Entertainment

With the release of his new single and music video, “Rather Be.” which was directed by Loris Russier, multi-platinum seven-time GRAMMY® nominee GIVĒON begins his sophomore chapter.

“Rather Be” embodies GIVĒON’s best qualities: vulnerability, self-assurance, and an unwavering willingness to let his vocal range do the heavy lifting. The song features the bells and whistles that fans have grown to appreciate from the Long Beach native, from the horns strewn throughout its instrumental to the intimate and stylish style of its music video. It was produced by Sevn Thomas, Maneesh, Matthew Burnett, Jeff Gitty, and Jahaan Sweet. With the release of “Twenties,” the cathartic lead single from his new campaign, GIVĒON is gaining tremendous traction and putting his everything into every line.

The Russier-directed cut is an elegant montage of GIVĒON and his sleek troupe adorning airy spaces with a live rendition of the new song, as GIVĒON, the protagonist, tries to get comfortable with his love interest. Russier deftly plays with planes of space and symmetry to create a unique backdrop for the singer and his suit-clad crew.

“This song is a reflection on acceptance. The idea of seeing someone’s flaws and choosing to stay,” GIVĒON said about “Rather Be. “It’s about loving someone not for who they could be, but for who they are, and realizing that real connection isn’t about starting over, it’s about holding on.”

As fans eagerly anticipate his sophomore project, GIVĒON’s 2025 has already been one to remember. He celebrated the five-year anniversary of his breakout project, 2020’s TAKE TIME EP, with an intimate performance earlier this year in Los Angeles, attended by the likes of Epic Chairwoman Sylvia Rhone, Lena Waithe, Amerie and Jimmy Jam.

Shortly afterwards, “Twenties” notched a slot within the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart and went on to achieve a Top 20 position on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart. The song’s music video has already surpassed 12 million YouTube views and earned GIVĒON the fourth Hot 100 hit of his solo career.

Photocredit: Ben Dorado

Hunter Schafer and Tracee Ellis Ross were among the guests at Prada’s esteemed annual pre-Met Gala event earlier this month, where GIVĒON performed “Twenties” live. For his work with Teddy Swims on “Are You Even Real,” GIVĒON is vying for a 2025 BET Award in the category of “Best Collaboration” this summer.

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.

An Indo-Filipino cross-border collaboration explores connection and loneliness in the digital age

Together, Filipino indie-folk sensation Peej and well-known Indian singer-songwriter and producer Dhruv Visvanath have released their poignant new single, “Pieces” which will be available everywhere on Friday, May 16, 2025.

The song, which was inspired by a chance encounter at Singapore’s All That Matters music convention in 2024, examines the basic human desire for connection in a world growing more and more isolated.

“At its core, Pieces is about drifting—emotionally and spiritually—and trying to find your way back to something or someone,” shares Dhruv Visvanath. “This past year, I’ve been pushing myself to write differently, explore new places, and seek deeper connections. When I met Peej in Singapore, we clicked instantly–we even swapped t-shirts! Pieces began as a quiet, introspective idea, like drifting alone at sea, longing for connection. The moment I created the demo, I knew Peej was the missing piece. He brought a rare sincerity to the song–and, of course, his stunning saxophone.”

Peej, whose emotional songwriting and saxophone work have made him a standout in the Filipino indie scene, echoed the enthusiasm.

“We met during one of our performance days and kept bumping into each other during the festival,” Peej recalls. “We gave each other high praises after each of our performances. It was obvious we had so many things in common, including our positive, friendly demeanor and our passion for music. So when Dhruv messaged me a few months later to collaborate, I jumped at the chance.”

Crafted entirely through remote collaboration, with Dhruv working from his bedroom studio in New Delhi and Peej from Manila, “Pieces” offers an intimate sonic experience, blending tender lyricism, atmospheric guitar work, and haunting saxophone lines. Produced and penned by Dhruv Visvanath, with songwriting credits from Peej, the eclectic pop track highlights acoustic textures with emotional clarity.

