Entertainment

Following their 2024 collaboration, the pair deliver another heartfelt tune steeped in emotion, chemistry, and grace

Chart-topping R&B artist Arthur Nery and Filipino singer-songwriter Jolianne collaborate on the song “Palayo Sa Mundo” which is distributed by Sony Music Entertainment. A image of passionate love that is powerful enough to keep the world waiting is painted by the soulful yet smooth pop song.

The two Bisaya musicians flawlessly mix their vocals in “Palayo Sa Mundo,” their second collaboration after “Lullaby,” off Arthur Nery’s 2024 album II: The Second. The duet is endearing and intimate at the same time.

“Working with Arthur came so naturally,” Jolianne shares. “For one, we’re both Bisaya, so that was an effortless connection. Musically, we also speak the same language. We share a lot of the same influences, and we’re both deeply rooted in R&B.”

Written during a songwriting camp with producer Luke April (James Reid, Playertwo), the song evolved from an English concept titled “The World Can Wait” into an emotionally arresting Tagalog piece that pays homage to classic OPM romance.

“Arthur is a real poet,” the rising newcomer recalls. “And he wrote the song so quickly. It felt like a masterclass watching him in his element.”

Arthur Nery reveals that the song wasn’t intentionally written as a love song at first. “Joli wanted a track about self-reflection or identity crisis,” he shares. “The direction of the song changed after I wrote the first two lines. While Luke let us listen to his guitar sample and production, I wrote and arranged the lyrics freely and we just let the song take us to where it is now. It was a fun experience.”

For what it is, “Palayo Sa Mundo” reflects on the bittersweet nature of love that persists even when fate intervenes.

“This song is about that bittersweet feeling of loving somebody you know loves you too,” Jolianne explains. “But sometimes fate has its own plans, and things don’t turn out as we hope. Still, love in its purest form is worth offering, because love isn’t about guarantees. It’s, I love you because I do, not because I expect it back.

The track’s stripped-down but warm arrangements highlight the duo’s vocal chemistry while retaining the melodic pop appeal of the material.

“We honored ‘Lullaby’ by taking the acoustic pop approach,” Jolianne continues. We were looking for something classic and personal. It’s always a duet when Arthur and I sing together, not a sing-off.” 

“Palayo Sa Mundo” by Jolianne and Arthur Nery is currently available on all digital music platforms through Sony Music Entertainment.

The Christian pop duo’s new song ushers in a new era of passion and purpose

Photo by Jeremy Cowart

With 13 No. 1 hits, four Grammy Awards, and more than 3 billion career streams, for KING + COUNTRY has established itself as one of the most prestigious musical duos. Joel and Luke Smallbone, who recently signed to Curb Records, are embarking on a new chapter in their lives. They have a fresh sound, a fresh artistic vision, and the same drive to put on incredible live shows that have packed arenas all over the world.

“World on Fire (with Taylor Hill),” their most recent hit, is currently accessible around the country. The success of their Top 10 Billboard album, Dove Award, and Lionsgate feature film UNSUNG HERO is being built upon with this first taste of a daring new chapter.

“It’s been quite the year for all of us, hasn’t it!? For us, it’s been a time to re-create, be with family, pray, recalibrate, and let God breathe fresh vision into our hearts,” said Joel and Luke Smallbone. ‘Out of that refining has come a renewed clarity and passion. ‘World on Fire’ is an anthem of joy and hope set to a global rhythm — marking the start of a brand new era. We cannot wait to embark on this joyous journey with you.”

KING + COUNTRY have established themselves as one of the most influential duos in music, with 13 No. 1 hits, over 3 billion career streams, and over 6 million social media followers. The statement was made just before the brothers’ restricted “A Drummer Boy Christmas” performances, which will be their final live engagements of 2025, take place in December.

“World on Fire feat.” is what fans can anticipate. Taylor Hill” to officially mark the start of KING + COUNTRY’s next era and set the tone for a slew of new songs, images, and announcements in the months to come.

Watch the music video here.

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The award-winning singer-songwriter braves rain, rush hour, and onlookers in a spontaneous Tokyo shoot directed by Niña Sandejas

Photo by Nina Sandejas

The music video for Barbie Almalbis’s most recent hit, “All U Wanna Do,”  has been published.

