With hypnotic production and unwavering conviction, the bop celebrates resilience, ambition, and the confidence to stand your ground

Filipino hip-hop artist Alex Bruce delivers a bold new statement with the release of her new single “Gabriela,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

Brimming with brooding production, hypnotic rhythms, and razor-sharp verses, “Gabriela” doubles as an anthem for those determined to prove themselves.

While the track exudes confidence through every verse and beat, its message reaches beyond swagger and vibes. It offers a more nuanced take on empowerment, especially for women who have been continuously wronged by the system.

“Confidence isn’t about thinking you’re better than anyone else,” Alex Bruce explains. “It’s about trusting yourself even if other people don’t. I’ve never liked how confidence gets praised in men but questioned in women. When men are confident, they’re seen as leaders. When women are, they’re often called arrogant or ‘too much.’ Gabriela is my way of saying: own who you are and don’t make yourself smaller to make other people comfortable.”

Like her previous releases, “Gabriela” reveals Bruce’s style of merging sharp-witted, confrontational lyricism with alpha-female energy. It demonstrates her strength as both an emcee and a wordsmith, championing confidence, authenticity, and the power to own one’s place without apology.

The song will be featured on the official soundtrack of the Filipino sports drama, Bilyarista, which made its world premiere at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa in November 2025 and will be screened in the Philippines sometime soon. Starring Loisa Andalio and John Arcilla, with cameos by pool legends Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante, Bilyarista follows the story of a young woman determined to rise through the competitive world of billiards in pursuit of becoming a world champion.

“Gabriela” is out now on all major digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Following a breakout run across Asia and fresh off the release of his most personal album yet, Singapore-based singer-songwriter lullaboy returns to the Philippines with a live experience that transforms heartbreak into healing

For many musicians, heartbreak becomes the spark for a single song. For Singapore-based singer-songwriter and producer lullaboy, it evolved into the inspiration behind an entire creative universe.

With more than 200 million streams to his name, a steadily expanding fanbase across Southeast Asia, and a talent for crafting deeply personal songs about love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, lullaboy has emerged as one of the region’s most notable independent artists. Born in the United States, raised in Singapore, and of Indonesian-Chinese descent, the Berklee College of Music graduate has graced some of Asia’s biggest stages and festivals, headlined successful regional tours, and was selected to perform at the official afterparties following all six Singapore shows of Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour. Throughout his journey, he has stayed true to creating music defined by vulnerability, authenticity, and optimism.

“‘Lullaboy’ comes from the words ‘lullaby’ and ‘boy,’ because writing songs was always a way for me to comfort my inner child,” he shares. “Even today, I write songs about love, life, and everything in between, and I hope they can bring comfort to everybody’s inner child.”

That mission began after his first heartbreak, when songwriting became an outlet during a time he felt no one could truly understand what he was going through.

“As I released more songs, people started sending me messages saying they helped them through difficult seasons, “ he says. “That’s when I realized sharing my own stories could make a positive impact on other people’s lives. I don’t just make music for fun anymore—I do it because I feel like it’s my purpose.”

That purpose lies at the heart of Hotels & Heartbreaks, his third studio album and the inspiration behind his ongoing nine-city Asia tour. More than a concert, the experience invites audiences to “check in hurt and check out healed,” guiding listeners through an emotional journey of heartbreak, reflection, and hope. The album’s 12 interconnected tracks and visualizers were designed as one continuous story, transforming personal experiences into something listeners can see themselves in.

The concept grew from a realization that success alone could not replace genuine connection. “I was staying in all these beautiful hotels while touring,“ he recalls. “At the end of the day, I’d lie on my bed and ask myself, ‘What’s it all for?’ You can achieve your biggest dreams, but if you don’t have love or someone to share them with, it does not necessarily bring happiness.”

For lullaboy, every listener has their own “heartbreak hotel” to walk through before reaching a place of peace. “This album is actually an album of hope.”

