RIAA PLATINUM ARTIST KENSHI YONEZU RELEASES WORLD CUP ANTHEM “KARASU - RAVEN”

SHARES AWARD-WINNING

“IRIS OUT” PERFORMACE HERE

APPROVED IMAGE (FOR MEDIA USE): DOWNLOAD

TOKYO, JAPAN (June 15, 2026) – Following a historic year that saw KENSHI YONEZU become the first artist ever to earn an RIAA Platinum certification for a Japanese-language song and break multiple global streaming records, Japanese superstar KENSHI YONEZU has released his new single “Karasu – Raven,” the 2026 NHK Soccer Theme now available HERE.

Written by KENSHI YONEZU for the FIFA World Cup 2026 season, “Karasu – Raven” arrives digitally on June 15, coinciding with Japan’s opening World Cup match against the Netherlands. The newly unveiled cover artwork was illustrated by Yonezu himself, continuing the multidisciplinary creative approach that has defined his career as both a musician and visual artist.

The release follows the extraordinary success of “IRIS OUT,”Yonezu’s theme song for CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC. The track became one of the biggest Japanese-language releases in recent history, setting records for the highest weekly streaming total and the fastest song ever to reach 100 million streams in Japan, while also becoming the highest-charting Japanese-language song in global chart history.

To celebrate the release of “Karasu – Raven,” Yonezu has also shared a live performance video of “IRIS OUT” from MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2026, the country's largest international music awards ceremony watch here. At the event, Yonezu emerged as one of the night's biggest winners, taking home six awards including Best J-Pop Song, Best Digital Culture Artist, and regional honors across Asia, Europe, North America, and Latin America.

The performance captures a landmark moment in Yonezu’s career as his influence continues to expand beyond Japan. Over the past several years, he has become one of the defining figures in contemporary Japanese music, with a catalog spanning blockbuster anime, film, television, and global cultural franchises.

His 2018 breakthrough hit “Lemon” became one of the most successful songs in Japanese music history, while “KICK BACK” made history as the first Japanese-language song ever certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). In 2025, Yonezu completed his largest-ever world tour, KENSHI YONEZU 2025 TOUR / JUNK, performing across Asia, Europe, and North America to more than 440,000 fans.

With “Karasu – Raven” now turns his attention to the world's biggest sporting stage, soundtracking Japan’s World Cup campaign while continuing a run of achievements that have helped redefine the global potential of Japanese-language music.

ABOUT KENSHI YONEZU

After gaining success with Vocaloid music under the stage name HACHI, Kenshi Yonezu began producing under his real name in 2012. In addition to music, he has attracted attention for his album cover illustrations and video productions. The video for his hit single “Lemon”, the long-running theme song for the TV series Unnatural, is the most-viewed music video in Japan, and topped Billboard Japan’s year-end charts for two consecutive years, leaving a mark on music history both in Japan and abroad.

His 2020 album STRAY SHEEP set a record of 1.9 million copies sold with the highest-placing Japanese artist ever to appear on the IFPI year-end global ranking chart. He continued to work tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic, including performing as the first Asian in a virtual concert hosted by the online game Fortnite. Collaborated globally with UNIQLO on their UT collection with the storefront collaboration displays in NY and other 8 UNIQLO stores worldwide. He was awarded an AAC Award, listed in Forbes’ 100 Asian Digital Stars, and received the Minister of NEWS RELEASE Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology’s Art Encouragement Prize for New Artists.

In 2022, he released “M87” as the theme song for the filmShin Ultraman, and “POP SONG” as the theme song for a PlayStation commercial. His single “KICK BACK,” the opening theme for the TV anime CHAINSAW MAN, made Spotify’s Global Top 50, and became the first Japanese-language song certified Gold by RIAA®. He was also selected as the first and only Japanese artist to be a part of the “RIAA Class of 2023”, with which the association summarized the artists who had flourished in the year.

In 2023, Yonezu released “Tsuki Wo Miteita - Moongazing” as the theme song for the RPG game Final Fantasy XVI, and “Chikyugi - Spinning Globe” – the theme song Studio Ghibli’s animated film The Boy and the Heron (Academy Award Winner for Best Animated Feature, 2024), directed by Hayao Miyazaki.

In August 2024, Yonezu wrote “Garakuta – JUNK”, the theme song of the movie LAST MILE, and released his sixth studio album, LOST CORNER. In September, Yonezu released an exclusive line of graphic tees in collaboration with Uniqlo, as part of their ongoing UT series celebrating pop culture from around the world. After 11 years, Hachi (Kenshi Yonezu) himself created a new illustration for the VOCALOID song “Donut Hole”, and a fully animated music video based on the illustration. Original chocolate was also released from Godiva Japan as the “GODIVA x HACHI Donut Hole Collection” from October as the first time for Godiva worldwide to create a chocolate collection lineup in collaboration with an artist. In November Yonezu released “Azalea”, a song written as the theme song for the global Netflix series Beyond Goodbye. For the first time in 6 years, appeared at Kohaku Uta Gassen.

In 2025, Yonezu released “Plazma”, a theme to the filmMobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- and also the theme to its anime series Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX. He then released the theme to the anime series Medalist with a collaboration music video between Kenshi Yonezu and the Winter Olympics gold medalist Yuzuru Hanyu. Yonezu kicked off his largest-scaled world tour, KENSHI YONEZU 2025 WORLD TOUR / JUNK after performing domes in Japan, toured Asia, Europe, and the U.S., drew a total of 440,000 people. In September, his global hit “KICK BACK” received Platinum certification from the RIAA, marking the first time a Japanese-language song has achieved the milestone in the U.S. He recently released “IRIS OUT” as the theme song for the theatrical feature CHAINSAW MAN – THE MOVIE: REZE ARC, alongside the ending theme “JANE DOE,” a collaboration with Hikaru Utada. “IRIS OUT” set multiple all-time records, including the highest weekly streaming total and fastest song to reach 100 million streams in Japanese chart history, the highest weekly point total on Billboard JAPAN, and a peak at No. 5 on the Billboard Global 200 chart, the highest placement ever for a Japanese-language song. In October, Yonezu released “1991” as the theme song for the film 5 Centimeters per Second, and on December 31, he appeared on the 76th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, delivering the first-ever live performance of “IRIS OUT.”

In May 2026, “Peace Sign” also achieved RIAA Gold certification, giving Yonezu three separate RIAA-certified Japanese-language hits — an unprecedented achievement for a Japanese solo artist. Kenshi Yonezu has just recently announced his new tour, KENSHI YONEZU 2026 TOUR / GHOST— a 6-city, 14-show arena headliner across Japan. The tour will kick off in Nagano on November 6, 2026, and will travel through Osaka, Aichi, Fukuoka, Miyagi, and Kanagawa, concluding on December 17.

As for Yonezu’s music videos, “Lemon” has surpassed 970 million views, continuing to break the records of Japanese artists.  It is one of the 18 music videos of his songs that garnered him a commanding record of surpassing 100 million views each (“Lemon,” “Eine Kleine,” “LOSER,” “Peace Sign,” “Haiirotoao (+Masaki Suda),” “orion,” “Flamingo,” “Kanden,” “Fireworks,” “Paprika,” “Shunrai,” “Uma to Shika,” “Spirits of the Sea,” “KICK BACK,” “IRIS OUT,” Foorin’s “Paprika” and Masaki Suda’s “Machigaisagashi,” “Sayonara, Mata Itsuka! – Sayonara”). He has over 8.65 million subscribers on his official YouTube channel.

KENSHI YONEZU IMAGE: DOWNLOAD

CONNECT WITH KENSHI YONEZU: WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM | X | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

 Source: Sony Music

MULTI-PLATINUM RECORDING ARTIST, SONGWRITER AND HITMAKER BEBE REXHA UNVEILS HER MOST PERSONAL PROJECT AND FIRST ALBUM AS AN INDEPENDENT ARTIST: 'DIRTY BLONDE'

LISTEN HERE

Multi-platinum artist Bebe Rexha unveils her new album ‘DIRTY BLONDE’ - last June 12, 2026. As her first release as a fully independent artist, the project represents a bold new chapter—one that sees Bebe embracing complete creative freedom and crafting music entirely on her own terms without the constraints of a major label. Fans can stream the album here. 

Spanning thirteen tracks that cover her full artistic range, from dancefloor anthems to intimate, unfiltered honesty, ‘DIRTY BLONDE’ marks a new chapter in Bebe Rexha’s career. 

“‘DIRTY BLONDE’ became so much more monumental to me than I ever expected. Making this album independently reminded me why I fell in love with music in the first place. I had the freedom to trust my instincts, take risks and create something that feels completely mine. ‘DIRTY BLONDE’ is me in my truest form: honest, unapologetic and free,” Bebe shares. 

Some artists make albums because it’s expected; others make them because they can’t not make them. ‘DIRTY BLONDE’ is unmistakably the latter. Bebe Rexha has always followed her own path: writing for other artists, collaborating on major dance hits, and becoming a successful pop star in her own right. But with ‘DIRTY BLONDE’, she opens up in a way she never has before. She tells her own story in her own words, without a filter. Since early 2026, she has partnered with EMPIRE, a collaboration that has fully restored her creative and artistic autonomy. As a singer-songwriter, that’s something she deeply values—and you can hear it in every track on the album.

The album opens with “Hysteria”, released on April 3 and one of the first previews of what ‘DIRTY BLONDE’ would become. Where many openers ease you in, Bebe Rexha throws the doors wide open here: intense energy, vocals that fill the room, and a techno production that makes the feeling of emotional overwhelm truly audible. With “Tokyo”, the album shifts into something unexpected. The track breathes UK garage influences and carries a quirky energy that resists easy genre labels, revealing a side of Rexha that rarely sounds this free. It makes clear how effortlessly she blends styles—and why that’s exactly her strength.

One of the lead singles is “New Religion”, her collaboration with the iconic British dance group Faithless. Inspired by the timeless 1995 club classic “Insomnia”, the track is fully reimagined for a new era. Bebe Rexha’s vocals transform a dancefloor icon into a modern club track that honors the original while being entirely her own. The song has received worldwide acclaim, climbed to nearly 20 million streams on Spotify, and was performed live on major TV shows and stages. 

Bebe Rexha on “New Religion”: “"New Religion" is basically my salvation on the dance floor. It’s about letting go and completely surrendering to the music. I was in a dark place when I wrote it, and I realized music had always been the one thing that never let me down. When the bass hits, you feel it in your body, and suddenly you feel alive again. I hope that when people hear it, they want to get up and dance, but even more, I hope it makes them feel alive”.

