Grammy-Winning Artist Laufey Wins Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album At The 68th Grammy Awards

'A MATTER OF TIME' LODGES HER SECOND WIN IN THE CATEGORY

Photo Credit: Leon Bennett/Getty Images

February 4th, 2026 – GRAMMY®-winning LA-based Icelandic-Chinese artist, composer, producer and multi-instrumentalist Laufey took home Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for 'A Matter of Time' at the 68th Grammy Awards. The win is her second in the category, following a statue for 'Bewitched' at the 2024 awards, which made her the youngest artist to win the category.

'A Matter of Time' was released to widespread critical acclaim in August, debuting at #4 on the Billboard 200 chart and #1 on the Jazz Albums chart (where it continues to hold a spot in the top 10). On the album, Laufey further crystalizes her singular sound—one still rooted in her beloved influences, but which forgoes any strict standards or rules. She teamed with a pair of co-producers, one comforting and familiar—Spencer Stewart, who worked with Laufey on her first two albums—and one new to her but deeply attuned to artists looking to open up: Aaron Dessner (Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran). Feeling sonically unrestrained gave Laufey the space to share new sides of herself while exploring sometimes heavier themes.

The win continues to add to a landmark year for Laufey, whose tour throughout the U.K. and Europe kicks off later this month—with dates already sold out—before she returns to the U.S. to play Coachella in April.

Additionally, Laufey’s first children’s book, 'Mei Mei The Bunny', is set for release on April 21 via Penguin Random House.  
 

Stream 'A Matter of Time' here

About Laufey

Laufey (pronounced lay-vay) has captivated a generation with virtuosic songs of love and self-discovery by manifesting her vision of jazz-and classical-infused pop music. She has become a bridge for the older music she adores, from Chet Baker to Carole King to Ravel, by offering her bold interpretation to a younger crop of listeners who have become deeply connected over time. This was all by design — Laufey’s self-assigned raison d’être — and it worked, allowing her to bring to life the whimsical universe known as “Laufey Land”.

Raised between Reykjavik and Washington, D.C., she learned piano and cello as a child, later studying at Berklee College of Music. There, she wrote her debut EP, 2021’s 'Typical of Me', whose striking single “Street by Street” debuted at No. 1 on Icelandic Radio—the first of many achievements that have grown to include 5 billion global streams, a social media audience of 25 million, the biggest jazz LP debut in Spotify history and an album in Billboard’s Top 20 (both for 'Bewitched'), a growing pile of Platinum plaques, a Forbes 30 Under 30 designation, and being named one of TIME’s 2025 Women of the Year. She’s sold out the Hollywood Bowl, Radio City Music Hall, and London’s Royal Albert Hall; performed backed by the LA Phil, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the China Philharmonic Orchestra; shared the stage with the likes of Jon Batiste and Raye; and collaborated on records with artists ranging from Beabadoobee to Norah Jones.

Now on 'A Matter of Time', Laufey further crystalizes her singular sound—one still rooted in her beloved influences, but which forgoes any strict standards or rules. “I’m constantly thinking about classical and jazz, how to properly preserve them and pay homage”. For this album she continues to do so while also noting, “I just wanted to let my heart wander”. To that end, she teamed with a pair of co-producers, one comforting and familiar—Spencer Stewart who worked with Laufey on her first two albums —and one new to her but deeply attuned to artists looking to open up: Aaron Dessner (Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran). Feeling sonically unrestrained gave Laufey the space to share new sides of herself while exploring sometimes heavier themes. “People expect a pretty façade of girly clothes, fantastical stories, and romantic music,” she says. “This time, I was interested in seeing how I could draw out the most flawed parts of myself and look at them directly in the mirror”. A Matter of Time finds Laufey at her most daring—and also playful—as she captures the experience of “real love” in its many forms and what it means to observe as it strips you down to your most vulnerable and anxious.

As Laufey began to craft 'A Matter of Time', she felt freer than ever. “Every new album for me is a blank book of stories to write,” she says, and it’s true. An artist who pours her life experiences into her work, she infused 2022’s 'Everything I Know About Love' with coming-of-age tales revolving around leaving home, and for 2023’s GRAMMY®-winning 'Bewitched' she dove headlong into young love. Brought to life with sweeping orchestral arrangements, interwoven strains of bossa nova and jazz, and Laufey’s honeyed alto, those albums cemented Laufey as a star who can make sounds from bygone eras feel timeless.

Earlier this year, Laufey announced The Laufey Foundation, with the primary mission of supporting young musicians with the resources they need, especially through youth orchestras, to reach their full potential. $1 of each ticket sold on the A Matter of Time Tour will go towards The Laufey Foundation.

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

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Mitski Presents “I’ll Change for You” Single/Video And Announces Global Performances, including Manila

New Album, Nothing's About to Happen to Me, out February 27th via Dead Oceans

Photo Credit - Lexie Alley

“[A] thundering, theatrical single.” — New York Times on “Where’s My Phone?”

