band’s story and music in a new, exciting context.”

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the Huling El Bimbo reunion concert in 2022, set against a backdrop of political division and post-pandemic uncertainty. Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews, the documentary offers a deep dive into the band’s history, struggles, and triumphs. With its compelling narrative and intimate portrayal of the band, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is already being hailed as one of 2025’s most important films by both film critics and pop culture pundits.

Ventura, who served as producer and filmmaker, describes the film as a careful and balanced depiction of the band’s complexity. She reveals, “I don’t want to give too much away. Suffice it to say, the film will speak for itself.”

Despite the scrutiny the band members have faced over the years, Ventura remains committed to presenting an honest portrayal. According to Ventura, the film aims to present a candid and honest portrayal of their story. “What the fans can expect is that nothing is swept under the rug. Everything is explored. This is a documentary, and I’m honoring the truth. My priority is the story. It’s anyway the only way I can truly honor the trust given to me in sharing themselves. I’m not one to pander to anyone’s approval. I’m here to seek the truth and bring to light things unsaid.”

The filmmaker emphasizes that the film is ultimately about growth, redemption, and self-reflection. “I have no doubt about the legacy of the band. Objectively, they are the best musicians in the country; they changed the game. They’re the only artists I know whose work is able to transcend differences and capture such a diverse audience. Their legacy is undeniable. Their untold story, on the other hand, and their fascinating, intriguing dynamic, personalities and humanity are what this film really is about. The highs and the lows, the triumphs and mistakes, I think this is what would really resonate with the audience. We can all relate to being human.”

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is brought to you by Dvent Pictures and WEU and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. It will be the first Philippine documentary to be screened in Dolby Atmos, providing the most immersive sound experience available today.

The documentary will be screening nationwide for a limited time, from March 21 to 23, 2025.

 

BINI launches the BINIverse World Tour 2025 on Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Philippine Arena, marking a significant milestone for the nation's girl group. Fans, known as BLOOMs, are invited to celebrate this momentous event.

SEVENTEEN fans, gear up to expand your collection! This January, the much-awaited Artist-Made Collection pop-up store has landed at SM Mall of Asia—the first of its kind in the Philippines. The store showcases exclusive items designed by SEVENTEEN members themselves, offering fans a unique chance to own pieces that reflect the group’s creativity and personal touch.

Pop star JADE rings in 2025 with her much-awaited single, "IT Girl."

The bold electro-pop track, filled with heavy bass and cheeky flair, was co-written by JADE alongside producers Cirkut and Lostboy, known for their work with Charli XCX and Lady Gaga. The song’s sharp lyrics draw from JADE’s personal journey through the music industry, shedding light on the demanding and often cutthroat side of fame.

Fans have eagerly awaited the release ever since a snippet was teased at the end of JADE’s previous hit, "Angel of My Dreams." The teaser sparked a frenzy, with many clamoring for the full track.

“‘IT Girl’ is like the feisty little sister to ‘Angel of My Dreams,’” JADE explains. “There’s still a lot people don’t know about me, and I wanted to surprise them and stir things up a bit. I write from my experiences, and I won’t sugarcoat it. This is my reality.”

Award-winning singer-songwriter Barbie Almalbis is set to release her fifth studio album, Not That Girl, on Friday, January 10, 2025. The album will be available on all major digital platforms worldwide.

Not That Girl offers a glimpse into Almalbis’ personal journey, tackling themes of healing, resilience, and self-discovery. The album draws inspiration from her experiences with mental and emotional health, using music to open conversations about overcoming challenges and addressing the stigma surrounding depression.

To celebrate the release, Almalbis will perform live on the same day at Sari-Sari Cocktails in Makati City. The intimate show will feature a mix of her greatest hits and tracks from the new album. Joining her onstage are notable local artists Kai del Rio, .bird, Twin Lobster, and Johnoy Danao, making the event a night to remember for music fans.

