Justin Timberlake, a multi-award winner, releases the music video for his new song “Selfish” jointly with RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment.
The catchy melody and passionate vocals of the pop-infused song propel it forward. “Selfish,” which was co-written and produced by Timberlake, Louis Bell (Taylor Swift, Post Malone), Cirkut (Maroon 5, The Weeknd), Theron Thomas, and Amy Allen, is the first solo track that Justin has released since his 2018 Man of the Woods album.
The song’s contemplation is brought to life in the video, which was directed by Bradley J. Calder (SZA, Tinashe), by revealing the inner workings of the production and blurring the boundaries between performance and reality. It’s an unvarnished and truthful depiction of Justin as a person and artist.
Everything I Thought It Was, Justin’s sixth studio album, will be out on March 15. Get it in advance HERE.
Justin Timberlake’s new single “Selfish” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment/Columbia Records. Watch the music video here.
The catchy bop serves as the lead single off his debut album, out next
The lead track from his debut album, which is anticipated later this year, “Tragedy,” was released today by singer-songwriter and producer Dhruv. The piano-driven song, which was co-written by Dhruv and produced by JT Daly, captures the depressing sensation of losing a split following an unsuccessful attempt to make amends with an ex. Check out the song’s audio here.
“Writing ‘Tragedy’ was the first time I made something that I feel has my stamp on it,” Dhruv says. “It was the first song we finished for my album, and it became a natural entry point into the world of my upcoming record. ‘Tragedy’ feels like it could be a blueprint for things that I’m going to make in the future. If you read the lyrics, it could seem like a drag. But we spent a lot of time trying to make a song that feels more like a wink, more ironic than depressing or sad. I’m really proud of how I was able to turn an experience that was flat-out miserable into something that’s kind of funny.”
The “Tragedy” music video, which was directed by Dhruv and shot all across London, explores the themes of sadness in the song while also finding comedy in the circumstances. AboveGround directed the video, in which Dhruv plays out his own version of a tragedy while looking for answers but only encountering misfortune at every turn.
Dhruv signed to Little Worry/RCA Records due to his contemplative lyrics and artistic vision, after being praised by NME as an artist producing “vital, anthemic” pop. With over half a billion Spotify plays for the smash song “double take” from his debut EP, the rest of his discography has amassed over a billion streams overall, with 7 million additional streams added to it every week. Dhruv went on to sell out his tour dates in the US and the UK in 2022 and Asia in 2023 after securing supporting roles with singers such as Joji.
Dhruv’s song “Tragedy” is currently available via Sony Music Entertainment on all digital music platforms globally.
Blending hip-hop with rock music influences, the prolific songwriter/producer teams up with his brother Josue on this astounding new jam
PABLO from SB19 is back with another hit!
The new song “DETERMINADO,” the Filipino singer-songwriter/producer’s first release under Sony Music Entertainment this year, breaks the Sboundaries between hip-hop and rock.
The genre-bending single, which was produced by his brother Josue, maintains the distinctive characteristics of the La Luna act as an artist who is at ease with his own identity and sonic direction while pushing experimentation to the limit.
Speaking highly of his favorite partner, PABLO lauded Josue for bringing innovative ideas to the track during its incubation phase and letting him shine with a strong producing style that isn’t limited by trends.
“We’re a team, we always work hand in hand, always learning from each other, and drawing inspiration back and forth,” said the multi-talented soloist. “We grew up in the same environment so we just vibe and connect easily.”
Integrating dense instrumentation with gloomy synths and booming, confrontational beats, “DETERMINADO” not only impresses listeners with its scale and ambition but also reveals a different side of the SB19 vocalist and main rapper: someone who finds moments of vulnerability and strength in the face of chaos. In the words of PABLO himself, “It’s a realization when we find the courage to actually do what we want, and what kind of artist we aspire to be. We are confronting our fears and roadblocks, but still moving forward.”
Determined to jumpstart a new phase in his career, PABLO is more confident in his undertaking as a musician, going to a sonic space that remains untouched even by his contemporaries and peers.
He adds, “Our music is not just the output; it’s a collective of all the micro-things that happen behind the scenes and all throughout the process. We are more assertive now. Also, this song marks a departure from our previous releases; it’s a blend of hip-hop and rock genres.”
Aside from “DETERMINADO,” PABLO is also gearing up for a more exciting 2024. He’s looking into dropping more solo releases apart from his work with SB19, and possibly a debut album to be released soon.