Almalbis’ passionate performance in the middle of Tokyo, Japan’s busy city was captured in this eye-catching visual piece, which was shot guerilla-style at the famous Shibuya Crossing.

Almalbis stands out from the bustle of others around her as she sings with just her earphones for accompaniment, turning a brief moment into a very personal expression of annoyance, fortitude, and creativity.

Directed and conceptualized by celebrated photographer and filmmaker Niña Sandejas, the project emerged from an impromptu creative adventure during Almalbis’ travels in Japan, where she’s invited to perform.

“It wasn’t an original idea—every day, tourists record themselves in that famous scramble—but this shoot was something else entirely,” Sandejas explains. “Barbie sang full voice with only her earphones as a backing track, while strangers brushed past, stared, or bumped into her. The rain gave us only a brief pause to work, and we had a hard stop because she was headed straight to a gig that night. A few takes, a lot of faith, and a camera chasing her through the rush: that was all we had. Behind the lens, what struck me most wasn’t the crowd or the noise, but Barbie’s composure. Her dedication to bring to life each of her songs, giving the same devotion to a pop-up shoot on a rainy Tokyo street as she would to a stage.”

Joining Sandejas and Almalbis on the road was a tight-knit team: Rachael Roldan, who handled hair and makeup and assisted in lighting, and Martin Honasan, Barbie’s husband, who helped with crowd management. Ysmael Salvador, editor of the video, took Niña’s chaotic handheld footage and tied it into a cohesive and magnetic narrative. Salvador has previously worked with Almalbis on the visuals of her songs “Platonic” and “Needy.”

“As a nod to Barbie’s history, we layered in an echo from Hungry Young Poets’ song ‘Runaway’ where the sound of traffic and voices in Japanese that once opened the track,” Nina adds. “It felt right to bring that spirit full circle, folding memory into the present.”

“Niña truly is a natural, and I love seeing how she almost simply reacts to her surroundings instinctively,” Almalbis said in reference to the partnership, praising Sandeja’s innate artistic ability. I believe she has mastered that art for a very long time.

Click here to view the music video

The chart-topping indie band announces to add 500 more passes for fans

Photo by Iya Forbes

Alternative pop band Over October is set to make waves once more as they mark their 11th anniversary with a free grand concert at the MOA Amphitheater on October 12, 2025, starting at 5:00 p.m.

The announcement has sparked massive excitement, with over 3,000 passes snapped up within just two hours of opening registration.

To accommodate the demand, the band revealed that an additional 500 passes will be released exclusively via the SM Malls Online app at 6:00 p.m., giving more fans the chance to be part of what promises to be one of their biggest shows yet.

“This all feels like a dream,” Over October said in a press statement. “The goal has always been to headline big shows, but seeing it come to life is surreal. Last year, we had our first major concert, which was sold out for 2 days. This year, we wanted to treat our fans to a free concert. We allotted 3000 passes that fans could claim, and to our surprise, all the slots were redeemed within the first 2 hours after announcing the show.”

The anniversary concert is dedicated to “Octobears,” whom the Ikot act considers family. Beyond the long set and main performance, the band is curating a pre-concert showcase featuring Octobears busking and sharing their art, further championing their mission to build community through music.

“We want to inspire them to keep dreaming,” the band adds. “It took us 11 years to get to where we are now, and it’s not just because of our efforts. It’s also with the help of all the people who supported us. We want them to feel that this success is also theirs, as we’re celebrating our community of Octobears.”

Fans can expect a heightened concert experience filled with upgraded visuals and lighting direction, newly improved setlists, and surprise guest performances. The special show also doubles as a post-release celebration for their new single “Dahan,” which dropped on 26 across major streaming platforms. Produced by Shadiel Chan, the song captures Over October’s signature sound while introducing a more playful and melodically intense arrangement. Its accompanying lyrical visualizer features a special cameo by acclaimed actor Donny Pangilinan.

“Honestly, Dahan also kind of captures our whole journey in the music industry—a 10-year slow-burn relationship,” the chart-topping indie quintet reflects. “Being active in the music industry for 11 years is such a blessing to us; not a lot of independent artists are given this opportunity to be able to make music for a living for more than a decade. This new single, and this new concert, are both reminders of why we do what we do.”

Over October’s Anniversary Concert is brought to fans by Over October in partnership with GNN.