“When Dhruv sent me the first raw voice note, I was immediately excited. I could already imagine how it would come together since sad songs were right up my alley. The process of writing my parts was pretty effortless because the song already had such a strong foundation.”

Thematically, Pieces dives into modern-day loneliness and the persistent desire for connection.  When Dhruv sent the first verse and chorus to Peej, the Filipino indie artist assumed that his musician-friend was going through a difficult time in life. Only later did Peej found out that the song was about Dhruv wanting to tear himself into pieces to reinvent himself. “When I wrote my parts, suddenly Pieces became a story about loneliness and the desire for connection after a lover has left. Although it wasn’t what Dhruv initially had in mind, we’re both extremely proud of what we created.”

The long-distance nature of their collaboration shaped the final sound in surprising ways.
“As two solo artists who find comfort in creating music alone, the distance gave us space to put in our individual voices and styles without judgment,” Peej notes. “It allowed us the freedom to deliver our parts in our own unique way.”

Above all, “Pieces” is a celebration of openness, honesty, and the kind of cross-border artistic connection. Peej muses, “Collaborating with artists you admire and respect can lead to a piece of art you didn’t know you were capable of creating.”

One thing is clear from the fact that Pieces is already available on popular digital platforms worldwide: this partnership is more than just music. It serves as a reminder that the urge for real connection endures despite the volatility of today’s society.

Listen to the song here.

Peej 

• Instagram: @hey.peej
• Spotify: Listen Here
• YouTube:Watch Here
• TikTok: Follow Here
• Press Photos: Link

Dhruv Visvanath 

• Instagram: @mrdhruvv
• Spotify: Listen Here
• YouTube: Watch Here
• Website: www.mrdhruv.com
• Press Photos: Link

Credits: NYMA Talent Management and Nice Print Photography

As a devoted Kapuso, Asia’s Romantic Balladeer—award-winning singer, multi-platinum artist, actor, and host—reaffirms his relationship with GMA Network by renewing his contract.

Credits: NYMA Talent Management and Nice Print Photography

Christian formally signed a contract renewal at Studio 6, GMA Network Center, on May 6, 2025, after more than ten years of steadfast devotion since becoming a member of the Kapuso family in 2013.

Credits: NYMA Talent Management and Nice Print Photography

“GMA, you gave me a home, a platform, and the space to keep growing. Hindi niyo lang ako tinulungan as an artist—you remind me of what else I’m capable of,” Christian shared during his heartfelt thank-you speech.

Credits: NYMA Talent Management and Nice Print Photography

Top GMA Network leaders, including Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., President and CEO, Felipe S. Yalong, Executive Vice President and CFO, and Cheryl Ching-Sy, Vice President for Drama and Officer-in-Charge for the Entertainment Group, were present during the signing.

Credits: NYMA Talent Management and Nice Print Photography

NYMA’s Chief Operating Officer and Christian’s business partner and wife, Kat Ramnani-Bautista, are both attending the event as part of his management team. Their attendance demonstrated the robust network of support that has contributed to Christian’s success.

Selfie with Christian Bautista

We witnessed yet another remarkable chapter unfold as GMA Network and Christian Bautista strengthened their enduring partnership with the renewal of his contract. It was a truly heartwarming moment, a testament to how Christian has grown and refined his craft over the years—consistently showcasing his immense talent, with the unwavering support of the network playing a key role in his journey. The event also gave us a deeper glimpse into who Christian Bautista is beyond the spotlight. Through his sincere and humble sharings, we discovered his genuine, kind-hearted, and gracious nature. The day was a beautiful celebration, overflowing with joy, love, and laughter, as we marked this meaningful milestone in his career.

Also present at the contract signing were First Vice President and Head of International Operations, Mr. Joseph T. Francia; Vice President for Comedy, Infotainment, Game, and Reality Productions, Ms. Janine Piad-Nacar; Vice President for Musical, Variety, Specials, and Alternative Productions, Ms. Gigi Santiago-Lara; and Consultant for the Entertainment Group, Ms. Darling de Jesus-Bodegon, along with many other GMA officers who were there to show their support.