“As a songwriter, Mitski harnesses resignation like no one else . . . But her most powerful moments often come when she lets us accompany her far past her breaking point." — Pitchfork

“Mitski meets the moment perfectly on [‘Where’s My Phone?’].” — NYLON

“‘Where’s My Phone?’ feels like it emerged from the rocky soil, brash and unvarnished.” — FADER

“Nothing’s About to Happen to Me is a gutsy new record that returns to her roots with guitar-forward songs that center her candid lyrics.” — Bandcamp

Mitski presents “I’ll Change for You,” the second single from her forthcoming album, Nothing's About to Happen to Me, out February 27th via Dead Oceans, and announces global performances. “A mesmerizing study in movement,” (Variety) Mitski’s live show has also been described as “highly stylized, brilliantly realized, super cool” (Philadelphia Inquirer) and “unusual, enigmatic and utterly compelling” (The Guardian).

Mitski will present Nothing’s About to Happen to Me in select cities around the world with residencies in select major cities: six nights at The Shed in New York City, five nights at Hollywood High School in Los Angeles, and four nights at theSydney Opera House in Sydney. Additional stops include Mexico City, Istanbul, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, London,Manila, Bangkok, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. Tickets are available to the public Friday, February 13th with artist presales beginning Wednesday, February 11th at 10am local time. Full presale details for each city can be found at Mitski.com. Support varies by city and includes Sex Week, Gustaf, La Zorra Zapata, Haley Heynderickx, Maria Somerville, Tarta Relena, Gwenifer Raymond, and more.

Mitski Presents Nothing’s About to Happen to Me:

Mon. March 2 – New York, NY @ The Shed #

Tue. March 3 – New York, NY @ The Shed #

Wed. March 4 – New York, NY @ The Shed #

Fri. March 6 – New York, NY @ The Shed *

Sat. March 7 – New York, NY @ The Shed *

Mon. March 9 – New York, NY @ The Shed *

Mon. March 23 – Mexico City, MX @ Auditorio Nacional $

Mon. March 30 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood High ^

Tue. March 31 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood High ^

Thu. April 2 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood High ^

Fri. April 3 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood High ^

Sat. April 4 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood High ^

Sat. May 2 – Istanbul, TR @ Kucukciftlik Park ⇗

Tue. May 5 – Paris, FR @ Zenith Paris - La Villette %

Wed. May 6 – Amsterdam, NL @ AFAS Live !

Thu. May 7 – Amsterdam, NL @ AFAS Live !

Sat. May 9 – Brussels, BE @ Forest National +

Thu. May 21 – London, UK @ Royal Albert Hall +

Fri. May 29 – Sydney, AU @ Sydney Opera House

Sat. May 30 – Sydney, AU @ Sydney Opera House

Sun. May 31 – Sydney, AU @ Sydney Opera House

Mon. June 1 – Sydney, AU @ Sydney Opera House

Tue. July 14 – Manila, PH @ Mall of Asia Arena ~

Thu. July 16 – Bangkok, TH @ UOB Live ~

Sat. July 18 – Jakarta, ID @ Tennis Indoor Senayan ~

Mon. July 20 - Kuala Lumpur, MY @ Zepp KL ~

Tue. July 21 – Singapore, SG @ The Star Theatre ~

# = w/ special guest Sex Week

* = w/ special guest Gustaf

$ = w/ special guest La Zorra Zapata

^ = w/ special guest Haley Heynderickx

⇗ = w/ special guest Canozan

% = w/ special guest Maria Somerville

! = w/ special guest Tarta Relena

+ = w/ special guest Gwenifer Raymond

~ = an evening with

“I’ll Change for You” by Emily Flake

Following the “indie-rock anthem” (Billboard) “Where’s My Phone?,” “I’ll Change for You” is nostalgic and mid-tempo as Mitski’s gorgeous vocal range is backed by a rich accompaniment of a string section, drums and percussion, pianos, guitar, flute, and vibraphone. With desperation, she sings: “‘Cause I’ll do anything // For you to love me again // If you don’t like me now // I will change for you.”

“I’ll Change for You” Video Still

Nothing’s About to Happen to Me finds Mitski immersing herself in a rich narrative whose main character is a reclusive woman in an unkempt house. Outside of her home, she is a deviant; inside of her home, she is free. Directed by Lexie Alleyand edited by Rena Johnson, the “I’ll Change for You” video builds upon this world, zeroing in on the chaotic, untidy Tansy House universe presented in the album’s photos by Alley. Printed frame by frame onto film with hand-drawn marks and subtle unsettling distortions, the footage feels like a roll of film that could be found in the Tansy House:  fragile, dilapidated, and probably buried under a pile of books.

Watch the Video for “I’ll Change for You”

Mitski wrote all of the songs and performed all of the vocals on Nothing’s About to Happen to Me. Produced and engineered by Patrick Hyland and mastered by Bob Weston, the album continues the musical through line established with 2023’s The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We, and features live instrumentation by The Land touring band and ensemble arrangements. The orchestra was recorded at Sunset Sound and TTG Studios, arranged and conducted by Drew Erickson, engineered by Michael Harris.