In the middle of the album, Bebe Rexha becomes even more spontaneous. “S.H.I.T.” is direct and completely unfiltered—the kind of track you can only make when you have nothing left to prove. “Çike Çike” adds a funky house dimension that feels surprising yet never forced. It’s one of the moments on Dirty Blonde where Rexha’s willingness to push boundaries is most palpable.

The album also reveals her most vulnerable side. “I Like You Better Than Me” is brutally honest—a song about liking someone so much that you set yourself aside for a moment. “Drink and a Little Love” pairs that sentiment with a warm, instantly resonant atmosphere. With “One Day”, Bebe captures a quiet, unpolished hope—the kind of emotion you don’t so much write as stumble upon.

In the second half of ‘DIRTY BLONDE’, a new layer emerges. “Time” carries an urgency that recalls her earlier crossover work while living fully in the present. “The Way I Want You” is one of the most direct songs of love and longing on the record, while “Nobody’s There” shows the album at its darkest and most introspective. These are the songs that make ‘DIRTY BLONDE’ more than a collection of singles—they form the album’s emotional backbone.

“Night Falls” feels like the natural bridge to the finale: a track that balances stillness and tension, setting up the album’s most powerful closing statement. ‘DIRTY BLONDE’ ends with “Sad Girls”, her collaboration with David Guetta. The track has already become an anthem for anyone turning sorrow into strength on the dance floor. Emotional depth wrapped in an energetic production that perfectly fits today’s international dance scene. Bebe Rexha’s powerful vocals, combined with David Guetta’s unmistakable progressive house signature, deliver a closer that feels both personal and explosive. Ending here is no accident. “Sad Girls” sums up what ‘DIRTY BLONDE’ is at its core: acknowledging pain, and choosing to dance anyway.

‘DIRTY BLONDE’ proves that creative freedom isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. On this project, Rexha holds complete control over her sound, her story, and her image. The result is her most personal and daring work to date: a project that doesn’t try to please everyone, but hits exactly the right people in exactly the right way. Thirteen tracks, zero compromises.

‘DIRTY BLONDE’ Tracklisting
1. Hysteria
2. Tokyo
3. New Religion (met Faithless)
4. S.H.I.T.
5. Çike Çike 
6. I Like You Better Than Me
7. Drink and a Little Love
8. One Day
9. Time
10. The Way I Want You
11, Nobody’s There
12. Night Falls
13. Sad Girls (met David Guetta)
 

Stream 'DIRTY BLONDE' here

About Bebe Rexha

Multi-Platinum global superstar Bebe Rexha is an award-winning singer, songwriter, and creative force whose powerhouse vocals and genre-blending sound have made her one of the most impactful artists of her generation. With billions of global streams and a catalog of chart-dominating hits, Rexha has earned acclaim for both her solo work and her collaborations across pop, dance, hip-hop, and country. Known for her fearless honesty, undeniable hooks, and bold creative vision, Rexha has written and recorded some of the most recognizable songs of the last decade, cementing her reputation as both a hitmaker and a boundary-pushing artist. From sold-out tours to major festival stages, she continues to captivate audiences worldwide with her dynamic performances and unapologetic artistry. For more information, visit: https://areudirty.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
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EMEI SHARES HER BOLD & DRAMATIC EP 'NIGHT AT THE OPERA' OUT NOW VIA ATLANTIC/NICE LIFE RECORDS

LISTEN HERE

A little drama never hurt anybody — and Chinese-American singer-songwriter Emei proves exactly that on her new EP, ‘Night at the Opera’, out now via Atlantic Records and Nice Life. Fans can listen to the EP here. 

‘Night at the Opera’ is a bold and vibrant showcase of Emei’s signature blend of sincerity, emotion, and theatrical flair. Marking a return to her musical theatre roots, the EP embraces the highs, lows, and larger-than-life feelings that have become central to her artistry. As Emei explains, “I wanted to lean into being a theater kid again... you’re going to get all of the pain, emotion, and drama from me!”.

The result is a project that is unapologetically expressive, emotionally honest, and irresistibly fun, further cementing Emei as one of pop’s most exciting emerging voices.

Alongside the EP release, Emei has shared the official visualizer for the single “Noah”,  the EP’s self-proclaimed diss track. “If you know me, you know I always slip in a diss track,” she shares. “It’s a letter to my past self and to any girl who comes across an LA performative man who I’m just going to name ‘Noah’. No offense to any nice Noahs out there, but it’s dangerous! There are men out there memorizing dialogue from The Notebook. I had this realization: the character of Noah isn’t actually this awesome, good dude—he’s kind of bad”.

Emei - "Noah" (Official Visualizer)

Created alongside GRAMMY Award-winning songwriter Justin Tranter (Chappell Roan, Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez) and GRAMMY Award-winning producer Ricky Reed (Lizzo, Leon Bridges, Phantogram), ‘Night at the Opera’ finds Emei at her most theatrical across five buoyant tracks full of drama, flair, and fun. Candy-coated hooks, honest lyrics, and punchy production lay the groundwork as Emei reconnects with a part of herself she had lost. “Right now, I’m the most truthful version of myself,” she explains. “The music is fun, ridiculous, and honest. I’m doing exactly what I want to do”.

Emei first burst onto the scene with her 2022 single “Late to the Party”, which surged on TikTok and put her on the map. This was followed by 2023’s “Scatterbrain”, which landed on Spotify’s Best Pop Songs of 2023 list (and was recently featured in the hit series ‘Off Campus’), cementing Emei as an indie-pop artist to watch.

'Night at the Opera' Tracklisting

1.Night at the Opera
2. What's The Point!
3. Noah
4. Bloom
5. Simple Request

Listen to 'Night at the Opera' here
Watch the visualizer for "Noah" here

About Emei

Growing up in New Jersey, Emei and her grandmother formed an unbreakable bond. The two shared a room and spent their summers traveling to China together. She primarily spoke Chinese at home and actually studied under her vocal coach, Sally Gu, from the Chinese school she attended on weekends. Chinese culture had a massive influence on Emei - from listening to  Chinese pop to actually placing 3rd on Chinese Idol at 15-years-old (and later appearing on China’s Dancing with the Stars). But it was when she found her love for musicals, spinning her parents West Side Story CD on repeat, where she really discovered her love for music and performing. 

Emei went on to earn her degree in cognitive science from Yale University and in 2022 she started uploading her original music online. Emei made major waves with 2022’s “Late to the Party”, surging on TikTok and igniting her 'End of an Era' EP. However, she reached critical mass with the release of her single, "Scatterbrain". Touted as one of Spotify’s “Best Pop Songs of 2023”, the title track eclipsed 71 million Spotify streams followed by “Irresponsible” with 31 million Spotify streams. She sold out a series of dates across Australia and throughout 2025, headlined her biggest tour to date, performing to sold-out crowds coast-to-coast in the US and in the EU. 

But in 2024 her beloved grandma passed and her world changed. Emei threw herself into what would become 'Night at the Opera'. Collaborating with Reed, Justin Tranter, and more, she held nothing back, processing this particular loss, various friendship breakups, a loss of herself amidst it all, and a “massive quarter-life crisis.”

“It was one of the toughest years of my life,” she admits. “The project was born from grief. It’s a big elevation from my past music, because it was written during a season of intense and extreme emotions”.

She’s center stage, she’s unapologetically in her feelings, and she’s sharing them aloud with no fucks given—and it’s glorious.

“I grew up doing theater, but the vibe changed when my pop music career started,” she states. “I wanted to lean into being a theater kid again. This project is definitely a homecoming. My subconscious bullied teenage brain is always like, ‘You don’t want to try so hard. Just be cool’. But fuck that! I like trying hard. It’s part of who I am. I care about every little detail. So, you’re going to get all of the pain, emotion, and drama from me!”

'Night at the Opera' is unlike anything you’ve ever heard. Allow Emei to personally welcome you to the show.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS

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Barbie’s Cradle reunites for a comeback concert, announces new music

The influential Filipino alternative rock outfit marks its comeback with original music and an intimate one-night-only concert this August 2026

Barbie’s Cradle, one of the Philippines’ most iconic alternative bands of the late 1990s and early 2000s, are set to stage their highly anticipated comeback this year.

Fronted by lead vocalist and guitarist Barbie Almalbis and composed of members Wendell Garcia on drums, Rommel dela Cruz on bass, and Kakoy Legaspi on guitars, the multi-awarded supergroup will return with the release of three new songs, culminating in a special one-night-only concert on August 1, 2026, at the Music Museum.

“We’re excited to revisit the greatest hits and misses while also sharing new songs that reflect where we are now in our lives both as musicians and human beings,” shares Barbie Almalbis. “We’ve reached a point where we approach music-making with greater confidence and purpose. This new body of work is more collaborative and intentional than ever. We’ve poured months of hard work into these songs, and we can’t wait for everyone to hear what we’ve created.”

Known for award-winning albums such as Barbie’s Cradle, Music from the Buffet Table, and Playing in the Fields, the band has remained deeply influential in the local music scene, particularly for woman-fronted bands and singer-songwriters. Their evolving sound, introspective and inspirational songwriting and lyrical depth, shaped by the personal journey of vocalist Barbie Almalbis, continue to appeal to audiences across generations. Over the years, the group has earned multiple recognitions, including NU Rock Awards, Awit Awards, and KATHA Awards.

Barbie Almalbis: One Night Only is presented by GNN, a Manila-based concert and events promoter. According to Milley Habito, one of the heads behind the production company, the comeback concert represents not only a nostalgic dream for longtime fans but also an important cultural moment for today’s music audience.

“It’s an honor to work with Barbie’s Cradle for this special project,” explains Habito. “We first teased the iteration of the show during Barbie Almalbis’ 25^th anniversary show three years ago, but this time, we’re taking the concert experience to an entirely new level. Staged in a theater setting, the concert is built around a meticulously crafted concept and theme, with elevated production values designed to create a memorable experience for fans and new listeners alike.”

Tickets are now available via:

https://www.ticketmelon.com/gnn-entertainment-productions/barbiescradlereunion

VIP – PHP 2,900

Includes photo op (6pax/batch), soundcheck access, signed poster

Orchestra – PHP 1,900

Balcony – PHP 1,300 (free seating)

Source: Nyou

ONE CLICK STRAIGHT signs global management with The Rest Is Noise, announces mini-Asian tour

The partnership marks a major step in the Filipino indie rock band's international expansion, with festival appearances in Mongolia and Vietnam

Acclaimed Filipino indie rock quartet ONE CLICK STRAIGHT has officially signed to The Rest Is Noise (TRIN) for global management.

