Entertainment

The young multi-hyphenate will be launching his latest record on February 21 at Balcony Music House in Makati City

Listen to the album’s new single “LML” and bonus track “AOLID”

raven, a Filipino singer-songwriter and producer, explores the hues of life in her latest album Kinulayan, which is out now through Sony Music Entertainment.

Raven defines a Kinulayan as someone whose life was monotonous and uninteresting until they met someone who was worth taking a chance on in a romantic relationship.

With the primary intention of spreading happiness that radiates with positive emotions and expressions, the emerging phenomenon wrote and produced Kinulayan. Kinulayan is an energetic, colorful, and free-spirited record that makes it easy for listeners to enjoy life’s small pleasures and the escape they provide.

“The songs in the album reflect the different stages in a relationship,” the Balcony Music Entertainment act shares. “From catching feelings to wanting to spend the rest of your life with the other half, the record traces these developments from a romantic standpoint.”

Track list

The young newcomer’s second studio album features nine songs, with the addition of the bonus track “AOLID.” raven explains that the etymology of “AOLID” comes from the word “solid,” which he tends to mistype quite often. “It’s is my way of reclaiming the term in all its imperfect glory, while embracing the expression to lift others up and rise against the odds.”

Other songs in the album include the focus track “LML,” which was penned during a very tumultuous phase in his personal life. On the bedroom-pop ditty, raven turns moroseness into a source of inspiration, paying tribute to that special someone who helped him recover from the rock bottom and gave him a reason to make meaningful memories again.

Check out the tracks from his new album:

1. May Sasabihin Lang

2. Tayo Parin Talaga

3. Sinta

4. Sunday

5. Biyahe

6. LML

7. Pangako

8. AOLID (feat. Kvrt & Nichimi)

9. Pangako (with Angela Ken)

Album launch

This Wednesday, February 21, at 7:00 PM, raven will formally unveil the deluxe edition of his second studio album, Kinulayan, at Makati City’s Balcony Music House.

The album’s tunes, along with some previously released ones, will be performed live by the open-genre act for the first time. Weekends, ALYSON, Maki, Nichimi, TALA, and others are support acts. Get registered beginning at 6:30 p.m.

raven’s Kinulayan is currently available via Sony Music Entertainment on all digital music platforms worldwide.

The  official remix of “Get Right” features the collaboration of Filipino rapper Yuridope and P-Pop artist Josh Cullen. 

The two hit it off right away and had an unbreakable synergy. They dominated the remix with an unquenchable desire to change the beat, amp up the verses, and give a performance that was just as captivating as the original.

“I’ve been eyeing a remix for ‘Get Right’ with a local artist, and boom, Yuridope pops up,” the lead rapper and vocalist of SB19 reveals. “The dude is not just talented; he is genuine. And that verse of his? It was like he blinked and boom, and it was done. Literal na naglabada lang. (He literally washed it out).”

The remix treatment is a result of Josh’s collaboration with the multi-talented producer Cursebox, who gave the original song a fresh new perspective and enabled Josh to actualize his vision. As a result, an intergenre adjustment is made that pushes the boundaries of production.

Josh recounts, “Cursebox deconstructed the beat, experimenting with sounds and rhythms to breathe new life into the track. Throughout the process, we provided feedback, ensuring the arrangement aligned with our vision. In the end, Cursebox’s unique touch added depth to the song, elevating it to new heights while respecting its roots.”

Serving as a gateway to bridge the gap between hip-hop enthusiasts and his captured market, the reimagining of “Get Right” provides an exciting opportunity to introduce new elements to the music while also inviting fans from different genres to experience Josh’s sound in a fresh light.

Josh adds, “This collaboration opens doors to new connections and possibilities, enriching our musical journey and expanding our reach. And with this remix, we’re kicking off a larger journey, pioneering a unique sub-genre I’d like to call ‘hip-pop,’ which promises to bring even more innovation and excitement to the music scene.”

The rapper and singer from SB19, “Get Right,” navigates the difficulties of breaking it as a solo artist in a very competitive business while embracing his musical path. Josh Cullen wrote and directed the original version, with production assistance from Ocho the Bullet and UK-based indie legend No Rome.

The remix of “Get Right” by Josh Cullen and Yuridope is currently available via Sony Music Entertainment on all digital music platforms worldwide.

The popular loveteam known as “FranSeth” was the band’s unanimous pick for the leads

In the music video for NOBITA’s “Tayo Na Lang,” which is available today via Sony Music Entertainment, Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin play pals who have a secret crush on one another.

This is the second time that the well-known loveteam “FranSeth” has appeared in a music video. The first was during their highly publicized appearance as a young couple in Ace Banzuelo’s 2022 viral hit “Muli.”

