Coach Kenan of NU volleyball begins his musical career with the single “Sabi Mo”

The new recording artist teams up with 6cyclemind’s Rye Sarmiento and Gracenote’s Jazz Jorge for a track reminiscent of ‘90s and early 2000s alternative rock

Filipino newcomer Kenan marks his debut as a recording artist with the release of “Sabi Mo” under Sony Music Entertainment.

Kenan’s passion for music ultimately led to a career he once believed was impossible, although he is now best known for his work as a professional volleyball trainer and coach at the National University (NU).

“Sabi Mo,” his first official single, highlights the difficulties of moving on after promises of eternity are broken. Kenan poured his heart into the song, drawing on his own prior heartbreak experiences. He divulges. I was engrossed in the moment since it evoked both pleasant and unpleasant memories. I had the confidence to perform the song honestly and vulnerablely while still claiming it as my own because of that experience.

Produced by Rye Sarmiento (6cyclemind), the song transforms frustration into catharsis, delivering a powerful sing-along that feels like both a nostalgic and refreshing material. Originally written as an acoustic piece, “Sabi Mo” grew into something unexpectedly bigger during pre-production, evolving with a fuller arrangement inspired by the sound of ‘90s and early 2000s pop-rock.

“We wanted to veer away from the current mold of heartbreak songs with mellow and stripped-down tendencies,” Kenan shares. “For Sabi Mo, we went for a raunchier, more rock-out sound. There’s more oomph and spunk to it, but without losing the emotional sentiment of the lyrics. Balance is somehow the key.”

Adding to the track’s dynamic energy are Jazz Jorge of Gracenote, Jape Bongat, and Ernie Bañares of Kiss n’ Tell, who brought their talent and expertise to the recording. The synergy between Kenan and his collaborators was pivotal in shaping the song’s final form.

“During pre-prod, it felt like we were just feeding off each other’s vibe,” Kenan recalls. “Our chemistry is obviously inescapable, but the song naturally took shape—thanks to our individual and collaborative strengths. I’m proud of the outcome.”

Kenan’s “Sabi Mo” is currently accessible through Sony Music Entertainment on all of the major streaming services in the world.