Under the agreement, TRIN will oversee the band’s international bookings and management activities outside the Philippines, including artist development, touring, brand partnerships, synchronization and licensing opportunities, and other commercial and professional ventures aimed at expanding ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s presence in global markets. The partnership will be undertaken in collaboration with the band’s manager, Eezh Arcangel.

The official announcement arrives alongside a slate of major international festival appearances for the band, including performances at Playtime Festival in Mongolia and a forthcoming festival in Vietnam this July 2026.

The signing represents a progression for both parties, following a year of collaboration through regional showcase festivals, music export initiatives, and international industry networking programs spearheaded by TRIN, OCS, and their manager, Eezh.

“After facilitating numerous export initiatives for Filipino music artists to connect with not just audiences but also music industry professionals abroad since 2018, we have decided to take it one step further with working on artist development and management for global markets,” said MC Galang, co-founder of The Rest Is Noise PH. “We felt there’s still a huge gap between what we consider ‘export-ready’ artists—those who are ready for and have elicited interest from international markets—and these new audiences, which require a lot of investment, strategy, planning, and meaningful connections. Since the Philippines is still considered an ‘emerging’ market, we have to actively pursue, if not create, these opportunities.”

MC emphasized that ONE CLICK STRAIGHT meets all the criteria for being an export-ready artist—thanks to “their strong catalog, incredible stage presence, their ability to deliver a curated experience that can be translated not just for Filipino audiences but across various audiences, and an expansive creative and sonic arsenal.”

She explains, “It was clear during their massively well-received performance at our annual showcase festival, AXEAN Festival, held in Bali last year, that they have impressed our delegates—important players in key international markets—which brought them to more festival appearances at Music Lane Festival in Japan and Bangkok Music City in Thailand; at All of the Noise here in Manila; in Singapore before that, through our partnership with Baybeats Festival; and two more festivals in July: Playtime Festival in Mongolia and a yet-to-be-announced appearance in Vietnam later next month. We look forward to helping ONE CLICK STRAIGHT reach these new opportunities as we continue our work platforming Filipino music artists around the world.”

With international shows on the horizon, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s Tim Marquez shared his excitement in bringing the band’s music to new audiences and connecting with diverse cultures around the world. He hopes their songs, stories, and live performances will continue to inspire listeners across borders. “I think it’s a humbling feeling to know the music you’ve created in such a small and personal space is resonating in different places. I firmly believe that Filipino music deserves to be heard, and I’m just grateful to the people who listen.”

Echoing Tim’s sentiments, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s Sam Marquez  expressed enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead through the band’s growing international presence and partnership with The Rest Is Noise. “The Rest is Noise has been so helpful guiding and supporting us through our international journey. We’re always looking forward to learning new things with them. Their passion mirrors ours, and that’s the kind of collaboration we want with us on this journey.”

Over the past decade, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT has emerged as one of the country’s most respected independent acts. Composed of brothers Sam Marquez (vocals, guitar, songwriter), Toffer Marquez (vocals, guitar, songwriter), Toffer Marquez (vocals, bass), and Tim Marquez (drums, vocals, songwriter), alongside longtime collaborator and friend Joel Cartera (Jpapi) on guitar, the band has independently released two full-length albums and two EPs, collectively amassing more than 20 million streams on Spotify alone.

Their music and live performances have taken them across the Philippines and onto international stages, earning recognition from leading music publications and tastemakers from the Asian region.

ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s Official social media channels
• Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ONECLICKSTRAIGHT
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oneclickstraight/
• YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@ONECLICKSTRAIGHT
• Twitter / X: https://x.com/ONECLKSTRAIGHT
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@oneclickstraight

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 showcase and culture platform event, 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.”

All Of The Noise returned for a 3-day global music community event that took place on April 17-19, 2026, which featured over 30+ music artists from across the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, Taiwan, and New Zealand; a Spotify for Artists Masterclass; and for its conference program, platformed six discussions and three music documentary screenings; and collaborative studio sessions between Filipino and international music artists.

In June 2026, TRIN formally launched its artist development and global management service consultancy, signing ONE CLICK STRAIGHT as its first artist partner for global management.

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 

Tradition Turned Up: Raja Rani Drops 'Sexy Tamil’

Out now via Organic Tunes

Stream here  |   Press Kit: Download here

Artisan fashion label and electronic music duo Raja Ranireleased their new single “Sexy Tamil” on 5 June 2026, featured on Organic Tunes’ Organic Collection Vol. 2 alongside KITA, DeNaTa and Let’s Rave. The track marks Raja Rani’s boldest sonic statement yet: a seamless fusion of driving electronic production and contemporary Tamil vocals that celebrates the energy, confidence and cultural richness of modern Tamil identity.

“Sexy Tamil” brings together Raja Rani’s signature electronic sound with the voice of Nadisha Thomas, a celebrated playback singer from Tamil Nadu, India, whose work spans South Indian film and independent music and reaches close to half a million monthly listeners. Her first recording was at the age of 6, and she’s one of the most versatile singers in Chennai. From rock to opera, she does it all. Be it in a studio or on stage, her mellifluous and versatile voice, marked by emotion, power, and precision, continues to captivate audiences. The result is a track built equally for attentive listening and the dance floor – Tamil vocals given contemporary urgency, rooted in tradition yet entirely of the moment.

“Sexy Tamil” has been a live staple for Raja Rani over the past year. The duo debuted and refined the track at festivals including Wonderfruit Festival and Bali Spirit Festival, as well as in clubs across Singapore, where it has consistently drawn some of the strongest crowd responses of their sets. The single’s release now opens that experience to a global audience.

“We’ve been playing ‘Sexy Tamil’ live for over a year and the reaction is always one of the highlights of our sets. It feels right to finally share it with the world. The track is a celebration of Tamil culture, of confidence, of what happens when tradition meets the dance floor,” say Raja Rani founders Beatrice and Naveen.

About Raja Rani

Born from a love story between an Italian girl and an Indian boy, raised on separate continents with distinct musical influences and diverse cultural soundscapes, they found their musical paths crossing in Singapore. The fusion of diverse cultures and musical styles, from tribal rhythms to house and techno, defines RAJA RANI and their ever-evolving journey.

Raja Rani is also a designer duo, transforms preloved Indian sarees into bold, colourful kimonos and garments. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, blending tradition with modernity and sustainability with style.

The Indian-Italian powerhouse couple have built a label that is celebrated as the Silver Winner in the Slow Fashion Label category at the Honeycombers Sustainability Awards 2025and a Finalist for the Singapore Fashion Council’s IMPACT Award 2025. Website | IG

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For more information or interview opportunities, please contact mabuhay@blackstar.space.

SB19’s justin enlists Maki’s songwriting magic for upcoming new single “dahon”

The song marks another creative partnership between the two artists, following justin’s appearance in the “habangbuhay pansamantala” music video

Manila, Philippines – P-Pop star justin teams up with acclaimed singer-songwriter Maki on his upcoming new single “dahon,” which he describes as a “vow of timeless love amid an ever-changing world.” The track is penned by Maki, a gifted singer-songwriter whose knack for heartwarming melodies and relatable sentimentality is prevalent in the material.

[PRE-SAVE LINK]

The collaboration marks another creative partnership between the two artists, following justin’s appearance in the sci-fi-inspired music video of Maki’s “habangbuhaypansamantala."

According to justin, the upcoming new single captures romance in its purest form. “It’s a song about love that blossoms, thrives, and grows through time.”

Lyrically, “dahon” expresses the enduring power of real love, and as Justin puts it, “It stands like a firm tree thatsurvives the biggest adversity and the only things that are constant in life: change and time.”

A multi-faceted performer known for his work as a performer, creative director, visual artist, and member of SB19, justin reveals that working with Maki has long been a personal aspiration, being a longtime fan of his work in music.

“His creativity and branding align closely with my vision and preferences. Working with him is not only a great opportunity for my career but also an incredible experience.”

As a solo artist, justin has proven himself as a visionary creative across multiple disciplines, driven by his commitment to an advocacy of meaningful existence. He is one of the most-streamed P-Pop soloists, racking up more than 45 million streams on Spotify alone with only four official songs released to date. Beyond his individual pursuits, the charismatic multi-hyphenate is also part of the iconic P-Pop powerhouse SB19, where he takes on multiple key roles, including serving as the creative director.

justin’s “dahon” will be available on all digital music platforms worldwide beginning June 19, 2026, via Sony Music Entertainment. Pre-save link: https://justin.sng.to/dahon

Source: Nyou

GRAMMY Award-Winning Rock Icon Jack White Announces New Album, Lead Single "Dollar Bill" Premieres Today

PRE-SAVE HERE

LEAD SINGLE
“DOLLAR BILL”
PREMIERES TODAY

LISTEN HERE

Photo Credit: David James Swanson

June 10, 2026 – Philippines – Jack White has announced the release of his much-anticipated new album, 'Frozen Charlotte', arriving via Third Man Records on Friday, July 10. The album will be available across black vinyl, CD and cassette, alongside three limited-edition vinyl variants: “Zug Island Blue” as the Third Man Records exclusive, “Chrome” for the Jack White tour and webstore, and “Ice Blue” for independent record stores.

Jack White's seventh studio LP, 'Frozen Charlotte', is led by the new single “Dollar Bill”, out now on all streaming platforms. “Dollar Bill” and consequently, 'Frozen Charlotte', were teased via the new Third Man Release Lab, a free, two-part, behind-the-scenes online series that explores Third Man Records’ creative approach to record releases and demystifies the album release process.

Fans tuning into each Release Lab unknowingly witnessed glitching album imagery, allusions to the Frozen Charlatan character, and listened to a “Dollar Bill” audio clip for the first time. Watch the Third Man Release Lab Part 1 and Part 2.

The announcement  of 'Frozen Charlotte' follows the premiere earlier this year of two fiery new songs, “Derecho Demonico” and “G.O.D. and the Broken Ribs”, where White and his band marked the release with electrifying performances of both songs during a landmark sixth career appearance on NBC’s Saturday Night Live.

Produced by White, “G.O.D. and the Broken Ribs” and “Derecho Demonico” represent White’s first new music since 2024, a year highlighted by the release of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee’s critically lauded sixth studio album, 'No Name'. The acclaimed collection was honored with a 2025 GRAMMY® Award nomination for “Best Rock Album” – White’s 34th solo-career nomination and 46th overall, along with 16 total GRAMMY® Award wins.