The band unanimously decided that Francine and Seth should be the top choices for this project, according to MV director Jeff Valencia. 

Valencia says, “The people in NOBITA are fans of Franseth.” However, there’s something about Francine and Seth that radiates chemistry and mystery beyond just the desire they share. The song seemed to have been composed just for them. They performed with such natural grace and skill.

Set in a slumber party with a group of friends enjoying a fun-filled nightcap, the visual narrative fits perfectly with the song’s heartfelt earnestness and feel-good vibe, but takes a different turn towards the end.

“The plot twist is something that is non-negotiable on our part,” shares lead vocalist and acoustic guitarist Jaeson Felisimino. “The journey matters the most, for sure, but there’s so much weight in the things that we least expect. We’re grateful to our friend Jeff Valencia for turning our vision into a reality.”

Just in time for the Valentine season, NOBITA released “Tayo Na Lang” on all digital music platforms at midnight on February 14, 2024. The alt-pop ballad garnered significant attention on the day of its release, with #StreamTAYONALANGonSpotify becoming a trending topic.

“Tayo Na Lang” is written by Jaeson Felismino, Sam Aquino II, and Mark Quintero, with co-production by Brian Lotho. The track sounds classic NOBITA in terms of musicality and arrangement, creating a wonderfully dreamy backdrop that conveys those early days of passion and longing.

“We just want to make songs that reflect the state that we’re in,” shares NOBITA in a press statement. “We also care about delivering good songs that stand the test of time. We hope Tayo Na Lang makes the cut and will be remembered as the song that inspired our audience in a positive way.”

“Tayo Na Lang” by NOBITA is currently available via Sony Music Entertainment on all digital music platforms worldwide. Visit this link to view the music video here.

To further develop and promote Filipino music, Sony Music Entertainment (SME) Philippines and Off The Record, an independent record label based in Manila that is well-known for supporting Filipino musicians, have announced a new product and distribution agreement.

As part of the agreement, SME Philippines will distribute Off The Record’s song catalog all over the world and collaborate to establish marketing, artist development, media promotion, brand partnership, and synchronization initiatives.

Ricky Ilacad, an industry veteran who has paved the way for the biggest crossover, pop, and alternative artists of the past 20 years, established Off The Record with the goal of using his tried-and-true knowledge to help develop local Filipino talent and increase their prospects of success in the ever-evolving but universally accessible music scene.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Off The Record,” said Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Philippines, Sony Music Entertainment. “Ricky Ilacad has a proven track record of success in the music industry, and we share his passion for developing exceptional Filipino talent. Together, we will create unparalleled opportunities for artists and reshape the music industry.”

Both SME Philippines and Off The Record are experiencing exciting times as a result of their connection. Recently, Off The Record has seen success with albums from breakthrough band Paham (“Ganid”) and newcomer Ica Frias (“Oh Honey”). With the release of “Hello” through his musical persona totâ, Josh Villena of Autotelic also brought his A game to the label’s expanding roster of diverse talents. Top musicians like SB19, O SIDE MAFIA, and Ben&Ben are part of SME Philippines’ roster, which keeps it at the forefront of the Philippine music scene.

Ricky Ilacad, CEO of Off The Record, said: “I’ve always believed that Filipino music has the potential to take the world by storm. With SME Philippines as our partner, we will be able to provide our artists with the resources and support they need to achieve international success. We are excited to embark on this journey together and help Filipino music reach new heights. This time, we’re going global without leaving home.”

SME Philippines and Off The Record together have the potential to have a big impact on the world of music. The collaboration is evidence of both the companies’ dedication to fostering and advancing Filipino talent as well as the rising popularity of Filipino music.

New releases in February 2024:

YMP Cash – “Life” :: February 2, 2024

Here+Now – “Still Alive” :: February 2, 2024

Lee Noynoy – “Sasaluhin Kita (Acoustic)” :: February 16, 2024

The first and only top-notch theme park in the Philippines, Enchanted Kingdom, has released its February specials for Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day.

Enchanting Dinner in the Sky, a Japanese-themed dinner experience for parties and couples that includes a ride on the Wheel of Fate, is returning to EK. As you craft your enchanting story with us, take in the breathtaking vistas and be sure to bring home photo mementos and red string bracelets. Every weekend in February and on Valentine’s Day, standard day pass tickets are also included in the Enchanting Dinner in the Sky.

EK is celebrating the Year of the Dragon with their EnChinese New Year Promo. From February 9 to 29, family and friends may enjoy an exclusive Chinese lauriat set dinner that serves four people, together with four normal day pass tickets. This will let them feel the charm of prosperity. Use the EK Online Store to book this promotion right now.

