The pop-rock power ballad offers a lifeline for those who need help in times of despair and uncertainty
The Dawn, pioneers of Filipino alternative rock, return with a powerful single, “Sa’n Ka Pupunta,” which is currently available on Sony Music Entertainment. The legendary band, renowned for their constantly changing musical style and profound lyrics, produces an emotionally stirring hymn that addresses the silent struggles people confront in an unpredictable and frequently debilitating world.
Fundamentally, the song serves as a potent reminder that, despite feelings of hopelessness and uncertainty, there are individuals who will encourage you and assist you in discovering purpose in life, especially when it seems most elusive.
“it’s a song about uncertainties,” shares bassist and co-composer Bim Yance. “In today’s world, we’re all preoccupied with our struggles. It can feel like we’re alone. Sa’n Ka Pupunta is a reminder that someone out there is willing to listen and help. You just need to let them in.”
“Sa’n Ka Pupunta” marks yet another creative peak for the legendary band composed of Jett Pagan on lead vocals, guitars, and keyboards; Francis Reyes on guitars, backing vocals, and keyboards; Rommel Sanchez on guitars; JB Leonor on drums; and Bim Yance on bass. The track is intimate and explosive at once, an introspective power ballad that pleads for openness and understanding in times of emotional crossroads.
Initially composed by Yance, the track evolved through The Dawn’s distinctive collaborative process. The original demo, both sonically and lyrically, carried the seeds of what would become a poignant anthem. As the rest of the band joined in, the song took on a more expansive narrative.
“It began as a message to someone discouraged from continuing their life,” says frontman Jett Pangan. “But as all contributed, it grew into a broader reflection on relationships and how we slowly drift apart if we don’t speak up. It’s about desperation—but the kind that comes from love.”
Musically, “Sa’n Ka Pupunta” balances a raw, gritty energy with sonic restraint. Anchored in shimmering guitar layers, a propulsive shuffle rhythm, and a spacious mix, the arrangements amplify the emotional tension at the song’s core.
“Bim designed the intro and choruses to be louder and punchy, and the verses gentler,” explains Francis Reyes. “We made the first verses sound more open, leaving a lot of space for Jett’s voice— and hence, the initial lyrics that set up the narrative— to be heard and understood. My interpretation of the lyrics is there’s sadness and frustration there. The loud choruses, in my mind, allude to the frustration of ‘Please tell me what’s on your mind, because I’m here to listen.’ The choruses sound angry, but it’s more of desperation or a plea from someone who is trying to understand and help.”
The production draws subtle influence from ‘90s rock stylings of a power ballad while remaining rooted in The Dawn’s unmistakable sound. As Reyes puts it, the band worked to “Dawn-ify” the track, making something inherently theirs while letting new textures surface. He adds, “Jett suggested editing out a couple of bits from Bim’s original demo so the tune flows better overall. I think it was JB himself who suggested a shuffle-type thing for his drum parts to give the tune a bit of propulsiveness.”
Providing additional context, Rommel Sanchez shares that the band took cues from ‘90s bands and producers without making the references patently obvious. “It’s like, ‘what would [insert 90’s producer here]’ do at all times during the tracking process.”
The song, which has already had a great reception at previous live performances, is sure to strike a chord with both new and devoted band fans.
“I hope it brings solace to people,” Yance says. “That music can remind us to reach out and be there for each other even in times of frustration and silence.”
“Sa’n Ka Pupunta” by The Dawn is currently available on all digital music platforms across the globe through Sony Music Entertainment.
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