The Philippines holds a special place in that journey. Before returning as a touring artist, he first visited the country through mission work as a young worship leader. Those early experiences—and the warmth he received from Filipino communities—left a lasting impression. “I remember telling myself that one day I would come back here as an artist,“ he says. “Then last year, I finally did my first concert in Manila, and I was blown away by how much warmth there was from the people. They sing really loud, they have beautiful voices. I’ve been waiting for this moment. I think the Lullafam knows how much I love the Philippines.”

Now, Hotels & Heartbreaks brings him back to Manila on July 17 as part of his biggest Asia tour yet, with stops across Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore. Designed as an immersive live experience, the show blends music, storytelling, and interactive moments that invite fans to leave behind their own emotional baggage before “checking out” with a renewed sense of hope.

For newcomers wondering where to begin, boy recommends starting with “Someone Like You,” before moving into “Shortcut to Heaven,” and ending with “Heaven” —a progression that mirrors the emotional journey at the core of the album.

Above all, that is the message lullaboy hopes audiences take home. Reflecting on the journey, he shares, “Heartbreak isn’t the end. It’s something we all experience, and through it, we learn what truly matters. If I can make it through heartbreak, then anyone can.”

As lullaboy makes his return to Manila this July, Hotels & Heartbreaks promises more than just an evening of live music. It invites audiences into a journey through love, heartbreak, and healing, serving as a reminder that life’s most difficult moments often pave the way to where we truly belong.

lullaboy: Hotels & Heartbreaks Tour – Manila

July 17, 2026 / Teatrino Promenade

🎟Buy Tickets Here

Annual nationwide celebration returns this July with live performances, industry talks, and new regional collaborations that spotlight the evolving sound of Filipino music

Linggo Ng Musikang Pilipino (LMP), the country’s annual nationwide celebration of Filipino music, returns this year with revitalized programming designed to champion the rich and diverse music scene in the Philippines.

Established through Proclamation No. 933 and signed by the late President Benigno S. Aquino III in 2014, LMP has become a viral platform for recognizing the lognstanding legacy of Original Pilipino Music. For more than twelve years, it has consistently inspired greater appreciation for homegrown music and played a crucial role in fostering a culture of collaboration and community in its month-long activities.

This year’s theme, “Pinoy Coded,” celebrates Filipino identity by highlighting how music reflects the nation’s culture, stories, and shared experiences. Through this year’s Linggo Ng Musikang Pilipino, the campaign aims to strengthen support for OPM and recognize the artists, songwriters, producers, music practitioners, and industry stakeholders whose contributions continue to enrich the Filipino music catalog and make it world-class.

Last year’s LMP with speakers and attendees

OPM President Ogie Alcasid explains, “The theme this year was a product of being exposed to current trends and trying to engage with a younger core audience. But we still wanted to retain that love for our music and our culture. Hence, why we went with the theme Pinoy Coded. It celebrates Filipino music, but at the same time, it also acknowledges the ever-growing and evolving landscape and audience of our local music industry.”

Throughout July, Linggo Ng Musikang Pilipino 2026 will present an eclectic and well-curated lineup of performances, educational programs, and community initiatives across multiple venues in Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and the rest of the country. This year’s festivities include the return of OPM Spotlight, a month-long concert series featuring OPM member-artists performing original compositions alongside iconic Filipino classics. Expanding beyond the capital, the celebration also welcomes collaborations with regional partners such as Nine Degrees North in Baguio, Palawan’s Songwriters’ Community, and Passion8 Events & Services in Iloilo, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to making the celebration more inclusive and representative of the country’ s vibrant music communities.

“For this year’s celebration, we’re excited to collaborate with productions outside of Metro Manila,” OPM Executive Director Gab Cabangon adds. “It has always been our goal to expand the LMP celebration to different parts of the country so that we get to celebrate and highlight the diversity and excellence of Filipino music and Filipino artists.”

OPM Spotlight: LMP2026 runs from July 1 to 31, with performances across different venues including Kubo at JT’s Manukan in Quezon City, Burnt Edges branches in Makati City, Beach House Bar & Grill in Marikina, What’s Your Poison in Población, and partner-produced stages in Palawan and Iloilo. Music fans can also expect an exciting showcase of OPM member-artists performing their original music and fresh renditions of iconic Filipino songs, highlighting the creativity and diverse voices at the forefront of the Philippine music landscape.