As the prolific artist puts it, “Again, going back to the song title, we are indeed on this journey. I have so many things planned to do in 2024, and definitely one of those is to release my own album.”
“DETERMINADO”by PABLO is currently available via Sony Music Entertainment on all digital music platforms worldwide.
HIROYUKI SAWANO PHOTO: DOWNLOAD TOMORROW X TOGETHER PHOTO: DOWNLOAD PLEASE USE CREDIT: (P)&(C) BIGHIT MUSIC
“LEveL,” a new single from renowned composer HIROYUKI SAWANO’s vocal project SawanoHiroyuki[nZk] featuring TOMORROW X TOGETHER, a global sensation in K-pop, has been released by SACRA MUSIC.
The opening theme for the recently released TV cartoon SOLO LEVELING is a track by Sawano with a unique rhythm and catchy sound. TOMORROW x TOGETHER provide guest vocals that perfectly compliment the series’ intense, action-packed plot.
Sawano, who is well-known for his musical compositions for several anime series, TV dramas, and motion pictures, such as Attack on Titan, Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash, and Promare, was assigned to compose the opening theme for Solo Leveling in addition to the series’ original soundtrack music. The highly anticipated series, which debuted globally this weekend, is based on the internationally successful Korean novel and comic of the same name (Original Work: DUBU (REDICE STUDIO), Chugong, h-goon [D&C Webtoon Biz.]).
“I feel very honored to produce the music for Solo Leveling and also the main theme as SawanoHiroyuki[nZk],” remarks singer-songwriter HIROYUKI SAWANO about the song. Their variety of vocal styles added a groove and edge to the music, and I was able to work feeling their abilities on hand. I am grateful for the chance to collaborate with TOMORROW X TOGETHER. I truly hope that people will like the anime together with my music because it is a work that I am looking forward to viewing as a TV viewer myself.
“LEveL expresses the strength of the main character with its dark and heavy feeling,” TOMORROW X TOGETHER continues. Please listen to our music and the anime repeatedly as it has a unique and enticing beat that really sticks in your head.
TOMORROW X TOGETHER add, “LEveL expresses the main character’s strength with its dark and heavy feeling. Its distinctive and addictive rhythm really sticks to your head once you hear it, so please enjoy our song over and over along with the anime.”
WATCH A COMMENT VIDEO FROM TOMORROW X TOGETHER HERE
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of Tourism (DOT) have recognized Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, three times this year. These accolades reinforce the company’s unwavering vision to become Asia’s premier integrated attraction destination and the country’s leader in healthy family entertainment.
For the first semester of 2023, EK was acknowledged by BIR as the Top 2 Highest Value Added Tax contributor in the Biñan – West Laguna District. The aforementioned acknowledgment serves as evidence of the business’s timely and precise payments, which have been crucial in helping the district meet its revenue target for the first half of 2023.
EK’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Melissa Y. Monicayo emphasized the company’s commitment to pay the right taxes on time to the BIR. “This is in part of EK’s obligation to give back to our community, as we recognize our impact to the progress of our region,” she explained. In fact, Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas acknowledged EK as one of the city’s top taxpayers during EK’s Giant Parol Lighting held last November.
Last November, the DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP) gave a special recognition to Enchanted Kingdom for being the first and longest Go Lokal retail partner during the FlexPinoy: Saludo sa Go Lokal! Retail Partners appreciation ceremony held at the DTI Head Office in Makati City. The event recognized Go Lokal retail partners and store operators who have made significant contributions to the continued success and growth of the innovative market access program of the DTI-BDTP.
According to Ms. Ma. Cherina Consunji, Head of Merchandise Division, Enchanted Kingdom embraced the “Go Lokal” initiative and promotes indigenous products through the establishment of “Pugad” in 2016. “Pugad is EK’s local souvenir shop which aims to provide access to new markets and a bigger audience for artisanal products in the country,” Ms. Consunji furthered.
And most recently, EK was one of the awardees during the “Mabuhay at Salamat Po! Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Recognition Celebration of Love” held last December 12 at the Makati Diamond Hotel, Makati City. Led by DOT Secretary, Maria Christina Frasco, the event recognized the significant contributions of Enchanted Kingdom and other institutions in advocating the FBSE and contributing greatly to the achievement of training more than 124,000 tourism frontliners for 2023.