Credits: NYMA Talent Management and Nice Print Photography

Kat Bautista, Christian’s manager, business partner, and wife, shared her pride in his milestone,  “As his business partner and wife, I couldn’t be more proud of the longevity of his career, and he continues to prove that he still has so much more to offer. We’re truly grateful to GMA for giving him the space to grow and the platform to share his artistry.” She added, “For us at NYMA, it’s both an honor and a privilege to be working alongside a network that has supported him for over a decade. We deeply appreciate the trust and look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership.”

Christian has long established himself as one of GMA’s most versatile and beloved artists—from being a firm yet inspiring coach on The Clash to delivering standout performances every Sunday on All-Out Sundays.

Beyond local stages, he continues to expand his pan-Asian presence through music and digital collaborations. Just recently, he was recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the World by The Outstanding Filipinos in America—an award he will be receiving this October in Las Vegas.

Credits: NYMA Talent Management and Nice Print Photography

To cap off the event, Christian serenaded the crowd with one of his timeless hits, The Way You Look at Me, as a heartfelt tribute to GMA Network and all attendees.

Credits: NYMA Talent Management and Nice Print Photography

In his speech, Christian also expressed his gratitude to his management team: “To my NYMA family—thank you for being here, for guiding me, and for pushing me to explore new spaces. Thank you for showing the world the other side of me. The funnier side, the lighter side, the more human side. You’ve helped me connect with a whole new generation. And of course, to my wife, Kat—thank you for being my constant through it all.”

He didn’t forget the press and media, “To our media partners and members of the press—maraming salamat sa inyong walang sawang suporta. Thank you for helping amplify my milestones, for keeping my journey visible and relevant, and for sharing my story with the world. I truly appreciate all the time, effort, and space you’ve given me through the years.”

Finally, to his ever-loyal fans, Christian Friends, “To my CFs and everyone who’s supported me from the very beginning, thank you for growing with me.”

Congratulations, Kapuso! Congratulations, Christian Bautista!

FOLLOW GMA NETWORK FOR MORE UPDATES:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE |  X

CONNECT WITH CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE |  X | SPOTIFY

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA, PLEASE CONTACT:

Karen Tumbali | [email protected]

From Taipei to Texas, Taiwan’s vibrant soundscapes resonate across borders

Taiwanese band TRASH at this year’s Taiwan Beats Showcase in SXSW 2025. More photos here.

The eagerly awaited recap video for Taiwan Beats Showcase, a flagship program that promotes Taiwan’s most vibrant musicians on the international scene, has been released. It offers an exhilarating visual journal that encapsulates the vitality, artistry, and cultural spirit of its exceptional representatives.

This year, six innovative performers are highlighted: Amazing Show, Enno Cheng, Each of them—?te (Whyte), TRASH, HSIEN CHING, and Andr—brings a distinct sound signature that captures the dynamic nature of Taiwanese modern music. Fans worldwide, particularly the insatiably curious music enthusiasts of the Philippines, are welcome to relive the excitement and energy of Taiwan’s display at SXSW 2025 through the summary.

Organized under the Bureau of Audiovisual and Music Industry Development (BAMID), Ministry of Culture, this year’s edition revolved around the theme, Connection, an ode to the universal language of music and its power to build bridges across cultures, communities, and industry frontiers. True to the collaborative ethos of SXSW, the special showcase functioned as an eclectic hub of cross-border creativity and musical dialogue.

The festivities began with a vibrant Day Party, headlined by Japanese rock band Enfants and Malaysian rapper Zamaera, which set the tone for an international exchange of styles and stories. Running parallel to the performances, the TAICCA Meet-Up forum welcomed global music executives and creatives to discuss the shifting dynamics for Asian artists navigating the North American music market.

As the sun set, the evening showcase unfolded with memorable performances: singer-songwriter HSIEN CHING opened with soul-stirring tracks from her latest album, “If Every Day Could Be Happy Happy, Who’d Want Sad,” accompanied by producer Sōryo. Next came the enigmatic neo-soul artist Whyte (?te), whose boundary-pushing set resonated with the growing international presence.

