Entertainment

Live A.I.D.S. 35 A Laugh Story Kickoff Party

In 2025, UP Diliman’s longest-running comedy variety show will return for its much awaited 35th season.

With the theme “A Laugh Story,” LIVE A.I.D.S. 35—”Ang Ika-tatlumpu’t Limang Istoryang Dinebelop ng SAMASKOM”—will take the stage once again in May at the University of the Philippines, Diliman’s IBG-KAL Theater. As U.P., it will be a highly unique show. In 2025, Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral sa Komunikasyon, or SAMASKOM, will commemorate its 50th anniversary.

SAMASKOM, which is celebrating its golden anniversary celebration in 2024-2025, kicked off preparations for its 2025 presentation at Gold A.I.D.S.: The Live A.I.D.S. 35 Kickoff Party on February 15 at the Edge Skyview Bar at Ibis Styles Hotel. Resident members, alumni and friends of the premier academic organization got together to unveil and unlock special activities at the event.

SAMASKOM Alumni

The local entertainment industry is filled with SAMASKOM alumni who have made names for themselves in front of and behind the camera, like Jervi Wrightson (KaladKaren), Giselle Sanchez, Tuesday Vargas, RS Francisco, and Director Lauren Dyogi, to name a few.

Among the special projects unveiled at the party is an album featuring songs that embody the Live A.I.D.S. experience — a mix of beloved classics from previous installments and new tunes specially created for the 35th show. The creative and production teams of this Live AIDS 35 were introduced alongside an in-depth presentation of their vision for the 35th installment. A stellar lineup of SAMASKOM alumni took the stage, bringing their signature flair and energy to celebrate the legacy and ongoing impact of their iconic show.

Live A.I.D.S. 35 marks the directorial debut of television writer Ken De Leon, known for his sharp storytelling and innovative approach to entertainment.

Live A.I.D.S. 35 Production Team and SAMASKOM Officers

Aptly titled A Laugh Story, the 35th edition reflects the spirit of SAMASKOM: “creative freedom, boldness, and a dedication to storytelling that resonates with the times”, says De Leon.

“A Laugh Story” is more than just a theme—it is a journey through the stories that shape who we are as Filipinos. From the bedtime stories that lulled us to sleep as children, to the fairy tales that sparked our imagination, to the everyday gossip that kept our curiosity alive, stories have been central to our connections and understanding of the world. Live A.I.D.S. A Laugh Story is a celebration of these narratives that give us meaning, using humor and heart to remind us of the shared experiences that unite us all,” De Leon explained.

“U.P. SAMASKOM’s 50th anniversary is a testament to its five decades of producing generations of communicators, artists, and storytellers who continue to push boundaries and redefine creative expression in the Philippines,” said MJ Karaan, Live A.I.D.S. 35 production manager.

Resident Members and Alumni of SAMASKOM at the Gold A.I.D.S., The Live A.I.D.S. 35 Kickoff Party

Live A.I.D.S. reaffirms U.P. as it commemorates its 35th edition. SAMASKOM’s dedication to free and innovative expression of opinions that address current and pertinent national concerns. Live A.I.D.S. has continued to serve as a forum for unafraid storytelling and introspection, offering anything from social commentary to political satire, and this year is no exception. De Leon provides a vibrant new approach that will undoubtedly make this Live A.I.D.S. one for the books, Karaan continued, “with a fresh perspective and a deep respect for SAMASKOM’s storied legacy.”

(Download artwork and press photo HERE)

Tate McRae, the multi-platinum pop superstar, releases So Close To What, her eagerly awaited third album, through RCA Records. It stands for life’s overwhelming moments, when the path ahead can seem infinite at times and the end seems nonexistent. It is an introspective investigation of love, nostalgia, and self-discovery. Embracing a newfound confidence, navigating the wonderful and sometimes harsh reality of being a woman, and navigating the raw emotions of healing an old heart and the hesitations that come with falling in love again are all explored in the album and its songs. So Close To What, written and produced by hitmakers Ryan Tedder, Grant Boutin, Amy Allen, Julia Michaels, and others, is encased in enticing pop sound and raw lyrics. Click HERE to listen.

