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.

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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

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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
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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

RAMONA unpacks post-breakup trauma in new single “Laguna”

Her latest track embraces brash punk energy with confrontational lyrics and biting dark humor

Following the breakout success of her debut song “GAGA,” which garnered more than 300,000 TikTok creations and peaked at No. 60 on the Spotify Viral charts, RAMONA returns to the spotlight with the release of her new single, “Laguna,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

RAMONA’s latest track chronicles the messy aftermath of a breakup. Balancing humor, confrontation, and disbelief, the angsty pop-punk anthem taps into the hyper-online generation’s obsession with decoding modern relationships and post-breakup behavior. It also unpacks the strange limbo between heartbreak and amusement: the spiral of watching someone move on suspiciously fast.

Where many breakup songs dwell in defeat and tortured sadness, “Laguna” chooses to fight back. It is restless, unfiltered, and loud, reflecting a generation that processes intimacy through screens, timelines, and lingering notifications.

In the approved pitch for “Laguna,” the track is described as a straightforward reflection on a past emotional experience. It sits in that in-between space where something happened, it mattered at the time, and now it’s just part of her memory. She doesn’t assign it meaning beyond what it was, but she notices how those kinds of moments tend to stay with you anyway.

Produced by Tim and Sam Marquez of One Click Straight, “Laguna” integrates brash punk energy with Y2K emo sensibilities, allowing RAMONA’s conversational but darkly humorous lyrics to build up and explode against a backdrop of distorted guitars, menacing drums, and riot grrrl spunk. It’s Liz Phair-coded, but with Pinoy-style wit and sarcasm that gives listeners a taste of RAMONA’s acid-infused songwriter persona.

RAMONA’s “Laguna” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch out for the release of the lyric video via RAMONA’s official YouTube channel.

Source: Nyou

New Release: South Korea's global pop and style icon, KRYSTAL unveils soulful new single "PWLT"

LISTEN HERE

June 1st, 2026 – Global pop and style icon, as well as former f(x) member, KRYSTAL returns with “PWLT”, a refined new solo R&B release that further ushers in her long-awaited solo era. Fans can stream the track here and watch the music video here.

Blending Korean pop with warm ’80s and ’90s soul, boogie, and modern alt-R&B influences, “PWLT” channels the timeless sounds of artists like Sade and Janet Jackson. The track serves as the second release from KRYSTAL’s forthcoming debut solo album, following her highly anticipated comeback single “Solitary” released in November 2025. Built around a sparkling mellow R&B groove, the song takes its title from the infectious hook “People Want to Live Together”, reflecting on themes of connection, purpose, and human relationships.

To bring the record to life, KRYSTAL assembled an all-star lineup of Asian talent. The track features guitar work from Kuo-Hung Tseng (Kuo) of acclaimed Taiwanese band Sunset Rollercoaster (落日飛車), alongside mesmerizing synth contributions from Oh Hyuk, frontman of beloved Korean indie band HYUKOH.

Further connecting KRYSTAL to the soul, boogie, and funk influences she deeply admires, “PWLT” was written and produced by legendary American producer and songwriter Steve Lindsey. His acclaimed career includes credits with Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, and Alexander O’Neal, as well as performing keys for Chaka Khan — in addition to famously discovering Bruno Mars.

Adding to the excitement surrounding the release, an official music video for “PWLT” was also released on KRYSTAL’s official YouTube channel.

Krystal - "PWLT" (Official Music Video)

After debuting as a teenage pop star and helping redefine the K-pop landscape with f(x), KRYSTAL now steps confidently into a sophisticated new chapter as a solo artist. With “PWLT” and “Solitary”, she reveals a sharper artistic vision and a refined sound that welcomes her global audience into an exciting new era.
 

Listen to "PWLT" here
Watch the music video here

About KRYSTAL

Krystal debuted in 2009 at the age of fourteen as a member of f(x), one of the most influential groups in modern K-pop. Their second studio album 'Pink Tape (2013)' was cited as one of the ‘100 Greatest Korean Albums’ curated by Korean music critics and remains a touchstone release within the genre. The group’s final studio album, '4 Walls (2015)', received a 7.3 score from Pitchfork and drew both domestic and international praise for its refined, future-leaning dance-pop production.

Meanwhile, following her recent performance as Jeon I-kyung alongside Ha Jung-woo, Lim Soo-jung, and Kim Jun-han in the tvN drama “How to Become a Building Owner in Korea”, Krystal has also confirmed her appearance in the Korea-Japan co-production “You Hear Me”, directed by Oe Takamasa, who co-wrote the screenplay for “Drive My Car” and won the Best Screenplay award at the Cannes Film Festival as part of Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s creative team, continuing her active career as an actress as well.