Pop newcomer Andr brought a breath of fresh air to the lineup, earning a coveted slot at SXSW’s official International Night Showcase. She also shared the spotlight with Japan’s Luv and Paris Death Hilton, holding her own as a standout performer. Enno Cheng, a beloved voice in Taiwan’s indie music scene, returned to SXSW post-pandemic with new music from her upcoming album, Moon Phases. Her emotionally resonant performance reaffirmed her status as one of Taiwan’s most introspective and compelling singer-songwriters.

Alternative rock band TRASH ignited the stage with a high-octane set that could rival stadium performances, while The Amazing Show wrapped up the night with an otherworldly spectacle, featuring custom-built instruments and their iconic “cyber Taike” aesthetic.

Beyond SXSW, the enthusiasm continues:?The poignant duet with Japanese singer TENDRE, “Let Me Be Me,”  which ?te (Whyte) recently published, examines parent-child dynamics from a spiritual perspective. Meanwhile, with the premiere of a new music video for “Rarely Think of It” ,  Enno Cheng is continuing to broaden her artistic influence in South Korea. She will also be performing in Korea at the next Asian Pop Festival.

Visit the official website at https://taiwanbeatsshowcase.com/ to learn more about the Taiwan Beats Showcase and view the whole recap.

From revolutionary street movements to intimate family moments, the P-Pop powerhouse delivers a double feature packed with heart and meaning

A captivating audio-visual experience awaits music lovers as SB19 releases the official music video for their two tracks, “DUNGKA!” and “Time,” which were distributed by 1Z Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment.

Both songs are featured on their third EP, Simula at Wakas, the last installment of a trilogy that started with 2021’s Pagsibol and continued with 2023’s PAGTATAG!. 

Kerbs Balagtas from YouMeUs MNL directed the music video for “DUNGKA!” captures the colorful yet chaotic atmosphere of downtown Manila. It’s a vibrant celebration of individualism, community, and the raw beauty of daily existence, where individuals from all walks of life unite to speak out and defend causes greater than themselves.

Released with no teaser and fanfare, the song’s MV was a surprise drop for the fans.

In conceptualizing the video, SB19 set out to mirror the track’s chaotic energy through a visual celebration of diversity and self-expression. The five-piece group explains, “That energy really stood out to us. Our idea was to highlight our group’s diversity and showcase each member’s unique personality. From there, it grew into something bigger, bringing in people from all walks of life to reflect the extraordinariness in our differences.”

The music video features an impressive roster of guest stars, including Mimiyuuuh, Maymay Entrata, Alodia Gosiengfiao, Sassa Gurl, Jayat, Kween Yasmin, Malupiton, Ghost Wrecker, Shehyee, Smugglaz, Pat Lasaten, Agnes Reoma and Vice Ganda, whose presence added a deeper layer of impact to the project.

“When someone brought up Ate Vice, it just made perfect sense,” shares SB19 in a collective statement. “Her personality and connection to the public really aligned with the message we were trying to send.”

Beyond the music, “DUNGKA!” serves as a statement, one that mirrors current realities and encourages collective action. In the video, SB19 leads a symbolic movement, echoing calls for change and empowerment from the streets, where real transformation often begins.

“We brought in artists and personalities who we felt matched the spirit of what we wanted to say,” SB19 adds. “They’re people who also want to speak up, who want change, who want to be part of a movement that challenges a flawed system. Everything just fell into place. The concept, the message—it all aligned. It felt like the right time to show people that we can do this now—that this is where SB19 is. We also wanted to share that power, that message, with everyone: that movements and revolutions aren’t just for celebrities or people in certain positions. No matter who you are or where you’re from, you can take part in change. That’s really the heart of the idea.”

Complementing the bold energy of “DUNGKA!” is the more reflective and heartfelt “Time,” which arrives with its own music video—this time under the creative direction of 1032 Lab. The visual narrative focuses on the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherishing meaningful moments with loved ones.

Stripped of ornate visuals, the “Time” video leans into emotional authenticity. It was deliberately kept simple, allowing the message to resonate with clarity and sincerity.