Complementing the Spotlight series is the LMP2026: Rockwell Series, an all-OPM acoustic showcase happening from July 25 to 31 at Power Plant Mall in Rockwell, Makati. Featuring eleven OPM solo artists performing a blend of original compositions and OPM favorites, the series continues Rockwell’s longstanding support for Filipino music by bringing live performances to one of the country’s premier lifestyle destinations. Meanwhile, aspiring musicians will also have their moment through LMP2026: OPM-ic Open Mic Night on July 29 at Backdoor. Maginhawa, where emerging artists and non-OPM members can perform original songs and OPM covers before fellow music enthusiasts. Proceeds from the event will directly support Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-Aawit’s future programs and initiatives.

Zsaris performing at last year’s LMP: Rockwell Series

Aside from live performances, LMP2026 continues its commitment to industry development through the LMP202 Music Talk Series on July 25 at Trinoma Cinema 6. Entirely dedicated to songwriters, producers, arrangers, music professionals, students, and other stakeholders, the half-day forum will tackle key issues concerning today’s music ecosystem: from industry research and creator support to music discovery, production, distribution, royalties, and emerging trends. The event also aims to foster meaningful dialogue, encourage collaboration, and equip participants with practical knowledge for navigating the evolving music industry.

2025 Music Talks panel featuring Jim Paredes, Miguel and Paolo Benjamin, and more

Cabangon emphasizes that this year’s Music Talk Series aims to provide a better understanding of the current landscape of the industry and provide practical guidance for those who want to pursue music as a career and passion. “We think it’s important that the various kinds of information are shared with other artists and professionals because we want as many members of our industry to succeed and thrive. We want artists and music industry professionals to be able to elevate their craft and their status because they’re making better-informed choices. We also want the Music Talk Series to be a space for professionals to connect with one another and expand their respective networks in the industry. We also think knowing where we are now as a local music industry would help us explore ways on how we can improve and grow as a whole in an ever-evolving landscape.”

Beyond its function as a festival, Linggo Ng Musikang Pilipino remains a powerful movement that deepens appreciation for Original Pilipino Music while ensuring its continued preservation and growth. By providing platforms for both established and emerging artists, encouraging public engagement, and creating opportunities for music education and collaboration, LMP proves that Filipino music is not only an essential part of the country’s cultural identity but also a sustainable entity capable of inspiring future generations.

FILSCAP President Arturo “Nonoy Tan” Lui Pio believes in the importance of valuing music and supporting the music creators behind it. “That’s why Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino (LMP) is a meaningful celebration for us. Through our partnership with OPM, we continue to advance this shared advocacy of encouraging more Filipinos to appreciate, support, and take pride in original Filipino music and the creators whose voices, stories, and creativity shape the sound of our nation.”

Linggo Ng Musikang Pilipino 2026 is presented by Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-Aawit’s (OPM) and FILSCAP, with support from Power Plant Mall as a major partner as well as MBC Media Group and Soundesign Manila as LMP2026 partners. OPM Spotlight and other music performances are made possible through collaboration with Nine Degrees North, Passion8 Events & Services, and the Palawan Songwriters’ Community. Promotional support is provided by DTI & Malikhaing Pinoy, IPOPHL, PRM, and PhilPop.

Fans can relive the music that defined a generation as the band returns with live performances and the long-awaited vinyl edition of its classic debut album

Filipino alternative rock icons TEETH are coming together once again for a five-city reunion tour, commemorating over 30 years of friendship, musical influence, and rock ‘n’ roll.

Titled Year 33: TEETH The Reunion – Legacy Tour, the concert series begins on August 30, 2026, at the Foochow Event Building Hall in Singapore. The band will then continue the tour in the Philippines with performances in Manila on September 5, Davao on September 12, Iloilo on September 19, and Cebu on September 26.