The album includes the song “Sports car” which is now in the top 15 at US Pop Radio and went viral on social media with over 1 million TikTok creations. It also included the catchy song “It’s ok I’m ok” which became the star’s highest-debuting single of her career on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaked at #1 on the Hot Dance/Pop Songs chart.

The official music video for Tate’s new song “Revolving Door,” which was choreographed by Robbie Blue (Charli XCX, Doechii) and directed by Aerin Moreno (Tyla, Tinashe), was released today. It depicts Tate trapped in a transitional area, dancing nonstop and unable to exit through any doors. When the end goal is unclear, it demonstrates her relationship with the revolving door of her life and profession. Click HERE to watch.

So Close To What Track List 

1. Miss possessive 
2. 2 hands 
3. Revolving door 
4. bloodonmyhands (feat. Flo Milli) 
5. Dear god  
6. Purple lace bra  
7. Sports car  
8. Signs  
9. I know love (feat. The Kid LAROI)
10. Like I do 
11. It’s ok I’m ok  
12. No I’m not in love  
13. Means I care  
14. Greenlight
15. Nostalgia 

(Photo Credit: Charlie Denis)

Follow Tate McRae:

Official Website | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok

The upcoming show will feature a long set from the legendary reggae band, along with performances by Brownman Revival, Reggae Mistress, Tropical Depression, and Collie Herb 

As they commemorate their 25th year in the music business, the legendary Filipino band Hemp Republic reaches a significant milestone.

The much awaited occasion will also mark the official debut of their next six-track album, The Mighty People, which is billed as a celebration of fortitude, solidarity, and the changing sound of Pinoy reggae. It will happen on March 22, 2025, starting at 7 p.m. at ’70s Bistro in Quezon City.

“The album carries the spirit of our journey over the past 25 years—staying true to our roots while embracing new influences,” explains Bunny Liwanag, the lead vocalist of the band. “The six tracks in the album reflect themes of love, struggle, truth, and liberation, with our signature blend of reggae, rock, dub, and island vibes.”

In addition to a long set from Hemp Republic, the 25^th anniversary show will feature powerhouse performances from some of the most influential names in local reggae, ska, and dub scenes, including Brownman Revival, Reggae Mistress, Tropical Depression, and Collie Herb. These bands have played vital roles in pushing Pinoy reggae into exciting new places, sonically and lyrically, and their inclusion makes the celebration even more significant to the times.

“These artists have been instrumental in shaping the sound and spirit of local reggae, and we’ve shared countless memories performing together at legendary venues like Xaymaca, Mayric’s, Freedom Bar, and various reggae festivals across the country, “ shares Liwanag. “They’ve inspired us, and we deeply respect what they’ve done for the movement. Having them with us for this celebration makes the night even more special.”

Liwanag, a key figure in the local alternative and reggae scenes, is thrilled to host a show that unites reggae fans across generations—those who have supported the band since 2005’s Welcome to Hemp Republic album and those who are discovering their music for the first time.

“This is a celebration of 25 years of music, friendship, and the Pinoy reggae movement—it’s more than just an album launch,” Liwanag says. “Our journey from our early days of jamming in UP Los Baños to playing in international venues and concerts in Europe to influencing a new wave of reggae artists across the country is reflected in the 25th anniversary show.”

A week before the launch party, Hemp Republic will release their new single, “Linlang,” to give fans a sneak peek at their upcoming album.

Hemp Republic: The Mighty People Album Launch and 25^th Anniversary is co-presented by GNN Entertainment Productions. Tickets are available via tinyurl.com/hemprepublic25.

The soulful ballad examines his internal struggles in the midst of adolescent love

Following the release of the incredibly moving songs “Love That’s Rare” and “Nandito Na Ako,” a duet with Angela Ken, this OPM CD combines personal lyrics with calming, expertly composed sounds.

In his most recent single, “Alinlangan,” which was published by Sony Music Entertainment, Benj Pangilinan shares his innermost thoughts. The Filipino singer-songwriter’s internal conflict and severe self-doubt are expressed in this emotional, piano-driven ballad. He challenges the authenticity of his sentiments, believing that he isn’t worthy of such love.  

“The inspiration for the song came from the idea of searching for true love and the emotions that come with it,” shares the promising musician. “The title, Alinlangan was suggested by Jungee Marcelo. It explores the experience of self-doubt, a struggle that many people face and can relate to.”

