SB19 expands global reach with BE:FIRST collaboration “TOYFRIEND”

April 15, 2026

The powerhouse team-up made a significant breakthrough in Japan, landing a No. 2 peak on the Oricon Digital Chart and iTunes All Genre Chart

Global P-Pop powerhouse SB19 continues its global ascent with “TOYFRIEND,” a cross-border collaboration with top-selling Japanese group, BE:FIRST. The clubby R&B track serves as the latest single from their sophomore studio album, Wakas At Simula—released under Sony Music Entertainment.

Prior to the promotional push, “TOYFRIEND” has already made a significant dent across Japan’s leading digital platforms, debuting at No. 1 on MORA’s All Genre, International, and Hi-Res International charts, while peaking at No. 2 on the iTunes All Genre chart and No. 1 on its Pop chart, and No. 2 on Line Music Japan’s World Music Top 100 chart. The upbeat bop has reached the summit of the RecoChoku’s Hi-Res Single and Single charts, and reached No. 2 on the Oricon Digital Chart—a proof of the Filipino boy group’s strong surge of support from Japanese fans. Other chart placements in Japan include a No. 3 peak at Spotify Daily Viral chart, No. 6 debut on Billboard JapanTop Download Songs chart and No. 4 placement on Genius Japan Overall Song Chart.

Inviting listeners to the floor with its inescapable rhythm and polished production, “TOYFRIEND” pulls the best of both worlds from both Asian pop powerhouses. But above all that brimming energy is a narrative that explores the messiness of a situationship. It’s perfect for the summer: an infectious dance anthem that goes well with angst and frustration.

SB19’s JOSH explains, “[TOYFRIEND] captures the uncertainty of having feelings for someone while feeling completely confused if those feelings will be reciprocated in the first place. In this puzzling situation, one person can end up being treated as a toyfriend: caught between friendship and something more. The track reflects the ambiguity that comes with blurred intentions.”

For PABLO, “Toyfriend” became an instant favorite within the first few seconds of hearing it, with SB19 expressing confidence that it was the right song to pursue for the collaboration. “The sound carried a distinct energy that stood out from the start, making it an instant fit for the concept we were aiming for. Artistically, the track leans into a more edgy, slightly spicy, and sexy tone.”

The track was initially conceived as a completely new song for both SB19 and BE:FIRST, which became a key factor in shaping the overall concept of the collaboration. According to PABLO, approaching the project from a blank slate allowed both groups to align on a shared direction and explore a sound that reflects their combined artistry.

“This collaborative process enabled both groups to contribute meaningfully while ensuring the final output feels cohesive and authentic,” PABLO shares in a press statement. “Ultimately, the intent was to deliver a fresh and distinctive record that highlights the strengths and synergy of both SB19 and BE:FIRST.”

SB19’s JUSTIN adds, “When the opportunity to collaborate with BE:FIRST came up, we identified it as a track that best suited both BE:FIRST and SB19 in terms of style and direction. SB19 recorded the song at our studio, 1Z, while BE:FIRST recorded their parts in Japan. We ensured that members of our team were present during BE:FIRST’s recording sessions to provide guidance and maintain cohesion in terms of vocal direction and overall sound.”

SB19’s KEN pointed out that the collaboration began when he represented the country as Felip for prominent music showcase in Japan last year at the K-Arena Yokohama in Kanagawa, Japan. “The collaboration began when I previously performed for DUNK. It was the fans who truly made it happen by engaging with one another, which the BMSG team recognized as a valuable opportunity to collaborate with 1Z Entertainment. This led to the collaboration between BE:FIRST and SB19.”

Despite geographical challenges, the collaborative process moved with striking ease—thanks to their commitment to achieving a strong and unified output. SB19’s STELL pointed out how every contribution and creative element clicked into place. “Rather than seeing the distance as a limitation, it became an opportunity to embrace a global collaboration setup. Overall, the experience was very smooth and collaborative.” With the release of “TOYFRIEND,” SB19 and BE:FIRST delivers another genre-forward release that champions the growing influence of Asian pop on the global stage.

SB19’s “TOYFRIEND” (with BE:FIRST) is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

SB19 will be headlining the Wakas at Simula Concert—their biggest concert yet—happening on April 18, 2026, at the SMDC Festival Grounds. It will serve as the finale to their Simula at Wakas tour, which supported the release of their three-part EP (Pagsibol, Pagtatag, and Simula at Wakas). Japanese boy group BE:FIRST was recently announced as part of the lineup.

For tickets, sign up now at www.livenation.ph.

Follow SB19 on their socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4v7afBTnJKRm4SlfHJzyg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SB19Official/

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsb19

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsb19

Source: Nyiu

Culture Wars Bring Arena-Ready Alt Rock Gold on Debut Album Don’t Speak, Out Now via AWAL as Global Momentum Surges

April 15, 2026

Leg 1 of world headline tour kicks off in May

New fall headline US dates announced, including iconic venues like NYC’s Irving Plaza, Chicago’s Metro, and LA’s Troubadour

Photo by Eliot Lee

“After 10 years of persistence, Culture Wars aren’t waiting for permission anymore. They’re building it themselves.” - Hit Parader

“Texas band Culture Wars are mixing 90s rock swagger with modern bite” - The Line of Best Fit

“Culture Wars masterfully fuses their 80s synth-pop, classic country, and surf music influences to deliver a powerful and gritty Audiotree Live performance that commands your attention” - Audiotree

“‘In the Morning’ hits with that instant pull, the kind of song you fall for right away — and it’s truly so, so good” - Glamglare

“...Culture Wars is truly a gem on the rise with a catch-worthy sound and remarkable talent waiting to be discovered even further.” - First III No Flash

Texas-native alt-rock band Culture Wars have released their highly anticipated debut album, Don’t Speak, out now via AWAL, marking a defining moment for one of alternative music’s fastest-rising acts. The album arrives on the heels of a breakout year that saw the band achieve their first Top 20 Alternative Radio hit with “It Hurts,” surpassing 66 million global streams, and sell out their first U.S. + UK headline tour, while also performing arena dates alongside Maroon 5, Keane, Wallows, and LANY.

At its core, Don’t Speak is a raw and introspective body of work that captures the tension between who you were and who you’re becoming. Across its tracklist, frontman Alex Dugan reckons with identity, emotional fallout, and the slow, often uncomfortable process of growth - balancing regret, self-awareness, and acceptance. Songs like “Typical Ways,” written during a period of personal turmoil and described by Dugan as “an angry letter to my former self,” set the tone for an album rooted in reflection and accountability. Elsewhere, tracks like “Lies” trace the origins of both the band and Dugan’s emotional rebuilding—born from heartbreak and a loss of trust, but ultimately evolving into a full-circle moment of clarity and creative purpose.

That emotional duality carries through “Bittersweet,”where Dugan explores the uneasy reality of adulthood - learning that life rarely unfolds on your terms, but often delivers exactly what you need. Meanwhile, “In the Morning” captures a more vulnerable, fleeting perspective: the haze of loneliness and late-night decisions, written from a past version of himself he’s since outgrown. Together, these moments form a cohesive narrative about confronting your past, navigating uncertainty, and finding peace in the in-between.

Sonically, Don’t Speak reflects a band stepping fully into its power, expanding from early influences into a confident, fully realized sound built for big stages and louder rooms. The album showcases expansive, full-band anthems, and captures Culture Wars at their most dynamic and assured.

The release of Don’t Speak arrives as Culture Wars prepare to take their momentum global, with a worldwide headline tour rolling out throughout 2026, including recently announced North American and UK/European headline runs. With a rapidly growing international audience and a reputation for commanding live performances, the band is poised to bring their biggest chapter yet to stages around the world.

Further solidifying their ascent, Culture Wars were recently named to Apple Music and Shazam’s Fast Forward series, highlighting the most exciting emerging artists shaping the future of music.

With Don’t Speak, Culture Wars deliver a debut that meets the moment - big, immediate, and built to last.

For more information on Culture Wars, follow them at the links below.

Photo by Eliot Lee

Stream Don’t Speak on DSPs HERE.

Culture Wars Links

Headline US Tour Dates

5.14 Seattle, WA @ The Croc

5.15 San Francisco, CA @ Rickshaw Stop *SOLD OUT*

5.16 Phoenix, AZ @ Crescent Ballroom

5.21 Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West

5.22 Nashville, TN @ Exit/In

5.23 Dallas, TX @ Trees

5.30 Mexico City, MX @ Foro Puebla

5.31 Monterrey, MX @ Foro Tims

9.15 Toronto, ON @ Mod Club

9.16 Philadelphia, PA @ The Foundry

9.17 Montreal, QC @ Fairmont Theatre

9.19 Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club

9.21 New York, NY @ Irving Plaza

9.24 Chicago, IL @ Metro

9.26 Boston, MA @ The Sinclair

9.28 Columbus, OH @ A&R Music Bar

9.29 Minneapolis, MN @ Fine Line

9.30 Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater

10.3 Los Angeles, CA @ Troubadour

10.22 Oklahoma City, OK @ Beer City Music Hall

10.23 Houston, TX @ WOMH

10.24 Austin, TX @ Emo's

UK + EU Dates

6.18 Birmingham, UK @ Dead Wax
6.19 London, UK @ The Garage
6.21 Manchester, UK @ Gorilla
6.22 Glasgow, UK @ King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut
6.23 Bristol, UK @ Thekla
6.25 Dublin, IE @ Whelan’s
6.26 Barcelona, ES @ Razzmatazz
6.27 Madrid, ES @ Sala Villanos
6.29 Paris, FR @ Petit Bain

7.12 Hamburg, DE @ Molotow
7.13 Copenhagen, DK @ Rust
7.14 Stockholm, SE @ Debaser
7.16 Berlin, DE @ Mikropol
7.17 Warsaw, PL @ Hydrozagadka
7.19 Prague, CZ @ Bike Jesus
7.21 Vienna, AT @ Szene
7.22 Munich, DE @ Strom
7.24 Milan, IT @ Q Hub

7.25 Amsterdam, NE @ Paradiso

Purchase Tickets HERE.

For more information, please contact:

Mark Bonifacio- mark.bonifacio25@gmail.com

2X Grammy®-Winning Artist Laufey Presents Deluxe Version of Grammy®-Winning Album 'A Matter Of Time: The Final Hour' Out Now

April 15, 2026

LISTEN HERE

NEW MUSIC VIDEO FOR “MADWOMAN” STARRING HUDSON WILLIAMS, ALYSA LIU, LOLA TUNG AND MEGAN SKIENDIEL

Photo Credit: Emma Craft

“…one of Gen Z’s favorite ‘pop girls’; her genre-defying sound breaks down the barriers between jazz, pop, and classical music” – Vogue

“'A Matter Of Time’ is just as gorgeous as its predecessors, but this time, there’s more darkness shadowing the gleam… an album that should only accelerate Laufey’s already-dizzying trajectory” — NME

April 15th, 2026 – 'A Matter of Time: The Final Hour', the new deluxe version of L.A.-based Icelandic-Chinese artist, composer, producer and multi-instrumentalist Laufey’s GRAMMY®-winning album 'A Matter of Time', is out now via AWAL/Vingolf Recordings. Fans can stream the album here and watch the music video here.