“More than just creating a visually appealing music video, our main goal was to clearly deliver the message—about time,” SB19 explains. “It’s a universal concern. Everyone, no matter who you are or where you’re from, is affected by how we use time. And while we all have time, not everyone uses it wisely mostly because of different priorities or distractions.”

The theme of the music video is globally accessible since it depicts commonplace experiences that resonate deeply with everyone. The group goes on to say, “The main message is that we’re all running out of time in one way or another.” Let’s make good use of it before it disappears.”

With these two recent releases, SB19 demonstrates once more their dedication to both sound advancement and narrative that strikes a deep chord with Filipinos.

Watch the music video here:

“DUNGKA!”

“Time”

Follow SB19 on their socials:

Website: https://www.sonymusic.co.jp/artist/SB19

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4v7afBTnJKRm4SlfHJzyg

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsb19

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsb19

The 7-track EP reflects SB19’s complex humanity and evolving artistry, while dealing with the constant pressures of fame, identity, and public opinion

In honor of a voyage filled with mutual experience, priceless insight, and creative development, SB19 makes a comeback with the release of their third EP, Simula at Wakas, which is available on all digital music platforms globally through Sony Music Entertainment. Their eagerly awaited body of work honors the past while daringly embracing the future, capturing the band’s development as both artists and people. .

“It’s our way of saying thank you and showing how much we’ve evolved,” the P-Pop kings share in an official statement. “Simula at Wakas encapsulates everything we’ve been through: the struggles, the growth, the milestones. We hope it speaks not only to those who’ve been with us from the start but also welcomes new listeners into our world.”

As the final installment in a trilogy that began with 2021’s pagsibol and 2023’s PAGTATAG!, Simula at Wakas chronicles the Filipino pop group’s artistic and personal transformation while signaling a bold, forward-looking direction. The EP explores the universal themes of closure and renewal, portraying the life of an artist as they navigate fame, pressure, and identity. The band further shared personal anecdotes and reflections on their journey to Simula at Wakas in the This is SB19 playlist on Spotify.

The P-Pop trailblazers explain, “It’s both a celebration of our journey so far and a declaration of what’s to come. We’re the same group as when we started. It’s just that we’ve matured, evolved, and grown into artists who are more confident in our voice and purpose.”

Simula at Wakas showcases the DAM hitmakers’ captivating and universally relatable sound, all while remaining true to their values as human beings. From emotionally resonant lyrics to innovative, genre-bending soundscapes, the EP offers a meaningful experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The 7-track release is written and produced by SB19 with their trusted pool of international and local collaborators, including Xerxes Bakker, Alawn, August Rigo, Simon Servida, and Josue (RADKIDZ). The EP features the full creative involvement of all five members. SB19 admits that they took a hands-on approach in shaping every aspect of the project and were very deliberate in contributing not just musically but also creatively—from the narrative of each track to its visual interpretation, from the choreography to music videos.

“We held meetings almost every day to carefully discuss how each song would come together, from conceptualizing and message to planning how we could execute and promote the EP in ways we’ve never done before,” SB19 explains. “This is the first time after how many years that every member has been this hands-on. Everyone was involved in conceptualizing, producing, and writing the songs. But we also owe a lot to our collaborators who helped us push our ideas further and elevate the project on both the technical and creative sides.”

The envelope-pushing EP cements their position as one of the vital forces behind contemporary pop music in the Philippines and Southeast Asia for the last decade, providing a riveting insight into less explored paths and a thrilling outlook for future developments. Simula at Wakas contains 7 songs, including the now-viral single “DAM” and the focus tracks “DUNGKA!” and “Time.” The latter will be released with a music video at 12 noon.

The anthemic ballad “Time” essays the inevitability of time’s passing—an undeniable and unavoidable reality. As the lyrics go, “One day we’ll run out of time,” the song reveals a sobering reminder of life’s impermanence, yet one that inspires purpose and presence. “Hindi naman kami forever SB19,” acknowledges the five-piece act. “Nothing is permanent in this world, even from where we are at this point. Time will run out soon. All we can do is try our best and make the most out it.”