The extra 500 passes can be redeemed starting at 6:00 p.m. today by searching “OVER OCTOBER” on the SM Malls Online app.

Photo by Betzaida Ventura

On October 28, 2025, the lights of the Smart Araneta Coliseum will dim as the audience rises in anticipation of the return of one of this generation’s most powerful voices. Morissette, Asia’s Phoenix, marks her 15th year in music with Ember—a concert that not only highlights her unmatched vocal prowess but also reflects on a journey that has inspired countless fans.

Morissette during the presscon

This year has already been a milestone for her. She made her big-screen debut in Song of the Fireflies, where she displayed both her dramatic depth and signature vocals. Her rendition of “Golden”—featured in Netflix’s Kpop Demon Hunters—went viral, capturing worldwide attention and solidifying her impact on both local and international audiences. Beyond film and streaming, Morissette has continued to bring Filipino artistry to global stages, culminating in a legacy that comes full circle at the Araneta stage.

With Morissette

The concert highlighted her incredible journey—from her film debut in Song of the Fireflies to her viral performance of “Golden” in Netflix’s Kpop Demon Hunters. I’m glad I finally met Morissette in person, and hearing her live proved why she’s one of the most powerful and beautiful voices of her generation.

Ember will be her first major solo concert at Araneta since 2018, and it carries the promise of an unforgettable night. With Troy Laureta directing the music, the performance is set to combine powerful arrangements with deeply personal storytelling. Morissette has hinted at a setlist that spans her 15-year career—songs that, for the first time, will come together in one breathtaking show. Some may never be performed again in a major concert, making Ember a rare chance to experience her story in its fullest form. Fans can also expect surprises, with the possibility of special guests joining Morissette on stage to mark the milestone.

Adding to the excitement, indie-folk favorites The Ridleys will open the night, known for their heartfelt storytelling and devoted following. Their presence creates a rare moment where two generations of Filipino musicians share one stage in celebration of artistry and legacy.

Tickets, priced from ₱999 to ₱9,499, have been in high demand since their release on Ticketnet. A newly opened Patron A section now brings more fans closer to the stage, while VIP and SVIP tiers offer exclusive experiences including soundcheck access and signed memorabilia.

Ember is more than just a concert to Morissette; it’s a celebration and a guarantee that her flame will endure for many years to come.

Nyxys is powering the event, and Philippine Airlines is leading the way as the primary sponsor. El Calle Food and Music Hall, Southwestern Flaming Grill, Maruca Bistro Italia, Ming’s Pei Pa Koa, and Guevarra’s are further esteemed partners; additional sponsors will be revealed in the upcoming weeks.

The music video drops on October 1, 2025 at 10:00 pm, PH time

Together with renowned producer Yung Bawal, Filipino rappers Nateman and Baby Blood create the moody, minimalist track “PUSO AT ISIP,” which delves into the lovely confusion of love torn between passion and reason.

The song, which tells a tale of passion tempering by hesitation, is built around Yung Bawal’s beautiful yet groovy music and provides a captivating backdrop for Nateman and Baby Blood’s incisive lyricism.

The song boldly poses the ageless query: should we embrace the dangers of daring love or yield to the subdued allure of tranquility? “PUSO AT ISIP” is made to keep listeners feeling good long after the initial play thanks to its sensual melodies, smart and lighthearted words, and rhythms with a Caribbean influence.

“This song really came out of nowhere, from pure feeling and soul,” Nateman shares in a press statement.

His brother and collaborator Baby Blood also echoes this authenticity, channeling raw emotion into verses that resonate with both intimacy and wit.

“We’re proud of the outcome,” Baby Blood adds. “The chemistry is undeniable, but each one of us brought a different level of craftmanship and energy that made everything coherent without necessarily taking away our individuality.”

Yung Bawal, who was responsible for helming the beat, revealed that the collaboration was born organically. “I first worked with Nateman on a remix earlier this year and loved the energy. He brought Baby Blood into the session, who I only later found out was his younger brother. The track just flowed from there.”

As for his production style for this particular bop, Yung Bawal ensures that he did his homework and talked to the artists about what vibe they feel like making or inspiration they are keen to capture in a creative partnership. “I never have a library of beats for artists, as all my beats are made specifically for who I’m working with; hence, all of my releases sound different from each other depending on whom I’m working with.”