Krystal will return to music in 2026 with her first solo album, nearly a decade after her last activities as a member of f(x).

FOR MORE INFORMATION
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GLOBAL ELECTRO-FUNK TRIO DROPS LATEST SINGLE "THE WAVE"

LISTEN HERE

FIFTH STUDIO ALBUM 'SUNSHINE'
OUT AUGUST 14TH

PRE-ORDER/SAVE HERE

Photo Credit: Mason Rose

May 29th, 2026 — BRIT Award winners and global arena headliners Jungle unveil their latest single "The Wave", offering yet another taste of their highly anticipated fifth studio album, 'Sunshine', arriving on August 14th. The new track follows the success of lead single "Carry On", which debuted as BBC Radio 1's Hottest Record and quickly amassed over 14 million streams alongside heavy international airplay. Fans can stream the new single HERE and pre-order/pre-save the album HERE.

The trio—J Lloyd, Tom McFarland, and Lydia Kitto—took inspiration for "The Wave" from the Brazilian music scene of the '60s and '70s, channelling the warmth and musicality of that era into a distinctly sleek production. Lyrically, the track is about finding the strength to persevere with a relationship as it goes through challenges, delivering a dose of optimism in the face of tough times.

This upcoming album follows the massive momentum of their 2023 breakthrough 'Volcano', the album that yielded the huge viral hit "Back On 74", which alone has surpassed 557 million streams and achieved widespread traction across TikTok and global charts. Physical pre-orders for 'Sunshine' are available HERE, with formats featuring standard black 180g single gatefold LP, Desert Peach single gatefold LP, translucent brown marble single gatefold LP, and digipak CD.

The band's upcoming world tour kicks off this September with a run of massive arena dates spanning North America, the UK, Europe and Australia.
 

'Sunshine' Tracklisting:
1. Come Back to Me
2. Sunshine
3. Where Are You Now?
4. Move Like You Do
5. Romeo II ft Bas
6. Carry On
7. The Wave
8. Someday, Somewhere
9. Natural
10. Reflection
11. Heavy on My Soul

Stream "The Wave" here
Pre-order and pre-save the album 'Sunshine' here
 

About Jungle

Jungle were formed in London in 2013 by Tom McFarland and J Lloyd, before their regular collaborator Lydia Kitto became an official member of the group in 2024. Matching a euphoric concoction of modern disco, soul and hip-hop with exemplary visual content defined by world-class choreography, they shot to attention with their self-titled UK Top 10 debut album in 2014. Their rise continued with another Top 10 with 2018's 'For Ever' and then 'Loving In Stereo' which hit #3 in 2021.

2023 saw Jungle become a global force with 'Volcano'. Reaching #3 in the UK, the album featured their biggest hit to date in the shape of "Back On 74" which has been certified Platinum in both the UK and US. The campaign saw Jungle rise to sell-out arenas all over the world, playing to hundreds of thousand of fans across 2023/24 with highlights including The O2 in London, Coachella and headlining All Points East. To date, Jungle have amassed an incredible 4 billion streams and boasts over 11 million monthly listeners on Spotify.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
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FOLLOW JUNGLE

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JONAS BLUE RETURNS TO DEFECTED WITH SUMMER HOUSE HIT ‘GIRL’

The highly anticipated follow-up to 2025’s global hit ‘Edge Of Desire’ with Malive, ‘Girl’ sees Jonas Blue master his fresh, summery sonic on Defected Records.

Label: Defected Records
Format(s): Download / Streaming

Release date: Friday 29^th May 2026

Stream HERE

Download cover artwork HERE

Download artist press image HERE

For immediate release - Jonas Blue returns to Defected Records with ‘Girl’, the highly anticipated follow-up to his 2025 mega-hit ‘Edge Of Desire’. Since the release of ‘Edge Of Desire’ with Malive in the height of summer, July 2025, the fiery house heater has gained over 200 million global streams thanks to consistent Shazam chart peaks and playlist support on the world’s biggest stations across the UK, US, France, Spain, Italy, The Netherlands, Australia and now South America.

The release was also supported by remixes from artists across the wider house spectrum, including Franky Rizardo, Jazz-N-Groove and Serve Cold & Grigoré, as well as a Sunrise version accompanied by a DJ mix direct from Ibiza.

Now almost a year later, he returns to the London house institution with ‘Girl’, a fresh and summery record that sees Jonas bringing his global crossover power into the Defected world. With an undeniably catchy vocal hook supported by addictive guitar patterns and a headsy four-on-the-floor groove, prepare to hear ‘Girl’ across the globe from open-air parties to long club nights throughout 2026 and well beyond.