Co-written with veteran composer Kiko Salazar, “Alinlangan” captures the emotional complexities Benj is still learning to navigate. He adds, “I think my journey is just beginning, and I’m excited to see where it takes me. In terms of what this track represents, I’d rather let the work speak for itself and allow the audience to connect with it in their own way.”

While it might be tempting to view self-doubt as merely a flaw, “Alinlangan” offers a deeper perspective. Benj embraces the judgment he faces from others who know nothing about him, recognizing that such challenges are necessary for emotional growth.

The song’s sonority changes unexpectedly as it goes along, going from a simple piano arrangement with understated orchestration to a soaring pop chorus. According to Benj, the song’s transitions mirror the rise in emotions, much like our thoughts do, particularly when love and self-doubt are at play. Capturing that emotional journey and the accompanying internal conflict was the aim of this process.

“Alinlangan” by Benj Pangilinan is currently available on all digital music platforms across the globe through Sony Music Entertainment.

Follow him on socials:

Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube

The award-winning Filipino band will also embark on a global tour across five cities in Asia and North America

Orange & Lemons, an indie pop quartet, celebrates the romantic season with a new rendition of The Carpenters’ timeless hit song “Close To You.”

The band’s rendition, which was released in time for Valentine’s Day, gives the classic song a contemporary spin while maintaining the emotional depth of the original.

Compared to their typical live performance, the remake of “Close To You” has a few minor improvements and embellishments.

Clem Castro, the lead vocalist and guitarist of the band, recalls the origins of the cover, which dates back to 1999 when the Bulacan-based band was preparing the material for their debut album, Love In the Land of Rubber Shoes & Dirty Ice Cream. He explains, “I was inspired to create a cover version for live gigs and challenged ourselves to integrate our own sound. It has been a staple since then on our set list. On top of that, I am a huge fan of Burt Bacharach.”

According to Clem, one of the major distinctions from the original version is the absence of the transposition, which sets this cover apart from others. The band reinterprets “Close To You” with keyboard elements that elevate the track’s melodic appeal.

“The guitar solo rolling bass lines, and drum pattern is definitely O&L,” Clem adds. “The build up at the end was eargasm for us. It is safe to say, this is infinitely different from any version you can find on streaming sites.”

In addition to the release of “Close To You,” the Hanggang Kailan chart-toppers are gearing up for an international tour. The band will visit five cities across Asia and North America, bringing their beloved hits, fresh tracks, and rarities to fans worldwide.

March 2: Singapore

May 30: Toronto, Canada

May 31: New York, USA

June 6: San Francisco, USA

June 7: Los Angeles, USA

“Close To You” by Orange & Lemons is currently available on all digital music platforms across the globe through Lily Stars Records.

The live version serves as the band’s first official release in 2025

Ben&Ben celebrates the season of love with the release of their charming new track, “Tomorrow With You,” which is presently available through Sony Music Entertainment.

The song explores how resilient love can be in the face of life’s uncertainties and stresses the need of living in the present, particularly during difficult times.

According to Ben&Ben, the song depicts their growth as individuals and as artists when surrounded by friends, family, and loved ones. It drew inspiration from those who impacted and molded their journey as a group and as individuals.

“Given that we have travelled quite far already in these dimensions, Tomorrow With You brings in the wisdom and maturity gained in these areas of our lives and channels it into a love song that embodies all of it,” explains the Pagtingin act.

The release of the track is accompanied by an audio bundle, which includes a live and a studio version. The band expressed their excitement over Spotify’s audio bundle feature, which allows listeners to enjoy both versions back-to-back, with the option to loop them for an immersive experience. “We poured different types of creative energy into both—one being a live performance and the other being a studio recording.” 

The live version of “Tomorrow With You” is particularly significant, as the band believes it gives listeners a chance to experience a Ben&Ben concert on an intimate level. The band describes the feeling as a “unique audiovisual storytelling adventure that hopefully becomes a part of their own life stories as well.”

“The live performance was meticulously recorded during a concert that meant a lot to us and to our Liwanag [fans],” they add. “The event was a milestone after a year marred with many struggles, hardships, failures, and lessons. Quite literally, it was the embodiment of the lyrics in the song: Embrace hard times with you, ‘til they’re gone.”