Listen to “Dollar Bill” here: ffm.to/jackwhitedollarbill
Pre-save the album 'Frozen Charlotte' here: ffm.to/jackwhitefrozencharlotte
 

About Jack White
Born and raised in Detroit as the youngest of 10 siblings, Jack White’s utilitarian approach filters through all his work, from self-producing his own music to the Third Man empire he founded, to his upholstery and various other art and design pursuits. Over a quarter century into his professional musical career, White’s ability to weave relevant, compelling, and poignant artistry to his music leaves him unparalleled.

When the White Stripes started in 1997, no one, least of all White, ever expected that a red, white and black two -piece band would take hold in the mainstream world. The release of 'Elephant' in 2003 not only cemented the band’s reputation but also offered the #1 hit single “Seven Nation Army”, which has since been appropriated as arguably the most popular chant in sports stadiums around the world. On November 8, 2025, The White Stripes were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
 
To date, White has won 12 GRAMMYs in eight different categories with 36 career nominations and was honored with the Producers & Engineers Wing “President’s Merit Award” in 2017. White formed a "new band of old friends," The Raconteurs, whose debut album 'Broken Boy Soldiers' featured the #1 hit single "Steady, As She Goes”. In 2009, he started The Dead Weather with members of The Kills, Queens of the Stone Age and The Greenhornes.

White’s solo repertoire consists of the pivotal albums Blunderbuss, Lazaretto, Boarding House Reach, Fear of the Dawn, Entering Heaven Alive, and most recently No Name. In April of 2026, White released new singles “G.O.D. And The Broken Ribs” and “Derecho Demonico” which he celebrated with his sixth musical guest performance on SNL.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | THIRD MAN RECORDS

FOLLOW JACK WHITE

Website

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

YouTube

JOJI SURPRISE RELEASES ‘PISS IN THE WIND (DELUXE)’ ALBUM

9 ADDITIONAL SONGS INCLUDING COLLABORATIONS WITH THE KID LAROI, YEAT, ANYMA, AND CORBIN

‘SOLARIS’ GLOBAL ARENA TOUR KICKS OFF JUNE 16TH AT PRUDENTIAL CENTER IN NEW JERSEY

PISS IN THE WIND DEBUTED AT #5 ON BILLBOARD’S TOP 200 CHART

“From commandeering the wave of lo-fi tinted trap and hip hop in the late 2010s to cementing himself as an alt pop heavy hitter, Joji consistently reinvents himself and truly proves himself as one of the most interesting artists in the alternative, ‘anti’ pop sphere.”

-CLASH

“From the blown-out bass of ‘PIXELATED KISSES’ to the delicate textures of ‘If It Only Gets Better,’ Piss in the Wind is layered on all fronts.”

-Hypebeast Magazine

Today, critically acclaimed singer and producer Joji surprise-releases the Deluxe edition of his fourth studio album Piss In The Wind, out now via Palace Creek. Listen here. The Deluxe version expands the album's sonic world with 9 additional tracks, featuring collaborations with The Kid LAROI, Yeat, Anyma,and Corbin. For longtime fans, the Deluxe also includes two highly sought-after, previously unreleased demos: "DYKILY (2017 Demo Version)" and "FTC."

Deluxe highlight "Bluffin'" features The Kid LAROI, pairing the Australian singer-rapper with Joji's glitched-out vocals over bright, pulsing production from Sam Homaee, BNYX, and 1SRAEL. The Deluxe also packages recently released collaborations with Yeat ("Back Home") and Anyma ("Beautiful"), further showcasing the breadth of Joji's sound.

Later this month, Joji kicks off his international SOLARIS TOUR with dates spanning North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Joji will take the stage at major arenas around the world, including Prudential Center, Barclays Center, Intuit Dome, The O2, and more on this Live Nation-promoted tour. The SOLARIS TOUR marks Joji's most ambitious production to date and features a setlist packed with his biggest hits, from "Glimpse of Us" to "SLOW DANCING IN THE DARK." The tour will also mark the first-ever live performances of songs from Piss In The Wind, bringing this next chapter to life on stage for the very first time.

The North American leg of the SOLARIS TOUR will be supported by Nate Sib and Corbin. The Europe and Australia/New Zealand legs will be supported by Tommy Richman. For tickets and the latest updates, fans can visit Joji's website HERE.

Released in February via Palace Creek, Piss In The Wind bridges Joji's sonic past and present, balancing melancholic, brooding songwriting with gritty yet atmospheric production. An expansive 21-track record with vivid creative direction, it stands as a fully realized artistic statement — one that lets the music speak for itself. The album features collaborations with Giveon, 4batz, Yeat, and Don Toliver.

Upon release, Piss In The Wind debuted at #5 on the Billboard 200, #1 on Indie Store Album Sales, and #1 on both the Current Alternative Albums and Current Pop Albums charts in the U.S. The album also reached new chart heights globally, with Top 10 debuts in Australia (#3), the UK (#6, a new peak), Germany (#4, a new peak), and the Netherlands (#9, a new peak), as well as his highest-ever chart debuts in France, Belgium, Italy, and beyond.Piss In The Wind (Deluxe) artwork —

UPCOMING TOUR DATES:

Tuesday, June 16 — Newark, New Jersey — Prudential Center

Friday, June 19 — Toronto, Ontario — Scotiabank Arena

Saturday, June 20 — Montreal, Quebec — Bell Centre

Tuesday, June 23 — Chicago, Illinois —United Center

Thursday, June 25 — Boston, Massachusetts — TD Garden

Friday, June 26 — Brooklyn, New York — Barclays Center

Monday, June 29 — Charlotte, North Carolina — Spectrum Center

Wednesday, July 1 — Orlando, Florida — Kia Center

Thursday, July 2 — Atlanta, Georgia — State Farm Arena

Monday, July 6 — Austin, Texas — Moody Center

Wednesday, July 8 — Dallas, Texas —American Airlines Center

Friday, July 10 — Phoenix, Arizona — Mortgage Matchup Center

Saturday, July 11 — Los Angeles, California — Intuit Dome

Sunday, July 12 — Los Angeles, California — Intuit Dome

Tuesday, July 14 — San Francisco, California — Chase Center

Saturday, July 18 — Portland, Oregon — Moda Center

Sunday, July 19 — Seattle, Washington — Climate Pledge Arena

Tuesday, July 21 — Salt Lake City, Utah — Maverik Center

Thursday, July 23 — Denver, Colorado — Ball Arena

Tuesday, August 11 — Dublin, Ireland — 3Arena

Thursday, August 13 — London, United Kingdom — The O2

Sunday, August 16 — Manchester, United Kingdom — Co-Op Live

Wednesday, August 19 — Cologne, Germany — Lanxess Arena

Friday, August 21 — Copenhagen, Denmark — Royal Arena

Sunday, August 23 — Warsaw, Poland — COS Torwar

Tuesday, August 25 — Amsterdam, Netherlands — Ziggo Dome

Thursday, August 27 — Brussels, Belgium — Forest National

Saturday, August 29 — Berlin, Germany — Velodrom

Monday, August 31 — Zurich, Switzerland — Hallenstadion

Tuesday, September 1 — Paris, France — adidas arena

Thursday, September 3 — Milan, Italy — Unipol Forum

Wednesday, November 11 — Brisbane, Australia — Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Saturday, November 14 — Sydney, Australia — Qudos Bank Arena

Tuesday, November 17 — Melbourne, Australia — Rod Laver Arena

Thursday, November 19 — Auckland, New Zealand — Spark Arena

Saturday, November 21 — Singapore — Arena @ EXPO

Sunday, November 22 — Singapore — Arena @ EXPO

Tuesday, November 24 — Bangkok— Impact Exhibition Hall

Sunday, November 27 — Kaohsiung — Kaohsiung Arena

Friday, November 29 — Hong Kong — AsiaWorld Expo, Runway 11Connect with Joji:

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube

SEA press contact:

blackstar

mabuhay@blackstar.space

Reverb Worship’s New Podcast Offers Honest Conversations on Faith, Life, and the Heart Behind Worship

Pilot Episode Premieres on June 5 Featuring Andrea Badinas and the Song “Ako’y Sa ’Yo”

Reverb Worship, the music arm of CBN Asia, officially launches Reverb Worship: The Podcast, a new faith-based conversational podcast premiering on June 5, 2026 on Spotify and YouTube via @ReverbWorshipPH.

The podcast features honest conversations with worship leaders, creatives, and believers about the moments that shape their faith, identity, calling, and personal growth. Through real stories and meaningful discussions, the show explores how worship becomes a response to God’s faithfulness in every season of life.

Hosted by Joselle Feliciano and Icko Gonzalez for the pilot episode, the podcast aims to create a space that feels authentic, hopeful, and relatable for listeners navigating their own faith journeys. From Episode 2 onwards, Joselle will be joined by fellow Reverb Worship artist Neo Rivera as co-host.

“For me, the podcast feels like a natural extension of Reverb Worship,” shares producer, host, and Reverb Worship artist Joselle Feliciano. “The music we create has always come from real stories, real questions, and real seasons with God, and this format gives us the chance to go deeper into the heart and journey behind those songs.”

John Valdes Tan, CBN Asia’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer adds, “The Reverb Worship podcast was created to show that there’s more to worship than music; it is a lifestyle. By featuring Christian artists, we learn how to face life with joy and hope amid its challenges. We believe these conversations will inspire viewers to live victorious lives that worship God.”

The pilot episode features Andrea Badinas and centers on the theme “Loved Anyway,” inspired by her song “Ako’y Sa ’Yo.” Through Andrea’s personal story, the episode reflects on what it looks like to encounter God’s love even in moments of weakness and imperfection. It is a conversation about grace, belonging, and the kind of love that does not withdraw when people are messy or unsure, but instead moves toward them with patience and kindness.

3/F SAGITTARIUS CONDOMINIUM, H.V. DELA COSTA ST., SALCEDO VILLAGE, 1227 MAKATI CITY, PHILIPPINES

TELEPHONE: (+632) 8737 0700 E-MAIL: info@cbnasia.org

New episodes of Reverb Worship: The Podcast will be released every other week.

Watch the pilot episode premiering on June 5, 2026 on Spotify and on YouTube via @ReverbWorshipPH.

Follow @ReverbWorshipPH on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and future episode announcements.

Source: CBN Asia

Malcolm Todd releases new album Do That Again out now via Columbia Records

"Malcolm Todd is a rising star with a sweet, lilting voice and a knack for intimate popcraft."
- Rolling Stone

Malcolm Todd releases his new album Do That Againout today via Columbia Records. The album arrives to early critical praise from Rolling Stone, which awarded it four stars and called Malcolm “a rising star with a sweet, lilting voice and a knack for intimate popcraft.” Across the Do That Again, Malcolm steps into the promise of a fully formed pop star, threading classic pop songwriting through a modern R&B lens with humor, instinct, and meticulous detail holding it all together.
 