From Jonas Blue: “This record really came from a place of pure nostalgia for me. I’ve always had a deep love for French house and that early 2000s era of house music, the kind of tracks that were simple, catchy, and just made you feel good instantly. I feel like somewhere along the way, we lost a bit of that playful energy, especially when it comes to hooks that people can sing back without even thinking. ‘Girl’ was my way of tapping back into that – it was one of those sessions that just flowed naturally, no overthinking, just chasing a feeling. I’m really excited for everyone to hear it, especially on Defected, it feels like the perfect home for this kind of sound.”

The year ahead will also see Jonas continue to captivate global attention with his 14-date US tour selling out shows in Los Angeles, New York and Toronto, new residencies at Hï Ibiza and Las Vegas, and a wealth of new music in the pipeline.

Jonas Blue ‘Girl’ is out Friday 29^th May 2026 on Defected Records.
Stream here: https://defected.lnk.to/DFTD778D

Biography

Jonas Blue’s career stands as one of modern dance music’s defining success stories. With era-shaping records including Fast Car, Perfect Strangers, Mama, Rise and Polaroid, his catalogue has been certified platinum over 135 times worldwide, generating more than 22 billion global streams, 85+ million single sales and 6 billion video views. He has earned a BRIT Certified Breakthrough Album, multiple BRIT Award nominations and three BRIT Billion Awards, becoming the second most-streamed UK Dance Act globally.

Built on instinctive melody and emotional connection, Jonas has consistently bridged crossover impact with dancefloor credibility. His catalogue includes seven Billboard Dance No.1s and a Beatport No.1, while his DJ reputation remains rooted in understanding both the club and the crowd.

In 2026, Jonas enters a new creative phase with ‘Edge Of Desire’, a record that reflects renewed energy and deeper intent. The record has gained strong global momentum, reaching the Top 5 on the Billboard Dance Radio Chart.

A mainstage regular at Ultra, EDC and Creamfields, and a trusted name across global club culture, Jonas continues to take his sound worldwide, balancing festival stages with intimate dancefloors as he moves into his next chapter.

For more information, please contact mabuhay@blackstar.space

New Release: Daniel Seavey - 'Love's A Gun' + On Tour with Charlie Puth

LISTEN HERE

May 29th, 2026 — Multi-platinum singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Daniel Seavey returns with new single "Love's a Gun" via Atlantic Records — a shimmering burst of maximalist pop. Already an instant fan-favourite, the track was first premiered live during his support run on Charlie Puth's Whatever's Clever! Tour. Fans can stream the new single HERE and watch the music video HERE.

Initially written during a pre-tour trip to Stockholm with producers VERA (Lukas Graham, Peso Pluma) and Søren Breum (MØ), Seavey completed the song back in his Los Angeles studio by both producing and playing the entirety of the track's instruments himself. The result is a sparkling, catchy, maximalist pop moment with culled inspiration from the likes of Phil Collins' "Another Day in Paradise" and Gotye's "Somebody That I Used to Know".

Daniel Seavey – "Love's a Gun" (Official Video)
** PREMIERES 30 MAY @ 12:00 AM **

""Love's a Gun" is a song about me admitting I saw the damage coming and still walked straight into it. It's about me choosing them over myself, even knowing it would leave me empty. I wanted the music to feel beautiful and dangerous at the same time since that's exactly what this kind of love feels like."

— Daniel Seavey

"Love's a Gun" marks Seavey's second release this year, following last month's "Time to Time (Annie)", with both tracks arriving as instant fan favourites after being premiered live during his support run on Charlie Puth's Whatever's Clever! Tour. On stage, the intentions of how these songs were written are laid bare: Seavey began experimenting with a looper pedal last year on his solo headline Second Wind Tour, which included sold-out US dates before expanding across Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. The pre-release sound for "Love's a Gun" has also generated significant momentum, sparking nearly 750 creates and over 7 million total views across social platforms. The track also arrives alongside a Matty Peacock-directed music video (Billie Eilish, Shawn Mendes).

With nearly 300 million global solo streams to date, Daniel Seavey enters the next era of his career at his brightest, boldest, and most brilliant. Driven by an incredibly passionate global audience, Southeast Asia continues to be a massive streaming powerhouse for the artist; among his top 10 countries worldwide, the Philippines ranks at #4, Indonesia at #6, and Malaysia at #10, while Singapore sits at #10 among his top global cities.