Tickets for the Singaporean leg of the tour are now available via: https://teeth-reunion-sg2026.peatix.com

In line with the concert tour, TEETH will release their landmark debut album on vinyl for the first time. Widely regarded as one of the defining releases of the 1990s Pinoy rock movement, the album introduced Filipino listeners to life-affirming crossover anthems such as “Laklak” and Prinsesa,” songs that transcended generations and helped shape the sound of the local rock music landscape. The album eventually earned Double Platinum certification from the Philippine Association of the Record Industry (PARI), selling more than 80,000 copies during its time.

The upcoming vinyl edition has been newly remastered by acclaimed mastering engineer Shinji Tanaka and will be issued in a strictly limited pressing of 500 copies on standard black vinyl. Produced by Backspacer Records, the LP also features newly commissioned artwork by award-winning visual artist Nix Puno, whose hand-painted interpretation offers a fresh but faithful homage to the album’s original cover.

Year 33: Teeth Reunion 2026 – Legacy Tour official poster

For the band’s most dedicated supporters, the vinyl will be included as a bundle in the exclusive 33^rd Anniversary Add-On Package, available as a premium concert offering for all Philippine tour dates only. The exclusive collector’s package includes a limited-edition, band-signed 33rd anniversary vinyl; a commemorative event shirt and trucker cap; an exclusive sticker pack; a signed event poster; and premium fan experiences such as a meet-and-greet session, an exclusive listening party, soundcheck access, and a group photo opportunity with the band.

Formed in 1993, TEETH is one of the most important bands that emerged from the alternative rock explosion of the ‘90s. The band is currently composed of original members Glenn Jacinto on vocals, Jerome Velasco on guitars, Pedz Narvaja on bass, Mike Dizon on drums, and Dok Sergio on guitars, formerly on bass.

Renowned for their signature blend of alternative rock and grunge, with shoegaze elements showcased in their third studio album, I Was A Teenage Tree, TEETH helped shape the OPM rock scene through their melodic compositions and raw, distinctive sound. Their impact on Filipino music earned them numerous accolades, including three NU Rock Awards and two MTV Pilipinas Awards nominations.

Year 33: TEETH The Reunion – Legacy Tour is produced by BLKSHPMNL Lifestyle & Entertainment Management Inc. (BLACKSHEEP MANILA) in partnership with S32 Production of Singapore. Ticket details for the Philippine leg of the tour are expected to be announced soon.

Photo Credits:
EP Cover – Rock Records
Press Photos – ATTIQ Project

After a two-year hiatus, Golden Melody Award-winning artist Shi Shi (孫盛希) is finally back with her new EP The Taste Of…, a project that represents the accumulation of her experiences during her break.

“During this period, I experienced a wide range of emotions, from the sweet ones to the bitter ones, and even some moments that were sour or spicy! It is hard to describe the feelings we feel every day using merely our words, but sometimes they can be expressed and digested in a song.”

“In this EP, each track is like a unique cocktail, bringing a different flavour and taste profile, and a different composition of ingredients and emotions. I hope my listeners can savour each one of them!”

Listen to Shi Shi’s new EP The Taste Of… here 

The Taste Of… is Shi Shi’s first-ever English-based EP, featuring songs in three languages – English, Mandarin and Korean, a nod towards her roots in South Korea and a first step of Shi Shi’s career onto an international stage.

The album brings together an impressive lineup of global producers, further elevating its musical craftsmanship. Contributors include K-pop producer parkhyeon, who has worked with MISAMO (TWICE) and (G)I-DLE’s Miyeon; Different Sleep, whose recording credits include Zara Larsson and Aminé; and Latin Grammy-winning producer Andrø Pop. Among the album’s tracks, the two songs featuring Korean lyrics—‘Falling in Love’ and ‘Tteokbokki’—stand out as its most gentle and intimate moments.

In ‘Tteokbokki’, Shi Shi breaks away from her usual inspirations of relationships, and works off a theme of “food memories”, portraying the emotions of the purest friendships that are both comfortable and also the hardest to come by, recorded as an ode to old friends.