“DUNGKA!,” another focus track, vaults SB19 back to their experimental phase: evangelizing pop music in unrecognizably exciting form and embracing maximalist production with rave and hyper-pop elements. It’s easily one of the biggest surprises of the EP, standing its ground as both a sonic rebel and revelation.

To complement the EP’s release, SB19 introduces the DAM Tree, an immersive public art installation, now open to the public in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) until May 4, 2025. As part of the promotional campaign, fans can experience the world of Simula at Wakas through hanging parabolic sound domes where A’TIN first heard exclusive track previews from the EP. Beyond the immersive listening experience, visitors also get the chance to win exciting prizes, quickly becoming a hotspot for fan frenzy.

“A tree, by nature, reflects life’s different stages, starting from a seed, growing roots, eventually branching out and bearing,” the group explains. “That aligns with the message of DAM and the EP as a whole: acknowledging where we began, embracing how we’ve evolved, and looking ahead to what’s next. The DAM Tree is not just a design; it’s an experience. We wanted people to feel connected to the music in a more immersive way. It’s our way of turning the emotions behind Simula at Wakas into something you can actually see and feel.”

Further solidifying this milestone, SB19 will kick off the ‘Simula at Wakas’ World Tour with two landmark concerts at the iconic Philippine Arena on May 31, 2025, and June 1, 2025, with the first one already sold out. The tour will span across major cities in Taiwan, the United States, Canada, Singapore, and the Middle East from June to October this year, with additional stops in Australia, Japan, and Hong Kong to be announced.

“We’ve been working on new arrangements for some of our songs, and we’re really excited for fans to hear them,” the group shares. “We’ll be performing tracks from our latest EP, Simula at Wakas, and we can’t wait to share the energy and emotion behind each song. Every performance has been thoughtfully prepared, and we’re really looking forward to seeing how our fans react to these new versions of our music. Each day will be a different experience!”

Listen to ‘Simula at Wakas’ Track list:

1. DAM
2. Time
3. 8TonBall
4. Quit
5. Shooting for the Stars
6. DUNGKA!
7. DAM (Extended Ver.)

Through Sony Music Entertainment, SB19’s EP, Simula at Wakas, is currently available on all digital music platforms globally. Keep an eye out for the “Time” music video, which will be published at 12 p.m.

SM tickets are still available for the Philippine Arena event on day two.

Keep an eye out for their next Spotify Listening Party, which will be announced shortly on SB19’s social media accounts.

Website: https://www.sonymusic.co.jp/artist/SB19

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4v7afBTnJKRm4SlfHJzyg

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsb19

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsb19

Tickets are now available via Helixpay

This Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 123 Block in Mandala Park, Mandaluyong City, Indonesian singer Pamungkas and Thai alt-pop duo Scrubb will make a spectacular comeback to Manila, putting Southeast Asian music front and center.

Pamungkas, one of the most commercially successful singer-songwriters in Indonesia, recently published his fifth studio album, Hardcore Romance, which is a “important marker of his musical journey.” His hit song “To The Bone,” which peaked at No. 5 on the Spotify Philippines Top 50 chart, has made him famous throughout the world.

Scrubb, on the other hand, is a phenomenal music act whose music reached global popularity thanks to their enormous contributions to the official soundtrack of 2gether The Series, the biggest Boy’s Love hit ever released worldwide. The OST to the series includes 18 songs from SCRUBB, along with few notable ones from the main actors. A prolific music act composed of Thawatpon Wongboonsiri and Torpong Chantabubpha, SCRUBB has produced six studio albums throughout the course of their career, and has performed in sold-out shows across Asia, including Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Jakarta, Singapore, and Taipei.

Both artists are headlining #GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila, a one-day event that also doubles as a landmark celebration of regional talent, curated by GNN in honor of its tenth anniversary. In addition to its international headliners, the lineup includes Filipino acts The Ridleys and Shirebound.