Pre-Order/Pre-Save Nothing’s About to Happen to Me

Watch the Video for “Where’s My Phone?”

Nothing’s About to Happen to Me Cover Artwork | Painting by Marc Burkhardt

Website | Facebook | X | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok

For more information, contact:

Mark Bonifacio | blackstar PH –

mabuhay@blackstar.space

Gab Cabangon finds peace after the hustle in new single “Kama”

The budding singer-songwriter is back with a soulful guitar-pop single about comfort, connection, and slowing down

Filipino singer-songwriter Gab Cabangon returns with the release of his new single, “Kama,” a soulful guitar-pop track that finds comfort in someone else’s arms after a long, exhausting day at work. Written by Cabangon himself, the song offers a gentle reminder that rest is not a reward but a necessity in a world that rarely slows down. 

“I just wanted to write a comforting love song about how it’s okay to allow yourself to rest and lean on the people who matter,” Gab admits. “We live in such a fast-paced, demanding world, but we don’t have to face them alone. Sometimes, taking a pause helps us recharge before moving forward. ‘Hanapin mo ang iyong pahinga’ as I would say.”

While undeniably penned as an intimate love song, “Kama” also serves as a reflection of the workforce culture, calling out environments that prioritize productivity and numbers at the expense of well-being and balance.

The young multi-hyphenate shares that he wrote Kama one evening after work, feeling stressed out. “I started thinking about how I needed to solve all my work problems immediately even though I was drained. Then I decided to take a break and just write a song as a way to process my thoughts. I think at that time I was also listening heavily to songs like Kumot by Solace Out the Door, Tulog Na by Sugarfree, and Janice by Dilaw. The result of that whole process was this love song.”

“Kama” is produced by Gab Cabangon and David Lina and mixed and mastered by Shadiel Chan and Jan Fuertez, respectively. Incorporating bedroom pop elements with R&B textures, the track showcases a soulful side of Gab that not many listeners know about. From a sonic standpoint, it slightly steps away from his signature stripped-down sound while retaining warm, melodic intimacy that defines his early work.

“I’m not really known for doing these particular music styles, so I’m excited to see how people would respond,” the Pieces act says. “It’s definitely way less ‘sadboi’ but you’ll still feel the singer-songwriter vibe that was present in my last single.”

“Kama” features backing vocals from Filipino singer-songwriter vydd and Kyla Miel Camerong of Solace Out the Door, with additional harmonies by Cabangon’s wife, Angeli. The track also incorporates trumpet and flugelhorn sounds—thanks to his friend, Gabriel Lazaro, who provided additional instrumental work to enrich the track’s sonic palette.

The release of “Kama” will be supported by a mini bar and café tour across Metro Manila, with the following dates and venues:

February 13, 2026 - UNWND Boutique Hotel, Poblacion, Makati (in partnership with Liga Artist Group)

February 28, 2026 - Cappo Coffee, Quezon City (in partnership with Live Hive Productions)

March 14, 2026 - Backdoor Maginhawa, Quezon City

Ticket details and updates are available at Gab Cabangon’s Instagram page.

Gab Cabangon’s “Kama” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

Source: Nyou

SB19 turns monumental concert into lasting legacy in Simula At Wakas: Kickoff Concert Album

Recorded across the two-day concert in Philippine arena, the 19-track live album captures a defining moment in P-Pop history

P-Pop phenomenon SB19 has released Simula At Wakas: Kickoff Concert Album, a live recording of tracks from their two-day concert at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan on May 31 and June 1, 2025. The album redefines a new era of boldness and ambition in SB19’s music, further elevated by the group’s undeniable world-class performance.

Mixed and mastered by Radkidz, with live arrangements by Jem Florendo, the 19-track album features live performances of songs from Simula At Wakas (2025), Pagtatag! (2023), and Pagsibol (2021), alongside the concert version of the fan-favorite single “Moonlight.”

Originally featuring US-based producer/DJ Ian Asher and Chinese electronic producer Terry Zhong, “Moonlight” takes a more restrained, but more soulful direction in its live iteration. For this version, the subdued arrangement places SB19’s vocals front and center, offering a more intimate take on the track.

“The live version of Moonlight is absolutely one of our favorites from the new record,” SB19 shares. “By keeping the production minimal and letting our voices lead, we found something more honest and human. Sometimes, less is more.”

Recorded during the opening stops of their Simula At Wakasworld tour, the concert album reflects the Filipino group’s evolution on an artistic and emotional level. The two-night spectacle set the tone for a 21-show tour spanning cities and territories across the United States, Canada, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Australia, and more.

“These versions reveal who we are now,” the P-Pop powerhouse adds. “Everything was done with intention, but also with openness, allowing the moment to shape the performance. This album represents years of hard work, discipline, and belief, and we wanted it to feel alive and heartfelt.