Stream "Love's a Gun" here
Watch the music video here
 

About Daniel Seavey

Multi-platinum singer/songwriter and producer Daniel Seavey knows what it takes to become pop's next big thing. His 2025 full-length solo debut album 'Second Wind' (executive produced by chart-topping writer/producer Michael Pollack) made a splash, showcasing his extraordinary songwriting sensibility as well as that long-beloved voice. Meanwhile the past year saw Seavey command some of the biggest stages of his solo career, including a festival debut set at Lollapalooza, opening for Benson Boone's Fireworks and Rollerblades world tour and his own solo international headline Second Wind Tour.

Now ahead of his highly-anticipated sophomore album era, Seavey has accumulated nearly 6 million followers across his social platforms and close to 300 million global streams on his music. He is currently on an opening run with Charlie Puth at arena venues including  Madison Square Garden and the Kia Forum, he released the first taste of the new project with standout singles "Time to Time (Annie)" and "Love's a Gun".

In 2016, Seavey co-founded boyband Why Don't We and embarked upon an unbelievable six-year journey highlighted by over 6 billion global career streams, two RIAA Platinum-certified singles, five RIAA Gold-certified singles, two Top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 chart, and sold out tours. An American Idol Season 14 finalist, he finished in the Top 9. His debut solo EP, 2023's 'Dancing In The Dark', sparked his creative independence, with Rolling Stone praising Seavey for his "impeccable production skills, stellar vocals, and personal artistry".

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Aviators take retro pop to dreamier, more introspective place with new single “Come & Go”

MANILA, PHILIPPINES—Chamber rock duo Aviators areback in our daily rotation with new ‘rush-inducing’ track “Come & Go”—out today via Offshore Music.

What started as an Iloilo-based music project between two friends, John Roxas and Arvy Zafra, has evolved into a band with unique sonic imagery: retro-pop with lush and ornate arrangements and post-punk sensibilities, perfectly carried by their previous single, “Hollow,” which was released in October 2025.

Imbued with newfound range and character, their latest single “Come & Go” takes the familiar cinematic approach with a more manic sound. It’s intentionally made to feel as if the listener is chasing after each note as the song drives forward.

“I wanted a song that had an energetic, frenetic pace, something you would hear as a soundtrack to a James Bond-esque movie,” shares vocalist and guitarist John Roxas. “The lyrics are centered around things that come and go, and what better way to bring that to light than with a song that comes at you, then goes on forward.”

Official Artwork for Come & Go

In the same interview, Roxas mentioned that this song has been in the works way back 2016 when they were experimenting on orchestral soundscapes, making “Come & Go” technically a ten-year-old project.

A lyric video of “Come & Go”, created by Danille Yzjl Eligue, Renzky Avelino, and Jyzle Xylex Monzon, will also be available upon release day on the Offshore Music PH's official YouTube channel.

The final installment of Aviators’ cinematic and orchestral exploration is set to drop this July.

Listen to “Come & Go” on all streaming platforms here!

About Aviators

Heavily inspired by the melodies of retro pop music and the angst of the post-punk revival, Aviators seamlessly blend lush vocal harmonies and chamber pop strings into their gritty musical backbone. Taking cues from artists like Mini Mansions, Julian Casablancas, Arctic Monkeys, Oasis, David Bowie, and Pulp, their sound is a unique fusion of heavy guitars, pounding drums, orchestral arrangements, and rich vocal layers. The result pushes listeners in unexpected directions while still keeping them close at hand with the familiarity of classic pop melodies.

Their journey took off with the release of their first single, I Got U in 2020, followed by their debut album, Analogies On Love, in 2022. Both releases garnered Awit Awards nominations. Aviators have also made two notable appearances on Rappler Live Jam, further establishing their new presence in the industry.

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SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/aviators
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/aviatorsmnl

FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/OfficialAviatorsMNL

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@aviatorsmnl

Source: Nyou 

VVINK delivers bold artistic statement in It Starts With A Wink - The First Full Album

Packed with infectious pop anthems and emotionally resonant tracks, It Starts With A Wink showcases the quintet’s versatility and ambition

More press photos here

P-Pop girl group VVINK embraces a clear and deliberate artistic statement in It Starts With A Wink – The First Full Album, a 14-track record released under FlipMusic. More than a collection of meticulously produced, summer pop anthems, the project arrives with a cohesive sonic and emotional narrative meant to be experienced from beginning to end.

Built around the phrase “It Starts With A Wink,” the debut full-length album draws from the idea of a secret signal between people: an unspoken understanding that instantly creates connection. In the same way, the record represents the familiar emotions, humor, awkwardness, friendships, and vulnerabilities that define young Filipino adulthood, creating a communal listening experience that sounds unmistakably Filipino in every sense.