On Saturday, February 10, Power Duo, the grand finalist of Asia’s Got Talent, will be the main attraction at EK’s Chinese New Year celebration. IOX Dancers and EK’s very own Victoria’s Way and Kingsmen will be joining them. To celebrate the year of the dragon, visitors to the park can see a traditional Chinese dragon and lion dance performed all throughout the park.

Finally, EK commemorates Hug-A-Palooza, which is in its sixth year and marks the beginning of the season of love with cozy hugs amongst friends, family, and loved ones. On Saturday, February 17, park visitors will be serenaded by Sparkle GMA Artist Ken Chan.

Visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph/ as well as EK’s official social media pages @ek_philippines on Twitter and Instagram and @enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook and Tiktok for additional details on these events and promotions.

A top-tier collection of the band’s most iconic alt-rock anthems, the compilation album is the go-to playlist to hype OPM fans for their reunion concert on February 17, 2024 at the SMDC Festival Ground

Rivermaya has solidified its status as one of the most influential Filipino bands of all time with their timeless pop-rock hits that transcend generations. Their songs have fulfilled their intended roles as wonderful starting points for personal discussions and consoling sources for all Filipinos who long for music that feels like home.

In addition to its melancholic and occasionally reflective thoughts on love, suffering, freedom, and youth, Rivermaya’s songs were written with a combination of steadfast sincerity and vulnerability, encapsulating the essence of ordinary life in complex yet understandable lyrics.

Some of the most enduring masterpieces in Pinoy rock have been recorded by the band, which featured Bamboo Mañalac, Mark Escueta, Nathan Azarcon, and Rico Blanco in its legendary lineup from 1994 to 1998. The popular quartet achieved commercial success while delivering groundbreaking cultural impact and artistic vision in equal measure—something that has proven elusive, even among their contemporaries in the field. From the heart-pounding sing-alongs of “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita,” “Elesi,” and “Ulan” to the stadium-sized glory of “Awit Ng Kabataan” and “Kisapmata,” from the melancholic balladry of “If,” “Panahon Na Naman,” and “214” to the cult appeal of “Bring Me Down” and “Luha,” the popular foursome achieved commercial success while delivering groundbreaking cultural impact and artistic vision in equal measure.

Their legacy, which shaped the ever-fickle pop culture of the ‘90s with their distinct brand of eloquence and charm, is fully captured in their essential Rivermaya – Greatest Hits: Himig Ng Dekada 90 album, which chronicles the biggest hits of their formative years as well as the underrated tunes that still hold merit up to this day. Featuring twelve of their most iconic songs and two remixes, the compilation album gives listeners a complete picture of the band’s music: fearless in its humanity and imperfection, but smugly cool in portraying tenderness, chaos, and adventurousness in situations that don’t always feel like they’re made for the movies. It’s as real as it gets.

“There are powerful messages in the songs, for those who need to hear them,” drummer Mark Escueta reflects on the compilation album’s intrinsic appeal. “Overall, it’s fun to listen to the songs, even the sad ones. We’re honored that we get to share our music and inspire people on a personal, intimate level. We no longer own these songs; they belong to anyone who dares to wholeheartedly embrace them and still emerge whole from the process. It’s everyone’s songs now.”

With Mañalac, Escueta, Azarcon, and Blanco headlining a reunion concert on February 17, 2024, at the SMDC Festival Grounds, Rivermaya’s Greatest Hits record serves not only as a convincing argument for the band’s inimitable genius but also as a guide to the immortal music that’s so deeply ingrained in Pinoy collective consciousness. For long-time fans who would want to deep-dive into the band’s discography and review their career-defining ‘karaoke’ jams, this compilation album is the way to go for the essential no-skips fodder.

Here’s the track list to get you started:

1. Hinahanap-hanap Kita
2. Ulan
3. 214
4. Elesi
5. Himala
6. Awit Ng Kabataan
7. If
8. Kisapmata
9. Panahon Na Naman
10. Kung Ayaw Mo, Huwag Mo
11. Bring Me Down
12. Luha
13. 214 (Tripnotic Mix)
14. Kisapmata (Mayhem Mix)

Rivermaya – Greatest Hits: Himig Ng Dekada 90 is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Reunion concert produced by Live Nation Philippines featuring Bamboo Mañalac, Rico Blanco, Nathan Azarcon, and Mark Escueta is a one-night event. The legendary pop-rock group, dubbed “Rivermaya The Reunion,” will celebrate the unmatched Rivermaya legacy with a much-anticipated set that includes some of their best-known songs and rare gems. Both SM Tickets locations and the Live Nation Philippines website sell tickets.

The Philippine Ballet Theatre is a celebration of the company’s tenacious character that carries on the revolutionary battling spirit of its founders, as seen by its success over significant challenges and tribulations. The organization known as Bold, Brave, and Beautiful, along with all its members, never stop dreaming and fighting to make their ideas a reality.

