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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

 

Filipino boy group SB19, known for their numerous accolades, has recently unveiled their newest single "GENTO," offering a tantalizing preview of what lies ahead in the highly anticipated "PAGTATAG!" era for the group.

“GENTO” places SB19’s bold talent and confidence into the spotlight, highlighting their strength and versatility as a group. The song offers a catchy word play, effortlessly weaving ganito (like this), ginto (gold), and gento, the Caviteño word for ganito.

It delivers a powerful message of their growth as a group, after years of refinement—just like gold.

For this single, SB19 draws inspiration from transformational change—how incremental and everyday acts lead to success and change. Often, it is the little, simplest acts that lead to triumphs. 

SB19 continues to set an example of hard work and perseverance as the group continues their path towards dominating the local, and global, music scene. Five years since their debut, SB19 continues to test—and break—limits with their unconventional sound and unbounded talent. 

 

Get ready to be hit with all the feels as singer-songwriter JC Regino collaborates with his dad’s two brothers, Vingo and Jimmy, to release a new single titled ‘Idolo.’ The heartfelt song is JC’s thanksgiving offering to his father’s fans who have shown their unwavering love and support for the April Boys throughout the years.

JC wrote the song six months after his father passed away but couldn’t seem to finish it. However, after his birthday last year, he was struck with inspiration and remembered the song. He then went on to complete it in September 2022. The process was tough, especially because his uncles, Ninong Vingo and Tito Jimmy, were in America and had already stopped singing. But JC managed to convince them to join him in creating the song, and they recorded their parts separately, which were then pieced together.

A year after launching the successful OPM collective “KAIBIGAN,” Filipino-American music director Troy Laureta continues to shine a light on Filipino music in his new album, “GILIW: A Troy Laureta OPM Collective Vol. 2,” featuring more world-renowned singers such as Grammy award-winning artists All-4-One and Deborah Cox and “American Idol” season 2 winner Ruben Studdard.

The 13-track “GILIW” album includes a “Magkasuyo Buong Gabi” duet by Deborah and Ruben and a reimagined version of “Laging Tapat” by American singer Skylar Stecker. Also part of the newly released collective is male R&B and pop group All-4-One for the song “Paano Ang Puso Ko.”

It is now part of our history, the Philippine Musical history, as singer and songwriter Moira Dela Torre made a clear mark as the very first OPM artist to receive 11 platinum certificates from her successful hit songs. 

The fame and existence of an artist is not just because of his or her works or artistry because of the people supporting the artist, these are the fans. Even the smallest artist in industry has its own fans that supports him or her all the way and because of them that artist does the best in every performance.

Heading the OPM Archive Foundation are the “next gen” members of the group, Moy Ortiz, President; Krina Cayabyab, Vice President; Dinah Remolacio, Treasurer and Chevy Salvador, Secretary, while the more senior members will stay on as board members and advisers.

The archive is a separate entity from Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM) in that it will serve as a foundation that collects and documents not just the actual original Filipino music, but also narratives, photographs, music sheets and press releases. Originally, the term “OPM” referred to the inclusive period from the 70s to 80s when a rich influx of new and modern sounds, melodies, lyrics, singers and musicians flooded the airwaves, and even the theater, with original dance musicals as “Rama Hari” and “Tales of the Manuvu”. Among the familiar and popular voices that emerged, aside from Celeste Legaspi’s were Basil Valdez, Hajji Alejandro, Sampaguita, Mike Hanopol, Florante, Freddie Aguilar, Leah Navarro, Didith Reyes, just to name a few.


The archive, however, for the purposes of music research and study for future generations, shall extend its borders to the precedents of this era, the 60’s, and extend to the present, and hopefully can be sustained into the future, for the identification and recognition of music development. The accompanying narratives will seek to contextualize the music in its specific social relevance that defined each period, and perhaps identify continuity to the next period.

Plans for the OPM Archive gave rise before the lockdown, when the Filipinas Heritage Library (FHL), where the archive was to be housed, was ready to receive the hard copy donations. With the lockdown, FHL head, Suzanne Yupangco and the archive group agreed to go digital. This does not, however, preclude the collecting of hard copies once the quarantine period is over. There is nothing like seeing the original “in the flesh”. While each hard copy donation will be digitized, the original copies will also be preserved through actual preventive conservation, knowing how digitization alone can be prone to obsolescence because of evolving digital formats.


Music plays a major role in peoples’ lives. It is something everyone cares about. And the archive hopes to ensure that the musical gems it documents and collects will live on from generation to generation, so children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren can appreciate, learn from, and perhaps someday, revise, improvise, follow or change approaches to music.

The archive is now open for digital collection, and is open to the public for donations. Just log on to opmarchive.com.

The launch of the OPM Archive is an initiative of founding members of OPM, led by its founder and first president, Celeste Legaspi, with Girlie Rodis, Tats Rejante Manahan, Lyca Benitez Brown, next generatiogeneration members, Moy Ortiz, Chevy Salvador, Dinah Remolacio and Krina Cayabyab.