The eagerly awaited deluxe edition features the album’s 15 original tracks, plus four new songs including the previously released “How I Get”, “Madwoman”, “I Wait, I Wait, I Wait” and “I’ll Forget About You (In Time)”.

To add to the excitement, Laufey unveils the music video for the new deluxe track “Madwoman” starring 'Heated Rivalry's' Hudson Williams, Olympic champion Alysa Liu, Lola Tung of 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' and Megan Skiendiel of KATSEYE.

Filmed in Los Angeles in the weeks leading up to Laufey’s full-set Coachella debut, the video features an all-star cast of friends and heroes in a Slim Aarons-inspired world where the picture-perfect veneer is not quite as it seems.

“Growing up, I felt a general lack of representation for people who looked like me in music and media. With the "Madwoman" video, I wanted to be that representation,” says Laufey. “The result is what honestly feels like my absolute dream video and exactly what younger Laufey would have loved to see”.

The video represents a convergence of Asian and Asian American talent both in front of and behind the camera—from the all-star cast to director Warren Fu, DP Andrew Truong, numerous heads of department, and Executive Producers C100 Co-Founder Oscar Tang and Christine Yi and Maqui Qi of Gold House. The project celebrates that Asian representation in music, film, sports and the arts is responsible for some of the greatest stories shaping culture today.

Laufey - "Madwoman" (Official Music Video)

'A Matter of Time:The Final Hour’ adds to a landmark year for Laufey, who is set to perform at Coachella this weekend and next before embarking on a tour of Asia in May with sold-out stops in Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul and more. The runs follow her sold-out U.K. and European legs this year.

Earlier this month, Laufey took home Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for ‘A Matter of Time’ at the 68th GRAMMY® Awards. The win is her second in the category, following a statue for ‘Bewitched’ at the 2024 awards which made her the youngest artist to win the honor. ‘A Matter of Time’ was released to widespread critical acclaim in August, debuting at #4 on the Billboard 200 chart and #1 on the Jazz Albums chart (where it continues to hold a spot in the top 10). In January, Laufey was presented with Icelandic knighthood, the prestigious Order of the Falcon, by President Halla Tómasdóttir.

Laufey’s first children’s book, 'Mei Mei The Bunny', is set for release on April 21 via Penguin Random House and a live album, ‘A Matter of Time: Live at Madison Square Garden’, is set for release April 18for Record Store Day.

'A Matter of Time: The Final Hour' Tracklisting

1. Clockwork
2. Lover Girl
3. Snow White
4. Castle in Hollywood
5. Carousel
6. Silver Lining
7. Too Little, Too Late
8. Cuckoo Ballet (Interlude)
9. Forget-Me-Not
10. Tough Luck
11. A Cautionary Tale
12. Mr. Eclectic
13. Clean Air
14. Sabotage
15. Seems Like Old Times
16. Madwoman
17. How I Get
18. I Wait, I Wait, I Wait
19. I'll Forget About You (In Time)

Listen to 'A Matter of Time: The Final Hour' here
Watch the music video for "Madwoman" here

About Laufey

Laufey (pronounced lay-vay) has captivated a generation with virtuosic songs of love and self-discovery by manifesting her vision of jazz- and classical-infused pop music. Raised between Reykjavik and Washington, D.C., she learned piano and cello as a child, later studying at Berklee College of Music. There, she wrote her debut EP, 2021’s 'Typical of Me', whose striking single “Street by Street” debuted at No. 1 on Icelandic radio—the first of many achievements that have grown to include nearly 7 billion global streams, a social media audience of 25 million, the biggest jazz LP debut in Spotify history, a growing pile of Platinum plaques, a Forbes 30 Under 30 designation and being named one of TIME’s 2025 Women of the Year. She’s sold out the Hollywood Bowl, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, Crypto.comArena and London’s Royal Albert Hall; performed backed by the LA Phil, the National Symphony Orchestra and the China Philharmonic Orchestra; shared the stage with the likes of Noah Kahan, Hozier, Jon Batiste and Raye; and collaborated on records with artists including Barbra Streisand, Role Model, Beabadoobee and Norah Jones.

Following her sold-out shows across Asia last year—including Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Japan, and Taipei—Laufey continues to make waves in the region, further cementing her status as a global sensation. She continues to see strong streaming numbers in the region, with the 🇵🇭 Philippines, 🇮🇩 Indonesia and 🇲🇾 Malaysia among her top 10 global streaming markets.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | AWAL

FOLLOW LAUFEY

All Of The Noise turns up the volume on music culture programming for this year’s edition

April 15, 2026

International and Filipino artists come together alongside industry leaders for a weekend of discovery and dialogue

Photo by Mayks Go

All Of The Noise 2026 is happening this weekend!

The Manila-based music showcase and conference event will feature multi-format music programming centered on community building, cross-cultural collaboration, and visibility, positioning Filipino and Asian music as vital forces within the global creative economy.

The three-day music event presents nearly 30 emerging and established artists alongside a conference and industry program. International acts including Phoebe Rings (New Zealand), Grrrl Gang, Arash Buana, and Gavendri (Indonesia), Shyeand Pines (Singapore), and HengJones and Our Shame(Taiwan) join a diverse roster of Filipino talents.

Other performers include BP Valenzuela, Fitterkarma, SOS, Ourselves the Elves, Elijah Canlas, DJ Love (Davao), VVINK, Playertwo, fern, August Wahh, School Girl Classic (Cebu), Delinquent Society (Davao), Alyson, Novocrane, Amateurish (Baguio), Carousel Casualties, Magiliw Street, Ysanygo, and kyleaux.

In addition to live showcase performances, the three-day music culture programming also highlights the music conference format, featuring panel and keynote discussions, documentary screenings, and networking activities. There will be scheduled private events exclusively for artists and music industry professionals, including a Spotify For Artist Masterclass, Studio Collab Sessions for select international and local artists, and a Welcome Party for delegates.

Co-presented by The Rest Is Noise PH with CITEM, CREATE Philippines, The Orchard, ONErpm, Symphonic Distribution, Jack Daniel’s Philippines, Guevarra’s and Spotify, All Of The Noise 2026 will take place in three venues across Metro Manila: Astbury Makati (April 17 and 19), Sari-Sari in Makati City (April 17 and 19), and 123 Block in Mandaluyong City (April 18).

“All Of The Noise exists to create meaningful intersections between artists, industries, and cultures,” says Ian Emmanuel C. Urrutia, the festival’s Program Director. “As the region continues to assert its voice on the global stage, our role is to build the infrastructure, dialogue, and opportunities that allow that voice to travel further. We see this platform not only as a showcase but also as a long-term investment in the sustainability and global visibility of Filipino and Asian music.”

Conference and Documentary Programming

This year’s edition of Cut Through The Noise, the festival’s conference program, will feature panel discussions and keynote presentations from music industry experts and professionals from here and abroad. Designed to address the evolving needs of the local and regional music sectors, the panel segments aim to address the most pressing trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping today’s music ecosystem. From market development and cross-border collaboration to innovation, policy, and audience growth, Cut Through The Noise aims to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and networks necessary to navigate an increasingly competitive global landscape.

The topics include:

1. Unlocking the Potential of Southeast Asia: Findings, Insights, and Discussions on the world’s next music powerhouse

2. Curation and Programming in Transition: How Music Festival in Asia are Adapting

3. From Support to System Building: The role of private and public sectors in developing a more sustainable Filipino music industry

4. Dissecting Diary Ng Panget original soundtrack: A poptimist’s dream

5. Indie Cred vs. Commercial Pressure: How labels grow without losing trust, taste, and cultural capital

6. Inside a Thriving Regional Scene: What the music community in Baguio City tells us about decentralization, crossover, and cultural sustainability

This year’s All Of The Noise will feature three films under its Echoes Of The Noise documentary program, including the international debut screening of Elephant Gym: More Real Than Dreams (Dir. Alulu Kuo, runtime: 95min), a documentary film that captures the band’s journey as they faced potential breakup before a world tour and explore their unique musical world. It will also premiere Rosas: The Song. The Journey(Dir. Nolan Bernardino, runtime: 65mins), named after the song penned by Nica Del Rosario, which became “an anthem of hope” during the national elections in 2022, and This is HANNAH+GABI (Dir. Frazier De Mesa, runtime: 28 mins), which explores the beloved band’s thoughts and process in music-making and performing from the perspective of the filmmaker Frazier De Mesa.

Introducing Spotify for Artist Masterclass

Spotify will power a key educational component of the program through a Spotify for Artists Masterclass led by the Spotify Asia team. Designed as a practical session for artists and music stakeholders, the masterclass reflects a shared belief between AOTN and Spotify: that artists should be equipped not only to make great work, but to better understand how to build sustainable careers around it.

For this edition, Spotify will offer the Beginner Session of its Spotify for Artists Masterclass to select artists and industry professionals. The session will introduce artists to the essential tools, insights, and platform knowledge they need to strengthen their presence on Spotify, promote their music more effectively, better understand audience behavior, and navigate the wider music streaming landscape with more clarity and confidence. The inclusion of this session reinforces AOTN’s broader commitment to going beyond live performance by creating space for artist development, education, and long-term career support. It also brings direct value to emerging and developing artists in attendance by connecting them with practical, platform-level knowledge from one of the world’s leading music streaming services.

Studio Sessions: Creative Songwriting

Programmed by The Rest Is Noise PH, this curated studio sessions bring Filipino songwriters and producers together with international guest performers to co-create original music as part of the All Of The Noise Music Creatives Program.

Designed to spark creative collaboration and cross-cultural exchange, each session supports idea-sharing, hands-on writing, and composition—resulting in newly written songs born from shared process and perspectives. This inaugural session will feature Tim and Sam Marquez from One Click Straight, sought-after producers behind some of the most forward-thinking and exciting pop and indie rock music, and Our Shame, a Taiwanese alternative pop band, with guidance from DJ Joey Santos of Love One Another Sound Production. The Studio Sessions will also pair rising Filipino R&B artist kyleauxwith acclaimed Taiwanese hip-hop artist HengJones, with CHEKE’s Justin Wieneke facilitating the collab.

Ticket Details

Tickets are available with the following packages:

PHP 999 - 3-day pass: (access to Days 1, 2 & 3), inclusive of all programs

PHP 400 – Day 1 (access to April 17 program – Friday), inclusive of all programs

PHP 700 – Day 2 (access to April 18 program – Saturday), inclusive of all programs

PHP 400 – Day 3 (access to April 19 program – Sunday), inclusive of all programs

Get your tickets here: https://allofthenoise2026.helixpay.ph

The official AOTN merch is also available viabit.ly/aotn2026merch

About The Rest Is Noise PH

The Rest Is Noise PH (TRIN) is a music curator, export and exchange facilitator, events production, and online publication based in Manila, Philippines.