On the eve of the release, Malcolm made his debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, performing “I Saw Your Face” live for the first time along with his RIAA Platinum-certified single “Earrings,” which climbed to No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 and currently sits at No. 4 on Spotify’s Weekly US Songs chart.
 
Three years ago, Malcolm Todd had never played a show. Today, he's moved 100,000 tickets across three continents in a single touring cycle. More recently, he sold out a deliberate underplay for his most devoted fans at The Fonda Theatre in seconds. His rise has been built in real rooms, one sold-out night at a time, with streaming momentum catching up to the live demand already surrounding him.
 
Malcolm’s rise has been unusual because it reflects the evolution of a real-time relationship with an audience. Fans have not just streamed the songs; they have carried them from bedrooms to packed rooms, turning his shows into communal sing-alongs before the traditional machinery fully caught up. That connection sits at the center of Do That Again, an album about being young, newly untethered, a little reckless, and suddenly aware that the private moments you write through might belong to thousands of people by the next tour.
 
Malcolm introduced himself with his 2024 mixtape Sweet Boy, and two years later the project has taken on a life of its own: the RIAA Platinum-certified "Earrings," "Sweet Boy," and "Roommates" have surged back into Spotify's Top 100 simultaneously, driven entirely by organic fan rediscovery. He followed Sweet Boy with his self-titled debut Malcolm Todd, which has accumulated over 859 million global streams, propelled by the RIAA Platinum-certified "Chest Pain (I Love)," his first Billboard Hot 100 entry, now surpassing 433 million streams worldwide. The song's reach extended further when Don Toliver prominently sampled it on his hit "E85," which peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Hot Rap Songs chart.
 
In 2025, Malcolm completed his sold-out Wholesome Rockstar Tour, playing to packed rooms across three continents and sharpening the live presence that has become central to his rise. Festival sets at Camp Flog Gnaw, Pitchfork Paris, Lollapalooza, and Austin City Limits brought that energy to bigger stages, with crowds singing back the songs that first built his fanbase online and on the road.
 
Malcolm will be performing at Outside Lands and Osheaga this year, with more tour dates to be announced soon.
 
Do That Again is available now, including signed vinyl in red and white colorways and an exclusive burgundy vinyl via Urban Outfitters.

 

Photo credit: Aidan Cullen

Do That Again 
Jean Skirt
Obsessica
Free.99
Breathe
I Saw Your Face
Difficult Love
Malcolm In The Middle
Ain’t That The Truth
Gun To My Head
X’s & O’s
Lonely Song
Good Bye
Do That Again

Connect with Malcolm Todd
Website | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube
 

Source: Nyou

Pick up the phone! Carousel Casualties just dropped their new single, “nananabik”

MANILA, PHILIPPINES—Filipino indie pop band Carousel Casualties has dropped a somber, dream pop track perfect for the drizzly season.

Inspired by the picturesque feeling of reaching out for the phone to call someone, “nananabik” longs for a person at the wee hours of the night, trying to evade any form of contact despite the heart telling otherwise.

Known for their slice-of-life indie pop songs that reflect the complexities of young adulthood, Carousel Casualties continues the tradition of writing sophisticated tunes that hold more emotional weight even in its most  subdued form. Their new track “nananabik” carries this familiar scenery with melodies that fizzle and gleam like lights lining the road: a well-crafted track like “Leona,” “season 1 episode 43” and the recent viral hit “hindi ko alam,” but more deceptively adventurous in a sonic sense.

As Emmie Villegas, vocalist and main songwriter of the band, envisions it, “nananabik” is a song that is tethered to a specific narrative: “You pace around your apartment like a lunatic craving for answers, but then you go back to bed. You close your eyes and try to fall asleep…. You miserably fail, of course.” This continues as the subject internally debates his decision to finally reach out while the tune continues on and on–no resolve whatsoever.

“As a band, we really like making songs based on TV shows and films,” Villegas shares. “Just imagine that “nananabik” is one of those films that is open to interpretation.”

“nananabik” is now available for streaming on digital streaming platforms. Follow Carousel Casualties on their social media to catch them live!

About Carousel Casualties

From a humble 16 sqm bedroom, their journey began. Their 2017 debut EP Madison, featuring hits like “Leona,” “Safety,” and “San Junipero,” gained traction in Manila's indie scene and earned them a 2019 AWIT Awards nomination for Best Rock Arrangement.

In 2020, they pushed boundaries with their debut album Static Electricity Dreams of Longevity.

The band broke its pause in 2024 with new releases: “hindi ko alam,” coveted "OPM Sleeper Hit of the Year" award from RX 93.1; then “bakasyon,” “malinaw,” with their latest single “ano ba talaga?”, building momentum as they produce their highly anticipated album “cattleya” set for release later in 2026.

Emmie, Pau, Ryan, and Tep continue to evolve, delivering bigger sounds from small rooms.

Carousel Casualties Socials:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/carouselcasualtiesph

IG: https://www.instagram.com/carouselcasualties/

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@carouselcasualties

TT: https://twitter.com/carouselcslts

 Source: Nyou 

Offshore Music honors the legacy of the Eraserheads’ Fruitcake with Rob Cham merch collaboration

Rob Cham’s vibrant illustration invites fans old and new into the magical world of Fruitcake Heights

Manila, Philippines – Filipino independent record label Offshore Music teams up with award-winning illustrator and comics creator Rob Cham for a special limited-edition merchandise to mark the 30th anniversary of the Eraserheads’ critically acclaimed fourth studio album, Fruitcake.

The limited-edition t-shirt features Cham’s modern take on the album’s whimsical world, giving listeners a fresh visual entry point into one of the most important works in Philippine music.

Known for his distinct visual storytelling, Cham approached the project as both a tribute and reinterpretation of the original Fruitcake universe.

“I wanted to do my take on the storybook while also keeping it something that people would see and be curious about what the album is about,” the acclaimed artist explains. “I wanted to make other fans of Fruitcake happy and tried to capture the energy that the album has. While working on this, I listened to the album nonstop, reread the book, and looked up all the old music videos to get in the headspace. There are so many crazy characters and visuals and pure imagination in the album and storybook, and I wanted to make people feel as excited as I was when I first learned about the album.”

As Fruitcake reaches its 30^th anniversary, Cham hopes the merch encourages fans to revisit the album and discover it anew.

“I hope people give the album another listen and reconnect with their memories of Filipino Christmas,” he says. “For those discovering it for the first time, I hope they experience it from start to finish and piece together the story. I hope they find something new they hadn’t noticed before and wear this shirt with love for this album. More importantly, I hope it becomes a meaningful part of their collection.”

Released in 1996, Fruitcake is widely regarded as the band’s Christmas concept album, cementing its place as a cult favorite among fans. Recorded entirely in English, the 22-track record follows the journey of a young girl through the fictional community of Fruitcake Heights.

The launch of the Rob Cham x Fruitcake 30^th Anniversary merch line will be available at the Offshore Music Bazaar on June 26, 2026, at Thai Mookata, Makati City—same day and venue as the Fête de la Musique The Indie Stage.

Source: Nyou

Jalen Ngonda Releases Sophomore Album 'Doctrine of Love' Via Daptone Records

LISTEN HERE

Photo Credit: Rosie Cohe

June 5th, 2026 - Philippines – Soul phenom Jalen Ngonda deepens his soulful legacy with the release of his sophomore album ‘Doctrine of Love’ out now via Daptone Records. Fans can listen to the album here and watch the music video for the focus track, "Burning Temptation", here. 

From its opening notes, ‘Doctrine of Love’ is a contemporary conduit for the essence of 60s and 70s soul music, devoid of clichés and rooted in Jalen’s scholarship for that era of music and its legacy. Renowned for his once-in-a-generation voice, Jalen bears an uncanny resemblance to Motown greats, but breathes new life into those sounds through continued exploration and experimenting with elements of contemporary pop and R&B. 

“It's no exaggeration to say that every day of my life I wish I would wake up in 1964 in Detroit recording with the Funk Brothers,” Jalen says, speaking to the balance he strikes between his affinity for the 60s and 70s era of music and expressing himself as a contemporary artist in 2026. “But that's not my life. So what I can do is express my thoughts and my fascination with that sound and period and just be an artist”.

Jalen Ngonda “Burning Temptation” (Official Video)

Working alongside close collaborators Vince Chiarito and Michael Buckley once again, the new album brims with a proven level of poise and confidence following the success of his critically-acclaimed debut album ‘Come Around and Love Me’. His debut in 2023 triggered a staggering rise, with Jalen making his US TV debut on The ‘Late Show with Stephen Colbert’. His viral hit single “If You Don’t Want My Love” has racked up over 253 million streams to date and he achieved A-list rotation on major radio stations across multiple singles. Jalen has also collaborated with the likes of Jordan Rakei and Damon Albarn’s Gorillaz, who tapped Jalen to be featured on their newly-released album ‘The Mountain’.

Jalen’s new album arrives on the heels of a nonstop tour run which included a stint opening for GRAMMY Award-winner Olivia Dean’s sold out European arena tour, as well as headlining European live dates of his own. 
 

'Doctrine of Love' Tracklisting

1. Anyone in Love

2. Doctrine of Love

3. Mr Train Conductor

4. Burning Temptation

5. Love is Gone

6. I Can’t Ever Leave You

7. Hannah, What's The Matter?

8. Good Good Love

9. Hang it On The Shelf

10. Taken Out Of The Picture

Listen to 'Doctrine of Love' here
Watch the music video for "Burning Temptation" here

DOWNLOAD MEDIA KIT

About Jalen Ngonda

Jalen Ngonda is a once-in-a-generation soul artist whose music bridges the golden age of Motown with the urgency of the present day. Born and raised in Maryland, just outside Washington D.C., his journey began at 11 years old when hearing The Temptations on the radio “blew my mind”. From that moment on, he immersed himself in the sound of classic soul.

Self-taught on guitar, drums, and keys, Ngonda first cut his teeth playing drums in church before refining his craft at The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA). After busking across London and steadily building his reputation as a captivating live performer, he signed to Daptone Records in 2022 — joining a roster that includes Thee Sacred Souls, The Womack Sisters, and Lee Fields — and released his acclaimed debut album, 'Come Around and Love Me', the following year.