In an era increasingly dominated by streaming and short-form virality, It Starts With A Wink – The First Full Album stands out for capturing youthful memories with uplifting effervescence: honed by carefree and playful sentiments but never lacking in tenderness and sophistication. Designed as a no-skips body of work that unfolds through recurring sonic ideas, transitions, interludes, emotional callbacks, and tonal shifts, the album plays like actual memories framed with intention rather than isolated algorithmic moments.

The album opens confidently with “I-N-T-R-O,” immediately introducing VVINK’s vocal identity before transitioning into the infectious energy of “Tulala” and the explosive hyperpop-meets-budots fusion of “Baduy,” featuring world-renowned producer DJ Love. As the record slowly unfurls its character, tracks like “Tatlong Hiling” showcase the group’s softer, more emotional side while “Tulog Pa Si Ganda” injects a trippy mosaic of Jersey beats, funky house, and Miami bass. Nica Del Rosario's GL-inspired track “Kailan Ka Aamin,” adds another layer of emotional honesty, contemporary Filipino storytelling, and inclusivity to the album. Situated at the center of the record is “Pag-ibig Fun,” a bright, witty, and inescapable pop jam that perfectly welcomes the album’s carefree spirit and distinct edge.

The latter half of It Starts With A Wink – The First Full Albumsettles into heartfelt territory with the trifecta of “Ikaw Lang Ang Kulang,” “Oo,” and “Ikaw Ikaw,” elevating the group’s pop sensibilities with a smattering of charisma and indelible songwriting chops. The record closes with “It’s A Rap,” an explosive boom-bap-driven track that highlights VVINK’s versatility as performers, and “VVINK VVINK,” a brief but intentional teaser hinting at the group’s future sonic direction.

Helmed by select powerhouse producers and composers from FlipMusic under the direction of Head Music Producer Julius James “Bojam” de Belen (BINI’s Talaarawan, Sarah Geronimo’s “Tala” and “Ikot-Ikot,” and the Diary ng Panget original soundtrack), alongside hitmakers Nica Del Rosario(Sarah Geronimo’s “Tala,” BINI’s “Na Na Na” and “Karera”), Myk Conchada (BINI’s “I Feel Good” and “Salamin, Salamin”), and VVINK’s very own Angelika (BINI’s “Pantropiko”), the album reflects years of experience in shaping modern Filipino pop culture through songwriting, arrangement, artist development, and sonic experimentation.

Before the release of their official full-length album, VVINK had already built a reputation in P-Pop with their series of pre-debut releases focused on continuity, replay value, and emotional world-building. Composed of members Angelika, Ayaka, Jean, Mariel, and Odri, the acclaimed pop group represents a new generation of talent built on grit and genuine Filipino values.

VVINK’s It Starts With A Wink – The First Full Album is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via FlipMusic.

Source: Nyou

SHAKIRA AND BURNA BOY RELEASE THE VIDEO FOR “DAI DAI”

Watch HERE

MIAMI, FL (May 26th, 2026)  – Shakira and Burna Boy released the video for their new track “Dai Dai,” the official song of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.  Watch HERE.  The video was shot in Miami and directed by Hannah Lux Davis. It features a compilation of soccer stars Lionel Messi, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, Rodrigo Hernández (Rodri), Vinícius Júnior, Takefusa Kubo, Santiago Giménez, Erling Haaland, Luis Díaz, Alphonso Davies, Jamal Musiala and Christian Pulisic.

The video also features Ghetto Kids Uganda, a life-changing NGO dedicated to supporting orphaned, street, and vulnerable children through music, dance, and drama. By turning talent into opportunity, the organization provides education, shelter, healthcare, food, and hope for a brighter future while helping children stay away from the hardships of street life.

The video shows Shakira atop Mexico City’s Angel de la Independencia, one of Mexico’s most iconic landmarks on the emblematic Reforma Avenue. It serves as a visual tribute to a country that has played an important role throughout her career, with special thanks to the capital’s tourism campaign “Ciudad de México Corazón Grande” for its support in bringing this moment to life.

Shakira will co-headline the FIFA World Cup 2026™Final Halftime Show on Sunday, July 19, alongside Madonna and BTS. She will perform Dai Dai with Burna Boy. For the first time in FIFA World Cup™ history, the final will feature a halftime show, bringing together global artists for a singular moment at the intersection of sport, culture, and purpose, to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.

As announced last week at Global Citizen NOW in New York, 'Dai Dai' will be the official anthem of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise USD $100 million by the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Final to provide children in underserved communities around the world with access to quality education and sports. Shakira’s royalties from 'Dai Dai' are being donated to the Education Fund, and Sony Music will match the first $250,000 raised with a donation. Additionally, Shakira is donating $1 from every ticket sold to her upcoming 'Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran' tour to the Education Fund.

