The Cool Girl Records release takes the pop star’s sound into darker, grittier hip-hop and R&B territory
Following the positive reception to her comeback single “Personal,” Nadine Lustre joins forces with Apl.de.Ap of the Black Eyed Peas for “Donuts,” a polished fusion of pop, hip-hop, and R&B released through Cool Girl Records.
Guided by the commanding narration of Francis Brew of The Dawn and underscored by eerie choir “oohs,” the song gradually erupts into a sonic clash driven by booming 808s, sharp lyricism, and raw, gritty dissonance.
“Donuts” stands in stark contrast to the polish and pop sheen of Nadine’s previous single “Personal,” while still retaining the attitude and candor that defined her earlier releases. She drops her rap-sung lines over retro-futurist production, backed by drums that sound like the stomps of a platoon march. The track shows her suave side effortlessly, pushing her sound toward a more urban direction.
Adding another layer of star power to the mix is Black Eyed Peas’ own Apl.de.ap, whose eclectic presence stands out on the track. The Pampanga-born rapper also delivers a powerful Taglish verse, showing how far he has come while still representing his roots by proudly referencing the historic Datu of Mactan, Lapu-Lapu, and rapping about taking control of one’s destiny.
“Donuts” was penned by Nadine Lustre, Andric Ivo Empreso, and Jan Roberts Baloloy, with Khalil Atienza, Elijiah Wudz Bitacura, and Isagani Palabyab handling production. The track’s anthemic and poised sound marks the second release in a growing series of singles, hinting at a larger project potentially on the horizon for the multi-hyphenate artist.
The award-winning actress, entrepreneur, and pop artist previously shared her excitement about collaborating with Apl.de.Ap in an Instagram post on September 5, 2026. She wrote, “A little surreal making music with a legend, @apldeap. D O N U T S out on all platforms.”
Nadine Lustre’s “Donuts” is currently streaming on major digital music platforms worldwide, released through Cool Girl Records.
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