As of this writing, 89% of EK’s full-time Cast Members have been trained under DOT’s flagship program which is envisioned to enhance and uplift the quality of tourism services in the country aimed at fostering excellent service to tourists as part of our distinct Filipino brand. Pauline C. Barreiro, EK’s Learning and Development Manager and a certified FBSE enterprise trainer shared that EK is geared towards training 100% of its full-time Cast Members by next year.
The world-class theme park is also a finalist in two categories for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Brass Ring Excellence Award, which honors notable achievement in the international attractions industry, according to Dr. Cynthia R. Mamon, COO of Enchanted Kingdom.
EK is a finalist in two categories: Games and Merchandise Excellence: Best Retail Visual Merchandise Display and Human Resources Excellence: Best Health and Wellbeing Strategy. In March 2024, the winners will be formally revealed, and the ceremony will take place at The Venetian in Las Vegas.
“The year 2023 is a remarkable year for Enchanted Kingdom, as we recover from the impact of the recent pandemic. We are looking forward to a more magical 2024 as we continue to deliver world-class leisure and entertainment to all Filipinos. As our Anniversary slogan goes, “Be the Magic… Be Enchanted!” Dr. Mamon said.
The undisputed “Queen of Christmas” also dropped a behind-the-scenes look at her sold-out tour, ‘Merry Christmas One and All!’
With “All I Want For Christmas Is You”returning to the summit of the Billboard Hot 100 this week, Mariah Carey maintains her position as the undisputed Queen of Christmas.
Since its 1994 release, the pop megastar has spent a total of 13 weeks at the top of the chart, making it the most successful Christmas single ever.
A record-breaking 16 weeks at the top of the Billboard Global 200 chart, which rates songs based on streaming and sales data aggregated from more than 200 countries and territories worldwide, is another way that “All I Want For Christmas Is You” creates history.
To mark its global dominance and impact, an activation in the Philippines and Southeast Asia has gone viral featuring Mariah Carey getting “defrosted from a giant Christmas snowball.” After seeing the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Globe campaign that blew up on social media platform, X, Mariah acknowledged the tweet with a positive response complete with celebratory emojis.
In addition to the celebration of the song’s overwhelming success, Mariah Carey has released The Merry Christmas One And All! mini documentary, which gives music fans an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at her sold-out arena tour, Merry Christmas One and All!.
Sony Music Entertainment has Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You (Festive Lambs Edition)” available on all digital music platforms across the globe. Check out the playlist, which included Mariah’s well-known holiday hit, here.
Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” is available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Listen to the playlist here, which includes Mariah’s iconic holiday smash.
The P-Pop group will be performing some of the fan favorites, which includes individual and group segments
The first major concert by P-Pop group KAIA is scheduled on December 19, 2023, at the Teatrino Promenade in Greenhills, San Juan. The band is excited to take the stage.
The much awaited event, dubbed KAIA IS HERE: 1st Solo Concert, is expected to feature incredible performances and high-caliber songs that demonstrate the Filipino group’s unquestionable artistic development and dedication.
The all-girl group will be playing live, featuring solo and group pieces created especially for their fan base, along with some of the new and beloved songs.
KAIA expressed their excitement about headlining their own solo show, which they consider a dream come true. “We had always dreamed of having our own solo concert, and now it’s happening,” shares the chart-topping act in a press statement. “While the pressure of it being our first solo show weighs on us, we’re fully dedicated to delivering the best possible experience to our fans.”
To make the production numbers extra special, KAIA underwent intensive training in dancing, singing, and performing, including cardio workouts due to the dance breaks and surprises that they will be showcasing on the day of the show.
“Despite the challenges, we pushed ourselves to deliver more than our best for our fans, ZAIA,” said the five-piece ensemble. To our ZAIA, thank you for your undying love and support for us. Because of all of you, our concert has become possible. In return, we will give you a performance that you will remember forever.”
Tickets for Kaia’s first solo performance are almost sold out and can be purchased via TicketNet and its physical locations across the country. To provide fans with the full fan experience, tickets are packaged with official merchandise.
When it comes to the topic of gratitude, most, if not all, musicians start off by saying, “I would like to thank my fans.” While skill undoubtedly plays a major role, nothing is more miraculous than when a form of expression gains traction and becomes widely recognized in popular culture. Super fans have evolved from their early manifestations of fervent devotion in the entertainment industry’s stronghold to the contemporary stan, as described in the poetry of Mr. Marshall Mathers III (that’s Eminem to you), to the general public. As a result, they are now the lifeblood of the entertainment industry and, in essence, an unmatched force to be reckoned with.