Founded in 2015, TRIN has curated and produced more than 40 shows, ranging from pocket venues to outdoor festival settings. It is home to the annual Summer Noise and All Of The Noise music festivals, which feature critically acclaimed homegrown and international music acts, primarily dedicated to showcasing Asian and Asian diaspora music artists, such as Japanese Breakfast, Phum Viphurit, Elephant Gym, Turnover, Deafheaven, Hitsujibungaku, Last Dinosaurs, Up Dharma Down, Sandwich, and more. These shows highlight the rich and diverse backgrounds, cultures, and styles of music artists from home and abroad, championing both emerging and established music-makers.

In 2020, TRIN co-founded AXEAN Festival (formerly ASEAN Music Showcase Festival), a first-of-its-kind traveling regional showcase festival that aims to put the spotlight on music artists and communities from Southeast Asia—rooted in music discovery, community-based networking, and music industry education—by incorporating structured, artist- and community-centric initiatives including music conference, industry matchmaking/speed meetings, and songwriting camp, resulting to meaningful career opportunities (such as music export) and creative, cultural exchanges.

In 2025, TRIN celebrated its 10th anniversary with All Of The Noise 2025, a diverse, music culture-centric event, including live music performances, music discussions, music documentary screenings, and a music photography exhibit, which was hailed by leading Filipino news site Rappler for its “commitment to addressing social struggles through different lenses in the music industry. Beyond just a celebration, All of the Noise 2025 served as a space for reflection and advocacy, encouraging its audience to see and use the art of music as a tool for change.”

TRIN’s co-founders have worked with global music partners, including Warner Music Asia, Sony Music Philippines, SXSW, HipHopDX Asia, and programmed, collaborated with, and/or participated at numerous music showcase festivals in the United States of America (SXSW), Spain (Primavera Pro), France (Les Escales), Finland (WOMEX), Mexico, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and India.

TRIN takes pride in fostering a thriving sense of community, culture, and inclusivity—providing a platform that champions the best of Asian music and strengthening regional and global connections, onstage or in the digital space.

General inquiries: info@therestisnoiseph.com

Website: www.therestisnoiseph.com

Twitter: twitter.com/therestisnoise_

Facebook: facebook.com/therestisnoiseph

Instagram: instagram.com/therestisnoiseph

Source: Nyou

Singapore's Indie Pop Darling Shye Explores Transient Emotions in Atmospheric New Single "Smoke" Ahead of Long Awaited Album 'The Doves Came Home'

April 14, 2026

LISTEN HERE

AHEAD OF LONG AWAITED ALBUM
'THE DOVES CAME HOME' OUT MAY 8TH

April 14th, 2026 — Singapore's indie pop sensation, singer-songwriter and producer Shye returns with her latest single, "Smoke", lifted off her forthcoming album 'The Doves Came Home', set for release May 8th. Fans can stream the song HERE.

An atmospheric indie rock number, "Smoke" unfolds through hazy guitars, soft, drifting vocals, and slow-burning textures that blur and dissolve into one another, mirroring a cloud in motion: weightless, transient, and impossible to hold. At its core, "Smoke" explores emotional detachment—the feeling of being physically present, yet internally distant. Moving through rooms and conversations without leaving anything behind, it captures the quiet disconnection of existing in plain sight, yet feeling invisible where it matters most.

Shye – "Smoke" (Official Video)

The track was sparked by a visual rather than a sound. While revisiting the film 'Twin Peaks', Shye was drawn to the image of smoke drifting through spaces—never settling, always in motion. That sense of unreality, of being present yet slightly out of reach, became the emotional and sonic foundation of the song. "I wanted the music production to mirror that same sense of movement and instability—leaning into atmosphere, layering guitars and synths, making sure everything melted into one another, so much so that you couldn't tell the instruments apart." Shye explains.

Vocally, Shye leans into subtlety and immersion, treating her voice as part of the sonic landscape rather than a focal point. The result is a vocal presence that drifts in and out of clarity, mirroring a fragmented, introspective state of mind. The refrain, "I move like smoke", becomes both a description and a realisation, reflecting a surreal state where even one's own thoughts and emotions dissolve into something ungraspable.

"It's a feeling that can be hard to put into words but I think a lot of us experience it at some point. It's a subtle disconnection from ourselves that sometimes engulfs us completely... Being present but not feeling like you make a difference in the big scheme of things so you slip in and out of moments, conversations or even relationships."

— Shye

Due out on May 8th, Shye's forthcoming album, 'The Doves Came Home', is a deeply personal and emotive collection—a record that is at once haunting and healing.

Stream "Smoke" here
Watch the official video here

About Shye

Shye is an independent singer-songwriter and producer known for her dreamy blend of indie-pop and alt-rock. Entirely self-taught, she writes, records, produces, mixes, and masters all her music, crafting an unmistakably DIY sound that's both intimate and expansive.

Shye first emerged onto the scene at just 16, becoming the youngest-ever winner of the Vans Musicians Wanted competition in 2018. Since then, she's released a steady stream of work, including her debut EP 'Augus7ine' (2018), followed by the genre-blurring 14-track debut album 'days to morning glory' (2020), which won 'Album of the Year' at the Youth Music Awards in Singapore in 2021. Next came the experimental EP 'hello TRINITY' (2021), 'idk it’s complicated' (2022), and '9LIVES' (2023). In 2024 and 2025, Shye maintained her momentum with a series of new singles paving the way for a new album in 2026.

Shye has performed at music festivals such as Tiger Den SXSW in Austin Texas (2023), Axean Festival in Singapore (2023), Asia Rolling Music Festival in Taiwan (2022), Urbanscapes in Malaysia (2019), Baybeats in Singapore (2023, 2019), Asiya Festival in the Philippines (2024), and virtually for Music Lane Okinawa (2021) and Bangkok Music City (2020). In 2024, Shye performed at the swearing-in ceremony of Singapore's new Prime Minister and concluded the year with a performance at The Alex Blake Charlie Sessions alongside international acts such as Wisp. Continuing to expand her regional footprint in 2025, she performed at Taiwan's Emerge Fest, headlined her first solo show in Bangkok, made her Indonesia debut at AXEAN Festival Bali, and appeared at Music Matters Live Singapore, World Expo Osaka, Creatorweek Macao, as well as VGIG: The Sonic Garden Concert, ending 2025 at the Sing60 Festival in Singapore. Shye kicked off 2026 with festival performances at Bangkok Music City and PRESSPLAY 2026 in Singapore and is set to perform next at All Of The Noise 2026 in Manila.

Her presence has since extended far beyond Singapore: from gracing a Times Square billboard for Spotify's EQUAL campaign to being named Freshmusic's 'Best New Artist' in 2021 to 'Best New Act from Asia' at the 2022 BandLab NME Awards and receiving the KKBOX 'Rising Star Award' the same year. Shye has also been featured on Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 (2023), Tatler Asia's Gen. T Leaders of Tomorrow (2024), Prestige 40 under 40 and Dazed 100 Global and Asia (2024), and Top 10 in Asia: Southeast Asia's Best Emerging Female Singers (2025).

Shye has supported international acts such as Daniel Caesar, Clairo, Superorganism, Sales, Men I Trust, The Chairs, and most recently, Wisp, during their tours in Singapore. In addition, she has represented Singapore in regional music reality TV shows such as 青年派计划 (Youth π Plan) in China and Chuang Asia in Thailand. Shye was also featured in the 2021 National Day theme song, "The Road Ahead" and took the stage at Singapore's SG60 National Day Parade in 2025. Up next, Shye is set to appear as a special guest for The Jesus and Mary Chain in Singapore, and will join Softcult as the Asia support act on their upcoming tour.

Beyond music, Shye was invited by Chanel to attend her first overseas fashion show, the Chanel Cruise Replica Show in Hong Kong in 2024, an event attended by celebrated musicians such as G-DRAGON and Angèle. She also broke ground as the first Singaporean invited to Chanel's Paris Fashion Week show in 2025 as a celebrity guest. Most recently, she attended the milestone Chanel Cruise Replica show at Raffles Hotel, sitting front row alongside celebrity A-listers including Tilda Swindon, Rebecca Armstrong and Raye, who also performed. Shye has graced the covers of magazines such as FEMALE, Men's Folio, Prestige, Her World, Grazia, Aplus and ELLE Singapore, and most recently appears in the March 2026 issue of Harper's Bazaar Singapore. Over the years, she has also worked with numerous brands, further cementing her influence as a creative force across music, fashion and culture.

Whether onstage or in her bedroom studio, Shye is guided by her love for storytelling and emotional connection. Writing music that feeds the soul and warms the heart, her songs aim to always comfort, sometimes cautions but always convey what words can't. For anyone who needs a place to land, breathe, and feel, Shye invites listeners into her world, one self-made track at a time.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
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TECNO CAMON 50 Series Opens Its First E-commerce Selling Window in the Philippines with TikTok Shop and Shopee Exclusives

April 14, 2026

Following the massive success of its offline pre‑order, TECNO launches the CAMON 50 Series on the country’s top e‑commerce platforms. From April 10 to 16, Filipino shoppers can grab exclusive CAMON 50 Ultra 5G variants, creator-focused freebies, and wearable bundle savings across TikTok Shop and Shopee at irresistible flash sale prices.

April 12, MANILA, Philippines — TECNO is officially opening the first e-commerce selling window for the new CAMON 50 Series in the Philippines, giving Filipino consumers an early chance to get the brand’s latest AI imaging smartphones through exclusive offers on TikTok Shop and Shopee from April 10 to April 16.

The online selling period spotlights the CAMON 50 Series as a new-generation imaging and AI smartphone line designed for users who want stronger content creation, more expressive mobile photography, and a smarter everyday device that feels like a worthy lifestyle and side-hustle upgrade.

PlatformExclusive Offers

During the campaign period, TikTok Shop will exclusively offer the TECNO CAMON 50 Ultra 5G 8GB + 256GB variant at a promo price of PHP 15,999. TikTok Shop will also carry the CAMON 50 8GB + 256GB at PHP 10,999 and the CAMON 50 Ultra 5G 12GB + 512GB at PHP 21,999.

Shopee, meanwhile, will exclusively offer the TECNO CAMON 50 Ultra 5G 12GB + 256GB variant at a promo price of PHP 17,999. Shoppers can also purchase the CAMON 50 Ultra 5G 12GB + 512GB and CAMON 50 8GB + 256GB on Shopee.

Across both platforms, buyers will also receive a strong package of launch inclusions designed to make the purchase feel even more rewarding. These include a CAMON 50 Series Exclusive Gift Box - an air conduction headphone and a charging lanyard cable, and a CAMON Creator Gift Set, together with 60 Days Free Replacement and 2-Year Warranty, 3 Years of 50GB Free Cloud Storage, and a 1-Year MovieBox Premium Membership.

Stack More Savings with Wearable Bundles

TECNO is also extending bundle savings for users who want to build a more complete smart lifestyle setup around the CAMON 50 Series. During the campaign, buyers can save PHP 1,000 on the Watch NEO (SRP PHP3,499), save PHP 1,000 on the FreeHear 2 (SRP PHP2,999).

Why the CAMON 50 Series?