To Shi Shi, who grew up in South Korea, “떡볶이” (Tteokbokki), the traditional spicy Korean rice cake, is not just a familiar snack, but also a symbolism of youth, reminding her of the path that she took to go home each day after school, and the warm atmosphere of the eateries where she spent her time growing up with her friends.

Shi Shi worked with Chinese American producer Morrison Ma (MOSUN) on ‘Tteokbokki’ to bring a retro feeling to the gentle song, which opens with a self-recorded slice-of-life audio of a busy Korean market to bring the audience into the atmosphere.

In the music video, Shi Shi reunites with her old friend, actress Lee Jung-Min, who previously acted in iconic K-dramas like What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim and Duty After School. Although the two have not met for 16 years, they always kept in touch, and in their first-time working together, showed great chemistry with each other.

Similarly in the music video, they play the role of two childhood friends who come together after a long time in their same local eatery, catching up on all the years that they missed.

Shi Shi is a third-generation South Korean-Chinese singer-songwriter who is based in Taiwan. Her artistry has been recognised in Taiwan at the highest level, having been crowned with the “Best Female Singer” and “Best Album” awards at the prestigious Golden Melody Awards.

In 2020, Shi Shi also gained popularity with her title track ‘Someday or One Day’ for the hit Taiwanese series Someday or One Day (想见你), one of the most popular dramas in recent years. In 2024, she also released a collaborative single ‘Goodbye Spring’ with South Korean jazz artist Lee Jin-ah, gaining attention in both Taiwan and Korea.

Leading into her new EP, Shi Shi highlights her ambitions to continue making music for an international audience, paving the way for the next era of her music.

INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE | APPLE MUSIC

Pinoy Jowk Box, an entertainment collective based in Pampanga, is set to make its official debut at the 3rd Ablas Ning Balas Festival on July 19, 2026, in Porac, Pampanga.

The group unites content creators, comedians, and influencers with a shared mission of bringing Kapampangan humor and Filipino entertainment beyond the digital space and onto live stages.

Driven by a common passion for comedy, creativity, and community, Pinoy Jowk Box serves as a collaborative platform where online personalities can work together, entertain audiences, and engage with communities through live performances, festivals, local events, and digital content.

The members of Pinoy Jowk Box have a combined following of more than four million, an average monthly reach of over 30 million, and more than one million monthly engagements. These figures reflect the growing influence of Kapampangan content creators and the strong support they receive from audiences in the Philippines and overseas.

Pinoy Jowk Box was spearheaded by Louie and Josie Sison of Where in Pampanga, together with Gab and Kaye Diaz of Let’s Go Pampanga and ManilaRepublic.com, under the creative direction of Jason Pabalan of Uyat Artista.

The group was established to create more opportunities for local comedy talents to move beyond social media and perform before live audiences. The founders also aim to strengthen collaboration among Pampanga’s content creators and provide a professional platform for partnerships, events, and entertainment projects.

The collective includes recognized comedy and lifestyle creators from Pampanga, including Bels TV, Juper TV, Murph TV, Bubuy Kabulakbuy, Giligit and Mymy, Vavaing Kapampangan, Jessel Kabalungos, Gelay Malagu, Momie Velle and Dadie Bakal, and Marc Pangilinan.

Pinoy Jowk Box celebrates Filipino humor, supports local talent, and connects communities through comedy and entertainment. The group aims to create more opportunities for content creators while expanding the presence of Kapampangan entertainment across digital and live platforms.

Pinoy Jowk Box made its first appearance as a group during LALANG 2026, an event organized by the Central Luzon Influencer and Content Creator Society Inc., held in March 14, 2026 at the Madison Crown Hotel.

The group’s appearance at the 3rd Ablas Ning Balas Festival will mark Pinoy Jowk Box’s first major public performance following its debut. Festivalgoers can look forward to comedy acts, interactive segments, and live entertainment featuring familiar online personalities.

After its official launch, Pinoy Jowk Box aims to collaborate with local government units, festival organizers, private organizations, brands, businesses, and event partners to bring Filipino comedy and entertainment to communities across the Philippines.

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