The album introduced the world to Ngonda’s remarkable falsetto and timeless songwriting, sparking a rapid ascent. In 2023, he made his U.S. television debut on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, alongside appearances on Later… with Jools Holland and The Graham Norton Show. His breakout single “If You Don’t Want My Love” has since surpassed 253 million streams, while multiple releases earned A-list rotation on BBC Radio 2, BBC 6 Music, and Jazz FM.

Ngonda’s rise has been just as powerful on stage. From intimate shows at London’s 300-capacity Moth Club to commanding the 5,000-plus Hammersmith Apollo, he has proven that authentic soul still resonates deeply with modern audiences. He has opened for Thee Sacred Souls, Freddie Gibbs, and Olivia Dean across the U.S. and Europe, sold out headline club dates worldwide, and delivered standout performances at festivals including Glastonbury and We Out Here. Collaborations with Jordan Rakei and Gorillaz — who featured Ngonda on their album 'The Ballad of Darren' — have further cemented his status as one of contemporary music’s most compelling voices.

With 'Doctrine of Love', Jalen Ngonda continues to honor soul music’s legacy while carrying it forward — a modern renaissance soul man with one foot in 1964 and the other firmly in the future.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS

FOLLOW JALEN NGONDA

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STEVE LACY ANNOUNCES NEW ALBUM Oh yeah?

SET FOR RELEASE JULY 17, 2026

Listen to First Single “the feeling” + Watch Music Video Now

Steve Lacy press photo, credit: Gus Van Sant — download HERE

“The subtleties and texture in the vocals, the tactile rumble of drums, and the almost effervescent guitar melodies. The tracks…strike a personal, introspective tone, as if Lacy’s taken the perceptive and cunning lens he’s used to observe life and love from 10,000 feet, and turned it inward. He inhabits these songs emotionally, exploring themes around his racial identity, his relationship to love and trust, and his own sexual fluidity, all with the halfway comedic, occasionally devastating style of observation he’s built a career on.”  – Rolling Stone on Oh yeah?, August 2025

Steve Lacy will release his third album, Oh yeah?, onJuly 17, 2026 via RCA Records.  The album’s first single “the feeling,” out now, is a brilliant reminder of Lacy’s ability to manifest modern Pop, Alt, and R&B in a sound that is less genre-defying and more genre-defining. An accompanying music video for “the feeling,” directed by Matt Castellanos, is also out now.

LISTEN TO “the feeling” HERE

WATCH “THE FEELING” MUSIC VIDEO HERE
PRE-ORDER Oh yeah? HERE

Oh yeah? is Steve’s most personal art to date - the culmination of a four-year journey whereupon Steve found himself feeling at home in foreign countries and situations and less at home at home.  Taking the reins of the production, writing, performance, and the creative, Steve eventually found his way back, and we are thankful he did.  

It’s a record for guitar kids who love synths and synth kids who love guitars.  It’s an album splashed with raw openness^[1], energetic connection^[2], sonic beauty, and some of Lacy’s most personal, transparent^[3] lyrics.  Oh yeah? is intersectional^[4], cutting, a comedy, a tragedy, and has allowed Steve to further design an aural world that is singularly him.  That “him” has taken Lacy, who released his first EP almost ten years ago, to the highest of highs: at only 28, he has two songs in the Spotify Billions Club, as well as two Grammy Awards.  He has stood alongside his musical peers like Kendrick Lamar and Solange, sells out shows across the globe, and is universally known as a style maverick whose eye for design grows bolder every day. 

In a recent cover story, The Cut described Lacy as “potentially being Gen Z’s first rock star,” a big claim in an era of pop girlies, K-Pop kids hunting demons, and country balladeers.  On first listen, Oh yeah?undoubtedly – and instantly – takes that potential and turns it into reality, a defining musical moment for an artist with many, many more to come.

Oh yeah? Artwork — download HERE

Steve Lacy:

Instagram *  TikTok

^[1]From Steve’s Dazed cover story, September 2025

^[2] From Steve’s Dazed cover story, September 2025

^[3] From Steve’s Rolling Stone cover story, August 2025

^[4] From Steve’s Dazed cover story, September 2025

Source: Sony Music

EVANESCENCE RELEASE NEW ALBUM SANCTUARY TODAY JUNE 5TH

LISTEN HERE /BUY HERE

UK/EUROPE TOUR BEGINS 8^THSEPTEMBER

GET TICKETS HERE

“Evanescence's sixth album in 23 years maintains Amy Lee’s reputation for quality over quantity in cinematically dramatic style, 4/5” Kerrang

“Evanescence have made their most vital record in years. Confident, contemporary and frequently colossal. 4/5” Metal Hammer

June 5^th 2026 - Today Evanescence releases their 6^th studio album, Sanctuary.  The 12-track record was produced by by Zakk Cervini (Bad Omens, YUNGBLD, Bring Me The Horizon, Spiritbox), Jordan Fish (Bring Me The Horizon, Poppy, House of Protection, Architects), and Nick Raskulinecz(Deftones, Korn, Foo Fighters, Rush).

The album is available as a Digital Album, Standard CD, Deluxe CD and limited-edition Box Set. The album is also available on all streaming services.   A deluxe digital album that includes instrumentals of each song on the album is available exclusively through Townsend Music.   A double vinyl of the album will be released on September 4th. The Deluxe CD is exclusive to the Evanescence store and includes a Blu-ray that contains the band’s Live in Sao Paolo Concert, Documentary from Evanescence’s 2023 South America tour and a behind the scenes look at the making of the “Who Will You Follow” video.  The deluxe vinyl is also a webstore exclusive. The band held an online listening party giving their fans a first listen to the album on June 3^rd.

LISTEN HERE /BUY HERE

"This album is over three years in the making," said Amy Lee. "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."

Sanctuary includes "Afterlife" — the multi-week #1 rock song featured in Netflix's breakout animated series Devil May Cry — alongside current single “Who Will You Follow,” which currently sits at #1 on Billboard’s Rock & Alternative Airplay Chartand recently earned the band their first-ever #1 on Billboard's Hard Rock Song Chart. The official music video, directed by Jensen Noen, emphasizes the importance of seeking authenticity in an era where truth feels increasingly and intentionally corrupted — listen here/watch here.

The band’s  2026 World Tour, kicks off on June 11th, and takes them 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 and K.Flay in the UK. K.Flay will also support Evanescence for their Red Rocks Amphitheatre concert. The band just announced a massive arena tour of Australia and New Zealand in March 2027. Tickets go on sale June 11^th.

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.    Additionally, Head Count, a non-profit/non-partisan entity will be on site at most of the band’s US concerts to register new voters and to instruct previously-registered voters how to check their registration status to ensure it is still valid.

Sanctuary Track List:

1. Beautiful Lie

2. Tell Me When You’ve Had Enough

3. Who Will You Follow

4. Rapture

5. Afterlife

6. Sanctuary

7. How Do I Heal

8. About Us

9. Calm Down

10. Self Destruct

11. Forever Without You

12. Wide Open Heart

Evanescence 2026 World Tour Dates:

June:

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

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

14/6/26              Alpharetta, GA              Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

15/6/26              Nashville, TN                  Bridgestone Arena

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

18/6/26              Charlotte, NC                PNC Music Pavilion

20/6/26              Camden, NJ                    Freedom Mortgage Pavilion

21/6/26              Mansfield, MA                               Xfinity Center

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

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

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

27/6/26              Bristow, VA                      Jiffy Lube Live

29/6/26              Toronto, ON                     RBC Amphitheatre

30/6/26              Montréal, QC                 Centre Bell

July:

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

9/7/26                 Noblesville, IN                               Ruoff Music Center

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

12/7/26              Kansas City, MO           MORTON Amphitheater

14/7/26              Albuquerque, NM        Isleta Amphitheater

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

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

18/7/26              Los Angeles, CA           Kia Forum

20/7/26              Mountain View, CA     Shoreline Amphitheatre

22/7/26              Ridgefield, WA                               Cascades Amphitheater

23/7/26              Auburn, WA                     White River Amphitheatre

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

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

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

August:

1/8/26                 Cincinnati, OH                              Riverbend Music Center

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

September:

8/9/26                 Leeds, UK                         First Direct Arena

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

11/9/26              Birmingham, UK           Utilita Arena Birmingham

13/9/26              London, UK                     The O2

16.9/26              Brussels, BE                   Forest National

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

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

20/9/26              Dortmund, DE                               Westfalenhallen Dortmund

22/9/26              Amsterdam, NL            Ziggo Dome

23/9/26              Hamburg, DE                 Barclays Arena

25/9/26              Berlin, DE                         Velodrom

26/9/26              Munich, DE                      Olympiahalle

28/9/26              Bologna, IT                       Unipol Arena

29/9/26              Zurich, CH                       Hallenstadion Zurich

October:

1/10/26              Barcelona, ES                                Palau Olimpic Badalona

2/10/26              Madrid, ES                       Palacio Vistalegre

4/10/26              Lisbon, PT                        MEO Arena

26/10/26           Morrison, CO                 Red Rocks Amphitheatre
November:
28/11/26           Kuala Lumpur, MY       National Hockey Stadium, Bukit Jalil

2027
March:
5/3/27                 Perth, AUS                     RAC Arena
7/3/27                 Adelaide, AUS              AEC Arena
9/3/27                 Melbourne, AUS          Rod Laver Arena
12/3/27              Sydney, AUS                 Qudos Bank Arena
16/3/26              Brisbane, AUS              BEC
20/3/26              Auckland, NZ                Spark Arena

Photo credit: Chapman Baehler

About Evanescence
When Evanescence stormed onto the scene in the early 2000s, they introduced a sound that captured the world’s attention. Their debut album Fallenbecame one of the most critically and commercially successful releases of the 21st century, earning two Grammy Awards and achieving diamond certification in the United States. Hit singles “Bring Me to Life” and “My Immortal” propelled the band into the spotlight, while 2006’s follow-up, The Open Door, deepened an unwavering connection with fans.

Two decades later, that connection remains as strong as ever. In 2025, Evanescence reached a new career milestone, scoring their first #1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart with “Afterlife,” written for Netflix’s Devil May Cry. The band continued its momentum, with collaborations alongside K.Flay and Halsey featured in Ballerina, the fifth installment in the John Wick series. Amy scored another #1 with “End of You,” her collaboration with Poppy & Courtney LaPlante of Spiritbox.

In early June, the band will embark on its World Tour, headlining amphitheaters, and arenas in North America, followed by an arena tour in the UK, Europe, Japan, Australia and New Zealand and is expected to visit Central and South America in 2027. “2025 was a year of saying ‘yes.’ We got really busy, and I’m so glad for every single piece of it,” says frontwoman Amy Lee. “There’s no way 2026 won’t be even crazier.” With the release of Evanescence’s highly anticipated sixth studio album, Sanctuary, on June 5, that prediction is poised to come true.

 Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Source: Sony Music

Inside World Class — Raising the Standard for Filipino Bartending

For many Filipinos, bartending is often viewed as a profession centered on making drinks and serving guests. What many do not realize is that behind every great cocktail is a craft that demands precision, creativity, hospitality, storytelling, and years of discipline behind the bar.

For more than a decade, one global platform has helped raise the standards of the profession and develop some of the industry's most respected talents: Diageo World Class.

Run under the Diageo Bar Academy, Diageo World Class is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious bartending competitions and education platforms in the world. The Diageo Bar Academy serves as Diageo's global bartender education program, providing training, resources, and professional development opportunities to hospitality professionals across the globe.

Since its launch in 2009, Diageo World Class has helped develop bartenders through education, mentorship, and competition. At the center of the program is the annual World Class Bartending Competition, where national champions from more than 50 countries compete for one of the industry's highest honors.

In the Philippines, that mission comes to life through World Class Philippines.

While World Class serves as the global platform, World Class Philippines focuses on discovering, developing, and elevating local talent. Through training opportunities, mentorship, and competition challenges, it gives Filipino bartenders access to international standards while preparing them to compete on the global stage.

For Lester Ligon, a bartender trainer and former World Class Philippines competitor who represented the country at the Diageo World Class Global Finals in Berlin in 2018, one of the program's biggest contributions is helping Filipino bartenders develop the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.

“Bartending was never just about making great cocktails. It's about understanding people, creating experiences, and finding ways to stay relevant in a constantly changing industry,” Ligon said. “What I appreciate most about World Class is that it pushes bartenders to look beyond recipes and techniques. It encourages creativity, storytelling, a deeper understanding of spirits and flavor, and the ability to think critically about what we do behind the bar.”

A World Class advocate since 2015 and a former participant himself, Rian Asiddao has witnessed firsthand how the platform has helped spotlight Filipino talent, strengthen the local bartending community, and create opportunities beyond Philippine shores.

“Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year is the biggest bartending competition in the world—it's often called the Olympics of bartending. Since the Philippines joined in 2013, World Class has helped highlight the talent, skills, hospitality, and creativity of Filipino bartenders. Beyond the competition, it has given the industry opportunities to connect, learn from one another, and build networks both locally and globally,” Asiddao said.

Beyond Mixing Drinks

Participants are evaluated not only on creativity, presentation, hospitality, spirits knowledge, and technical execution, but also on their ability to create memorable experiences and tell compelling stories through their cocktails. By drawing inspiration from Filipino culture, local ingredients, and their own personal journeys, participants are helping shape a new generation of bartenders who serve as storytellers, innovators, and ambassadors of Filipino hospitality—fueling the rise of a Philippine cocktail scene that continues to earn recognition both at home and abroad.

Creating Opportunities for Filipino Talent

One of the most significant contributions of World Class Philippines is its ability to create opportunities for Filipino bartenders to compete at the highest level.

In 2023, Alyssa Lorenzo made history as the first female World Class Philippines Bartender of the Year, marking an important milestone for an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated.

“Joining wasn't just about winning, it was about learning,” Lorenzo said. “World Class became a platform for me to explore creativity and technique on a deeper level. Each stage of the competition challenged me to create drinks that tell a story, represent who I am, and showcase Filipino culture. Representing the Philippines on an international stage, especially in São Paulo, Brazil, was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. Holding the trophy as the Tanqueray World Class Challenge winner felt surreal—it made me realize that all the hard work was worth it.”

More recently, reigning World Class Philippines Bartender of the Year Ralph Allen Santos of The Spirits Library captured the national title with ‘Kapwa’, a cocktail inspired by Filipino community values and the spirit of bayanihan. First inspired by the competition in 2016, Santos spent years honing his craft and returning to the World Class stage before finally claiming the title in 2025—a milestone that reflected years of perseverance, learning, and dedication.

“World Class has significantly influenced my growth both professionally and personally,” Santos said. “Professionally, it taught me to approach cocktail creation with more intention, focusing not only on flavor but also on storytelling, presentation, and guest experience. It challenged me to continuously improve and raise my standards.”

Winning the national title earned Santos the opportunity to represent the Philippines at the World Class global finals in Toronto, Canada, while the lessons and standards he developed through the program continue to guide him today as Bar and Restaurant Manager of MOGA in Singapore.

Stories like these show how World Class Philippines has become a pathway for bartenders to refine their craft, gain industry recognition, and showcase Filipino creativity on the global stage.

For aspiring bartenders, Santos believes the true value of World Class lies beyond the competition itself, “The real value of World Class is found in the preparation, the learning, and the growth that happens along the way,” he said. “Stay authentic. The strongest concepts are often rooted in your own story, culture, and experiences.”

The Road to the Finals

The next chapter unfolds on June 9, 2026, at Skybar in Solaire North, where the country's top bartenders compete for the title of World Class Philippines Bartender of the Year. For the 15 finalists, the stakes extend far beyond a trophy. The winner will earn the opportunity to represent the Philippines at the World Class global finals in Scotland this September, joining national champions from more than 50 countries in one of the most prestigious bartending competitions in the world.

More than a competition, Diageo World Class has become a platform for developing talent, raising standards, and showcasing Filipino creativity on the global stage. As it continues to grow, so too does the reputation of Filipino bartenders, who are proving they can compete alongside the very best in the industry.

 Source: Nyou 

FIFTY FIFTY embrace imperfection and self-discovery in new EP ‘Imperfect-I’mperfect’

LISTEN TO THE EP HERE  

WATCH ‘LIKE A BUBBLE’ MUSIC VIDEO HERE

K-pop sensation, FIFTY FIFTY, returns with their highly anticipated new EP, “Imperfect-I’mperfect,” now available on all digital streaming platforms via Arista Records. Marking a new chapter in the group’s musical journey, the six-track project doesn’t try to hide or fill in its flaws. Instead, it embraces the idea that our raw, unpolished selves can be the most unique, and even the most complete. The album fearlessly confronts the honest emotions that exist beyond simple positivity and bright smiles. It reminds us that we don’t always have to be perfectly happy. Beginning with the pre- release single, “STARSTRUCK,” the album immediately introduces a striking transformation in both image and sound for the group. Built around powerful electronic synths, distorted textures, vocal chops, and cyberpunk-inspired production, the track creates a retro-futuristic atmosphere that feels immersive, hypnotic, and emotionally charged. The experimental soundscape offers fans an early glimpse into the themes woven throughout the project while showcasing a bold new side of FIFTY FIFTY.

The album continues with focus track “Like a Bubble,” which embraces a brighter and more playful energy through dreamy production, buoyant melodies, warm harmonies, and atmospheric instrumentation layered over a boom bap-inspired rhythm. At its heart, the song is about loving yourself exactly as you are — flaws and all — while capturing the freeing feeling of emotional weightlessness. Together, “STARSTRUCK” and “Like a Bubble” embody FIFTY FIFTY’s unmistakable sense of liberation and artistic growth.

Additional tracks including “Took It Too Far” and “Genie Magic” bring a more energetic edge to the project while continuing to explore the emotional complexities woven throughout the album. “Took It Too Far” blends groovy, dreamlike textures with playful tension to portray a relationship that constantly clashes yet remains impossible to walk away from. Meanwhile, “Genie Magic” bursts with vibrant synths, infectious energy, and a bright sense of excitement, celebrating the magical moments love can unexpectedly bring.

On the more introspective side, tracks like “PERFECT” and “Carry On” lean into emotional vulnerability and cinematic storytelling. “PERFECT” combines dreamy R&B textures with subtle retro influences, capturing the excitement and nervousness of first love while delivering a bold confession through the group’s signature confidence. Closing the album, “Carry On” builds toward a soaring and emotional finale through expansive production, powerful chants, and dynamic vocal ad-libs that leave listeners with a lasting sense of comfort, healing, and hope.

Ahead of this release, the group further showcased their artistic versatility with a widely praised cover of Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd, earning attention from fans and critics alike for their heartfelt reinterpretation of the iconic classic. They also recently sat down with Variety to discuss the creative direction behind their evolving artistry and the emotional themes that inspired this current project.

FIFTY FIFTY has continued to establish themselves as one of K-pop’s fastest-rising groups since the breakout success of Cupid, which became the longest-charting K-pop song in Billboard Hot 100 history at 25 consecutive weeks and peaked at #17. The rapid global success of “Cupid” through TikTok trends and streaming platforms introduced the group to a massive international audience, and over the past year, FIFTY FIFTY has continued expanding their global reach while evolving artistically with each release.

From riveting dance-pop moments to softer introspective tracks,“Imperfect-I’mperfect” captures the complexities of youth, identity, emotional uncertainty, and personal growth while reinforcing FIFTY FIFTY’s place as one of the most exciting rising groups in global pop music.

Tracklist:

1. STARSTRUCK

2. Like a Bubble

3. Took It Too Far

4. PERFECT

5. Genie Magic

6. Carry On

###

(Credit: Sony Music Korea Entertainment)

About FIFTY FIFTY
FIFTY FIFTY debuted in Nov 2022 and experienced a commercial breakthrough with their song “Cupid”, which became the longest-charting K-pop song in Billboard Hot 100 history at 25 consecutive weeks (peaking #17) and reached #2 on the Billboard Global 200. The song became popular on TikTok due to a dance trend launched by the group, with over 2 million video creations on the ‘twin’ version and more on sped-up audios. Rather than most K-pop groups which focus initially on the local market and Korean-language repertoire, FIFTY FIFTY's songs leaned more heavily into Western pop sounds and English-language hooks, as seen in other tracks like “SOS” and “Gravity.” Just last year, they inked a U.S. record deal with Arista Records and released their comeback EP Love Tune. So far, the group has released two EPs - The FIFTY and Love Tune - along with one LP, The Beginning. They also contributed a song to the soundtrack of the blockbuster Barbie movie.

FOLLOW FIFTY FIFTY

Instagram | Spotify | TikTok

Source: Nyou

GLOBAL MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST, SINGER-SONGWRITER AND PRODUCER FKJ RELEASES NEW SINGLE "SOULMATES"

LISTEN HERE

ANNOUNCES FORTHCOMING ALBUM
'TYBER'

PRE-SAVE HERE

Photo credit: Jack McKain

June 2nd, 2026 — Accomplished French multi-instrumentalist, singer and producer FKJ returns with his new single "Soulmates" alongside the announcement of his forthcoming third studio album, 'Tyber', due for release this September. Fans can stream the new single HERE and pre-save the album HERE.

