Entertainment

The five-song EP highlights the band’s emotional storytelling and musical growth across more than two decades of Pinoy rock influence

Filipino alternative outfit Imago continues to shape modern OPM with the release of their EP, Pasimple, unfolding a new era for one of the most vital forces in Pinoy rock. The 5-track collection marks the band’s first official studio release under Sony Music Entertainment and their sixth overall.

For nearly three decades, Imago has redefined their sound with emotional introspection and expansive, guitar-driven arrangements. In Pasimple, they carry the legacy forward with confidence. Produced and arranged by the band alongside longtime collaborators Raymund Marasigan and Buddy Zabala, the new EP expands Imago’s signature sound while introducing subtle new influences that reflect the band’s openness to explore off-kilter and interesting instrumentations, textures, and songwriting styles.

Sonically, Pasimple reflects a band operating at full momentum. “We’re at peak creativity with this album with songs inspired by our years as music lovers, plus fresh creative input from Kurei (vocalist and chief songwriter). The EP is a representation of the interlocking energy and vibes of the members, and our life experiences from the past until the present.”

The 5-track EP also serves as one of Imago’s most collaborative efforts to date. Working closely with Marasigan and Zabala, the band intentionally pushed their arrangements into unfamiliar territory. “We set out to write more collaboratively than ever,” they say. “Taking the bumps and the smooth ride that comes with it and exploring things we haven’t done before.”

The EP’s focus track, “Lagi Na Lang,” captures the exhausting and repetitive patterns of a relationship in slow decay. Buoyed by restrained guitars, steady drums, and emotionally grounded vocals, the song explores the feeling of letting go in a relationship that sadly no longer works.

Track list:

1. Gulong-gulo
2. Pasimple
3. Lagi na lang (Focus Track)
4. Andito na tayo
5. Sayang Na Sayang

With Pasimple, Imago proves that their creative momentum remains vital as ever, reaffirming their place in the Filipino alternative rock space and managing to secure it since the late ‘90s. As the band looks ahead, one thing is certain: the stage is where they belong, and they’re eager to take the songs far and wide across the country.

Imago’s sixth EP, “Pasimple” will be available for streaming on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

From breakthrough hits to enduring anthems, the band is set to perform a career-spanning set featuring new arrangements and a few surprises

The Dawn returns to the big stage with another major concert celebrating four decades in the local music scene.

Following the success of Ballet & Ballads, a special collaboration between the band and Ballet Manila earlier this year, the group is now preparing for another highly anticipated show. It will feature the current lineup along with exciting surprises that are sure to grab attention once revealed.

For me, this shows how The Dawn continues to stay relevant and passionate about their craft even after 40 years. Their ability to evolve—like collaborating with Ballet Manila—proves that growth and creativity don’t stop with time. It reminds me that staying committed and open to new ideas is key to lasting success.

Dubbed “Kwarenta,” the highly anticipated concert will take place at The Theatre at Solaire on Saturday, June 27, 2026. The concert also marks The Dawn’s legacy as one of the pillars of Filipino rock music, producing remarkable classics that resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.

Directed by Paolo Valenciano, Kwarenta will showcase a career-spanning setlist drawn from The Dawn’s 1987 self-titled debut up to 2018’s Ascendant, signaling an even more ambitious and carefully curated production—both in concept and design.

Emerging in the mid-1980s, The Dawn helped define the modern Filipino band movement. Over the decades, the band has built a formidable catalog anchored by enduring anthems such as “Enveloped Ideas,” “Salamat,” and “Iisang Bangka,” which have transcended eras and shifted cultural discussions. Their work has become part of the collective memory of Filipino audiences: performed in intimate gatherings and singing contests, large-scale concerts and battle-of-the-bands competitions, and everything in between.

Kwarenta, as a concept, is a comprehensive portrait of The Dawn’s journey as a collective. Their story is one of persistence and reinvention. Lineup changes, industry shifts, and the loss of key figures—including founding guitarist Teddy Diaz—have emboldened their history and catapulted them into the pantheon of Pinoy rock greats. Few acts achieve such longevity while maintaining audience connection and renewed creativity.

As vocalist Jet Pangan reflects, reaching 40 years was never assumed; it is, in many ways, the result of hard work, discipline, and support from fans. ”Four decades is something to be really thankful for, and it’s all because there are still people out there who enjoy our music and gigs.”