The stories of the superfans, from casual curiosity to ardent preference, are all similar because, although our levels of dedication may differ, we are all devoted to something or, well, someone. Taking inspiration from the success of its superfan event in 2022, Fanverse, UMusic Philippines is recognizing efforts that are nothing short of captivating and charming. Here, in a reimagined version of a fairytale, stars and fans will come together for a one-of-a-kind event infused with even more music and magic. Navigate to the adventure in Enchanted Kingdom, the most magical site in the Philippines, on December 17, 2023. Here, you’ll get the chance to live out your dreams of hanging out with your best friends at the Fanverse fan fair in an unforgettable setting.
You can fully participate in all of the unique activities planned for Fanverse 2023 in Enchanted Kingdom with the assistance of Eldar The Wizard. Regular day passes with concert entry cost P2000, while the EKspress day pass with concert entry costs P3000. Tickets include access to a variety of activities and games, meet and greets with your favorite musicians, busking sessions, a closet sale, and of course, an incredible music festival. It’s safe to say that the stars have aligned with artists like Juan Karlos, Zild, Jayda, Janine Berdin, Blaster, Dionela, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT, VXON, G22, AJAA, Yes My Love, Elha Nympha, Cydel, Isang, Shane Bernabe, Daniel Paringit, CHNDTR, Chen, Gab Tagadtad, dia maté, and more. Zack Tabudlo will be making a special appearance.
Even if everything sounds amazing and exciting, UMusic Fanverse 2023 in Enchanted Kingdom is basically a service to the one person who matters most to these celebrities: you. You are the main character in this novel, where your envisioned will become a reality rather than just a wish that your heart produces from a far, far away.
FanVerse 2023 is presented by UMusic Philippines, Universal Music Group Philippines, and Enchanted Kingdom. For more information and latest updates, follow their social media channels at @umusic.ph, @umgph, and @enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook, @ek_philippines on Instagram.
The prominent digital content platform PGAG is operated by technology-driven media business Hepmil Philippines, which has introduced innovative programs to develop the abilities and skills of hundreds of talented artists and creators within its network.
Hepmil Media Group’s Hepmil Philippines division oversees digital content platforms like SGAG and MGAG. The company’s original content division creates material that reaches more than 30 million Gen Z and millennial viewers each week around the region, and its creator network collaborates with more than 800 of the best digital content producers in the area, whose work receives over 3 billion views each month.
Hepmil Talents as TikTok Sellers
With the introduction of its social commerce solutions, Hepmil Philippines now gives its content creators the freedom to investigate different revenue streams for their work. In order to support their direct-to-consumer efforts, this initiative launches a new incubation program that will help them develop their social selling abilities and establish collaborations with local e-commerce firms.
“The unstoppable rise of TikTok Shop in the Philippines has brought a platform for our creators to not only elevate their game in content creation but also to increase their opportunities for monetized content,” said Jel Directo, Country Manager of Hepmil Creators’ Network.
“Since this is fast-growing in the local market, we have trained our creators in effective live selling, live streaming, and also affiliate content building. With this, we continue to be partners of brands that are first-movers in the bottom funnel creator marketing able to support them as they speed up test-and-learn efforts,” she added.
Expanding Hepmil Creators’ Network in the Philippines
Hepmil welcomed accomplished creators such as Jico Umali (Jiconyo), Pipay Kipay, and Adam Alejo into its roster of talented exclusive creators under its digital creator community, Hepmil Creators’ Network (HCN).
“We want our creator network to be represented by those who truly understand our passion and skill in content creation. With Jico as our homegrown creator in PGAG; Pipay known on TikTok for her comedy and wit and Adam Alejo, a YouTuber known for his most-watched idea-first challenges, we are able to showcase our ability to support brands in creating content that connects and matters to their audience,” Directo explained.
With a deep understanding of local culture, Hepmil and its partners are pioneering communication strategies tailored to engage this new generation of mobile-first consumers. Through organic integration into engaging content, brands can make authentic connections with audiences who want entertainment value.
Hepmil Philippines Reveals New and Relatable Showstoppers
True to its mission of empowering and supporting more content creators, the company has created a list of shows that offer entertainment and relatable contents for the audience. At the forefront is “Oner Gang,” an exhilarating travel show featuring social media sensations Jico Umali and Risha Rodriguez. Embarking on an adventure across the Philippines, each episode immerses viewers in the tapestry of local communities to offer an authentic glimpse into the nation’s diverse cultures. From savoring delectable cuisines to exploring natural wonders, “Oner Gang” promises an unforgettable expedition.