The company hailed its remarkable comeback from the pandemic in 2023. The company demonstrated that they have remained at the forefront of the industry with the help of the revolutionary fighting spirit of the company and the strong vision of artistic director Ronilo Jaynario. They concluded the season with their fan favorite, “The Nutcracker,” an electrifying tour of the United States, and a warmly received complete Filipino ballet, “Ibalon.” Their trip continues in 2024.

The Philippine Ballet Theatre proudly announces its vibrant 38th season. This season, PBT embraces the theme “Ablaze”. They begin the season with another brand new Filipino ballet “Sarimanok”. This ballet is ready to soar unveiling the beautiful tapestry of our culture.

“Sarimanok” is a dance of culture and myth. “Sarimanok” is a bird in Filipino Mindanao mythology. The magical bird with its majestic colors is the center of a love story between a mortal and a moon goddess.

This mythical creature, renowned for its vibrant feathers and captivating presence, takes center stage in a ballet that transcends the boundaries of time and culture. The ballet will be choreographed by the same creative team of “Ibalon”. Artistic Director Ronilo Jaynario will be choreographing the ballet with the music of Paulo Zarate. It is slated to premiere in early July.

“Music in Motion”, PBT’s second offering will be a mixed bill program of neoclassical works by artistic director Ronilo Jaynario with the music of maestro Raul Sunico. It will be a blend of familiar Filipino music brought to life through Philippine Ballet Theatre’s exquisite dancing. A flurry of emotions and diverse movement all packed in one show. In a dinner and dance format, this season offering is set to be performed sometime in September.

PBT will end their season with their crowd pleaser. “Nutcracker” is a tradition that is hard to resist. It not only serves as a ballet that ushers in the holiday spirit, it also serves as PBT’s advocacy project. With a cast of 100 dancers, it is able to educate young dancers from different schools regarding the remarkable discipline of ballet. With a renewed passion for their advocacy,

PBT will attempt to maintain their advocacy fires blazing with a revitalized sense of purpose. They currently have plans to travel on a local tour that will stop at Legaspi, Bicol, and Bacolod. As we speak, there are more and more tour dates available. This October, the Company is also expected to embark on a worldwide tour that will stop in a few US cities.

Although a lot has been accomplished, more has to be done. In 2024, PBT is eager to interact with a larger spectrum of people. A RESIDENT COMPANY OF THE PHILIPPINES CULTURAL CENTER. CONTACT : (02) 632 8848 | (0912) 945 5151 | (0949) 325 2545 | (0995) 158 0538 | [email protected]

The sonically captivating track marks another collaboration with his real-life brother Josue of Radkidz, who also co-produced viral hits “Determinado” and “Gento”

With the release of “Determinado” a few weeks ago, SB19’s PABLO championed the rap-rock genre’s comeback. Now, with another hit that sounds different like anything he has published before, PABLO continues to exceed expectations.

The P-Pop sensation delivers a powerful song called “AKALA,” which combines atmospheric production, trap beats, and hip-hop sensibilities. Sonically engaging and deeply emotional, PABLO astonishes listeners almost every time with a song that suggests a new caliber of creative inspiration in terms of both songwriting and production.

The song is the result of yet another partnership between him and his brother Josue of Radkidz, who is also in charge of co-producing his earlier release “Determinado” and SB19’s viral hit “Gento.”

PABLO, on the other hand, brought improvements in structural developments and dynamics and penned the majority of the lyrics. He shares, “I added some singing parts and a hook and gave the song a resolution in terms of musical arrangement. We wanted it to be a song that’s easy to listen to and sing along to, just like how it is when friends gather and sing together.”

According to PABLO, “AKALA” was conceived during the pandemic when Josue had him listen to one of his beats with a partially written verse about finding escape in getting wasted. While both of them have different perspectives about alcohol consumption, the SB19 leader and main rapper found it intriguing and interesting enough to revisit the track and improve some parts of it.

“Even though we have different practices in terms of drinking, we agree on the idea that alcohol is not the answer to problems,” the talented multi-hyphenate explains. “I asked him if I could also write my verse in the song and tweak some parts, and he agreed. I didn’t want the song to just be about getting wasted, so I thought of a way to introduce my perspective through rearranging the letters of ‘alak’ and that’s how ‘Akala’ materialized. My mother also pitched in a line in the song and it made more sense.”

The breakout musician behind La Luna puts it best this way: “Akala’ takes a completely different direction this time around, but everything that I have released so far features intense and heavy instrumentation.” It has a more carefree, dreamlike atmosphere.

“AKALA” by PABLO is currently available via Sony Music Entertainment on all digital music platforms worldwide.