Check out the track list:

1. WHAT? (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

2. MANA (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

3. GENTO (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

4. MOONLIGHT (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

5. I WANT YOU (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

6. WYAT (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

7. DUNGKA! (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

8. BAZINGA (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

9. 8TONBALL (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

10. CRIMZONE (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

11. NYEBE (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

12. TIME (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

13. ILAW (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

14. QUIT (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

15. MAPA (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

16. SHOOTING FOR THE STARS (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

17. FREEDOM (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

18. SLMT (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

19. DAM (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

In addition to the album release, SB19 announced the official conclusion of their landmark world tour with “Wakas AtSimula: The Trilogy Concert Finale,” happening on April 18 at the SMDC Festival Grounds. Tickets are anticipated to goon sale in February 2026.

SB19’s Simula At Wakas: Kickoff Concert Album is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Follow SB19 on their socials:

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

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

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

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

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

Source: Nyou

Clara Benin embraces the quiet power of “muscle memory,” her first 2026 single

The indie folk favorite drops a track that traces how love lingers in thoughts, gestures, and reflexes

Manila, Philippines – After staging a two-night concert honoring the tenth anniversary of her well-received records, Human Eyes and Riverchild, Clara Benin marks the start of 2026 with the release of her new single, ‘muscle memory,’ out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

Eschewing the pressures of virality in favor of pure, authentic storytelling, “muscle memory” packs a punch in its quiet moments and restraint. The song deals with the lingering presence of lost love: how someone you try so hard to avoid continues to linger in your thoughts, habits, and little reflexes long after the heartbreak.

As Benin sums it up, “Like muscle memory, some people stay with you without you choosing to remember.”

She adds, “I liked the idea of muscle memory and started thinking about how it feels a lot like heartbreak — how your body and mind remember someone even when you’re trying to move on.”

According to Clara Benin, the song was conceived on a random night, with her sketching out a chorus on her guitar. Months later, during a songwriting session with the DEL Brothers in Sydney, she shared a voice note containing the early version. The song quickly took shape and was completed in four hours.

The ‘small town’ singer-songwriter will release her new song, “the one to blame,” next month in anticipation of her upcoming EP, slated for release later this year. “Most of the songs I’ve written live in heartbreak, longing, or existential spirals, but ‘the one to blame’ is me finally writing about actually letting someone in,” Benin shares.“It’s warm, cozy, a little dramatic, a little obsessive, and very self-aware.”

To mark the live debut of the new song, Clara Benin will perform “the one to blame” at the Valentine’s Day show at Eastwood City on February 14, 2026.

“Since it’s Valentine’s Day, I want to make it extra special and perform ‘the one to blame’ live for the very first time,” says Benin. “I’m excited to share this love song with everyone.”

Clara Benin’s “muscle memory” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

Filipino singer-songwriter dwta closes whimsical folk era with self-produced anti-Valentine’s show

Apart from her upcoming music gig, dwta also recently dropped a cover of “Ang Pag-ibig Kong Ito,”her first official release of 2026

Filipino singer-songwriter dwta will be headlining her self-produced music gig, Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni dwta, on February 13, 2026, at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City.

Billed as an anti-Valentine’s show, Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni dwta will feature a special extended set from the Bicol-born artist, whose body of work has redefined romantic and anti-romantic storytelling with sharp wit, offbeat visuals, and emotional sincerity. The evening will also bring together a stellar lineup of guest performers, including shirebound, Janine Teñoso, Jan Roberts, Kenaniah, and LEYO.

Beyond the live music component, the event will put a spotlight on local merchants and creatives such asHunghang Flashbacks, Amoy Scents and Candles, and Tattoo Studio PH. Hosting duties will be handled by Conyo Bicolano.

The show, according to dwta, is dedicated to ‘single’ listeners seeking meaningful, organic encounters. “This show is perfect for them. Since I’ve written more broken songs than love songs, this felt like the right chance to highlight them, especially with my new single. I’ll be playing a long set featuring my original songs, both old and new, along with the cover I recently released. I’ll also be teasing a song we’ve been working on that reflects this new dwta sound.”

The acclaimed songstress reveals that this gig will mark a pivotal moment in her journey as an artist, as it provides a fitting closure to the whimsical folk leanings of her previous era.

“After this, I’ll be stepping into a new era with a more mature sound and writing,” dwta adds. “It’s not just the music that’s changing, but also my appearance and overall vibe. I really hope people get to experience this show and see how I started back when I was just JhasmineVillanueva. This isn’t just an ordinary gig; it’s a moment to show how my music has really evolved.”

Earlier this year, dwta released a cover of “Ang Pag-ibigKong Ito,” originally performed by Lea Navarro and written by Carlos Agawa and Ernie Dela Pena. The track, which serves as her first official release in 2026, conveys enduring love and devotion despite odd circumstances in life.

“For my version, I wanted to focus more on the feeling,” dwta reflects. “I wanted the listener to imagine being inside the song. Like it’s late at night, you’re alone in your room, lying in bed, hearing the sound of crickets outside, crying quietly, and hoping that tomorrow will be better. That soft moment of vulnerability and hope is what I really wanted to convey in this song.”