One of the songwriting competition that I love, PhilPop, has once again created a key milestone for the organization, not just because of the pandemic but because of their move to make music even louder that it goes beyond different types of borders. Of course, one is the COVID-19 that lets the organization pursue the event.

So, PhilPop, the country’s premier songwriting competition, sets its sights in penetrating the music landscape of the Asia Pacific Region and beyond with its new tagline, #MusicBreakingBorders. This year, PhilPop Songwriting Festival 2020 partners with Warner Music Philippines in its mission to promote quality Filipino music on a bigger, global scale.

Global Partnership

During the virtual presser held on July 2, 2020 via Zoom, Managing Director of Warner Music Philippines Ian Monsod took the opportunity to talk about the record label’s role in providing sustainable recording, production, marketing and promotional support needed to ensure breakthrough of world-class homegrown talents in the international market.

“The value that we bring to this equation, especially connected to the fact that it’s about #MusicBreakingBorders, is that we are international major record label. We do have a network of A&R and marketing people all around the world. In terms of judging and production process, we’ll bring that unique value of this presence to the project. We share this ambition to elevate the Filipino artist to a global stage. It’s a difficult path, but I think with our partnership, we can improve the odds.”

National Artist and PhilPop Music Fest Foundation Board Member and Bootcamp Master Ryan Cayabyab opened the online press conference with a message highlighting PhilPop’s duty to harness the talents of Filipino singer-songwriters and composers to create music that can inspire and motivate a nation. “From mounting songwriting festivals every two years, PhilPop Foundation has expanded its influence and range of activities by including boot camps across the country and now publisher of original content for use in albums, commercials and movies. Through PhilPop, the MVP Group has positioned itself as the primary champion of Filipino songwriters.”


Decentralizing the monopoly and supporting regional talents

PhilPop Music Fest Foundation Executive Director Dinah Remolacio also stressed the importance of decentralizing the monopoly of support to Metro Manila fellows by giving equal opportunity to the next generation of singer-songwriters based in other cities and provinces, regardless of their identity, language and cultural affiliation. Remolacio told the audience in the online press conference that the move will help create a positive impact in the music industry and dispel the notion of bias in the selection process.

Remolacio added, “When we had major pivot in 2018, the first thing that we did is to make the festival biennial. In between those years, we mounted all these songwriting workshops in different parts of the country to empower other songwriters in the region, so that they could submit entries to PhilPop. We want to diversify the winning entries in every festival.”

PhilPop Boot Camp coach and folk icon Noel Cabangon, on the other hand, assured the press people in attendance about the prestigious songwriting festival’s commitment in highlighting the diverse and distinct music from the different regions in the country, and upholding its vision to produce the next wave of global hitmakers and superstars. “Despite the pandemic, and the challenges brought about by uncertainty of time, we are proud to announce that we, in PhilPop, continue to push our music forward, now more than ever— we are ready to break borders.” Background of the PhilPop 2020 Songwriting Festival

PhilPop is looking for the next generation of songwriting champs through its 2020 Songwriting Festival.

This year, songwriters are encouraged to submit their entries based on their origin or residence namely—Metro Manila, South Luzon, North Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. From thousands of songs submitted, only three (3) songwriters will eventually represent each cluster through rigorous adjudication process spearheaded by Warner Music Philippines and PhilPop.

The top 15 songs will have the chance to work with Warner Music Philippines and compete in the final rounds.
Standout entries (Top 3) will be getting cash prizes from the MVP Group of Companies:

P1,000,000 for the Grand Champion
P500,000 for the 1st runner up
P250,000 for the 2nd runner up
Finals night will happen on November 14, 2020.

The deadline for submission of entries was last July 4, 2020 that would probably have reached more than what they are expecting.

For more details on how to join, in case you might want to join next year, feel free to check out htier  via their official website.

PhilPop Songwriting Festival 2020 is an initiative of the PhilPop Music Foundation, chaired by Mr. Manny V. Pangilinan. This year's PhilPop is co-presented by SMART, MERALCO, MAYNILAD and Warner Music Philippines.

Interesting news from one of the well-known artists in the music industry, Rico Blanco, who is by the way has finally dropped the official music video for his new solo single in four years.

With various footage taken here and abroad, the visuals for “This Too Shall Pass” take a closer look at how the pandemic has brought the entire world to a standstill.

Given the unprecedented uncertainty and challenges that COVID-19 poses, the video doubles as a tribute to the unsung heroes and frontliners leading the fight against an invisible enemy, showing us the true meaning of bayanihan in times of crisis.

Intercut with scenes of the “new normal” from around the globe, it also depicts the alt-rock icon performing the song at the confines of his home: devoid of flashy production designs and envelope-pushing concepts, but framed with an underlying message of resilience and hope.

Positive Reception
Two weeks earlier, “This Too Shall Pass” was released on all digital and streaming platforms worldwide under Sony Music.


The massive anthem has received critical acclaim from various publications in the country. MYX Philippines praised his work for giving listeners “a sense of reassurance, something we all need given the current situation.” Bandwagon Asia called the song an “ode to the light of the human spirit in dark times,” while GMA News described it as “a perfect source of inspiration.”