Designed for content creators and mobile photography lovers, the CAMON 50 Series combines flagship Sony sensors with a dedicated AI computing architecture. Key breakthroughs include:

• Super-Zoom FlashSnap – AIpowered zeroshutter lag for highspeed action

• AI Auto Zoom – Intelligently frames portraits like a pro director

• 100x Zoom Telephoto – Capture stunning detail from impossibly far away

• IP69K|IP69|IP68 Water and Dust Resistance – Built to withstand dust, high pressure water, and the toughest environments

How to buy:
Visit TECNO Official Store on Shopee or TECNO Official TikTok Shop from April 10–16. Add your preferred CAMON 50 model, apply the flash sale price (automatically reflected), and check out. Freebies are automatically included with every unit.

-end-

About TECNO

As a global innovative technology brand with operations in over 70 markets, TECNO has been committed to revolutionizing the digital experience in global emerging markets, relentlessly pushing for the perfect integration of contemporary, aesthetic design with the latest technologies and AI. TECNO offers a wide range of smartphones, smart wearables, laptops and tablets, smart gaming, HiOS operating systems and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing”, TECNO is committed to unlocking the newest technologies and AI-powered new experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and their best futures. For more information, please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.

Source: TECNO Mobile

EVANESCENCE DROPS NEW SINGLE “WHO WILL YOU FOLLOW”

April 14, 2026

LISTEN HERE

ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUMSANCTUARY OUT JUNE 5TH

PRE-SAVE HERE

2026 WORLD TOUR KICKS OFF JUNE 11

TICKETS HERE

Download album art HERE

(Los Angeles – April 10, 2026) – GRAMMY® Award-winning rock band Evanescence returns with their new song “Who Will You Follow” — listen here. This highly anticipated single was co-written and produced by Zakk Cervini (Bad Omens, YUNGBLD, Bring Me The Horizon, Spiritbox) and Jordan Fish (Bring Me The Horizon, Poppy, House of Protection, Architects). The track serves as a preview for their upcoming album Sanctuary, set for release June 5 — pre-order/save here. The album, which features tracks produced by Cervini/Fish alongside songs produced by Nick Raskulinecz (Korn, Foo Fighters, Rush) will be available June 5th as a Digital Album, Standard CD, Deluxe CD and limited-edition Box Set. A double vinyl of the album will be released on September 4th.

Amy Lee shares, “This album is over three years in the making, and finally listening back to it all at once, about to release it to the world, I am so damn proud of every second of it. It’s overwhelming. Working on it has been my outlet for so much that feels wrong and out of control, and a place to ignite hope through the power of music and connection… good thing we have the tour all lined up or I wouldn’t know what to do with myself now! I’ve been completely obsessed. I’m dying for the fans to hear this.”

Recently, the band announced their 2026 World Tour, kicking off on June 11, journeying across North America, UK and Europe — tickets here. Special guest Spiritbox and Nova Twins will open on the North American portion of the tour, and special guest Poppy will support on the UK & Europe shows with Nova Twins opening outside the UK. K.Flay, who features on Evanescence’s latest single, “Fight Like A Girl,” will open the UK shows. K.Flay will also support Evanescence for their Red Rocks Amphitheatre concert.

Evanescence has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1/£1/€1 from every ticket sold will support organizations providing humanitarian aid and medical relief to those in need around the world.

The band’s most recent tracks “Fight Like A Girl (feat. K.Flay)” and “Afterlife” have been met with instant praise from fans & critics alike, stating “It’s an exciting time to be a fan of Amy Lee and co.” - LOUDER, and “Evanescence’s first song in four years finds the band hitting what they hit best” - REVOLVER Magazine. “Afterlife” dominated the charts upon release reaching the No. 1 spot on both Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart and Mediabase’s Active Rock Radio chart in both the U.S. and Canada.

The band is no stranger to success, with their 2003 record Fallen holding steady as the sixth best-selling album of the 21st century (ranking just behind Lady Gaga’s The Fame and ahead of Coldplay’s A Rush of Blood to the Head) remaining one of the best-selling albums of all time, with more than 17 million copies sold worldwide. The album’s stratospheric singles, including “Bring Me to Life,” broke the Top 10 in more than 15 countries and topped Billboard’s Mainstream Top 40 and Alternative Airplay charts. “My Immortal” was a Top 10 hit in over ten countries, including the US, UK, and Australia.

Sanctuary Track List:

Beautiful Lie
Tell Me When You’ve Had Enough
Who Will You Follow
Rapture
Afterlife
Sanctuary
How Do I Heal
About Us
Calm Down
Self Destruct
Forever Without You
Wide Open Heart

Evanescence 2026 World Tour Dates:

6/11/26 West Palm Beach, FL iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre

6/12/26 Tampa, FL MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

6/14/26 Alpharetta, GA Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

6/15/26 Nashville, TN Bridgestone Arena

6/17/26 Raleigh, NC Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek

6/18/26 Charlotte, NC PNC Music Pavilion

6/20/26 Camden, NJ Freedom Mortgage Pavilion

6/21/26 Mansfield, MA Xfinity Center

6/23/26 Saratoga Springs, NY Saratoga Performing Arts Center

6/24/26 Wantagh, NY Northwell at Jones Beach Theater

6/26/26 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center

6/27/26 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Live

6/29/26 Toronto, ON RBC Amphitheatre

6/30/26 Montréal, QC Centre Bell

7/8/26 Tinley Park, IL Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre

7/9/26 Noblesville, IN Ruoff Music Center

7/11/26 North Little Rock, AR Simmons Bank Arena

7/12/26 Kansas City, MO MORTON Amphitheater

7/14/26 Albuquerque, NM Isleta Amphitheater

7/15/26 Phoenix, AZ Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre

7/17/26 Chula Vista, CA North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre

7/18/26 Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum

7/20/26 Mountain View, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre

7/22/26 Ridgefield, WA Cascades Amphitheater

7/23/26 Auburn, WA White River Amphitheatre

7/25/26 Salt Lake City, UT Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre

7/28/26 St. Louis, MO Hollywood Casino Amphitheater

7/30/26 Cuyahoga Falls, OH Blossom Music Center

8/1/26 Cincinnati, OH Riverbend Music Center

8/2/26 Clarkston, MI Pine Knob Music Theatre

9/8/26 Leeds, UK First Direct Arena

9/10/26 Manchester, UK Co-op Live

9/11/26 Birmingham, UK Utilita Arena Birmingham

9/13/26 London, UK The O2

*9/16/26 Brussels, BE Forest National

9/17/26 Paris, FR Accor Arena (SOLD OUT)

*9/19/26 Frankfurt, DE Congress Center Messe Frankfurt - Festhalle Frankfurt

*9/20/26 Dortmund, DE Westfalenhallen Dortmund

*9/22/26 Amsterdam, NL Ziggo Dome

*9/23/26 Hamburg, DE Barclays Arena

*9/25/26 Berlin, DE Velodrom

*9/26/26 Munich, DE Olympiahalle

*9/28/26 Bologna, IT Unipol Arena

*9/29/26 Zurich, CH Hallenstadion Zurich

*10/1/26 Barcelona, ES Palau Olimpic Badalona

*10/2/26 Madrid, ES Palacio Vistalegre

*10/4/26 Lisbon, PT MEO Arena

10/26/26 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Photo credit: Chapman Baehler

ABOUT EVANESCENCE:

Emerging in 2003, Evanescence reshaped the rock landscape with their debut album Fallen, a cinematic blend of rock, metal and symphonic, piano-driven melodies led by powerhouse vocalist Amy Lee. The album became a global phenomenon, earning multiple GRAMMY® Awards and selling over 17 million copies worldwide, with hits like “Bring Me to Life” and “My Immortal” defining a generation. Fallenremains one of the best-selling albums of all time and has earned Diamond certification from the RIAA. Over the past two decades, the band has continued to evolve while maintaining their signature sound, releasing five studio albums including the chart-topping The Open Door andEvanescence. Their 2021 release The Bitter Truth marked a triumphant return, while their global touring has reached new heights, including their largest headline show to date at Allianz Parque Stadium in São Paulo, Brazil.

Now entering a bold new era, Evanescence continues to push boundaries. 2025 was a landmark year for Amy Lee and Evanescence. The release of last year’s global phenomenon “Afterlife,” from the Netflix series Devil May Cry, became the fastest-rising track of their career and the band’s biggest single since their first album, amassing over 150 million streams globally and reaching #1 on the US Rock Radio Chart, a first at the format for Evanescence. Followed by the release of “End of You,” a collaboration between Evanescence’s Amy Lee, Poppy and Spiritbox’s Courtney LaPlante, the song was named Revolver’s Song of the Year. Also reaching #1 at US Rock Radio, “End Of You" made history in the US by becoming the first all-female collaboration to do so. Their highly anticipated single, “Who Will You Follow,” was co-written and produced by Zakk Cervini and Jordan Fish, and will appear on the forthcoming album Sanctuary, further signaling an exciting new chapter for the band as they continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Source: Sony Music

Breakout Modern Soul Outfit Thee Sacred Souls Share "Any Old Fool", A Groove-Driven Ode To Love Ahead Of Headline Tour Stops in Southeast Asia

April 10, 2026

LISTEN HERE

AHEAD OF HEADLINE TOUR STOPS
IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Photo Credit: Gabriel Roth

April 10th, 2026 — Philippines — Breakout modern soul outfit Thee Sacred Souls return with "Any Old Fool", a previously unreleased track from the recording sessions of their acclaimed 2024 album, 'Got a Story to Tell'. A dancefloor-ready declaration of love, the single is available to stream now HERE.

Originally recorded during the 'Got a Story to Tell' sessions, "Any Old Fool" showcases the band's signature blend of timeless soul and contemporary groove. Funk-driven guitars, a raw bassline, and hard-hitting drums lay the foundation for frontman Josh Lane's smooth, effortless vocal delivery, bringing both swagger and sincerity to the track.

Released in October 2024, 'Got a Story to Tell' was written by Alejandro Garcia, Salvador Samano, and Josh Lane—the band's founding members and true stewards of sweet soul—and recorded at Penrose Recorders with producer Gabriel Roth at the helm. Featuring 12 original tracks, the album further cemented the group's status as modern torchbearers of the genre. Drawing inspiration from Brazilian legend Arthur Verocai, the Delfonics, Jamaican rocksteady, and Motown siren Mary Wells, the record reflects the group's journey through relentless touring, newfound visibility, and the trials that come with rapid success.

The band are set to make their Asia debut next month as part of their 'Live For You' 2026 tour, with stops including Singapore's The Capitol Theatre on May 26th and Jakarta's Java Jazz Festival on May 29th, alongside additional dates across Japan, South Korea, and China. The run precedes their expansive US amphitheatre outing, 'The Constellation Tour'. Tickets are available HERE.