Photo Credit: Nicolas Gerardin  

This summer, Shakira will hit the road for a special limited run of U.S. dates on her record-breakingLas Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, giving fans a rare chance to see her electrifying production up close in more intimate arena settings this summer.  Tickets are available at shakira.com. In October, Shakira will headline an 11-night stadium European residency based in Madrid, with a stadium named ‘Shakira Stadium’ being built especially for her, and has already sold more than half a million tickets.

Photo Credit: Chris Cornejo | Download HERE

For Burna Boy, the collaboration marks another defining global moment in a career that continues to bridge music, sport, and culture on an unprecedented scale. Widely recognized as one of the most influential African artists of his generation, Burna Boy has become synonymous with stadium-level performance, global musical fusion, and the international rise of African music and culture. From headlining arenas and stadiums across the world to performing at the NBA All-Star Game and building major partnerships at the intersection of music and sport, Burna Boy continues to redefine what global African artistry looks like at the highest level.  Burna Boy is currently in the midst of an expansive international run that continues to cement his position as one of the world’s leading live performers and cultural voices

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Download Burna Boy Photos HERE

About Shakira

Shakira is a Colombian singer-songwriter and multi-GRAMMY® award winner. She has sold over 95 million records worldwide and has won numerous awards, including four GRAMMYs®, fifteen Latin GRAMMYs®, and multiple World Music Awards, American Music Awards and Billboard Music Awards, to name a few. She is the most-viewed female Latin artist, and one of the top-10 artists of all time on YouTube with over 27 billion cumulative views, and the most-streamed female Latin artist of all time on Spotify.

Most recently, Shakira released her twelfth studio album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, to rave reviews and a GRAMMY® win for Best Latin Album. The album is a dazzling testament to her resilience and strength, as well as music's power to transform the most trying experiences into precious moments. In the first 24 hours it was released, the album became the most-streamed album of 2024 and was certified 7x Platinum. Less than a week after releasing her critically acclaimed new album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, Shakira surprised a crowd of over 40,000 people, the largest audience for a performance in Times Square and larger than any New Year's Eve crowd, with a mesmerizing performance at the TSX Stage in Times Square. Watch HERE.  In 2025, Shakira launched her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloranstadium world tour, recently crowned as the “highest-grossing Hispanic tour of all time,” achieving a gross revenue of $421.6 million, inclusive of 82 stadium shows all across the US and Latin America with over 3.3 million people in attendance.

Shakira’s previous album, El Dorado, ranked #1 on iTunes in 37 Countries, won Best Pop Vocal Album at the 2017 Latin GRAMMY® Awards, and Best Latin Pop Album at the 2018 GRAMMY® Awards. With over 12 billion streams, it is one of the most-streamed female albums of all time. In 24 hours, “SHAKIRA || BZRP Music Sessions #53” made history both on Spotify with over 14 million streams and on YouTube with over 52 million views. The song debuted at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is another historic moment for Shakira, as she is the first solo woman to debut in the Top 10 on the chart with a song recorded in Spanish. It is also the Spanish-language song with the most streams in a single day in Spotify history. In September, Shakira received the MTV Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the MTV Video Music Awards and, in honor of her award, put on a breathtaking performance of her greatest hits.

About Burna Boy

Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu MFR, globally known as Burna Boy, is one of the most influential and defining artists of his generation. Born on July 2, 1991, in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, into a family deeply rooted in music and culture, Burna Boy emerged with his breakout single “Like to Party” in 2012 before releasing his debut album L.I.F.E in 2013. Over the last decade, he has evolved into a global cultural force, building a sound that seamlessly blends Afrobeat, reggae, dancehall, hip-hop, and soul into a genre-defying musical identity recognised around the world.

Widely celebrated for transforming African music into a stadium-level global experience, Burna Boy has continuously broken barriers on the world stage. He became the first African artist to headline and sell out London Stadium, performing to over 60,000 people, while also selling out major venues including Madison Square Garden in New York, Paris’ Accor Arena, and the Stade de France, where he performed before more than 80,000 fans. His commanding live performances have made him a fixture on some of the world’s biggest stages and festivals, including Coachella, Glastonbury, and Afro Nation, cementing his status as a global performer and cultural ambassador.

In 2021, Burna Boy won the GRAMMY Award for Best Global Music Album for his critically acclaimed album Twice As Tall, marking a landmark moment for African music internationally. His catalogue includes global hits such as “Last Last,” alongside multiple BET Awards, MOBO Awards, MTV EMA wins, and international chart success. In 2025, his eighth studio album No Sign of Weakness received widespread critical acclaim, further reinforcing his reputation as one of contemporary music’s most fearless and versatile artists.