An Initiative for COVID-19 Response and Relief
To help fund the collective COVID-19 response in the Philippines, Rico Blanco is waiving his artist royalties for the music video of “This Too Shall Pass,” and Sony Music Philippines will be donating 100% of the global proceeds to www.puhon.ph for the first 6 months of release.

Puhon means “hopefully” in Visayan. The site contains inspiring stories and messages of encouragement to people at the frontline of fighting the pandemic.

Using the tagline #MakeHopeViral, to date, the site has raised P4.6M for personal protective equipment (PPEs) & nutrition support for frontline healthcare workers, COVID-19 testing kits, and relief goods for daily wage workers. Other SME Philippines artists with messages of support & encouragement on the site are SB19, Zelijah, Dionela, Nathan & Mercury, Alex Bruce, Ace Banzuelo & syd hartha.

The music video of Rico Blanco’s “This Too Shall Pass” is now out on YouTube.

Strengthening the music industry by having new music for the ears, makes it more interesting to hear, music to my ears. Let us hear more with their performances and single videos (if they have one).

Now leaning toward a more exciting sonic direction, Nathan & Mercury has raised the bar in terms of producing songs that combine a wide variety of music styles.

Fans will be elated to know that the pop/R&B outfit is back with two new singles, “Fools (Reprise)” and “Fake Love”—released on the very same day via Sony Music Philippines.

Written, composed, arranged, and produced by the band, both tracks update their foray into multi-genre experiments with newfound ambition and front-to-back confidence, discarding their inhibitions to make room for more past and present sonic convergence, soul and gospel influences, and shamelessly honest songwriting.

On Fools (Reprise)

The new iteration of “Fools” unpacks rare moments of emotional vulnerability and restraint. The reprise version, according to guitarist and vocalist Nathan Huang, includes a different set of lyrics and a more stripped-down arrangement, but manages to capture the moroseness of the original.

“We had a different vision in mind for Fools,” Huang shares. “However, we want to give off the same message, each line still sung with pain and yearning for better days. While Fools is already gospel-y as it is, we kicked it up a notch by adding in instrumentation and a much colorful play of the chorale. Short but sweet with a total running time of 1:28, Reprise, as we fondly call it, gives off a solemn and intimate vibe.”


On Fake Love

“Fake Love” sets the course of where Nathan & Mercury is headed as a musical group. “In as short as 3:34, we experimented on our usual repertoire by mixing in instruments we’ve never used before (i.e. brass),” Bassist Angelo Sison explains. “We mixed together several of our influences, particularly in pop and R&B, with hints of gospel and hip-hop. As a song, it speaks of not wanting anything less than real love—one that shouldn’t cost anything but is freely given.”

Guitarist Alex Samonte points out how difficult it is to produce and arrange “Fake Love,” which initially had 3-4 versions ended up getting scrapped at the very last minute. “We had to get a choir and brass players and the whole thingamajig, then took us a good while to gel everything together. But after a month or so of production, it all went well. I mean, I’d like to think it did.”

Both songs are intended to be released as a single track, given that it goes without saying that the two are connected: From being a fool to craving for real love. But according to Daniel Monong, the band’s drummer, they felt that “Reprise” and “Fake Love” can stand on their own individually. “So yeah, we’re releasing them on the same day because the two belong to each other.”

Fun fact: Nathan & Mercury spent a total of 30 studio hours for the whole production of both songs, not including the mixing and mastering. It’s also their first time to record for 13 hours straight in a single studio session.

Nathan & Mercury’s dual singles “Fools (Reprise)” and “Fake Love” are now available on Spotify and other music streaming/download platforms worldwide.

If you've been to her first concert then you'll definitely know that this girl is gifted with a beautiful voice. Thankfully, Zephanie Diramanan has released her newest single titled “Pangako Ko,” her third offering since winning in “Idol Philippines.”

Produced under Star Music, “Pangako Ko” is an emotional ballad that highlights Zephanie’s crystal clear voice and impressive vocal range and captures one’s devotion to a loved one through the promise of an everlasting love.

“Pangako Ko” follows the success of her debut single, “Pangarap Kong Pangarap Mo,” and her rendition of Ebe Dancel’s “Bawat Daan,” which was used as a subtheme song in the recent series "The Killer Bride."

The music video of “Pangarap Kong Pangarap Mo” now has over two million views on YouTube. Meanwhile, the lyric video of "Bawat Daan" already has over three million views.

Zephanie performs regularly on “ASAP Natin ‘To” and is part of the group J.E.Z. along with “Tawag Ng Tanghalan” champion Janine Berdin and “The Voice Kids” champion Elha Nympha.

Fulfill your heart’s promise and listen to Zephanie’s newest single, “Pangako Ko” on Spotify, YouTube and other digital music streaming sites. For more details, like Star Music on facebook.com/starmusicph, and follow it on Twitter and Instagram @StarMusicPH.