Known for their modern take on 1960s soul—defined by lush harmonies, raw emotion, and groove-forward R&B—Thee Sacred Souls have quickly become one of the genre's most exciting acts. The band currently boasts over 8.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify, with viral standouts "Can I Call You Rose?" (352M+ streams) and "Will I See You Again?" (291M+ streams) gaining widespread traction on TikTok and generating over 500K user-created videos globally. Their rise has earned them high-profile fans including Beyoncé—who gave the group a co-sign in her GQ cover story—as well as SZA, Kylie Jenner, Alicia Keys, Swizz Beatz, Leon Bridges, and more. The group have also made waves on the global festival circuit, with appearances at Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Glastonbury, and joined Kali Uchis on her 'Sincerely,' tour last year. Their rising profile is further marked by appearances on the outdoor stage of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, a COLORS session, NPR's Tiny Desk, CBS Saturday, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

With "Any Old Fool", Thee Sacred Souls continue their global rise, offering fans a glimpse into the depth and warmth of their ever-expanding sound.

Stream "Any Old Fool" here
Tickets for 'The Constellation Tour' available here

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SECRET SIGNALS

FOLLOW THEE SACRED SOULS

Source: Nyou

Our Shame and HengJones bring Taiwanese waves in Manila for All Of The Noise 2026

April 10, 2026

From folktronica to indigenous hip-hop, Our Shame and HengJones co-headline the regional music showcase and conference festival alongside artists from Singapore, Indonesia, New Zealand, and the Philippines

Metro Manila, Philippines — Taiwanese new wave hits the Philippines this month as alternative pop duo Our Shame and acclaimed hip-hop artist HengJones co-headline All Of The Noise 2026, a three-day, multi-venue and culture festival set across Astbury Makati (April 17 and 19), Sari-Sari Makati(April 17 and 19), and 123 Block in Mandaluyong City (April 18).

As two of the most promising emerging voices in the Taiwanese independent music scene, both acts will be joining an eclectic roster of lineup from the Asia Pacific region, including Indonesia’s Grrrl Gang, Arash Buana, and Gavendri; New Zealand’s Phoebe Rings, Singapore’s Shye, and our very own BP Valenzuela, DJ Love, Elijah Canlas, Fitterkarma, Ourselves the Elves, SOS, and more.

Making their official debut in Manila, Our Shame and HengJones bring distinct sonic identities honed by culture, experimentation, and storytelling. Our Shame will perform at the intimate Sari-Sari stage on April 17, while HengJones takes over the outdoor stage at 123 Block on April 18.

Our Shame arrives on the heels of their critically acclaimed Hidden Album, a concept-driven project that explores themes of intimacy and discovery through a layered folktronica lens. Combining acoustic instrumentation with field recordings and electronic textures that extend from trip-hop to UK garage influences, the indie duo makes compelling pop tunes that are sonically understated but whose songwriting feels personal and immersive. The Taiwanese pairing is currently developing extended works from the album, including prospective international collaborations with plans for a tour in Japan in late 2026 or early 2027.

HengJones, on the other hand, continues to gather incredible recognition for his debut album, fangcalay a tamedaw—a deeply introspective body of work rooted in Indigenous Pangcah (Amis) identity. Built on themes of matriarchal narratives and language preservation, the project reflects an important intersection of heritage and contemporary hip-hop culture. Following a well-lauded performance in Shibuya, Japan, HengJones is currently working on a new material featuring a Japanese producer, alongside major appearances and an upcoming nationwide tour in his home country, Taiwan.

Beyond live performances, All Of The Noise 2026 expands its cultural footprint through its Cut Through The Noise conference, tackling key issues shaping the regional music ecosystem, and Echoes of the Noise, a curated program of music documentaries exploring the intersections of sound, identity, and social movements.

With its multi-platform programming and cross-border collaborations, All Of The Noise 2026 continues its commitment to positioning the Philippines’ growing role as a vital hub in Asia’s burgeoning independent music landscape.

Tickets are available via https://allofthenoise2026.helixpay.ph

Source: Nyou

Mark Carpio writes the ending he never expected in new EP, Huling Pag-ibig

April 10, 2026

Listen to the focus track “Paalam Na,” a powerful meditation on closure and healing

OPM hitmaker Mark Carpio drops his highly anticipated new EP, Huling Pag-ibig—released under EMPIRE.PH Music andONErpm. Marking a milestone in his 10-year career, the 4-track EP weaves themes of love, loss, and emotional closure into one cohesive sonic package. Both introspective and freeing, the project also serves as an ending to a well-loved music era—one that positioned Carpio as both a prominent balladeer of his generation and a gifted songwriter known for his poignant yet earnest storytelling.

With nearly 400 million streams on Spotify and a catalog of hits, Carpio continues to build on his strength as a reliable pop artist. His latest offering reinforces this reputation, presenting an introspective collection of songs that connects his music roots with present-day narratives.

[MORE PRESS PHOTOS]

Conceptually, Huling Pag-ibig is a continuation of Carpio’s earlier works: the optimistic yearning of “Hiling” and the romantic realization of “Kay Tagal.” This time, Carpio shifts the narrative and confronts the possibility that long-awaited love may not unfold as hoped. The result is a cohesive exploration of love’s evolution: from persistence to loss, heartbreak to acceptance. The intentional structure enables listeners to experience Huling Pag-ibig not merely as a collection of tunes but as a continuous emotional journey.

“This EP is the twist of that story,” explains the entertainment multi-hyphenate. “It asks, what if, after all that waiting, things didn’t turn out the way I hoped? Huling Pag-ibig is about that journey—fighting for love until your very last drop of hope and learning to let go when there’s nothing left.”

The EP’s emotional depth is matched by its meticulous songwriting, which has evolved over the course of ten years. Many of the songs started as unfinished ideas during the early stages of Mark Carpio’s career, only reaching its full potential later through personal reflection, lived experience, and shared stories of his fans. Through platforms like TikTok and his “Kape Tayo” series, the chart-topping solo artist helped empower his listeners to participate in the creative process, ultimately contributing to an EP that uniquely functions as a shared emotional experience.

All the tracks in the EP showcase a distinct style that adds up to the record’s emotionally rich sound. The title track, produced by RJ Pineda, draws inspiration from Adele’s sweeping ballads but is reimagined through a distinctly Filipino lens. “Ayaw Mo Na,” co-written with Ethan Loukas, taps into a more organic folk direction—thanks to its storytelling-driven lyrics and heart-tugging warmth. “Paano Ba Mag-isa” sounds like a return to form, offering a stripped-down, melodic approach that is steeped in classic ballad traditions.

Serving as the EP’s masterpiece is the focus track “Paalam Na,” produced by Line In Productions’ Nikhil Amarnani. A clear departure from his mellow, piano-backed ballads, the tune leans toward alternative pop/rock sensibilities. As the final chapter of the EP, “Paalam Na” reveals itself as a powerful meditation on closure: accepting that some things are meant to end, even as healing is still underway.

Carpio shares, “It’s also the song that took me the longest to write. I started writing it right after Hiling and Kay Tagal, but it took me almost 10 years to fully understand what it was about.”

According to Carpio, the finishing touches on the song came after a recent interaction with a close friend. “It was only when a friend of mine came to my studio after a breakup. He didn’t say much—he was just sitting there, trying to hide his sadness after ending a long-term relationship. That moment stayed with me. It gave me the clarity I needed to finally finish the song. In the EP, it represents closure—accepting that she has already moved on, even if you’re still in the process of letting go.”

Coinciding with Carpio’s decade-long anniversary as a recording artist, the new EP represents a moment of creative transition. Shedding off his “hugot” king persona, Carpio hints that the current record may signal the end of his ballad-driven era while opening doors to new creative reinventions for future music releases.

“This could be the closing chapter of that side of me,” Mark Carpio reveals. “What comes next is something I’m really excited about—but I’ll reveal that after this EP.”

Mark Carpio’s “Huling Pag-ibig” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

Source: Nyou

Rising indie pop youngblood neytan invites listeners to experience love in new single, “Ano Lasa ng Pag-ibig? Edi Tipaklong”

April 10, 2026

Photo by Mayks Go.

[LINK TO PHOTOS]

MANILA, PHILIPPINES—Laguna-born and Quezon City-based solo artist neytan has proved once again that love is a complex feeling and that romantic ballads aren't dead with his new single, “Ano Lasa ng Pag-ibig? Edi Tipaklong”—out now via Offshore Music.

Marking his first release for the year, “Ano Lasa ng Pag-ibig? Edi Tipaklong” arrives on the heels of neytan’s groove-laden track, “Out of Tempo Out of Time,” released in October 2025 and has since gained traction among his growing fanbase. With this release, neytan now takes a more sentimental turn that evokes the familiar feeling of long bus rides home.

“There is always a specific type of love songs displayed [on bus rides] from artists like Air Supply, Stephen Bishop and Jaya,” neytan (Nathan Del Mundo) shares, citing his influences for the newly released track. Serving as both the main writer and producer, he first conceived the track during a restless night, leaving it unfinished for a few months before revisiting it with fellow musicians, Reese Medestomas (keys) and JP Napiza (strings).

Official Artwork for Ano Lasa ng Pag-ibig? Edi Tipaklong

Embracing humor, romance, and sincerity in his distinct brand of songwriting, neytan continues to redefine the love song format with intent and care. As the young bedroom musician sums it up, “I just wanted to write another love song with nonsense lyrics that has that feeling of love that you can’t really deny the genuineness of it.”

neytan’s “Ano Lasa ng Pag-ibig? Edi Tipaklong” is out now and is available for streaming on all digital music platforms worldwide. Catch him live on April 18 at Hot Cat Cafe, Baguio for Sigaw ng Kuwago’s Usay Buhay.

About neytan

neytan’s goofy and scatterbrained exterior can be amusing, yet fascinating at the same time as he incorporates it into his music. His pop sound is highly influenced by the 60s to the 80s only if a nerdy Paul Dano created it with the confidence of Alex Turner wearing tight leather pants and the easygoing vibe of the famous cartoon cat, Garfield. However lax his tunes are, they still seem to radiate with a great variety of people, ranging from those who would listen to that mellow, nonchalant, sound to those who primarily listen to hypnagogic pop and post-punk. This emanates from his belief that the simplest forms of entertainment could have the biggest impact on people’s lives–similar to how cartoons and daily internet memes are. Taking this in mind, neytan aims to further maximize and explore the impact of simplicity as he thrives in today's music scene.

neytan’s Socials:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2SiPvwfKYm1TANEo8F0zyT?si=eZiAdr1eTVCHTwTVSreE6g

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17AehdYRNc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coco_manoloto?igsh=cWVmN3Y1MWtwZGUz

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@neytanmusicstuff?_r=1&_t=ZS-95MI2q6msM9

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@neytanmusicph?si=7-ttNWwFZ-OO0BGQ

Source: Nyou

Ben&Ben reclaims chart dominance with viral smash “Lifetime (Reimagined)”

April 9, 2026

The song has reached No. 4 on Spotify Philippines Daily Top Songs Chart, and is expected to hit a new peak in the coming days

Award-winning Filipino folk-pop band Ben&Ben has surged back to the summit of the streaming charts with “Lifetime (Reimagined)”—released under Sony Music Entertainment.