A few hours ago, Almalbis shared a vulnerable reflection on her experience with depression, emphasizing the importance of support and self-expression. In an Instagram post, she wrote: “But through it all, I was never really alone. I had the support of people who prayed for me, listened to me, loved me, and continually reminded me to remain in God. Their presence was a lifeline. In the midst of the pain, my friends encouraged me to write. And so, I did. The songs came so naturally, almost effortlessly. I was reminded of the days when I was a teenager, overwhelmed by emotions, and the only way I could process them was to pour them into my writing. It felt like I was reconnecting with something deep within me.”

Antan P, a talented musician known for his heartfelt music, has unveiled his latest single, Sedikit Untukku. Released as part of a collection in March 2024, the song has quickly become one of his standout tracks. It explores the pain of an unexpected breakup, capturing the lingering sorrow and unanswered questions of a long-term relationship that ended suddenly.

Penned by Antan P and arranged by Reza Zulfikar, Sedikit Untukku delves into the emotions of someone left behind without explanation. The lyrics echo the heartbreak and uncertainty of a love that ended abruptly, offering listeners a poignant glimpse into the raw aftermath of loss.

Here’s a glimpse of the lyrics from "Sedikit Untukku":

“Sempat ku bertanya, 'apakah cintamu ada sedikit untukku?' Namun kau membisu...”

With a captivating arrangement and meaningful lyrics, "Sedikit Untukku" resonates with listeners. It conveys the bittersweet experience of a love lost but still holds a glimmer of hope that it might return someday.

Antan P hopes this song will become a companion for those who have experienced a deeply painful separation in their relationships. "Sedikit Untukku" is now available on various digital streaming platforms. For more information: Shockss Record

Filipino R&B artist Denise Julia cements her place in the music scene with the release of her latest EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), distributed by Sony Music Entertainment.

The 9-track collection showcases her growth as an artist, blending emotional depth with refined production. Revisiting themes from her 2023 EP, the new release offers a more mature perspective, marked by personal experiences and heartfelt storytelling.

“These songs feel more real, with richer textures in the production, and they’re a lot more personal,” Denise shares. “This chapter reveals more about who I am, especially after coming out earlier this year. My writing has become freer and more daring—I’m saying what I want without holding back.”

Filipino music icon Ely Buendia is set to release his second solo album, Method Adaptor, on Friday, November 8, 2024. The album, under Offshore Music and Sony Music Entertainment, marks a significant moment in his solo career.

Method Adaptor stays true to the signature sound that has made Buendia a legend in OPM and Pinoy rock. The album dives into themes of memories, life experiences, and social issues, showcasing his growth as a storyteller. Known for crafting relatable narratives with heartfelt lyrics and intricate music, Buendia blends emotional depth with musical complexity. His latest work offers a rich listening experience, skillfully balancing simplicity and sophistication to captivate his audience.

As Ely explains it best, “I think all the songs have something to do with rebelling—be it from the disappointments and hardships of life or from the control that people want to have on your mind. I would say these are the most defiant songs I’ve written so far.”

Navigating through themes of sorrow, anger, joy, and triumph, the ten-track record shapes up to be one of the most captivating rock releases that came down the pike in recent memory. After being in the music business for more than 30 years, Ely admits that this album explores vulnerability that comes from a place of complicated humanity, revealing moments of fragility and darkness as he deals with the pressures of social expectations and career.

“Fame didn’t mix well with me,” Ely Buendia shares. “I just felt it got in the way of my trying to evolve as an artist and made me more guarded as a whole. Coming out for me means owning everything, both my failures and successes.”

Produced by Jerome Velasco and Audry Dionisio, with a little help from Erwin Romulo, Method Adaptor sounds consistently delightful from top to bottom, but with enough room to surprise or provoke.

"Kandarapa," the album's focus track and one of its highlights, is about fighting through the hard times not knowing if you can make it until the end. The music legend reveals that there are times when pressure in life can be a bit overwhelming, and all you want is to buckle and submit to the whim. “Sometimes you feel like you’re going to have to battle your way through the rest of your life.”

Other featured tracks in the album include previously releases “Tagpi-Tagping Piraso” and “Bulaklak Sa Buwan;” the somber piano ballad “Faithful Song,” the brooding, synth-pop tune “Kontrabando,” and the menacing stomper “Tamang Hinala”—to name a few.