Beyond music, Burna Boy’s influence extends into fashion, philanthropy, sport, and global culture. Known for his bold visual identity and unapologetic authenticity, he has become a recognised figure at the intersection of luxury fashion and contemporary African creativity, including a standout appearance at the 2025 Met Gala wearing a custom look by British-Ghanaian designer Ozwald Boateng.

In August 2025, Burna Boy entered a multi-year partnership with Swiss performance brand ON, becoming a global ambassador and the brand’s “Clubhouse President,” further expanding his influence across music, movement, and culture. His growing presence within the world of sport has also included performances at major global sporting events and collaborations that continue to bridge entertainment and athletic culture on an international scale.

Outside entertainment, Burna Boy remains committed to humanitarian and community-focused initiatives through projects supporting healthcare, education, hunger alleviation, and underserved communities across Nigeria and beyond.

With a career spanning more than a decade, Burna Boy continues to redefine global sound and African cultural influence on his own terms — standing as one of the most impactful artists of the modern era.

About Ghetto Kids

Ghetto Kids   is an NGO (Inspire Triplets Ghetto Kids) from Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.

Founded by Dauda Kavuma, a former street kid himself. Ghetto Kids comprises orphaned, street kids, and vulnerable children (60 children), with 18 performers ranging in age from 2 to 18 years, using music, dance, and drama to achieve education, food, health care, accommodations, and clothing.

At their young and impressionable age, the kids have resorted to using music, dance and drama as a way of staying away from the   violence   that they experienced on the streets.

With the assistance and guidance of their guardian Kavuma Dauda, Ghetto Kids raise money from their live performances and when they are hired to dance to music of various artists in  music videos. This is further supplemented by donations from a few individual well-wishers. All the money is used to assist in providing them with a safe place to live, food, clothing, medical expenses,  and to pay for their education. All the (60) Ghetto Kids members live   together. Because Kavuma did something radically different from most people, the world is now able to learn a little more about the millions of ignored children across the globe. Making Lives Better Through Dance.

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ICONA POP RELEASE NEW SINGLE “BUTTERFLY FEELINGS”

NEW ALBUM, RITUAL ARRIVES AUGUST 14

PRE-ORDER/SAVE

[ULTRA RECORDS / ICONIC SOUND RECORDINGS]

Photo Credit: Teitur Ardal

High-Res Available HERE

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“BUTTERFLY FEELINGS”

PRE-ORDER/SAVE

RITUAL

Multi-platinum, award-winning duo Icona Pop return with their euphoric new single “Butterfly Feelings,” out now.

Listen to “Butterfly Feelings” HERE.

Lifted from their forthcoming album Ritual, arriving August 14 via Ultra Records/Iconic Sound Recordings, “Butterfly Feelings” finds Icona Pop leaning into the dizzy emotional rush of falling in love hard and fast. Co-written by the duo, the track pairs futuristic synths, bittersweet pop melodies, and a snappy club-ready beat with the euphoric vulnerability that has long defined the duo’s music. Anchored by the hook, “My heart is beating, do you feel the same?”, the song captures the electric uncertainty and excitement of new love through Icona Pop’s unmistakable high-energy lens.

Speaking on the track, Icona Pop shares, “‘Butterfly Feelings’ is a little song about falling stupidly in love. We were thinking of all the times when we had that feeling. You try to deny it in the beginning, but you can’t stop thinking about this person.”

“Butterfly Feelings” follows the release of “Dance ToThis” (WATCH) and the album’s powerful title track “Ritual” featuring Daya, alongside an official music video directed by Gustav Stegfors (WATCH). Built around themes of survival, movement, and self-reclamation, the song introduced a more vulnerable and emotionally grounded side of the duo.

Written during a deeply transformative chapter in the duo’s lives, Ritual finds Icona Pop at their most emotionally fearless, liberated, and creatively confident. Across the album, Caroline Hjelt and Aino Jawo explore themes of friendship, reinvention, healing, heartbreak, motherhood, and joy—reshaping the dancefloor into a place for release and renewal.

Speaking on the project, Icona Pop reveal: “Healing requires you to slow down and reflect, but you can’t work on yourself 24/7 forever. Eventually, you have to get back out into the world and see what happens. You might mess up—but that could be exactly what you need. For us, the dance floor has always been a place where we find ourselves and each other again. It’s where we can disappear into the music and let go of everything else.”

More music and news from Icona Pop coming soon.

Ritual, the new album from Icona Pop, arrives August 14. Pre-Order/Save HERE.

“Butterfly Feelings” is available now on all streaming platforms.