The new version of the hit ballad has reached a peak of No. 4 on Spotify Philippines Daily Top Songs Chart, while making a dent internationally with a No. 3 debut on the Spotify Top Songs Debut – Global.

Released on March 31, 2026, the updated version of “Lifetime” has found renewed success across digital platforms, buoyed by its virality on TikTok. The new version resonates with the general public through the recent wave of social media trends hinging on the new verse: “how do you grieve for a love that doesn’t even exist?” It has since then sparked interest, particularly the videos featuring an edit of characters from popular movies and TV shows, which have collectively amassed more than 100 million views.

[WATCH THE LYRIC VIDEO]

[STREAMING LINKS HERE]

With the song’s immediate climb to the top 5 of the Philippine streaming charts, Ben&Ben returns as the top OPM group on Spotify Philippines—their first time since December 23, 2024. In addition to its growing list of achievements, the track has also reached No. 1 on Genius Lyrics Charts.

“For this version of Lifetime, we felt that we could be there for someone in their pain, longing, and yearning through these new lyrics and melodies,” shares the nine-piece collective. “There’s a deep sense of gratefulness in our hearts for how people have received the song so far.We’re very humbled, and we promise to keep working hard in writing and performing music that connects deeply with Liwanag, our listeners.”

“Lifetime (Reimagined)” features a new arrangement with additional verses, an instrumental break, and a bridge, resulting in an extended duration of four minutes and thirty-seven seconds. The song was written by Miguel and Paolo Benjamin, with the latter serving as co-producer alongside Jean Paul Verona.

Ben&Ben’s “Lifetime (Reimagined)” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

The Strokes set new album Reality Awaits for June 26

April 8, 2026

“GOING SHOPPING” ARRIVES NOW

PLAYING COACHELLA

Reality Awaits album cover art — Untitled (Cowboy) 1989 courtesy of Richard Prince “Going Shopping” single artwork.

Reality Awaits, the seventh studio album from The Strokes, is set for release on June 26 via Cult Records/RCA Records. “Going Shopping” is out now—listen here.

Recorded in Costa Rica with producer Rick Rubin and finished around the globe, Reality Awaits marks the band’s first new music since 2020’s much-lauded The New Abnormal and extensive global touring in its wake.

The Strokes will play major festivals around the world this spring and summer including this weekend and next at Coachella, in addition to dates headlining Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, Japan’s Summer Sonic 2026 and more.

The Strokes are a band from New York City. Since their 2001 debut, their beloved discography has defined the sound of a generation.

Source: Nyou

Culture Wars Inks Deal With AWAL + Announces Highly Anticipated Debut Album Don’t Speak, Out April 10

April 8, 2026

Headline U.S. tour kicks off May 14th, including shows in San Francisco, Seattle, Phoenix, Nashville, & more

Photo by Eliot Lee

Austin-bred rock collective Culture Wars have officially arrived. Upon signing a fresh deal with AWAL, the alternative powerhouse will release their highly anticipated debut album, Don’t Speak, on April 10 — a defining moment for a band poised to lead the next generation of guitar-driven rock.

Culture Wars is the bridge between the raw grit of ‘90s guitar rock and the cinematic sheen of modern pop, reclaiming authentic instrumentation for the arena stage. With a million monthly listeners and a proven global headline draw, their debut album Don’t Speak marks the arrival of the next great rock icons.

Rooted in “song-first” authenticity, Culture Wars reject the hyper-digitized landscape of modern rock in favor of real instruments and undeniable collective chemistry. On Don’t Speak, the band delivers a high-octane, genre-blending statement that fuses surf-rock pulses, ‘80s synth textures, and towering guitar work into arena-ready anthems built to last. It’s a record that feels both nostalgic and forward-looking — equally indebted to the emotional urgency of ‘90s guitar grit and the widescreen ambition of contemporary pop.

The momentum surrounding Don’t Speak is undeniable. Nine tracks from the album have already amassed millions of streams, helping propel the band to over one million monthly listeners ahead of release. Breakout single “Typical Ways” has surpassed 13 million streams, while “It Hurts” cracked the Top 20 at U.S. Alternative Radio — solidifying Culture Wars as one of the format’s most exciting new forces.

Since their 2021 EP teche, Culture Wars have maintained an explosive upward trajectory as a fiercely independent, self-managed unit. Their relentless drive has earned them coveted opening slots for global heavyweights including Maroon 5 and LANY — momentum they’ve transformed into a formidable headline presence of their own. The band has already sold out iconic venues in New York City, Los Angeles, and London, proving their international draw well before the release of a full-length album.

2025 has marked a breakout year. In addition to their radio and streaming milestones, Culture Wars stepped onto arena stages alongside LANY, Wallows, and Keane, further cementing their reputation as a band built for scale. Now, with Don’t Speak, they channel that live intensity into their most cohesive and commanding work to date.

In support of the album, Culture Wars will embark on a headline U.S. tour kicking off May 14, bringing their electrifying live show to major markets including Seattle, San Francisco, Phoenix, Nashville, and more. Known for their cathartic performances and magnetic stage presence, the upcoming run signals the band’s transition from rising contenders to full-fledged headliners.

With Don’t Speak, Culture Wars aren’t just releasing a debut album — they’re making a statement. At a time when rock music often leans on digital gloss, the band is reclaiming authenticity, amplifying real instrumentation, and proving that guitar-driven music still belongs at the center of the arena stage.

For more information on Culture Wars, follow them at the links below.

Photo by Eliot Lee

Culture Wars Links

Track List

*Side One*

1. Don’t Speak

2. Bittersweet

3. Typical Ways

4. (Tokyo)

5. It Hurts

6. Heaven

*Side Two*

7. Wasting My Time

8. Miley

9. In The Morning

10. Slowly

11. cortisol, it’s not always what’s in your head

12. Lies

Produced and Mixed by Caleb Contreras

Engineered by Gerardo “Jerry” Ordonez

Mastered by Robin Schmidt

Headline US Tour Dates

5.14 Seattle, WA @ The Croc

5.15 San Francisco, CA @ Rickshaw Stop *SOLD OUT*

5.16 Phoenix, AZ @ Crescent Ballroom

5.21 Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West

5.22 Nashville, TN @ Exit/In

5.23 Dallas, TX @ Trees

5.30 Mexico City, MX @ Foro Puebla

5.31 Monterrey, MX @ Foro Tims

Purchase Tickets HERE.

For more information, please contact:

Mark Bonifacio- mark.bonifacio25@gmail.com

GRAMMY®-nominated OneRepublic Release New Soaring Anthem "Need Your Love"

April 6, 2026

LISTEN HERE

April 6th, 2026 — GRAMMY®-nominated band OneRepublic has returned with their brand-new single "Need Your Love". Out via BMG, the track is a soaring, arena-ready pop-rock anthem, showcasing the band's signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and powerful hooks, set to unite fans around the world. Fans can stream the new song HERE.

Produced by 3x GRAMMY® award winning writer and producer Ryan Tedder and co-written alongside James Essien, the track is an uplifting, emotionally charged anthem that highlights the importance of love over materialistic pursuits. The soaring melodies were first teased during select live performances in 2025, quickly becoming a highly anticipated release, with Tedder's unmistakable vocals driving the soaring, anthemic sound that has defined the band's global success.

OneRepublic – "Need Your Love" (Official Video)

Alongside the single comes a captivating music video that brings the song to life. Set against the industrial backdrop of a dimly lit warehouse, the visual captures the band in their element, performing with an authenticity that illuminates the track's message of love.

Last week, the band unveiled 'Dreaming Out Loud (Deluxe Edition)', their Gold-certified full-length debut album on vinyl for the first time ever. This special release not only revisits the album that launched them onto the global stage but also includes unreleased material, offering fresh insight into a defining era of the band's career. Further underscoring their global impact, the release coincided with 33 new RIAA Gold and Platinum certifications, marking a major expansion of accolades across their catalogue. Order or listen to the album HERE.

The band recently completed the first leg of their 'From Asia, With Love' tour, spanning Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Kobe, Singapore, and Taipei in February and March 2026. A proven touring force in the region, OneRepublic have built a consistent live presence over the years, having performed eight times in Singapore, five in Taiwan, four in Hong Kong, and three each in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand, alongside two shows in Indonesia.

With "Need Your Love", OneRepublic continue their unstoppable trajectory, further cementing their enduring legacy as a global pop-rock powerhouse.

Stream "Need Your Love" here
Watch the official music video here

About OneRepublic

GRAMMY®-nominated six-piece pop-rock band OneRepublic first burst onto the scene in 2007 with their debut album, 'Dreaming Out Loud'. Since then, the band has amassed over 10 billion streams on Spotify alone. Their first album included the 20 million-selling hit single "Apologize", which shattered digital sales and airplay records worldwide and earned them a GRAMMY® nomination.

Composed of 3x GRAMMY® award winning artist and lead vocalist Ryan Tedder, guitarists Zach Filkins and Drew Brown, keys player Brian Willett, bassist and cellist Brent Kutzle, and drummer Eddie Fisher, the band's momentum has only continued to grow. Their 2009 sophomore album, 'Waking Up', featured the smash singles "All the Right Moves", "Secrets" and "Good Life". Shortly after in 2013, the band released their certified-platinum album, 'Native', which included the No. 1 hit and 41 million-selling single "Counting Stars". OneRepublic released 'Oh My My', their fourth album in 2016 and their fifth album, 'Human', in 2021. In 2022, their smash hit "I Ain’t Worried" was featured in the blockbuster hit, Top Gun: Maverick and boasts over 3 billion streams. In April 2024, the group released their smash hit single "I Don't Wanna Wait" with David Guetta, which has amassed over 130 million streams globally since its release. They also shared "Nobody (from Kaiju No.8)", which serves as the end credit song for the hugely successful manga-turned-Anime series Kaiju. No 8, and later shared their second song from the series, "Invincible (from Kaiju No.8)". Following the release of these singles, OneRepublic debuted their sixth album, 'Artificial Paradise', featuring hits like "Hurt" and "Sink or Swim", and later the deluxe of the album, which included their collaboration with Jelly Roll and acoustic versions of their hit songs. The group also released "Chasing Paradise" with Kygo, "Tell Me" with Ikky and Karan Aujla, and teamed up with The Supermen Lovers to release a new version for the 25th anniversary of their beloved track "Starlight", titled "Starlight (The Fame)". A few months ago, the band released the single and video "Give Me Something", which serves as the official theme song for Arknights: Endfield, the highly anticipated video game that launched in January. The band will continue their international run with April headline stadium shows in China and Europe this Summer.