Warm, immersive and rhythmically fluid, "Soulmates" showcases FKJ's instinctive approach to composition while offering a natural entry point into the wider world of 'Tyber'. Rooted in both technical musicianship and emotional immediacy, it captures the balance that defines his work, while carrying a euphoric, midsummer glow anchored by a central guitar motif reminiscent of Carlos Santana. Despite its title, the track extends beyond a conventional love song, unfolding with deeper intent and meaning as FKJ explains.

FKJ – "Soulmates" (Official Video)

""Soulmates" is about embracing your solitude. For me, solitude really works, and I'm taking time with myself. But I really care about my soulmates, the people in my life who are important to me. It's all about finding the balance."

— FKJ

"Soulmates" arrives the first glimpse into 'Tyber' — FKJ's most expansive and uninhibited project to date, capturing a period of personal and creative transformation following his acclaimed album, 'V I N C E N T'. Written and recorded across London, Los Angeles, Paris, Brazil, the Philippines and Mexico, the album reflects years of movement, solitude, collaboration and renewal, with each location subtly shaping its sonic identity. Across 'Tyber', groove-driven compositions sit alongside jazz-led instrumentals, sample-heavy explorations and direct songwriting moments, moving seamlessly through funk, alt-pop, R&B and psychedelic textures to form a cohesive yet expansive portrait of an artist documenting his evolution in real time. The forthcoming album also features an expansive list of collaborators including Lucy Park, Baby Rose, Bas, Eryn Allen Kane and Labrinth, further expanding its rich and globally influenced sonic world.

FKJ is no stranger to Asia, having built a strong following across the region through a series of acclaimed live performances. He made his Southeast Asia debut in 2016 with an intimate DJ and live performance in Bangkok, followed by a 2017 Asia tour across multiple cities including Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore as part of his broader breakout run in the region. In 2023, he returned for a major Asia tour with stops in Jakarta, Bali, Taipei, Bangkok, Hong Kong (Clockenflap), Manila (Wanderland), Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore, including several notable sold-out dates that further cemented his status as a consistent draw across the continent.

Over the course of his career, FKJ has earned widespread acclaim for redefining the boundaries of contemporary French electronic music. Often recognised as a pioneer of the New French House movement, he has developed a signature style built around live instrumentation, improvisation, looping and richly layered production. His French heritage remains a defining thread throughout his work, even as his music continues to absorb inspiration from cultures and communities around the world. Beyond the studio, FKJ has cultivated a devoted international following, with over 4.6 million fans across platforms, more than 4 billion global streams, and 2.5 million YouTube subscribers, cementing his reputation for the immersive visual and musical experience of his live performances. An artist whose work exists between timeless musicianship and experimentation, FKJ has built a singular musical world that blurs the worlds of jazz, soul, classical, hip-hop, funk, rock and electronic influences. As a result, his music continues to connect with a global audience drawn to both its technical intricacy and intimate atmosphere.

With "Soulmates", 'Tyber', and a major international tour on the way, FKJ enters this next era with renewed clarity and a vision to push his sound forward while remaining grounded in the instinctive musicality that has defined his career from the beginning.
 

'Tyber' Tracklisting:
1. Journey
2. Clear
3. How Much Does It Take To Shift It All
4. Burst
5. Leaving
6. Changes Rising
7. Heavy Heart
8. I Want U
9. Soulmates
10. Open
11. Little Little Voice
12. In Heaven
 

Stream "Soulmates" here
Watch the music video here
Pre-save 'Tyber' here
 

More About FKJ & 'Tyber'

'Tyber' is essentially a document of FKJ's self-discovery in the years since releasing 'V I N C E N T': first sinking into the abyss and then ascending back into brighter light than ever before. Stylistically, it's as adventurous as ever, flowing seamlessly through flavours of funk to jazz to rock to alt-pop to R&B. The songs take on myriad approaches, from his most groove-laden material since his debut, to a wealth of more song-focused compositions, through to jazzy instrumentals and sample-heavy tracks. Given its diversity, it's unsurprising to discover that it was crafted as he travelled the world. Each track is like a Polaroid snapshot of part of FKJ's story.

Balance is a recurring underlying theme throughout the record, reflected not only in its sound but also in FKJ's approach to collaboration, centred on artistry, connection and shared creative intent. This era extends into a wide range of recent one-off and external collaborations, including work with Yussef Dayes, JENNIE, Jordan Rakei, DEAN and Sofiane Pamart.

Now 'Tyber' is ready to take flight into the world, introduced through a series of cinematic, arthouse live films shot in Japan, where FKJ performs while travelling aboard a spaceship — a visual metaphor for both his otherworldly home studio and the origins of his creative journey, capturing the evolution traced throughout the record. Plans are also taking shape for live performances, with FKJ's current vision favouring solo shows that best reflect the album's fully self-directed creation.

This continues his exploration of unique, transportive performance spaces, following landmark sets including Cercle's performance at Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni, Live From The Greenhouse with Yussef Dayes, and intimate performances from his own tropical home studio environment.

There's also something spiritual about FKJ sharing his story through songs, especially when others can immerse themselves in the 'Tyber' album experience, too. "All these events and places in the journey were essential, like a quest to become a more refined and evolved version of myself," he concludes. "I've listened back to the album over and over, and I still find myself being surprised and getting into a blissful state of mind. I just hope other people can feel the same way that I did while making the album."

FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS

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SKYE NEWMAN RELEASES ‘SE9 PART 2’ + ‘MAN OF THE HOUSE’

LISTEN TO ‘SE9 PART 2’ HERE / ‘MAN OF THE HOUSE’ AUDIO HERE / ARTWORK HERE / PRESS SHOTS

29th May 2026 – Today, South London singer-songwriter Skye Newman releases ‘SE9 Part 2’, the highly anticipated second chapter of the autobiographical world she first introduced on her breakthrough debut project ‘SE9 Part 1’, alongside new focus track ‘Man of the House’.

Named after the South East London postcode that shaped her upbringing, ‘SE9 Part 2’ expands Skye’s storytelling far beyond survival alone. Across eight tracks, Skye explores inherited trauma, identity, emotional survival, relationships, womanhood and self-worth with a level of honesty that has rapidly become her signature.

The project arrives following the release of previous singles ‘Walk’ and ‘Woman I Am’, both of which introduced listeners to the emotional and thematic evolution at the centre of ‘SE9 Part 2’. While ‘Walk’captured the moment self-preservation overtakes emotional exhaustion, ‘Woman I Am’ shifted toward female friendship, unity and strength - themes that increasingly define this next chapter of Skye’s artistry.

The release also arrives alongside focus track ‘Man of the House’, one of Skye’s most emotionally exposed and sharply observed releases to date. Built around themes of responsibility, masculinity and emotional survival, the track explores the weight of stepping up as “the man of the house”, continuing Skye’s ability to turn deeply personal experiences into something strikingly universal.

Speaking on the project, Skye says: “SE9 Part 2 is all about the journey of my life the past few years… it’s an insight into the strength I’ve gained and how much I’ve grown and learnt through woman hood; its acceptance, guidance and power put into music.”

Where ‘SE9 Part 1’ introduced listeners to Skye’s world, ‘SE9 Part 2’ feels like the moment she fully steps into herself emotionally and artistically. Songs such as ‘Walk’ and ‘Lost Myself To A Man’ confront emotional imbalance and self-preservation head-on, while ‘Woman I Am’ embraces female friendship, support and emotional resilience with a warmth and honesty that has deeply resonated with fans throughout the campaign.

Written alongside long-time collaborators Boo and Luis Navidad, with additional contributions from Chrissi, Ed Thomas, Jonah Stevens and Al Shux, ‘SE9 Part 2’continues Skye’s commitment to emotionally direct songwriting rooted in lived experience rather than performance. Throughout the record, she moves fluidly between vulnerability, anger, reflection and humour, documenting the realities of growing up, navigating relationships and learning how to reclaim your sense of self.

The release caps an extraordinary rise for the South London artist, who has rapidly become one of the defining new voices in British music. Since the release of ‘SE9 Part 1’, Skye has won BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2026, received two BRIT Award nominations for Song of the Year and Breakthrough Artist, earned aMOBO Award nomination for Best Newcomer and been nominated for an Ivor Novello Award. She was also selected as a Spotify RADAR UK artist and named by both British Vogue and ELLE UK as one of the defining artists to watch for 2026. Earlier this year,The Telegraph awarded Skye’s headline show at O2 Forum Kentish Town four stars, asking readers: “Is this charismatic young pop star the next Adele?”

Commercially, Skye’s rise has been equally undeniable. Her catalogue has now surpassed 260 million global streams, while breakout singles ‘Family Matters’ and ‘Hairdresser’ established her as the first UK female solo artist in over a decade to debut her first two releases inside the UK Top 20. ‘Family Matters’ peaked at No. 5 in the UK Official Chartsand spent seven weeks inside the Top 10, while ‘Hairdresser’ remained in the UK Top 40 for 14 consecutive weeks.

Beyond streaming and charts, Skye has quickly built a formidable live reputation. Earlier this year, her ‘The Woman I Am Tour’ sold out within minutes, before going on to receive widespread acclaim across the UK and Europe. This winter, she will embark on ‘The Survival Tour’, including four sold-out nights at London’s O2 Academy Brixton - her biggest headline shows to date. In December, she will also join Harry Styles in Sydney as part of his ‘Together Together’tour.

Still only at the beginning of her career, ‘SE9 Part 2’cements Skye Newman not simply as a breakout artist, but as a singular new British voice - emotionally fearless, culturally resonant and entirely uncompromising in how she tells her story.

SE9 Part 2 tracklist:

1. ‘Man of the House’

2. ‘Crawling’

3. ‘Walk’

4. ‘Too Far South’

5. ‘Traumatized’

6. ‘Lost Myself To A Man’

7. ‘Woman I Am’

8. ‘Vicious Cycle’

SE9 Part 1 tracklist:

1. “FU & UF”

2. “Hairdresser”

3. “My Addiction”

4. “Out Out”

5. “Family Matters”

6. “Smoke Rings”

Physical editions of the project will also include the vinyl-exclusive track ‘Blood’, available exclusively on vinyl.

‘SE9 Part 2’ is out today on all major platforms.

LISTEN TO ‘SE9 PART 2’ HERE / ‘MAN OF THE HOUSE’ AUDIO HERE / ARTWORK HERE / PRESS SHOTS

Skye Newman on socials:

Instagram / TikTok

 Source: Sony Music