Produced by Brian Lotho, dwta’s version underwent several iterations but eventually settled into a quieter, more somber arrangement that aligns with song’s emotional weight. The “Padaba Taka” songstress explains, “After talking it through with my team, we decided to follow what feels true to dwta. We ended up going for a more raw and intimate arrangement with acoustic guitar, slower pacing, and more strings.”

Dwta’s “Ang Pag-ibig Kong Ito” is available now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Tickets to Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni dwta are now available here.

Source: Nyou

Asia Momentum Grows as Rol3ert Releases New Single “savior”

Listen here

Watch the MV here

Credit: Exciter Records)

Following the growing momentum of his previous single “(how could i be) honest?” across Asia, 20-year-old Japanese singer-songwriter Rol3ert releases his new digital single “savior”. The track marks the third release in his three-month consecutive single series and his first release of 2026.

Released in December 2025, “(how could i be) honest?” gained rapid traction across the region, charting on viral charts in Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, earning heavy rotation on Singapore radio station 987FM, and peaking at No.5 peak on Singapore’s Shazam charts. On Spotify, the song surpassed 500,000 streams within its first month, becoming Rol3ert’s fastest-growing release to date. Across Asia, user-generated content featuring the track has continued to spread organically, amplifying its reach among younger listeners.

A standout lyric from the song — “help me / i wish i could be bleeding / so you could see the pain” — resonated deeply with listeners of the same generation across Asia, cutting through language barriers and contributing to the song’s momentum.

This regional momentum arrives alongside growing industry recognition. After winning Best Breakthrough Artist at the Tokyo Alter Music Awards in October 2025, and being selected as part of Spotify Japan’s RADAR: Early Noise 2026, the 20-year-old Japanese singer-songwriter continues to build steady traction across Asia and beyond. His previous releases have received strong DSP support across Japan, Southeast Asia, and North America, positioning him as an artist increasingly resonating with global, English-speaking audiences.

Against this backdrop, “savior” marks a decisive turning point in Rol3ert’s artistic evolution. Self-produced and driven entirely by his own vision, “savior” showcases Rol3ert’s evolving songwriting and vocal expression. The track blends shimmering ’80s-inspired melodies with the textures of modern urban rock and alternative pop, presenting his vision of what the next wave of pop music can sound like today. Lyrically, it signals a notable shift: after a year of deeply introspective songwriting, Rol3ert turns outward for the first time, centering the narrative on “someone” — a girl.

Alongside his recorded momentum, Rol3ert is entering a new phase as a live artist. He will appear at MUZ’POP JAM 2026 on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at YES24 LIVEHALL in Seoul, South Korea, marking his first overseas performance. The show reflects the growing international reach of his music, with 2026 expected to see expanded live activity both in Japan and abroad. He will also headline his own show, Rol3ert Live “katachi,” on February 27, 2026, at Shibuya WWW X in Tokyo. Tickets are now on sale.

STREAM “savior” HERE

WATCH “savior” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO HERE

About Rol3ert

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

Follow Rol3ert

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For more information, contact mabuhay@blackstar.space 

Indie-Pop Trailblazers PREP Drop Blissful Funk Floorfiller "Do What You Gotta" Featuring Taiwanese Icons Sunset Rollercoaster, EP 'One Day in the Sun' Due Out March 20th

LISTEN HERE

PRE-ORDER HERE

January 29th, 2026 — Philippines — English four-piece indie-pop band PREP return with their new single "Do What You Gotta", featuring Taiwanese megastars Sunset Rollercoaster. The track unfolds as a warm, blissful funk floorfiller, all about new beginnings, and trying to find love wherever you can. Smooth, understated, and emotionally grounded, the collaboration brings together two bands whose shared sensibility blurs borders and genre lines. Fans can stream the new single HERE.

The single arrives as the lead release from PREP's upcoming EP, 'One Day in the Sun', slated for March 20th. The EP will be available on vinyl, with pre-orders now open via the band's official merch store HERE. The release marks a significant moment for a band whose global footprint is increasingly defined by their devoted Southeast Asian audience. PREP's influence runs deep across Southeast Asia, where their blend of indie pop, soul, and retro influences has resonated powerfully with fans across the region. Partnering with Sunset Rollercoaster, one of Taiwan's most influential modern bands, further solidifies PREP's connection to Asia and reflects a shared musical language that transcends borders.

PREP – "Do What You Gotta" (feat. Sunset Rollercoaster) [Official Visualizer]

Speaking on the collaboration, vocalist Tom shares: "It feels like this Sunset Rollercoaster collaboration has been a long time coming. We almost finished a song with them in London a couple of years ago; then Kuo performed with us in Taipei last year, and we went back to their studio afterwards for a long night of playing and talking about all sorts of ideas. But as soon as we had this song for the EP, we knew it was the one. At some point this year, we need to be on a stage playing this song with all of them."

Llywelyn adds: "Sunset Rollercoaster are perhaps the one other band in the world closest to us... They're part of this scene that's based in Taiwan, Japan and Korea – bands doing stuff that's in our sort of world. It's a scene that doesn't really exist in the same way in Europe, and a lot of it is based around City Pop, which is Japanese pop music from the '80s. That, as much as '70s American acts, is where we've naturally gone to as a band."