Echoing Jet’s excitement, guitarist Francis ‘Kiko’ Reyes shared that their 40th anniversary concert is set to become one of the most memorable shows of the decade. He emphasized that four decades is a significant journey, and they aim to showcase everything they’ve experienced through the years. For them, it’s a meaningful milestone—one that will be both special and emotional, going beyond a simple “greatest hits” performance.

Fans can look forward to refreshed and creative arrangements, top-level production, and even possible surprise guest performers. The celebration will also reach international audiences through the Kwarenta Tour, with confirmed stops in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and more locations to be announced.

Event Details:

Kwarenta: The Dawn 40^th Anniversary Concert

June 27, 2026

The Theatre at Solaire, Paranaque City

The bar opens at 6:00 PM / The show starts at 8:00 PM

Exclusive after-party (SVIP bundle) at 11:00 PM

Tickets will be available starting 12 noon, 6 April 2026.

For tickets, please contact:

Ticketworld: www.ticketworld.com.ph

Ticketworld: +63 917 550 6997, +63 999 954 5922

The Dawn Hotline: +63 949 686 6768

After a breakout 2024 run, the band brings bigger energy and deeper connections this April 2026

After the massive success of their 2024 Taiwan debut, The Itchyworms are gearing up for a highly anticipated return this April 2026.

The pop-rock hitmakers are heading to the land of vibrant night markets for Akin Ka Na Lang TAIWAN Part 2—a three-city tour that will once again bring their signature wit, warmth, and crowd-rousing sing-alongs to Taiwan’s eclectic live scene, proving that great music knows no borders.

The iconic band’s previous tour struck a chord with diverse audiences in Taiwan, reinforcing what Jugs Jugueta puts simply: “Music is a universal language.”

Apart from charming Taiwanese locals who have learned to appreciate music outside of their turf, The Itchyworms have always been vocal in deepening their connections with Filipinos abroad. Known for their infectious humor and relatable storytelling, The Itchyworms aim to create a shared space of nostalgia, joy, and Pinoy pop culture.

“We constantly try to get to know the Filipinos in Taiwan,” Jugueta shares. “Filipinos are really so friendly, so we will just talk about life in Taiwan and the struggles of not seeing your family very often. We will bring them back to the Philippines through our music!”

Each night promises a one-of-a-kind experience, with performances shaped by the crowd’s energy: no two shows are the same, every moment alive.

“It feels great that not only are we sharing The Itchyworms’ music, but we are also sharing OPM and Filipino music with the world,” Jugueta adds.

Check out the cities and dates for the upcoming Akin Ka Na Lang TAIWAN Part 2:

• April 3 (Friday) – Kaohsiung, LIVE WAREHOUSE
• April 4 (Saturday) – Taichung, Legacy Taichung
• April 5 (Sunday) – Taipei, Legacy Taipei

Get your tickets here.

After continuously bringing vibrant energy to the music industry, the highly talented artist pami from Juicey is back with her latest sassy single, cry jar, her first release since her highly acclaimed debut album puffette, and fresh out of her “Best Hidden Gem of the Year” award win at the prestigious TOTY Music Awards in Thailand yesterday.

This pop track features a light, easy-listening vibe contrasted with biting lyrics that challenge everyone to evaluate the cost of heartbreak in their relationships. ‘cry jar’ represents the transformation of pain into something measurable through the concept of an “emotional compensation” jar.

“If you don’t want to try in love, then fine! Pay the price. Every time you make me cry, those tears go into the jar as proof that the pain isn’t disappearing—it’s piling up,” said pami about the single.

[LISTEN TO PAMI’S ‘CRY JAR’ HERE]

‘cry jar’ was written by pami during a song camp in Sydney, Australia, an environment that sparked new inspirations for her. The track is designed with a playful, bright, and almost sweet sound to contrast its straightforward and sarcastic lyrics.

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pami adds: “I didn’t want this song to feel heavy or dramatic. I wanted it to be a dark joke that reflects the truth: if someone keeps hurting you without care, that damage comes with a price.”

pami is a Thai singer-songwriter who debuted in 2024, quickly catching the attention of fans worldwide with her pop sensibilities and warm vocals in her debut EP out of nowhere. This was quickly followed by her debut album puffette in 2025, which introduced pami to a wider audience that has followed her growth since.