“Butterfly Feelings” Artwork - High-Res Available HERE

High-Res Album Artwork Available HERE

ICONA POP

OFFICIAL WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | TIKTOK

ABOUT ICONA POP
Icona Pop has always represented the ultimate freedom of expression for its two members and longtime friends, Caroline Hjelt and Aino Jawo. Their fearless approach as women and artists has fueled their impact as one of pop music’s most innovative and irresistible multiplatinum, chart-topping forces. Today, they continue to evolve—owning who they are as mothers, creative partners, entrepreneurs, and leaders, while bringing that same sense of empowerment and authenticity to everything they create. Caroline and Aino went from being club kids in Stockholm to commanding clubs, arenas, and festivals around the world. Following an independent grind, Icona Pop first reached critical mass in 2012 with their breakout single “I Love It” [feat. Charli XCX], a generational anthem that went 5x Platinum, sold over 10 million copies, and surpassed 1 billion global streams. Their 2013 debut This Is… Icona Pop earned widespread acclaim and was followed by a run of Gold-certified singles, sold-out tours, and major support slots alongside artists including Miley Cyrus, One Direction, The Chainsmokers, and the late Avicii. Beyond music, they’ve delivered standout performances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, Good Morning America, and America’s Got Talent, and appeared on HBO’s Girls, Saturday Night Live, and as Satin and Chenille in the Trolls film franchise. Known for their dynamic collaborations with Joel Corry, Galantis, Sofi Tukker, and more, Icona Pop returned in 2023 with CLUB ROMANTECH, their first album in a decade, which received critical praise from The Guardian, Forbes, Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, and beyond. Now, with new music including their latest single “Ritual” featuring Daya, Icona Pop continue to push forward—blending emotional honesty with euphoric, club-ready production. Their music remains rooted in connection, transformation, and the power of the dancefloor, capturing the spirit of two artists at the height of their creative confidence.

For more information, contact mabuhay@blackstar.space

Filipino singer-songwriter SHANNi reflects on betrayal and toxic relationships in new single “Teleserye”

The melodic but dreamy pop-rock track pairs infectiousness with somber introspection

Fresh off from the success of her last single “SikretongTayo Lang May Alam,” which entered the Spotify Viral 50 Philippines chart and surpassed a million streams within five months, SHANNi continues her upward trajectory with the release of her new single “Teleserye”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

Driven by conversational lyrics and emotionally poignant storytelling, the alt-pop newcomer pours her heart out on betrayal and manipulation that comes from toxic relationships and friendships. On “Teleserye,” she paints a familiar portrait of having endured chaos in silence before ultimately finding the courage to walk away and find her peace in the process.

SHANNi explains, “Teleserye feels like a huge step for me creatively and emotionally. After the success of “SikretongTayo Lang May Alam,” I realized I wanted to become more fearless when it comes to storytelling and expressing vulnerability in my music. With this release, I became more intentional about writing from a place that’s completely honest and personal instead of trying to filter my emotions.”

SHANNi channeled a real-life experience into her art, writing from a place of hurt and honesty. Rather than suppressing it, she used songwriting as a form of healing and self-expression.

“A lot of the inspiration behind Teleserye came from real emotions and experiences that genuinely affected me emotionally,” shares the young artist. “There were moments where everything felt overwhelming, confusing, and emotionally draining, and writing became my way of processing those feelings instead of letting them consume me. Rather than reacting impulsively or doing something I might regret, I chose to pour those emotions into music and turn them into something creative.”

Musically, “Teleserye” reveals a somber but inviting pop-rock sound that combines infectious hooks with introspective themes. The contrast between layered and dreamy upbeat textures and emotionally weighty lyricism reflects the complicated strains of real-life emotions, particularly relatable to young listeners going through a rough patch.

For SHANNi, the intentional take on the sound design captures the experience of people hurting deep down while still trying to keep things light on the surface.

“When creating music, I usually start by thinking about how I want listeners to feel emotionally before they fully process the lyrics,” the Kdrama singer-songwriter admits. “I love the idea of someone being pulled in by a melody that feels addictive, then slowly realizing there’s actually a vulnerable and emotional story underneath everything. That contrast creates a stronger emotional impact because listeners experience both. Sometimes, difficult topics can feel heavy, so balancing them with melodic hooks and catchy production allows people to connect with the emotions without feeling completely weighed down by them. I think that balance is part of what makes my music feel honest and relatable because people experience emotions in complicated ways too.”

The track was written and co-produced by SHANNi with her longtime collaborators Max Cinco, Ezekiel Diaz, Dave Silonga, and Raine Roque. Honing a collaborative environment that enables vulnerability and experimentation to coexist throughout the creative process, “Teleserye” reveals a sonically engaging sound that strikes a balance between crossover appeal and creative integrity.

SHANNi’s “Teleserye” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou