Entertainment

The Eraserheads’ iconic third album gets a genre-bending makeover from some of the most exciting homegrown music acts

Offshore Music, a prominent independent label in the Philippines, celebrates the enduring legacy of The Eraserheads’ Cutterpillow with a tribute album showcasing a dynamic mix of rising and well-established local artists.

Commemorating the 30th anniversary of the iconic alternative rock record, the compilation breathes new life into its classic tracks. Artists from Offshore’s diverse lineup offer unique reinterpretations—some boldly experimenting with genre-blending styles, while others remain faithful to the originals, adding their personal touch to the beloved songs.

“We didn’t set any parameters,” explains Ely Buendia, CEO of Offshore Music. “We just told the artists that it was a tribute album, and they can interpret it as they see fit. Some totally changed the feel, genre, and energy of the song, and some stayed faithful to the material but added some sprinkles of their own musicality in it. The balance just came naturally. The decision is left to the artists, and we trust that they have the taste and wisdom to determine whether they are enhancing the original song or giving it some sort of a sonic makeover that appeals to a specific generation of listeners.”

Audry Dionisio, the General Manager of Offshore Music, emphasizes the label’s commitment to artistic freedom and integrity. She notes that Offshore Music has always empowered its artists to push boundaries, whether by challenging conventions or breathing new life into timeless material.

“Each artist was given complete creative freedom,” Dionisio explains. “Some producers collaborated directly with the band, but Ely and Pat Sarabia oversaw the entire project. We’re fortunate to have one-fourth of the Eraserheads guiding the process and lending his seal of approval. All the artists decided on what they were going to do, and we were just here to guide them. Even Rayms, Buddy, and Marcus gave their input on some tracks.”

Cutterpillow: Tribute Album art

Cutterpillow: Tribute Album brings together a diverse array of standout performances, including Diego’s Scenes and Ligaya Escueta’s emo-charged take on “Back2Me,” Elton Clark’s synth-pop spin on “Torpedo,” Carousel Casualties’ knockout rendition of “Walang Nagbago,” Pinkmen’s harmony-rich version of “Ang Huling El Bimbo,” Pixie Labrador’s Lilith Fair-flavored style “Fill Her,” ALYSON’s slick city pop render of “Huwag Mo Nang Itanong,” ena mori’s theatrical reworking of the title track, and Amateurish and Stef Aranas’ dynamic redo of “Superproxy,” which serves as the album’s focus track.

The year-long campaign of the tribute album launched earlier this year with limited-edition merchandise designed by award-winning artist Tarantadong Kalbo (Kevin Eric Raymundo). The t-shirts and tote bags, which featured his signature illustrations, quickly sold out in a matter of days.

In addition to the album’s digital release, Offshore Music is set to premiere a companion docuseries on June 6, 2025, with new episodes dropping every Friday through August. The online series will showcase behind-the-scenes footage from the recording sessions, as well as interviews with the artists and producers involved.

“Additionally, in this documentary, you’ll witness the highs and lows of their journey as part of the tribute album—from their first reactions to joining the project to brainstorming, recording take after take, and their spontaneous bursts of creativity,” shares Offshore Music in a press statement. “The documentary is more than just a recording of the process; it’s a celebration of passion, creativity, and the timeless impact of Cutterpillow.

Check out the tracklist of Cutterpillow: Tribute Album:

1. “Superproxy” – Amateurish feat. Stef Aranas
2. “Back2Me” – Diego’s Scenes and Ligaya Escueta
3. ‘Waiting for the Bus” – MI MI and Eliza Marie
4. “Fine Time” – Sansette
5. “Kama Supra” – Seedy and the Years
6. “Overdrive” – JUICEBOX
7. “Slo Mo” – GundamFunk
8. “Torpedo” – Elton Clark
9. “Huwag Mo Nang Itanong” – ALYSON
10. “Paru-Parong Ningning” – Her Name is Noelle
11. “Walang Nagbago” – Carousel Casualties
12. “Poorman’s Grave” – Grave Aviators
13. “Yoko’ – neytan
14. “Fill Her” – Pixie Labrador
15. “Ang Huling El Bimbo” – Pinkmen
16. “Cutterpillow” – ena mori
17. “Overdrive (Reprise)” – OFFSHORE MUSIC

Cutterpillow: Tribute Album is now available globally on all digital music platforms, released through Offshore Music and Sony Music Entertainment.

Their new track “DUNGKA!” blends adrenaline-pumping visuals with Filipino creativity in a landmark cross-industry collaboration

SNK Corporation, a leading Japanese video game and entertainment company, proudly unveils its latest cross-cultural venture: a music video collaboration featuring its upcoming fighting game, FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves, and the acclaimed Filipino pop group SB19.

This dynamic partnership unites two major forces in pop culture, blending the worlds of music and gaming. At the heart of the collaboration is SB19’s high-energy track “DUNGKA!,” inspired by the game’s catchphrase, “REV IT UP.” The music video combines the group’s signature genre-blending sound with cinematic battle scenes from the game, capturing its intense action and creating a buzz of excitement.

“We are truly honored to collaborate with a distinguished title celebrated for its sophisticated combat system and exceptional gameplay,” SB19 shares in an official statement. “As avid enthusiasts of interactive video games, we are thrilled by the opportunity to contribute to a project of this scale and significance. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to SNK Corporation for initiating this partnership and entrusting us with the chance to be part of such an iconic franchise. This collaboration has been an immensely rewarding experience, and we are sincerely grateful for its outcome.”

The collaborative effort coincides with the recent release of SB19’s third EP, Simula at Wakas, featuring one of the new singles “DUNGKA!” The 7-track collection offers a candid reflection on the personal and artistic journey of the group amid fame, pressure, and the search for identity. The EP 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).

FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves is a 2025 fighting game developed and published by SNK. Marking the seventh main entry in the Fatal Fury series, it’s the franchise’s first new installment in 26 years since Garou: Mark of the Wolves (1999).

The game boasts a striking visual style designed to captivate players, along with the innovative REV System that intensifies the action. It also introduces an array of enhanced battle mechanics. With the addition of two distinct control schemes—catering to both newcomers and longtime fans—alongside fresh features and gameplay elements, the title breathes new life into the iconic series.

Watch the music video here.

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

Follow FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves on their socials:

Official Website: https://www.snk-corp.co.jp/us/games/fatalfury-cotw/

X: https://x.com/FATALFURY_PR

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

The Bicol-born artist explores anger and vulnerability in alt-rock anthem

Filipino singer-songwriter dwta is back in the spotlight with her new single, “Nasusunog (Pants On Fire)” published under Sony Music Entertainment, following the commercial success of her collaboration with SB19’s Justin, “Sampung Mga Daliri.”

“Nasusunog,” which deviates significantly from her usual folk-pop style, is an anthem that skillfully combines alt-rock music with personal introspection. The song, which was written by Jhasmine Villanueva (dwta) at the Sony x Monostereo Groove songwriting session earlier this year alongside Tiana Kocher, Ashley Mehta, and Martin Estrada, pulsates with frantic rhythms, seething rage, and explosive, in-your-face arrangements. Though her voice is still rooted in sincerity, this is her Jagged Little Pill phase.

The Bicol-born artist describes “Nasusunog (Pants On Fire)” as an exploration of what she calls a graceful wrath, the act of expressing anger in a way that remains vulnerable and composed. “It’s not screaming or exploding; it’s just simply burning, quietly and beautifully.”

The song’s conceptual genesis came from a simple but loaded childhood phrase, “Liar, liar, pants on fire,” which also serves as the song’s alternative title. What began as a playful idiom quickly revealed deeper implications. “We realized it could symbolize how deceit burns through trust,” she adds. “It became the foundation for a song about reclaiming power and releasing long-suppressed emotions.”

Recorded with Martin Estrada at the helm of production and Brian Lotho as co-producer, “Nasusunog (Pants On Fire)” retains essential elements of dwta’s sound—percussion, acoustic textures, and ornamental strings—while venturing into darker, brooding sonic terrain. The electric guitar work, in particular, lends an edge that mirrors the song’s emotional weight.

Citing Lizzy McAlpine’s “Erase Me” as a reference point, dwta embraced a moodier palette and created a track that speaks not only to her personal journey, but also to shared experiences of betrayal and resilience, especially among women.

“It wasn’t just about me, though. It was like a collective emotion from all of us in the room,” the Santigwar artist shares. “We talked about people who lie, manipulate, and make you feel small, and how we were all done with that. So the song became this emotional release, like a shared fire we all needed to let out.”

dwta continues to develop into one of the most dependable singer-songwriters of her generation with “Nasusunog (Pants On Fire),” a woman who isn’t scared to face her worries head-on with grace and candor. The new song reveals a new side to her artistic journey while reaffirming her dedication to conveying truthful stories.

“Nasusunog (Pants On Fire)” by dwta is currently available on all digital music platforms across the globe through Sony Music 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