"Do What You Gotta" arrives at a high point in PREP's global momentum. The band has amassed over 380 million streams across DSPs and was recently ranked among the top 25 pop soul artists in the world (Chartmetric). They have previously completed sold-out tours across Southeast Asia, including a successful 2024 Asia run, during which they played shows in Bangkok, Taipei, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, and Manila. In 2023, they performed at VERY Festival in Thailand, followed by a series of headline shows in China, before closing out the run at Clockenflap in Hong Kong. Southeast Asia remains a key stronghold for the band, where audience growth continues to outpace other regions. On the digital front, their viral cover of Harry Styles' "As It Was" has garnered over 5.8 billion views and 1.6 million TikTok creations, underscoring their massive online reach. PREP's top global audiences rank #1 Indonesia, #2 Thailand, #3 Philippines, #5 Malaysia, and #7 Taiwan, with top listener cities including Bangkok, Jakarta, Quezon City, Taipei, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur, solidifying the band as one of the region's most beloved indie-pop acts.

This new single showcases a cross-regional collaboration that reflects not just where PREP are from, but where their music truly lives, leading into their highly anticipated forthcoming EP—a record that fuses jazz, West Coast soul, 1980s studio polish, Japanese City Pop, and a sound that is unmistakably contemporary.

Listen to "Do What You Gotta Do" (feat. Sunset Rollercoaster) here
Watch the official visualiser here
Pre-order 'One Day In The Sun' EP on vinyl here (Asia) / here (International)
 

About PREP

PREP is the London-based band consisting of vocalist-lyricist Tom Havelock, keyboardist Llywelyn ap Myrddin, drummer Guillaume Jambel, and producer-guitarist Dan Radclyffe—all songwriters and producers in their own right. Formed in 2015, the band has since developed a signature sound: smooth, groove-based music with a slightly melancholy British perspective, as if LA-style soul and funk were filtered through English weather. Drawing inspiration from genres like Japanese City Pop—where 1980s musicians in Japan reimagined American music—PREP's work inevitably becomes something wholly their own.

Over two albums, four EPs, and an upcoming new EP, PREP has refined a sound that sets them apart from their UK peers, making them arena-scale outliers across East and Southeast Asia. Their retro-future, sophisto-pop grooves are paired with rich world-building, story-driven graphic design, and an online presence that has cultivated a massive, devoted fanbase.

With an intuitive grasp of timeless, boundary-less songcraft, warm, intimate production, and global resonance, PREP's past works have established them as a singular voice in indie-pop. Collaborations with Eddie Chacon, Phum Viphurit, James Alyn, Vicky Farewell, and Anomalie highlight their versatility and love for melody and groove. Endorsed by hugely popular Korean R&B singer-songwriter, rapper, and producer Dean, their music bridges cultural and regional boundaries while remaining unmistakably their own.

Looking ahead, PREP are preparing for heavy touring across Asia in 2026, with plans for further live performances in the UK and around the world, continuing to build on a decade-long career of immersive, genre-defying, groove-based indie-pop music.

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The 700 Club Asia Host Peter Kairuz, Wife Christine Launch Podcast to Help Couples Mend Marriages

The 700 Club Asia host Peter Kairuz and his wife Christine launch a new weekly video podcast, “Beyond Small Talk,” designed to help couples navigate the joys and challenges of lasting relationships. The pilot episode drops on February 7, 2026.

Produced by CBN Asia, the inspiring podcast creates a safe space for couples to talk about the common and often-ignored aspects of marriage couples face—offering clarity, practical tips, and biblical guidance.

“We are going to talk about a variety of topics, like conflicts, communication, money matters, in-laws, and many other interesting aspects. We are going to share the things that we have learned in our own marriage, like how to keep your marriage strong and ablaze,” Peter shared.

Drawing from years of ministry experience and lessons learned in their own marriage journey, Peter and Christine aim to help long-time couples, newlyweds, and singles hoping to marry better understand God’s intentional design for marriage through deep, candid, yet relatable conversations.

“We would like to invite you to join us! Whether you are married, or you are planning to enter a lifelong commitment, come and watch! Don’t miss the first episode,” Christineadded.

Mend your marriage, one conversation at a time.

Catch the “Beyond Small Talk” Marriage Podcast starting February 7 on Spotify and CBN Asia’s YouTube channel, with new episodes airing every Saturday at 7:00 p.m. For updates, follow @CBNAsia and @The700ClubAsia on social media.

Source: CBN Asia

ONE OR EIGHT Unveils “GATHER” First Mini Album Featuring Focus Track “TOKYO DRIFT”

STREAM HERE

(credit: Avex Music Creative Inc.)

Rising Japanese boy group ONE OR EIGHT has released their highly anticipated first mini album GATHER, bringing together the defining tracks of their debut era alongside new material. Blending fearless experimentation with global sonic influences and an empowering narrative of unity and ambition, the album reflects the group’s mission, as Japan’s next generation boy group, to advance “from Japan to the world.”