Produced by Indonesian musician Petra Sihombing, “Tomorrow With You” blends ‘70s singer-songwriter pop, jazz, and classic soul influences with a waltz-like rhythm, creating a soothing soundscape for moments spent with your special someone. The song’s rich textures are brought to life by Sihombing’s production, which the band says beautifully captured the song’s emotional depth and dynamics.

“Our good friend from Indonesia, Petra Sihombing, produced the track,” shares the nine-member band. “He was trying to achieve translating the earnestness of emotion and the steady buildup of the song in terms of dynamics and the frequencies highlighted, which we feel he did quite well. It’s always a pleasure working with Petra. Additionally, Ziv, our friend who produced the other tracks in the album, laid down the saxophone part, which added a whole new nuance to the song.”

“Tomorrow With You” is the most current single from Ben&Ben’s third full-length album, The Traveller Across Dimensions, which was just published. Sony Music Entertainment has made the song available on all digital music outlets across the globe.

The nationwide tour will feature live performances featuring songs from their 2024 album, Alegorya, along with fan favorites

In an effort to promote their third full-length 2024 album, Alegorya, Munimuni will tour the Philippines the following month.

Baguio, La Union, Metro Manila, Lucena, Cebu, Cagayan De Oro, and Davao are among the places in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao where the well-known Filipino band will perform during the first leg of their countrywide tour.

The five-piece band will play lengthy sets during the tour, which is co-produced and co-organized by GNN Entertainment Productions. Each city will have guest artists to support the band. To take the tour outside of the capital, the tour has also teamed together with Filla Killa, Indie CDO, Holodeck Productions, Alpas, Film and Print, and Whitebox Collective.

“We try to get tour locations where we can reach both our current listeners and new ones,” shares the five-piece act in a collective statement. “In locations that are further away, although we can’t possibly reach every city, we had it in mind to choose venues that are accessible to as much of our listeners as possible. Another factor would be the existence of local productions, as we wanted to collaborate with and support local scenes.”

Apart from the commitment to reach out to the music listeners from far-flung areas that don’t normally see them perform live, the folk-pop quintet also expressed excitement in performing songs off their latest album, along with some fan favorites.

“We are embarking on this tour in order to promote our latest album, Alegorya. We’ll be singing a lot of songs from the album, but also some older songs. We plan our setlists in a way that makes sense depending on what main message we feel like we need to communicate for the particular event and audience.”

Tour schedule so far:

March 9, 2025: La Union (Alpas)

April 2, 2025: Baguio (TBA)

April 6, 2025: Lucena (Whitebox Collective)

April 12, 2025: Cebu (From Here)

April 25, 2025: Cagayan de Oro (TBA)

April 26, 2025: Davao (TBA)

May 17, 2025: Metro Manila (123 Block)

Soon, the band’s official social media pages will provide more information on the Munimuni: ALEGORYA Philippine Tour.

Ahead of her stints at SXSW and BMC, Muri will perform at her own send-off party this February 22, 2025 at Astbury Makati, along with Clara Benin, The Ransom

Indie pop/soul sensation MURI is scheduled to represent the Philippines at this year’s Bangkok Music City (BMC) after recently confirming that she will play at the 2025 South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Festival.

Alongside 58 Thai artists and over 18 international artists, MURI, the well-known singer-songwriter who is recognized for her distinctive fusion of R&B, jazz, soul, and indie pop, will perform on a worldwide scale.

“I believe there’s a wealth of untapped potential for artists to connect within ASEAN, and I’m thrilled to perform in Bangkok for the first time,” shares the rising Filipino act. “I’ve also heard so much about the Thai music scene and can’t wait to check out Thai and regional musicians while I’m there. And hopefully give them a little taste of what Filipino music is too.”

As she continues to captivate international and local audiences, MURI is also preparing to release a string of exciting new tracks, including collaborations with music producers from Japan, Malaysia, and her home country, the Philippines. “2025 has just been kicking off with a bang. I feel so grateful for all these opportunities, and I’m looking forward to performing and pushing out new music, including some collaborations and my own solo work.”

The good news doesn’t stop there: Apart from her stints at SXSW and Bangkok Music City, Muri will be throwing her own send-off party on March 22, 2025, at Sixty32 Cocktail Lounge in Rockwell, Makati City. Fans can expect a memorable evening, as MURI is joined by an incredible lineup: award-winning singer-songwriter Clara Benin, indie-folk band The Ransom Collective, and promising newcomer OZO. The intimate show is co-produced by GNN, in partnership with Locked Down Entertainment and NYOU. Tickets are available via https://www.bit.ly/murisendoff.

MURI’s debut EP, 11ème, which was published late last year, transports listeners to the artist’s experiences in many locations and cultures. Additionally, in September 2024, she performed at the AXEAN Music Festival in Bali, Indonesia.

Bangkok Music City, which will be held in Bangkok’s Charoenkrung Creative District on March 1 and 2, 2025, is billed as the “pioneer music conference and showcase festival in Thailand.” Live Nation Tero, Fungjai, and Nylon Thailand are leading the charge for its 2025 comeback.

Follow Muri:

Instagram / Facebook / YouTube / TikTok / Twitter 

Listen to the album here:

Album link

Space Arcade, situated adjacent to Space & Time Cube, an immersive museum with 18 themed attractions and activities for people of all ages, on the ground floor of S Maison at Conrad Hotel, Seaside Boulevard, Pasay City, is set to provide the Philippines with an exciting VR entertainment experience all in one location.

With nine attractions, Space Arcade gives you a heart-pounding experience that puts you right in the thick of everything. There is something for everyone, including exhilarating shooting games and two-wheeled and four-wheeled racing challenges! Some attractions even create powerful gusts, which heightens the experience and encourages you to play to the end. As you play together, bring your buddies to join a squad or turn into your enemies!

If you want to take a break and capture some memories, Space Arcade also offers a self photo booth. Choose from a variety of filters and layouts that you can mix and match according to your preferences.

This new VR arcade is sure to be enjoyed by everyone, whether you’re coming solo, looking for a unique date experience, or hanging out with friends.

The games are very reasonably priced! Start your journey by adding at least P200 to your card. The cost of the game varies from P48 to P120, depending on the degree of adventure you desire. Even more thrilling is the fact that Space Arcade gives out additional free credits after you add a specific amount to your card.

Prepare for the big reveal and get ready to explore a whole new world of fun with Space Arcade!

With the new track, the Filipina rapper/songwriter continues to prove herself as one of the most promising new voices in modern hip-hop

The well-known Filipina rapper and songwriter Peaceful Gemini is back with her new track,  “Piece of Gem,” which is out now through Sony Music Entertainment. The multi-talented artist’s new song marks another milestone in her musical journey as she sheds deceptive energies that no longer serve her purpose and embraces the development, resilience, and clarity she’s acquired along the way.

Peaceful Gemini, who is well-known for her genuine storytelling style, grounds her success in hardship and tenacity in her most recent song, which examines her development as a person and an artist.

“It’s all about making moves—making a commitment to progression and growth,” shares the Warrior Princess herself. “This song allowed me to acknowledge the strength and resilience that was shaped by my origins, environment, and the challenges I’ve faced. It’s a reminder that wellness comes from a holistic perspective: tapping into ancestral guidance, trusting God’s divine timing, and embracing life’s natural cycle as we rise with the sun.”

The acclaimed Filipino emcee also reveals that fame and external validation don’t define her at all. With this song, she leans into the lightness and warmth of love, offering a rare, unfiltered glimpse into her artistry and philosophy.

“What matters to me is sharing my message to listeners who can resonate with it or feel recognized or represented by the music,” she adds.

Peaceful Gemini is the writer of “Piece of Gem,” which was produced by Mesklun, whose music blends modern hip-hop components with the vigor of boombap. Mesklun’s production approach, which is distinguished by a distinct bounce and sophisticated taste, blends well with Peaceful Gemini’s easygoing flow to create a sound that feels both sultry and grounded.

“This track stands out because it diverges from the classic PG boom bap sound and flow,” says the acclaimed hip-hop artist. “It’s more refined, modern, and polished — an evolution of my artistry — and I absolutely love it.”

“Piece of Gem” by Peaceful Gemini is currently available on all digital music platforms globally through Sony Music Entertainment.