About BMG

Founded in 2008, BMG reimagined the relationship between music companies, songwriters, and artists by offering fairer contracts, greater creative freedom, and unparalleled transparency in royalties and licensing. Now the fourth-largest music company in the world, BMG combines human creativity with cutting-edge technology to connect music with global audiences. With 16 offices across 13 key markets, BMG represents more than three million songs and recordings, including some of the most iconic catalogs and works from leading artists and songwriters including The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, George Harrison, Lily Allen, OneRepublic and more. BMG is wholly owned and privately held by the international media, services, and education company Bertelsmann.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | BMG

FOLLOW OneRepublic

Indie Rock Sensations Good Kid Drop Highly Anticipated Debut Album 'Can We Hang Out Sometime?', Previous Singles From Album Surpassed 18 Million Streams

April 6, 2026

LISTEN HERE

PREVIOUS SINGLES FROM ALBUM SURPASSED 18 MILLION STREAMS

Photo Credit: Steph Montani

April 6th, 2026 — Philippines – Toronto’s Good Kid has released their highly anticipated debut album 'Can We Hang Out Sometime?', recorded with GRAMMY-winning producer John Congleton (St. Vincent, Wallows, Lana Del Rey). The highly-anticipated debut album captures the band pushing their sound into new territory, while retaining the high-energy hooks and inventive riffs that have become their hallmark.

The theme of connection runs throughout the 10 tracks on 'Can We Hang Out Sometime?' – its importance, its fragility, and the search for it in moments of uncertainty. From the bittersweet “Wall” to the tender “Coffee”, the album serves as both an ode to and a meditation on how we relate to friends, lovers, the world around us, and ourselves.

Leaning into that emotional openness, the band pushed themselves further than ever before in the studio. “This record is the most unfiltered and uninhibited we have ever been,” shares the band. “There are so many things on this record that are irreproducible, sounds and methods that made each and every take totally unique. From writing a crazy solo that’s nearly impossible to play to having Nick screaming his lungs out in his vocals for the very first time.”

Across the record, those ideas take shape in stories of strained friendships, missed signals, and the quiet effort it takes to show up for one another. “The record is about acknowledging the difficulties of life and hanging out with your friends anyway, to help make it better,” says singer Nick Frosst. That tension between closeness and distance carries across the album’s emotional range, from the grungy bite of “Eastside”, which picks at a long-held grudge, to the haunting pull of “Rift” and its all-consuming obsession. “Cicada” wrestles with inadequacy and desire, while “Tea Leaves” reflects on the cyclical pain of drifting apart.

At the album’s core, “Ginger Lemonade” stands as a heartfelt love letter to the band’s own creative partnership, a reminder that ‘chosen’ family can weather even the most uncertain moments. “Sonically this record is us exploring some of the most visceral emotions…” shares guitarist David Wood. That sense of shared experience extends not only to the album’s themes, but to the way the band write and create together. “If we could each individually just write these songs, we probably would have,” explains guitarist Jacob Kereliuk. “But part of why we’re in a band is the camaraderie and the brotherhood. We all need each other to take these ideas and explore them together.”

A string of releases leading up to the record release has built incredible momentum for the band. Recent single “Cicada” sits at over 5 million streams across platforms, helping push the band past 3.45 million monthly listeners, and over 800 million catalogue streams to date.

Good Kid – "Cicada" (Official Video)

Late last year, the band performed at the Streamer Awards in Los Angeles, where the performance placed the band amongst the event’s impressive list of past performers and fellow digital-era music disruptors including Ty Dolla $ign, Bella Poarch, Yung Gravy, and BBNO$. Watch the performance HERE.

Blending the punchy riffs of J-rock, the immediacy of indie rock, and the raw edge of pop-punk, Good Kid has spent the past several years quietly building something larger than a typical band trajectory. Entirely independent, they’ve cultivated a fiercely participatory fan community, while establishing themselves as one of the most creator-friendly projects in modern guitar music.

By making their entire discography Content ID–free and DMCA–free, the band have empowered creators across Twitch, YouTube, and other platforms to use their songs without fear of takedowns, allowing the music to spread organically across gaming streams, animations, and online communities.

Tracklist
01. Rift
02. Eastside
03. Coffee
04. Cicada
05. Tea Leaves
06. Alone With Me
07. Ghost Keeper
08. Tornado
09. Wall
10. Ginger Lemonade

Stream the album 'Can We Hang Out Sometime?'
here: found.ee/GK-CWHOS

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS

FOLLOW GOOD KID

Rising Global Alt-Pop Sibling Duo Wasia Project Release "2515", A Late-Night Drift Through Modern Disconnection

April 6, 2026

LISTEN HERE

Photo Credit: Claryn Chong

April 6th, 2026 — Philippines — Today, Wasia Project — the sibling duo of Will Gao and Olivia Hardy — return with their new single "2515", marking a striking comeback that signals the start of a bold new era and sonic direction. Blending their orchestral roots with an undercurrent of rave energy, the track unfolds like a cinematic, nocturnal meditation on life in the digital age. Fans can stream the new song HERE.

Produced with frequent collaborator St. Francis Hotel, "2515" captures the duo at their most refined and immersive. The track fuses their orchestral roots with a rave-inspired pulse, taking listeners on a nocturnal journey that shifts between introspection and dancefloor momentum. Olivia's spectral vocals thread the track's shifting elements, giving way to a sweeping, kinetic composition that reflects the disorienting rhythms of modern life. In the opening refrain, "2515, been in your car", Olivia's voice—wreathed in effects, broadcast as a distant murmur—mirrors the motorised churn of the song's setting.

The result is an emotionally charged landscape that captures Wasia Project's interplay of stillness and confrontation, solitude and synergy, and bridges their cinematic sound with an undulating electronic throb. Lyrically, the song establishes the prevailing themes of fragmented connections and strained relationships within lifestyles of overwhelming pace, in a post-COVID epoch, honouring the muddled, murky digital landscape that the iGen/Gen Z generation find themselves wading through.

""2515" marks a new chapter in our songwriting—it's colder and darker than anything we've done before. A song fuelled by anger, the sonic mirrors racing thoughts that come with the emotion. With this track, we officially start our journey through night."

— Wasia Project

Formed in 2019, Wasia Project's mixed British-Chinese heritage and classical training have inspired them to have a global approach to pop, which dynamically melds styles and influences that cut across genre lines and even entire hemispheres of musical tradition. The duo's dedicated and dialled-in audience has snowballed over the last few years, amassing over 200M streams across their catalogue and peaking at 2.4M monthly Spotify listeners. Their 2022 debut EP, 'how can I pretend?', featured their breakout hit "ur so pretty", which earned two sync placements in Netflix's LGBTQI+ hit series 'Heartstopper'—in which Will Gao also starred in. This was followed by a series of dewy-eyed standalone singles such as live-favourite "Petals on the Moon". They gestured at a cooler sonic palette on their transitional EP, 'Isotope' (2024), which was accompanied by a beautiful short film. Wasia Project's YouTube channel has also accumulated over 20M views to date.

The duo's touring activity has cemented a growing legion of loyal fans, with momentum set to continue into 2026. Their 2024 UK headline tour sold out within minutes, while their debut US run saw them support two-time GRAMMY Award winner Laufey across 13 dates. That same year, they also supported BRITs Critics' Choice Award winner Tom Odell across 18 European dates. The duo has also made notable festival appearances at All Points East and Lollapalooza Germany. Widely championed by leading publications including British Vogue, The Guardian, NPR, GQ, DIY, and Rolling Stone, Wasia Project have also graced the covers of NME, BRICKS, Dork, and Notion.

With "2515", Wasia Project continues to dissolve the boundaries between genres and emotional states, crafting music that feels both deeply personal and collectively resonant, a soundtrack for late-night introspection and shared, unspoken understanding. The tonal shift of "2515" is down to its patchwork, era-hopping DNA and the curatorial nous of a duo in complete synergy, and it's just the beginning.

Stream "2515" here

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | AWAL

FOLLOW WASIA PROJECT

Rol3ert Reimagines Breakout Hit “(how could i be) honest?” with Korea’s DAUL & THAMA in New Cross-Border Collaboration

April 6, 2026

Listen HERE
Watch the MV HERE

(Credit: Exciter Records)

Rising Japanese singer-songwriter Rol3ert continues his rapid ascent globally and across Asia with the release of “(how could i be) honest? - DAUL mix (feat. THAMA),” a newly reimagined version of his breakout track, created in collaboration with Korean producer DAUL and acclaimed R&B artist THAMA. Recently selected for Rolling Stone’s “Future 25” as one of 25 artists representing Japan, Rol3ert is quickly emerging as one of the country’s most promising new voices on the global stage.

Originally released in December 2025, “(how could i be) honest?” quickly gained global attention, landing on Spotify’s official playlists across 18 countries. Across Asia, the track saw strong regional traction, charting on viral charts in Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, earning heavy rotation on Singapore’s 987FM, and peaking at No.5 on Singapore’s Shazam charts. On Spotify, the song surpassed 500,000 streams within its first month, becoming Rol3ert’s fastest-growing release to date. Across his recent releases, including “(how could i be) honest?” and “savior,” user-generated content has continued to spread organically, amplifying his reach among younger listeners across the region.

This new version sees the track reconstructed rather than traditionally remixed—expanding its emotional and sonic identity across cultures. Featuring newly written Korean lyrics and vocals from THAMA, the song retains the emotional core of the original while introducing a new dimension through DAUL’s electronic production and THAMA’s distinct artistry. The result is a version that feels both familiar and entirely reimagined, bridging Japanese and Korean music sensibilities within a global pop context.

DAUL shares, “when I first heard the original track, what stood out most was the vocal melody. It has a strong hook that stays with you, and I felt the natural energy and dynamism of the band sound. Rather than drastically changing the song, I focused on preserving its emotional core and melody while expanding that energy through electronic elements. By reconstructing it around synthesizers and electronic drums, I aimed to create a denser, more three-dimensional soundscape.

With THAMA joining, the color of the track became even richer. The combination of Rol3ert and THAMA’s distinct styles, along with the production, creates a piece that reveals more depth the more you listen.”

THAMA adds, “the original track had a rock texture that I don’t usually work with, which made it feel very fresh. Rol3ert’s voice and melody were especially memorable—they reminded me of the emo rock bands I listened to growing up.

During production, I focused on preserving the tone, rhythm, and lyrical appeal that Rol3ert brings, while adding a new interpretation on top of that foundation. The synth-forward sound is a key element of this version. I’d also love for listeners to pay attention to the newly written first verse, which wasn’t in the original. I hope people enjoy hearing how the song transforms through my voice.”

Rol3ert reflects, “the main thing I focused on was creating something completely different while still inheriting the original’s charm—its slightly absurd, chaotic, and imperfect qualities in a good way. I referenced sounds from ’80s video games to bring in a bit of playfulness.

When I first heard DAUL’s demo, I was really happy to hear how that sense of playfulness was already embedded in the track. By combining that with THAMA’s voice and the addition of Korean lyrics—which was a completely new challenge for me—I think we were able to create something that feels like a different song, while still preserving what made the original special.”

Accompanying the release, a music video featuring Rol3ert and THAMA, filmed in Korea, further brings this cross-cultural collaboration to life. In parallel, Rol3ert has also unveiled a live performance video for “savior,” captured during his sold-out headline show Rol3ert Live “katachi” in Tokyo, offering a glimpse into the growing scale and energy of his live performances.

Further expanding his connection with fans, Rol3ert has also launched his official Discord community, creating a dedicated space for global listeners to engage, connect, and access exclusive content. He is also set to make his Singapore debut at Mediacorp’s Cloud 9 Festival on May 9, marking another key milestone as his presence continues to grow across Southeast Asia.