Over the past year, pami has stood out as one of the brightest young and rising acts in Asia, playing in festivals across multiple countries such as LaLaLa Festival in Indonesia, BiKN Shibuya in Japan, Zandari Festa in South Korea and Bangkok Music City in Thailand.

INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | APPLE MUSIC

The Filipino R&B icon urges young artists to protect themselves – an issue mirrored in his new film, Songs For Selina

Filipino R&B king Jay R recently weighed in on the controversy surrounding the exploitative practices in the local music industry.

This comes after young singer-songwriter MRLD broke her silence about her departure from OC Records, alleging unfair compensation and limited marketing support, with claims that have sparked broader conversations online about transparency, artist rights, and the power imbalance between emerging musicians and record labels.

[WATCH THE TRAILER HERE]

In a TikTok video posted over the weekend, Jay R spoke out about what he calls “uncomfortable truths,” reflecting on the dark side of the industry that has long placed new artists at a disadvantage.

“I’ve been in this industry for more than 20 years, and situations like this really do happen to artists,” Jay R said. “It has happened to me as well. When you’re starting out, you enter record deals and contracts without fully understanding what’s written in them. Sometimes, you don’t really comprehend the terms.”

He stressed the importance of legal advice and contract literacy for emerging musicians navigating the complexities of recording agreements.

“That’s why it’s important for artists to carefully read their contracts,” he added. “You should have a lawyer and review everything line by line. You need to understand exactly what you’re getting into. It’s a harsh truth about the industry, but it’s real. And honestly, I think it’s perfect timing that this issue has come to light. Artists need to be educated about what really happens behind closed doors.”

The short-form video post has garnered more than a million views on TikTok and Facebook, combined, fueling wider debate about accountability with the music business.

Jay R further expanded on the topic during the press conference for Songs For Selina, a music-themed film that he produced and stars in. While fictional in form, the project echoes the same tensions now being publicly discussed: creative ownership, exploitation, and the invisible pressures artists face behind the spotlight.

“Artists sometimes fear being marginalized or even blacklisted when they speak about the truth,” Jay R shared. “The story of Songs For Selina comes from real experiences: ours and the stories of fellow artists who have lived through these realities.”

Starring Rachel Coates and Mica Javier, Songs For Selina explores the power structures embedded in the music industry and the ethical dilemmas confronting artists as they navigate ambition, loyalty, and survival in a competitive landscape.

Whether by coincidence or design, the film’s themes now resonate with real-world conversation unfolding across the Philippine music scene—one that many believe is long overdue.

Songs For Selina opens in Ayala Cinemas nationwide beginning March 18, 2026.

VVINK’s first release of 2026 reveals a softer sonic palette and a deeper creative involvement from the five-piece pop act

Rising P-Pop group VVINK has dropped “Kailan Ka Aamin,” which serves as the first pre-release single from their upcoming full-length debut album under FlipMusic. Written by acclaimed Filipino songwriter Nica del Rosario and produced by Julius James “Bojam” De Belen, the catchy pop ballad introduces a more intimate direction for VVINK in terms of musicality and songwriting.

A tender, coming-of-age confession, “Kailan Ka Aamin” was inspired by the Thai Girls Love (GL) pair “MilkLove,” and the playful dynamic fans have associated with them. It’s a story many listeners will instantly recognize: two people who clearly feel the same way, yet neither has gathered the courage to say it out loud.

[WATCH THE “KAILAN KA AAMIN” MUSIC VIDEO]

Instead of the usual perspective of someone secretly admiring a crush, the song unfolds from the point of view of the one on the receiving end: someone who senses the same feelings but is growing impatient with the silence. Drawing from the Filipino experience of being a “yearner,” the track embraces the emotional language of young love: hallway glances, teasing friends, unsent messages, and the courage slowly building toward confession.

“Kailan Ka Amin was inspired by MilkLove, my favorite Thai GL pair who have starred together in various GL series such as 23.5 and Whale Store XOXO,” Nica del Rosario, the song’s composer, explains. “Their Pinoy fans have playfully equated the question, “kailan ka aamin?” with their dynamic after one interview when they were asked what they would do if they liked someone. Milk said that she doesn’t have the nerve to confess, while Love said she won’t confess either and will just wait for the person to make a move. These remarks led their fans to jokingly say that they’re playing a game of “tagu-taguan ng feelings. (hiding feelings in English).”

Production and collaboration

Sonically, “Kailan Ka Aamin” weaves bubblegum pop influences with ‘80s-inspired production and effervescent melodies. The production balances warmth and restraint, allowing VVINK’s delicate vocal style to take center stage while building a wistful atmosphere that mirrors the song’s emotional anticipation. From its soft opening to its sweeping chorus, the bop carries a dreamlike quality that sets it apart from its previous releases.

“Working with Sir Jumbo De Belen and Ms. Nica del Rosario was such a great experience for us,” shares VVINK in a press statement. “When we first heard the demo, the emotion was already very strong. They really guided us through the meaning of the lyrics, so we understood the story before recording. The demo felt personal, but the final version feels complete. It still has the same heart, but now it sounds more VVINK.”

Beyond the recording itself, the five-member powerhouse maintained a sense of ownership carried throughout the entire production process. With encouragement from the production team, the female pop group contributed ad-libs and interpretive nuances that ultimately define the track’s character. They also stayed closely involved in other aspects of the behind-the-scenes work, including contributing ideas for concepts, styling, and even vocal arrangements during studio sessions.

Music video

“Kailan Ka Aamin” arrives alongside a visually striking music video helmed by Nolan Bernardino with Dondi Narciso. Stripping the concept down to its barest essentials, the visuals highlight both performance and atmosphere, presenting VVINK’s performance against both an urban skyline and a dreamlike forest setting.

According to Bernardino, the concept centers on showcasing the group’s natural charisma and beauty. “The music video is as simple as it gets,” Bernardino reveals. “Here we highlight a different side of the girls. This video is all about beauty: the beautiful vocals and performance, with a very pleasant but dynamic choreography. It is a performance that you just want to watch over and over again.”

For VVINK, filming “Kailan Ka Aamin” was indeed a memorable experience. “Working with Direk Nolan Bernardino and Direk Dondi Narciso has always felt light,” the Filipino femme alphas reveal. “They make collaboration fun and creative, allowing everyone to freely share ideas while still feeling guided and aligned.”

As the group’s first release of the year, “Kailan Ka Aamin” marks a new era for VVINK, ushering in a period of intentional artistic involvement and willingness to explore new sonic and storytelling approaches.

VVINK’s “Kailan Ka Aamin” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Flipmusic. Watch the music video here.

The film’s arrival coincides with the growing debate in the local music industry about exploitation, unfair treatment, and sexism

Songs For Selina, an independent music-themed drama about two musical soulmates whose friendship was tested by the cutthroat music industry, will officially premiere in select cinemas across Ayala Malls starting March 18, 2026.

The timing of the release proved strikingly timely after a young female artist’s revelation about the exploitative practices and unfair treatment of the record label industry went viral.

[WATCH THE TRAILER HERE]

Jay R, who serves as the film’s executive producer, describes Songs For Selina as both a love letter and a critique of the industry that he loves, advocating for reforms that ensure artists receive respect, fairness, and rightful compensation for their work.

“We hope Filipino audiences take away the importance of discernment—being mindful of what you wish for and why,” the king of R&B adds. “Not everything that glitters are gold, and every opportunity comes with a cost. At its core, the film is a reminder to stay anchored in your values and moral compass, especially when navigating ambition and success. Knowing what you’re entering a career for—and holding on to who you are—matters deeply in staying whole and intact through the inevitable highs and lows of the journey.”

The film stars Mica Javier and Rachel Coates, as Selina and Maya, alongside a powerhouse ensemble from stage, music, and television: Rachel Alejandro, Audie Gemora, Nicole Laurel, Leanne Mamonong, Gian Magdangal, Gabby Padilla, and Jay R.

Having spent much of her life pursuing music and entertainment, lead star and co-producer Mica Javier notes that the story of Songs For Selina holds a special place for her, as it mirrors aspects of her journey as an artist.

“The film explores the highs and lows artists experience while chasing their dreams, and the sacrifices that often come with that pursuit,” Mica explains. “I joined this venture because I believe these stories deserve to be told with honesty and heart. It was also important to me to help create a platform that showcases Filipino creatives to a global audience.”

Prior to its Philippine release this month, Songs For Selina first made waves in the US, after it got picked up last year by Amazon Prime US and Tubi, two of the biggest streaming platforms for movies and serialized content.

Songs For Selina is brought to you by Homeworkz Entertainment and is distributed in the Philippines by Black Cap Pictures.

RAMONA makes a splashing debut as a pop star provocateur, a rebellious troublemaker, and a fearless outsider. As a daring new voice in modern OPM, she comes off as a refreshing anomaly in an industry that often rewards conformity over disruption. From here, the world she builds only gets louder, more vivid, and unmistakably punk.

Just in time for Women’s Month, RAMONA unleashes “GAGA,” a sharp-witted commentary on celebrity gossip and fake news culture. Her explosive debut single exposes how misinformation distorts truth in the digital age. Rather than retreat from the noise, RAMONA confronts it head-on, transforming public scrutiny into a weapon of her own.

Instead of debunking public accusations, RAMONA reclaims the narrative with biting wit and defiant sassiness. Labels often thrown at outspoken and strong women such as “pa-victim,” “malandi,” and “toxic” are reframed as hollow buzzwords, stripped of their intended sting through repetition and satire. The result is a rallying anthem that challenges the machinery of gossip and the digital mob mentality that fuels it.

“People talk, people guess, people decide what’s true before they even know anything,” RAMONA explains. “GAGA just throws it all back.”

Produced by Tim and Sam Marquez of One Click Straight, the track proves that RAMONA is here for the long haul. Driven by grungy guitars, sing-along chants, and manic, driving rhythms, “GAGA” blends abrasive textures with irresistible pop instincts. But beneath the distortion and defiance lies something more important: RAMONA, reclaiming her voice, turns rumor into resistance and accusation into empowerment. As RAMONA describes her debut work, “GAGA” is “bold, emotional, a little rebellious, a little messy, and not pretending to be perfect.”

With the release of her debut single, RAMONA makes it clear that in an era obsessed by gossip cycles and fake news narratives, she refuses to be spoken for. She would rather speak back.

RAMONA”s “GAGA” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

GRAMMY Award®-winning global superstar Harry Styles has released his highly anticipated new album KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. via Erskine/Columbia Records. Accompanying the album is the music video for “American Girls,” directed by the GRAMMY Award®-winning James Mackel.

KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. is the fourth studio album from Harry Styles and first music release since 2022’s record breaking album Harry’s House, which took home the top prize for Album of the Year at the 2023 Grammy Awards. The new 12-track album was written by Harry and executive produced by Kid Harpoon, and includes the #1 single “Aperture”, see full tracklist below.

To celebrate the album release, Netflix is bringing fans the very first live performance of the new album on Sunday March 8th at 7pm GMT, tune in to watch the show he performed Friday March 6th in Manchester, England in full globally.

Harry has also launched KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. pop-up shops around the world in partnership with American Express with 16 locations in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Berlin, Chicago, Houston,  London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Paris, Phoenix, Rome, Seattle, Sydney, Tokyo, and Toronto. The pop-up gives fans a chance to experience and celebrate Harry’s new album KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY.  together with special activations and unique merchandise designs, additional information HERE.

Next Saturday, Harry will return to NBC’s Saturday Night Live as host and musical guest for the second time on March 14th. He will make his long awaited return to the global stage with a seven city residency in 2026. Promoted by Live Nation, Together, Together will include 67 stops in Amsterdam, London, São Paulo, Mexico City, New York, Melbourne, and Sydney from May through December. Highlights on the run include 30 shows at New York’s Madison Square Garden and a six night run at Wembley Stadium. Special guests include Robyn, Shania Twain, Fcukers, Jorja Smith, Jamie xx, Fousheé, and Skye Newman across select dates.  Please visit hstyles.co.uk/tour for a full list of dates and more information.

KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. TRACKLIST

1. Aperture

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles & Kid Harpoon

Produced by: Kid Harpoon

2. American Girls

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

3. Ready, Steady, Go!

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon, Additional Production By: Tyler Johnson

4. Are You Listening Yet?

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

5. Taste Back

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon, Additional: Tyler Johnson

6. The Waiting Game

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

7. Season 2 Weight Loss

Music & Lyrics by Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon

8. Coming Up Roses

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles

Produced by: Kid Harpoon

9. Pop

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

10. Dance No More

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles & Kid Harpoon

Produced By: Kid Harpoon

11. Paint By Numbers

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

12. Carla’s Song

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles & Kid Harpoon

Produced By: Kid Harpoon

Listen to the album here