GATHER reconstructs the essence of Japanese cool, infusing it with raw youth culture and cutting edge global production. As the members bring together their distinct identities, the 8-track album explores the search for new order within creative chaos - a rallying moment where individuality “gathers” into collective momentum.

The mini album opens with “TOKYO DRIFT”, an electrifying track that samples the iconic theme from Fast & Furious: Tokyo Drift. Built around its unmistakable engine-rev motif, the song merges high-speed electronic beats with a dynamic interplay of Japanese and English lyrics. Its energy evokes street racing, acceleration and the thrill of betting on oneself, setting a bold tone for the album. WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO HERE.

Next comes “Don’t Tell Nobody”, created with global hitmakers Ryan Tedder (OneRepublic frontman, producer) and David Stewart (BTS, Alan Walker Jonas Brothers), and mixed by Grammy-winning engineer Josh Gudwin (Justin Bieber, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez). The track pairs infectious pop melodies with sharp rap cadences, delivering a high-energy, globally attuned sound. Its accompanying music video showcases ONE OR EIGHT’s playful, high-spirited persona as they transform everyday spaces into rebellious “HAPPY BADBOY” playgrounds through dynamic visuals and drone cinematography.

“DSTM” takes a fresh spin on Rihanna’s “Don’t Stop the Music” produced by Stargate, the architects of the original hit. The track layers tight beats with shimmering Y2K-inspired textures and a blend of Japanese and English lyrics that echo the group’s mantra: as long as the music keeps playing, their passion keeps driving them forward. Bridging nostalgia and modernity, the song stands out as a cross-generational highlight.

Album pre-release single “POWER”, featured as Yoroi Shinden Samurai Troopers - Ending Theme Song 1, serves as a central thematic pillar within GATHER. With its aggressive yet catchy urban-pop production, the track explores strength rediscovered through adversity, the bonds of friendship, and the resilience required to rise again. Blending elements of hip-hop, trap, R&B and club-oriented sound design, “POWER” showcases ONE OR EIGHT’s evolving artistry and emotional depth.

Another major highlight is the pre-debut track “KAWASAKI”, which went viral with over 10 million YouTube views in just ten days. The revitalised version features an electrifying verse by seven-time BET Award winner and six-time Grammy nominee Big Sean, marking ONE OR EIGHT’s first official international collaboration. The fusion of Jersey Club rhythms, heavy 808 basslines and Big Sean’s dynamic flow underscores the group’s growing presence in the global music landscape.

“Young & Reckless” encapsulates the uninhibited confidence and fearlessness that define ONE OR EIGHT. Produced by Kavi (Tommy Richman, Swae Lee) and Edwin Honoret (PRETTYMUCH, EXO, NCT Dream), the track blends soulful vocals, trap-influenced beats and nostalgic textures. It stands as a vibrant anthem celebrating self-belief, exploration and living boldly on one’s own terms.

Bold and unflinching, track seven “BET YOUR LIFE” delivers a declaration of self-belief and resolve to stake everything on one’s chosen path. Serving as a more decisive counterpart to “Young & Reckless”, it fuses industrial trap, emo-tinged textures, gritty guitars and sharp rap verses into a sound that hits with precision. Anchored by the line “You can bet your life”, the song urges listeners to cast aside hesitation and shape their future with conviction - a battle cry for anyone determined to forge their path forward.

Closing the album, “365” captures the unwavering desire to stay by someone’s side, reflecting the deep bond between ONE OR EIGHT and their fans. The title nods to the year-long WARPs DIG project that shaped the group’s beginnings. Leaning into a clean, pop-forward sound influenced by American R&B and soul, with lyrics by Nasri (Justin Bieber, Chris Brown), the track reveals a more intimate side of the group. Over minimal, understated production, their vocals take center stage to deliver a warm and memorable finale.

Across its eight tracks, GATHER forms the blueprint of ONE OR EIGHT’s artistic identity - daring, globally minded, emotionally resonant and unapologetically experimental. The mini album affirms the group’s position as a next-gen Japanese boy group poised to expand their influence well beyond national borders.

STREAM GATHER HERE

Tracklist

1. TOKYO DRIFT

2. Don't Tell Nobody

3. DSTM

4. POWER

5. KAWASAKI (with Big Sean)

6. Young & Reckless

7. BET YOUR LIFE

8. 365

ONE OR EIGHT will bring GATHER to the stage with their first-ever live tour beginning 7 March with stops in Kobe, Nagoya and Yokohama (details available here), and more dates to be announced. Ahead of the tour, the group recently traveled to South Korea for a run of performances on major music shows including MusicCore, M Countdown, Music Bank and Inkigayo. They will also return to Thailand for Japan Expo in Bangkok from 6 to 8 February, continuing to share their music with audiences across new cities and stages.