With momentum building across Japan, Southeast Asia, and Korea, Rol3ert continues to emerge as one of the region’s most compelling new voices—bridging cultures, languages, and sounds with a distinctly global perspective.

Download single cover artwork here

STREAM (how could i be)honest? - DAUL mix(feat. THAMA) HERE

WATCH “(how could i be)honest? - DAUL mix(feat. THAMA)
OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO HERE

About Rol3ert

Born in the United States in 2005 and raised in Japan, Rol3ert began his solo career in January 2025. Singing primarily in English while incorporating Japanese and J-pop-influenced melodies, he has developed a distinct cross-cultural sound. His cover videos have gone viral globally, with some exceeding 4 million views, and his original releases have been featured on playlists across Asia and beyond. With listeners spanning Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, the United States, and Brazil, Rol3ert is emerging as a new Japanese artist making a mark on the global music scene.

About DAUL

Producer DAUL is an artist who has secured a global listener base, recording approximately 170,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and continuing to deliver steady streaming performance. In particular, Fujii Kaze’s “Kirari (DAUL Remix)” surpassed 10 million streams on Spotify, proving his production capabilities. In addition, through an overseas tour with R&B artist JUNNY, he has experienced various global performance stages, and through collaborations with major domestic artists such as Lee Youngji, CHANGMO, and GRAY, he has expanded his presence as a producer.

About THAMA

THAMA is one of Korea’s leading R&B singer-songwriters and producers, known for his low, velvety vocals and a sound that naturally blends jazz, hip-hop, and neo-soul. He debuted in 2017 with the single “Fall In Love,” and has since expanded his musical presence through songwriting and featured appearances with major artists including Dynamicduo, EXO, NCT 127, george, and Kang Daniel. His 2021 full-length debut album, DON’T DIE COLORS, was widely acclaimed for its high level of craftsmanship, winning both the 19th Korean Music Awards for Best R&B/Soul Album and the Korean Hip-hop Awards for R&B Album of the Year. The record was also selected by Harper’s Bazaar (U.S.) as one of the “15 Best K-Pop Albums of 2021,” praised for its multi-layered sound that moves freely across R&B, hip-hop, soul, and jazz. This recognition further elevated THAMA’s international profile. In 2023, THAMA broadened his palette with his second album WOOOF!, embracing funk and neo-soul influences. That same year, he sold out his Hyundai Card Curated solo concert, cementing his reputation as a powerful live performer.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT blackstar
CONNECT WITH US AT OUR WEBSITE HERE

James Blake releases new record ‘Trying Times’ via Good Boy Records.

April 1, 2026

Listen to ‘Trying Times’ HERE.

Watch the ‘Trying Times’ video HERE

[Credit: Robbie Lawrence]

"A deep, introspective and disarmingly sincere album” - Mixmag

“The lyrics are among the best of Blake’s career” - Evening Standard

“Melodies collapsing and rebuilding themselves in his digital laboratory” - The Independent

“His seventh studio album [is] a compendium of his best parts” - DIY

A GRAMMY-winning producer, songwriter, and musician, James Blake’s singular blend of soul, electronica, hip-hop, and alt-R&B has shaped the sound of modern music. Across six seminal studio albums, Blake’s catalogue has amassed over 2.2 billion streams: his 2019 album ‘Assume Form’, featuring ROSALÍA and Travis Scott, garnered widespread acclaim, followed by his highest chart debut to date with 2021’s ‘Friends That Break Your Heart’.

His transcendent vocals and visionary production have cemented him as one of contemporary music’s most influential figures, and a sought-after collaborator for Beyoncé, Frank Ocean, SZA, ROSALÍA, Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott and more, contributing to era-defining albums like ‘Blonde’, ‘DAMN.’, ‘ASTROWORLD’, ‘Lemonade’, and ‘Motomami’.

The album features recently released singles ‘Death Of Love’ and ‘I Had A Dream She Took My Hand’, showcasing the full range of Blake’s artistic voice and a rare emotional candor. Throughout ‘Trying Times’, Blake navigates the fragile space between closeness and solitude in an uncertain era, tracing the fault lines of contemporary life. As overwhelm seeps into both its themes and atmosphere, the record settles in a place between optimism and unease.

Alongside the new record, Blake has also announced details of his upcoming European tour, set to begin in September, including a special stop at London’s O2 Academy Brixton. The dates follow the earlier announcement of his North American run, which features two sold-out shows at NYC’s Brooklyn Paramount, as well as a sold-out show at Toronto’s HISTORY. The full dates can be found below.

Most recently, Blake collaborated with revered UK rapper Dave on his critically acclaimed album ‘The Boy Who Played The Harp’, and crafted ‘Séance’ alongside Ludwig Göransson, a standout from the soundtrack from Ryan Coogler’s ‘Sinners’.

James Blake Live Dates 2026

Wed 05/27/26 - Atlanta, GA - The Tabernacle
Fri 05/29/26 - New York, NY - Brooklyn Paramount
Sat 05/30/26 - New York, NY - Brooklyn Paramount
Sun 05/31/26 - Boston, MA - Roadrunner

Tue 06/02/26 - Washington, DC - The Anthem
Thu 06/04/26 - Philadelphia, PA - Franklin Music Hall
Sat 06/06/26 - Toronto, ON - HISTORY
Mon 06/08/26 - Chicago, IL - The Salt Shed

Tue 29/09/26 - London, UK - O2 Academy Brixton

Mon 05/10/26 - Utrecht, NL - TivoliVredenburg

Thu 08/10/26 - Brussels, BE - Cirque Royal

Mon 12/10/26 - Paris, FR - Le Grand Rex

Thu 15/10/26 - Berlin, DE - Astra Kulturhaus

Sun 18/10/26 - Cologne, DE - E-Werk

Wed 21/10/26 - Glasgow, UK - SWG3 Galvanizers

Sun 25/10/26 - Manchester, UK - New Century

Wed 28/10/26 - Bristol, UK - O2 Academy Bristol

Thu 06/11/26 - Berkeley, CA - Greek Theatre

Fri 06/12/26 - Los Angeles, CA - The Greek Theatre

‘Trying Times’ Tracklist

1. Walk Out Music

2. Death Of Love

3. I Had A Dream She Took My Hand

4. Trying Times

5. Make Something Up

6. Didn’t Come To Argue (ft. Monica Martin)

7. Days Go By

8. Doesn’t Just Happen (ft. Dave)

9. Obsession

10. Rest Of Your Life

11. Through The High Wire

12. Feel It Again

13. Just A Little Higher

Website | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube

For more information please contact:

mabuhay@blackstar.space

AXEAN Festival 2026 heads back to Bali for its seventh edition

March 31, 2026

With growing global recognition, the platform continues to reshape how the world engages with the region’s artists

March 30, 2026 – BALI, INDONESIA — AXEAN Festival, Southeast Asia’s top intra-regional music showcase and conference platform, is scheduled to return for its seventh edition at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, from August 29 to 30, 2026.

Launched in 2020 by a collective of music industry professionals across the region, AXEAN Festival has exponentially grown into a key export platform for Southeast Asian music, as well as a prominent convergence for cross-border collaborations and partnerships between global industry stakeholders and artists. To date, the music showcase and conference event has successfully hosted both virtual editions (2020-2021) and in-person gatherings (2022-2025) in Singapore and Bali. Over six editions, AXEAN has featured nearly 300 artists representing more than 20 countries.

This year’s “Save the Date” announcement signals an expanded edition that will once again bring together over 40 artists from diverse backgrounds and genres, primarily from Southeast Asia and beyond. Apart from the carefully curated lineup of performances, this year’s edition will continue its focus on industry development programming through panel discussions, business matchmaking, and structured networking sessions. The songwriting camp, which will take place after the festival proper, will also return, offering selected artists and producers the opportunity to collaborate in a cross-cultural environment.

“Each year we bring a unique blend of curation to the festival; this year is no different,” said AXEAN Festival co-founder David Siow. “As we add more partners and artists, the excitement builds on each successful edition, and we can promise the same, if not more, quality.”

Co-founder Piyapong Muenprasertdee added that while the festival’s core mission remains the same, its reach and impact continue to grow. “Our goal has always been the same: to bridge the world to Southeast Asia's music and to export the region's talent and professionals to global markets. What's changed is the momentum around that mission. Each year, more countries and national music organizations take notice and want to be part of what we're building here, which reflects a growing recognition that Southeast Asia is a serious player in the global music landscape.”

For its seventh edition, AXEAN Festival builds on its commitment to elevate Southeast Asia’s music communities while creating sustained pathways for cross-cultural and industry collaborations, global partnerships, talent development, and institutional support.

Artist lineup, conference programming, and other essential information will be announced soon. For more details, check out the AXEAN Festivalofficial website. This event is co-presented by Jimbaran Hub.

About AXEAN Festival

The AXEAN Festival is a prominent Southeast Asian music export platform, combining a music conference and showcase festival.

Launched in 2020 during the pandemic by music professionals across Southeast Asia, AXEAN Festival has successfully hosted both virtual (2020-2021) and in-person (2022-2025) events. Over six editions, it has featured 200 artists from 20 countries, attracted 420 delegates from 32 countries, and reached over 46,000 virtual viewers, along with close to 18,000 live attendees.

With its growing international reputation, AXEAN has firmly established itself as Southeast Asia’s leading music export platform. Its first venture into a new market beyond its original home base in Singapore and Bali garnered widespread acclaim among attendees, music industry professionals, and participating artists.

Source: Nyou

15 days

Featured

May 19, 2017

Day 15: I'm Home

May 19, 2017

May 18, 2017

Day 14: Painting, Writing, Being

May 18, 2017

May 17, 2017

Day 13: Speakoutsam Serves

May 17, 2017

May 16, 2017

Day 12: Searching Through Sam

May 16, 2017

May 15, 2017

Day 11: Just Keep Writing

May 15, 2017

May 12, 2017

Day 10: Intersecting Ironies Intercepted

May 12, 2017

May 11, 2017

Day 9: Letter on Brush Strokes

May 11, 2017

May 10, 2017

Day 8: Lay Day

May 10, 2017

May 9, 2017

Day 7: Word Yearn

May 9, 2017

May 8, 2017

Day 6: Chutzpah

May 8, 2017

Buy my books on AMAZON

Buy my books on Amazon!

NEW MUSIC VIDEO FOR “MADWOMAN” STARRING HUDSON WILLIAMS, ALYSA LIU, LOLA TUNG AND MEGAN SKIENDIEL

PREVIOUS SINGLES FROM ALBUM SURPASSED 18 MILLION STREAMS

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT blackstar
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15 days

NEW MUSIC VIDEO FOR “MADWOMAN” STARRING HUDSON WILLIAMS, ALYSA LIU, LOLA TUNG AND MEGAN SKIENDIEL

PREVIOUS SINGLES FROM ALBUM SURPASSED 18 MILLION STREAMS

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CONNECT WITH US AT OUR WEBSITE HERE