Injecting humor into the lineup is PGAG‘s latest show, a workplace satire hilariously named “Sa Office.” Starring a stellar cast including Eryka Lucas, Jico Umali, Al Gentrix, and Bert Javellana, the series provides a comedic yet relatable look at office life. Penned by Aly Almario (Alyloony), “Sa Office” guarantees PGAG’s signature laugh-out-loud moments.
“We continue to innovate new shows, with our partner creators, to bring engaging and entertaining content to our fans, new and old,” said Erwin Razon, General Manager of PGAG and Bent Pixels Asia.
Established in 2018, PGAG is a marketing company based in the Philippines that connects with locals on a daily basis. It creates localized digital content for more than 24 million Millennials and Gen Z, particularly memes and videos, reaching over a few million Filipinos weekly through our four content distribution channels.
“The company’s strategic partnerships with rising platforms like Oner Gang and PGAG offer brands a strategic entry point into the evolving realm of digital marketing. As the rules of engagement are being rewritten, Hepmil is poised to author the next chapter in the industry,” said Razon.
“We strongly believe in the balance of advertising and entertainment on content, a mindset that allows us to thrive in integrating brand messages seamlessly within our content, while maintaining the authenticity and entertainment that our fans love,” he added.
The compilation record features tracks from ena mori, Mt. Lewis, Elton Clark, Sansette, and more
With a new compilation CD that features its amazing lineup of local musicians, Offshore Music—a record label based in Manila that is well-known for emphasizing artistic integrity—captures the essence of the festive season.
Aptly titled An Offshore Christmas, the 9-track record earworms its way into the collective consciousness with diverse stories spanning generations and experiences, interpreting what Christmas meant from varied lenses: a joyful hymn that brims with life and humanity, a vodka-induced downer that revels in the sentiments of missing home, a quirky jam that envelopes listeners with comforting warmth, and simply, a frustrated sad song that barely keeps up with the season’s booming, optimistic energy.
“The album is a kaleidoscope of emotions, from melancholy to euphoria, as well as a feast for anyone who enjoys all kinds of music,” said Offshore Music CEO Ely Buendia.
Audry Dionisio, general manager of Offshore Music, is proud of the record’s refusal to fit neatly into a preconceived notion of what a holiday-themed record ought to be. As she notes, “We also made sure that people from different walks of life would not feel left out. Every song in the album can be played way past the Christmas season, that’s for sure.”
The Christmas-themed album features recently released tracks from its esteemed lineup of artists, including Pinkmen, Suspiria Pink, Elton Clark, Sansette, Eliza Marie, JR Oca Experience, Sulo, as well as additional new songs from ena mori and Mt. Lewis.
“With the new roster of artists on board, it also created a fresh and inspired energy within us to collaborate more with them and for them to showcase their abilities to the public more,” Offshore Music A&R Director Pat Sarabia shares.
Mt. Lewis’ “Trip To Jerusalem,” the album’s focus track, provides a contemporary spin on The Eraserheads’ cult holiday classic while retaining the original’s intrinsic charm and fuzz. When asked about how he feels about the rendition, Ely Buendia expressed his approval of the band’s tenacity to breathe new life to an underrated, deep cut. “We thought it was fitting to honor their brave achievement by having one of our artists cover a song from Fruitcake for our own Christmas release.”
Another album highlight is ena mori’s “Christmas Song (Version II),” a bittersweet little tune about choosing to celebrate Christmas alone with cats rather than joining a party filled with family members and friends who do nothing but send a minefield of emotional triggers. Over snappy, acoustic guitars and minimal percussions, the alt-pop star delivers an anthem that is bold and uncompromising in its message but remains hopeful amidst the intention to hide the hurting.
Offshore A&R Manager Otep Tumambing emphasizes that the holiday record is more than just a reinforcement of postcard-perfect tradition but also a time to nurse the wounds of isolation and grief—all valid feelings that deserve to be celebrated on the same level as their merrier counterparts.
“Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays globally, symbolizing joy, togetherness, and generosity. An Offshore Christmas aims to provide our artists and their audience with a platform to express their views on Christmas, even if it’s about sadness and loneliness. Not everyone experiences the usual ‘happy’ Christmas, and they deserve to be celebrated as well.”
‘An Offshore Christmas’ is currently available via Offshore Music and Sony Music Entertainment on all digital music platforms worldwide.