Alongside the release of “PUSO AT ISIP,” there will be a music video that has a cinematic feel. According to Yung Bawal, the director created content that had a compelling plot and was akin to a telenovela. Nateman even made light of the fact that it made them feel like the main characters in their own drama series. He chuckles and says, “Ang guwapo-guwapo namin dun” (we look good). Christine Samson, a Filipina social media celebrity, also appears in the music video.

Sony Music Entertainment is currently releasing “PUSO AT ISIP” on all digital music platforms across the globe. Visit Nateman’s official YouTube page to view the music video release.

The music powerhouse is also set to introduce their growing roster with a special show happening in Sari-Sari bar on October 7, 2025

Through strategic alliances with up-and-coming artists and well-known independent labels, ONErpm, a global leader in music distribution, label services, and publishing, keeps expanding its footprint in the Philippines. Leading the way in these advancements is its recently revealed partnership with Offshore Music, which is home to innovative artists like M1ss Jade So, ena Mori, Alyson, and Ely Buendia, to mention a few.

Offshore Music’s chairman and CEO, Ely Buendia, describes the depth of the discussions that resulted in the partnership. Offshore Music’s choice was influenced in large part by ONErpm’s compatibility with the label’s principles, especially those related to sustainability, openness, and creating authentic musical communities.

For Audry Dionisio, General Manager of Offshore Music, joining ONErpm was a natural step in realizing the label’s vision. “We have worked with Alyssa Pe Benito, ONErpm’s Marketing Manager before and with our working experience with her and OneRPM’s commitment to nurturing artist growth, we saw an opportunity to expand the label’s vision on a global stage while continuing to honor the partnerships that brought us here.”

The partnership was introduced by Alyssa “Pebs” Pe Benito, ONErpm’s Marketing Manager, who has fostered a longstanding relationship with the record label. For Pebs, the partnership represents a union rooted in shared purpose and commitment, with the goal of nurturing a music community that values authenticity, creativity, and breakthroughs. “I am grateful for their trust in me that resulted in this partnership, enabling and providing support to artists through innovative, forward-thinking strategies that remain true to their craft, ensuring that music continues to thrive and evolve with integrity in a rapidly changing industry landscape.”

Apart from Offshore Music, ONErpm is welcoming a new wave of Filipino talents to its family. Among them is Manila-based alt-rock band Fitterkarma, whose breakout single, “Pag-ibig ay Kanibalismo II,” topped the Spotify Philippines Viral 50 and went viral on TikTok and other social media platforms. Their follow-up single “Sumpa,” is set for release this Friday, October 3 on all streaming platforms.

Also on the rise is SSUNN, a band inspired by contemporary Japanese and Korean rock music. Their current single, “Nasan Na Ba Ako?” debuted at No. 35 on Spotify Philippines Viral 50 and earned a coveted spot on the cover of the .ph editorial playlist.

Presh Ong, ONErpm’s A&R Representative, also shares, “We’re ready to help our artists reach new heights, We can’t wait for the world to see and hear what they’re truly capable of.”

Other breakthrough acts who will be part of ONErpm’s growing roster include UNO, fronted by Carlos De Guia and signed to WYL Music; and El Manu, the solo project of Jai Asuncion of Agsunta, whose heartfelt storytelling continues to resonate with the Filipino streaming audience.

“Our artists are at the heart of everything we do,” Pebs emphasized. “We are more than just a platform; we’re partners who strive to add value in an artist’s journey. We’re here to help them dream bigger and go further by combining innovative technology with tailored artist strategies.”

On October 7, 2025, at the Sari-Sari bar in Makati City, Fitterkarma, SSUNN, Diego’s Scenes, UNO, and El Manu will all be formally debuted for the inaugural ONErpm Night. Tickets will cost PHP 350 and be available at the door.

In the future, ONErpm is still dedicated to bolstering its Philippine operations by offering full-service labeling and distribution. “ONErpm will continue to expand our local offerings and services as we move into the new year, with the establishment of our local office and content studio,” says APAC Director Isaac Miranda.

Inspired by Filipino collage artists, the trippy video embraces imperfection as a mark of authenticity

The official music video for the Bloomfields’ most recent track, “Pink Skies.” is about to be released.

The video is a surreal animated collage that unfolds in a kaleidoscope of psychedelic visuals, band performances, and pop-art inspirations. It was directed and edited by Louie Poco, the band’s bassist.

For Poco, the project was a genuine labor of love and passion rather than merely a technical exercise. He says, “It was my first time experimenting with animated collage and green screen.” “Innumerable hours of manual editing and exercising creative muscles were used, with no AI involved.”

Drawing inspiration from Filipino collage artists Andrea Cervantes and Charlie Salazar, Poco channeled their cut-out aesthetic to craft a piece that mirrors the band’s sonic DNA: vintage-tinged, psychedelic, and deeply human.

“Its imperfections are exactly what make it beautiful and trippy,” explains Louie. “It’s not about polished perfection, but about joy, creativity, and the spirit of something crafted with love.”

The song “Pink Skies” is full of indie rock sensibility and Britpop influences. The song is a glittering vision, a respite from reality, and a desire for light to burst through the storm. It is equal parts radiant hymn and dreamy getaway.

Lilystars Records released “Pink Skies” earlier this month on all digital music platforms across the globe. The music video will be released this Friday, September 26, 2025, at 10:30 p.m.

New track is the official ending theme of Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc

J-pop sensation Kenshi Yonezujoins forces with global icon Hikaru Utadaon a brand-new collaboration, “JANE DOE,” the ending theme for the highly awaited Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc. This marks the first-ever project between the two legendary Japanese artists, with Yonezu handling the songwriting and composition while Utada lends her vocals. Alongside the track’s release comes its official music video, directed by Tomokazu Yamada, featuring both stars. The announcement caps off a huge streak for Yonezu, who recently dropped the movie’s theme song “IRIS OUT,”—which entered Spotify’s Top Songs Debut Global Chart at #2—and celebrated a historic milestone when his anime theme “KICK BACK” became the first Japanese-language track to earn RIAA Platinum certification.

In the music video for “JANE DOE,” the two performers sit apart on benches on a train station platform while wearing all black. Passengers traveling in different directions only momentarily cross paths on a station platform when boarding and disembarking. Two people sitting on the same bench while waiting for the next train experience a slight gravitational pull from one another, similar to big, invisible circles. Tomokazu Yamada, who is renowned for his music videos for Kenshi Yonezu’s “Lemon,” “Uma to Shika,” and “Sayonara, Mata Itsuka!” directed the film. “Mine or Yours,” “A Flower of No Color,” and “Gold -Mata Au Hi Made-” by Hikaru Utada, in addition to directing the previous year’s “SCIENCE FICTION TOUR 2024.” – Sayonara.

Of the track, KENSHI YONEZU says, “I started working on the song without giving too much thought to who would sing it. However, as the song began to take shape, it became evident that no one was better suited to it than Utada-san, so I reached out to them. The moment Utada-san’s voice—melancholic, yet sweeping like a gust of wind—came in over the track, I remember being so moved that I let out a sharp gasp. As a songwriter, I feel truly honored to have been given this opportunity.”

HIKARU UTADA adds, “I knew I had to give it a go when I received this offer. Both of us being uncompromising singer-songwriters, we knew better than anybody else where the other comes from, but also faced the challenge of meeting halfway where our styles, as we found in the process, contrast. I hope everyone can feel the new sides that were brought out in us, as we remained true to ourselves and each other.”

Music video director TOMOKAZU YAMADA says, “We spin endlessly in the darkness of the universe, exerting light gravitational pull upon one another. Even when we are close enough to touch, we are all distant stars. Each with its own rotation, each gazing upon its own night. This is truly a collision of galaxies. A moment that is like an eternity, in a place that is neither light nor darkness.”

“IRIS OUT” is already setting another record on the Spotify Japan Daily Chart, achieving the “highest daily play count ever recorded” for six days in a row. “IRIS OUT” debuted on Spotify’s Top Songs Debut Global Chart at #2, is also currently at #3 on Apple Music’s Global Daily Top 100 chart. The music video for “IRIS OUT” was also released on September 15 and has already surpassed 10 million views on YouTube, generating significant buzz as earning #4 on the Global YouTube Daily Music Videos Charts. Available to watch now.

CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC will be hitting theatres in United States on October 24, 2025 from Sony Pictures Entertainment, who has acquired the worldwide distribution rights for the film. The theatrical release of CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC opened on Friday, September 19^th in Japan. Rocket started with a huge hit, topping the weekend box office rankings exceeding the sales of the smash-hit Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle.

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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.