Marking a decade of unforgettable music productions and concerts, GNN’s anniversary show is not just a milestone, but also a reaffirmation of the company’s mission to create inclusive, community-rooted experiences that amplify both local and international voices in the music industry.

Founded in 2015, GNN, most popularly known as Gabi Na Naman Productions, is a Filipino music events and multimedia company that brings memorable and one-of-a-kind experiences to a diverse spectrum of audiences. Its diverse portfolio spans from intimate showcases to large-scale concerts at venues such as the Philippine Arena, Circuit Makati, New Frontier Theatre, Solaire Theater, Newport Performing Arts Theater, and Music Museum—to name a few. Over the years, GNN has also brought international acts to the local shores: Indonesia’s Pamungkas and Reality Club, Thailand’s SCRUBB, Singapore’s Regina Song, Ysa Yaneza and Club Mild, Taiwan’s Elephant Gym, and Japan’s Hitsujibungaku.

#GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila is made possible by major sponsors Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico and Greenwich, Astroria Plaza (Official Home), and JB Music Philippines (Tech Partner). Neon Oven, Linya Linya, 123 Block, Mandala Park, and The Rest Is Noise PH are among the community partners supporting the event.

You can get tickets for #GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila at https://scrubbpamungkas.helixpay.ph.

The inspirational track is released just in time for the Holy Week

Renowned pop-balladeer RJ Dela Fuente collaborated with Gary Valenciano, the man behind Mr. Pure Energy, to create a poignant and emotional cover of Laura Story’s“Blessings,” which was published during Holy Week.

Their stirring duet provides a new interpretation of the well-known Christian classic and serves as a poignant reminder of healing, hope, and unwavering faith in God in the face of adversity.

Known for bridging the worlds of pop and gospel music, both artists bring a depth of emotion and sincerity to the song that resonates deeply with listeners. “But more than our styles complementing each other, it’s our united stand, belief, and faith in Jesus that I believe has made it a perfect fit. Probably one of my favorite duet recordings in my lifetime,” shares Gary Valenciano.

The track was produced and arranged by Mon Faustino, Gary’s musical director for more than 35 years, in collaboration with recording consultant Mike Jamir. Considered by both as one of their favorite Christian songs, “Blessings” stands as a personal anthem for each of them: a source of comfort during Gary’s own medical battles and a guiding light for RJ during his journey through grief, healing, and spirituality.

Gary reflects, “Not every blessing comes in an ideal, joyful, happy, celebratory manner. Blessings can come hidden behind trials that come in various forms, and our prayer is that our listeners will know that not all disappointments are failures but surely sometimes delays that God allows to hone our character into becoming more like His before we are given that which we have asked of Him.  Big blessings may require heightened responsibilities on our part and God can use the trials to deepen our personal walks with Jesus and strengthen us for more battles and blessings we will surely face in the future.”

RJ Dela Fuente shares how the song’s message of unexpected grace resonates with his own story. “The original artist, Laura Story, talked about how her husband was faced with a brain tumor and health conditions, which was the story behind this song. She talked about how she had to find comfort and had to depend on God during that tough time. I myself also had to find peace and comfort in Him when my family and I were grieving the loss of my stepmom due to cancer. Tito Gary also had to face cancer and a heart problem and is a type 1 diabetic.”

Through the song’s message, RJ believes that God has a bigger plan for us and we can still find comfort and peace in Him. “He won’t ever leave us and will be alongside us if we allow him to be. We can still find His “blessings” through tough times.”

The two artists first performed the duet as a surprise during CBN Asia’s Beyond Measure concert, held at the Araneta Coliseum last year.

For Gary Valenciano and RJ Dela Fuente, who are working on different projects under Sony Music Entertainment and WATERWALK RECORDS, a label dedicated to introducing new Christian music to a new, streaming audience, the partnership also marks a significant turning point.

In contrast, RJ will be releasing an EP with the assistance and backing of Manila Genesis, WATERWALK RECORDS, and Sony Music Entertainment.

“Blessings” by RJ Dela Fuente and Gary Valenciano is currently available on all digital music platforms globally through WATERWALK RECORDS and Sony Music Entertainment.