Check out the Method Adaptor track list:
1. Faithful Song
2. Kandarapa
3. Bulaklak Sa Buwan
4. Tamang Hinala
5. Deadbeat Creeper
6. Sige
7. Tagpi-Tagping Piraso
8. Kontrabando
9. Chance Passenger
10. Esprit de Corpse

Ely Buendia’s Method Adaptor is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Offshore and Sony Music Entertainment.

Filipino hip-hop producer BRGR is stepping into the spotlight with his first solo project. Known for creating the hit tracks "Get Low" and "Kunan Mong Pic," BRGR is now ready to showcase his own artistry.

The acclaimed producer kicks off his solo career with the release of "SNOWFLAKES," a high-energy single featuring Gee Exclsv of O SIDE MAFIA. The track signals a fresh chapter for BRGR as he transitions from behind-the-scenes beatsmith to a headline act.

The release of “SNOWFLAKES” also comes with a music video helmed by Rex America of Uncensored Gallery, and executive produced by Papayasoak. According to the acclaimed producer and DJ, the MV is about “keeping the aura cold and luxurious as the song stands.”

Shot against a backdrop of artificial clouds and a pickup car, BRGR and Gee Exclsv delivers swaggering confidence that embodies the track’s pulsating energy.

The song also marks a major milestone for BRGR as a go-to producer capable of mining trap, lo-fi, and cloud rap influences with star-making appeal. With its sublime production and club-forward sonic vignettes, “SNOWFLAKES” embraces the kind of crossover hip-hop that caters to the streaming generation.

Rising music sensation Jacoténe has returned with her latest single and music video, Stop Calling. This empowering track delivers a bold message about embracing independence and self-confidence, resonating with listeners who value their personal freedom. With its catchy beats and relatable lyrics, Stop Calling captures the raw emotions of standing firm and finding strength within oneself.

Accompanied by a visually striking music video, the song showcases Jacoténe’s unique artistry and unapologetic energy. Her defiant anthem reflects the excitement of charting one's path and breaking free from unwanted influences. As her popularity continues to soar, Stop Calling cements Jacoténe's place as a voice of empowerment in today's music scene.

JACOTÉNE says of the track, “Stop Calling talks about a desire to break free from a toxic connection. The song is about the frustration and empowerment you feel in the face of a dishonest or manipulative relationship. It's a situation where you’ve given another person multiple chances, but the lies and manipulation continue. It’s a song about independence and a refusal to be drawn back into an unhealthy dynamic.”

JACOTÉNE continues to prove she’s a force to be reckoned with, bringing her magnetic energy and relatable storytelling to new heights. ‘Stop Calling’ is set to resonate with listeners everywhere, as it offers a liberating escape from old habits and toxic calls—literally and figuratively. This is the first track to come from JACOTÉNE’s upcoming debut EP to be released in 2025.

In the past year JACOTÉNE has played a string of festivals and live dates including her own sold-out headline show in the UK, a Sydney Opera House show for VIVID Festival as well as festival slots on Laneway Festival, Snow Machine, Wanderer, Changing Tides and St Kilda Festivals. She also supported G FLIP on their Melbourne and Adelaide tour dates, and Tems in Sydney and Melbourne.

Over the next few months, she will be playing in Germany, UK, Belgium, the Netherlands, as well as shows in Australia.

There are some voices that stop you in your tracks as soon as you hear them; voices with a triple-threat of power, beauty and uniqueness. JACOTÉNE possesses one such voice. It’s the kind that sounds instantly timeless and full of its own rich character and soul as she uses it to belt out big notes and softer, subtler moments.

FOLLOW JACOTÉNE 
INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK

 

Filipino band Ben&Ben is set to transform the live concert experience with an exciting blend of animation, film, and music in a one-of-a-kind show. Their much-awaited performance is slated for December 14, 2024, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, produced by Ovation Productions. This groundbreaking event aims to raise the bar for the local music scene, promising fans an unforgettable audio-visual spectacle.

Inspired by their upcoming third studio album, The Traveller Across Dimensions, the concert will merge live music with cutting-edge multimedia storytelling. The album, which redefines the boundaries of traditional music releases, serves as the creative backbone of the show, weaving a thematic journey through sound and visuals.

Ben&Ben have partnered with a talented team of concert directors, designers, and multimedia artists to create an animation-concert hybrid that will transport the concert-going audience into a magical, world-building realm. Working alongside Puppeteer Studios, the Pagtingin hitmakers will also introduce a cast of unique characters and an immersive universe that promises to captivate the audience from start to finish.

“We’re thrilled to share the story of Liwanag, the titular character in The Traveller Across Dimensions,” the nine-piece act explains in a collective statement. “We’ve shown a glimpse of this story in our “Triumph” music video, but the concert will reveal the full narrative in a way that no one has seen before.”

This special concert is designed to exude a cinematic experience, integrating the excitement of a live performance with the confines of filmmaking. Ben&Ben’s The Traveller Across Dimensions concert aims to elevate the theatricality of their previous shows, hinting at exploring new, interactive technology to further enhance the show.

SB19's Josh Cullen is back with "Silent Cries," a guitar-driven, emo-infused track released ahead of his upcoming album Lost and Found, set to drop this month.

Emo tendencies

On the melancholic track, the P-Pop soloist trades his urban-leaning charisma for something that passes off as Midwestern emo for the streaming generation. This time around, Josh turns inwards for temporary refuge and puts a front to conceal some vulnerable moments in his past life, writing some of his most confessional and somber lyrics to date.

Josh Cullen’s ‘Silent Cries’ serves as an introduction to the ‘Lost and Found’ album—the lyrics of the song come straight from the heart, revealing the artist’s true feelings.

The result is a compelling piece of work that sounds specifically written or produced for an audience raised by bands such as Jimmy Eat World or American Football, yet would never stop jamming to a Post Malone bop in the wee hours of the night.

Official music video

The genre-bending act revisits his past with equal moments of fondness and longing in the music video accompanying the release of "Silent Cries". The MV's concept revolves around Josh deciding to go back to places that were once a vital part of his childhood and reminiscing about these memories—both good and bad.

Slickly filmed with nostalgic elements and melancholic undertones, the visuals try to do more than just tell a story. It weaves moodiness with words barely spoken in ages. And that’s what makes it all the more affecting: the subdued silence, the longing gaze, the fleeting fascination with the past. The atmosphere is all cigarette smoke and ripped tunes for the wicked, but there’s sadness that hovers undeniably in its powerlessness, always reminding us of the brutality (and sometimes beauty) of time’s passing.

Josh Cullen’s “Silent Cries” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide. Watch the music video on Josh Cullen’s YouTube channel.

 

Following the renewed success of his OPM hit "Randomantic," James Reid revisits his laid-back, pop-influenced sound with the release of his latest single, "Sandal," under Sony Music Entertainment and Careless.

With its acoustic arrangement and Reid’s smooth vocals, "Sandal" captures the charm of his earlier work, blending simplicity with sophistication.

As expected, Reid demonstrates his keenness to turn a simple gesture of romantic affirmation into a sterling piece of work. On “Sandal,” he is back with another serenade that has so much potential on both the commercial and artistic front.

“I just wanted to reconnect with my roots in music, blending my past music with my new sound and writing style,” the award-winning singer-songwriter and label mogul admits. “It’s also been a long-time request from my fans. Most of the songs in my new EP are written in Filipino.”

The recording superstar wrote the track together with Luke April of the Davao-based hip-hop and R&B group, Playertwo. Both Reid and April wanted to create a material that aims to easily comfort someone going through a tough time. As the former pointed out in his press statement, “The idea is that love is strength and vulnerability, and that I will be your sanctuary.”

James Reid adds, “This song means a lot to me personally. I wrote it for my girlfriend when she was having a terrible day. I wanted her to know that no matter what you’re going through, you can always lean on me.”

“Sandal” is also produced by Tim Marquez, who has helmed tracks for eclectic Filipino acts such as Ena Mori and Zild, and previously worked with James Reid on the piano ballad “Hurt Me Too.” Building on the initial ideas brought by Luke April, Tim approached Reid's new direction with a slow dance feel.

James Reid’s “Sandal” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment and Careless.

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.