In line with this overseas expansion, the ONE OR EIGHT OFFICIAL FANCLUB “1DERZ” has launched in Thailand, offering fans closer access to the group through ticket pre-sales, exclusive content, and live streams, creating a deeper and more direct connection with ONE OR EIGHT. A pre-launch membership campaign is currently underway, with plans to expand the fanclub to other countries and regions in the future, supporting the continued growth of ONE OR EIGHT’s global fan community.

ABOUT ONE OR EIGHT

ONE OR EIGHT is an eight-member Japanese boy group - MIZUKI, NEO, REIA, RYOTA, SOUMA, TAKERU, TSUBASA and YUGA - whose name is inspired by the Japanese idiom “ippuku ka yoka” (“one or eight,” meaning all or nothing). Guided by their tagline “BET ON YOURSELF”, the group embodies a spirit of risk-taking and ambition, encouraging fans to dream boldly and take chances alongside them.

They debuted on 16 August 2024, with “Don’t Tell Nobody”, produced by Ryan Tedder and David Stewart. The single debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Japan Heatseekers Songs chart. Later that year, their collaboration with Big Sean, “KAWASAKI (with Big Sean)”, reached No. 5 on the U.S. iTunes Hip-Hop/Rap Song chart, signalling the group’s early global appeal. 

Momentum accelerated in 2025, when ONE OR EIGHT were named one of Nikkei Entertainment!’s 100 New Leading Artists and received the Upcoming Dance & Vocal Group award at MTV VMAJ. They also made history as the first Japanese boy group to walk the red carpet at the MTV Video Music Awards (VMA). Their regional presence grew further during a visit to Singapore, where they performed for a capacity crowd at Yes933 Hits Fest and took the stage at Music Matters Live, deepening their connection with fans across Southeast Asia. 

The year continued to be prolific, driven by a steady stream of releases exploring themes of ambition and challenge. Their live presence expanded as they joined the stellar lineup at a-nation, alongside Ayumi Hamasaki, NCT Wish, TRF and NEXZ. Fan meetings across Japan, Thailand, the US, Mexico, Brazil and Argentina further broadened their global footprint, making 2025 a defining period of momentum, growth and rising international visibility.

Follow ONE OR EIGHT:

Official Fan Club | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | X | Facebook

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Singapore's Indie Pop Darling Shye Unveils New Single "Eclipse"

A DREAM-POP MEDITATION
ON LOVE IN LIMBO

LISTEN HERE

January 26th, 2026 — Singapore's indie pop sensation, singer-songwriter and producer Shye returns in the new year with "Eclipse", an introspective indie rock-leaning alternative track that explores the ache of loving someone who keeps the "door half open", capturing the push-and-pull of intimacy, uncertainty, and the quiet tension of unrequited longing. Fans can stream the song HERE. 

"Eclipse" delves into the experience of caring deeply for someone who will never fully choose you. Using the recurring image of an eclipse, the song's lyrics trace a cyclical connection where closeness briefly emerges before slipping away again, leaving doubt and longing in its wake. Over time, the song arrives at a reluctant acceptance of this emotional limbo, anchored by an unresolved question: "Would they miss you the same way when they're gone, or do they simply like the safety of being able to miss you from a distance?" Shye says.

The track grew out of layered, flanged guitar lines soaked in chorus and reverb, drawing inspiration from classic dream-pop textures associated with bands like Cocteau Twins and The Cure. These shimmering guitars create an atmosphere that feels as though it is constantly fading in and out, mirroring the song's eclipse motif, while Shye's vocals remain airy and intimate, layered with light harmonies and subtle echoes that feel distant yet close. The production leans into melancholy while holding onto hope, evoking a coming-of-age film sensibility where sadness and warmth coexist, and even heartache feels beautiful in retrospect.

"As my first release of the year, it feels like a way of setting the emotional tone for what's to come, which is honesty, introspection, and being driven by feeling rather than certainty... I hope it's a song people can return to when they need something that understands how they feel."

— Shye

"Eclipse" is a song for anyone who has loved without clear answers. Shye hopes it becomes something listeners can sit with—whether it brings them back to a past version of themselves or helps them feel less alone in the present. More than anything, the song is meant to be a companion, giving voice to feelings of uncertainty and self-doubt, and offering quiet comfort in moments of emotional in-between.

Stream "Eclipse" here
 

About Shye

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

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

Shye has performed at music festivals such as Tiger Den SXSW in Austin Texas (2023), Axean Festival in Singapore (2023), Asia Rolling Music Festival in Taiwan (2022), Urbanscapes in Malaysia (2019), Baybeats in Singapore (2023, 2019), Asiya Festival in the Philippines (2024), and virtually for Music Lane Okinawa (2021) and Bangkok Music City (2020). In 2024, Shye performed at the swearing-in ceremony of Singapore's new Prime Minister and concluded the year with a performance at The Alex Blake Charlie Sessions alongside international acts such as Wisp. Continuing to expand her regional footprint in 2025, she performed at Taiwan's Emerge Fest, headlined her first solo show in Bangkok, made her Indonesia debut at AXEAN Festival Bali, and appeared at Music Matters Live Singapore, World Expo Osaka, Creatorweek Macao, as well as VGIG: The Sonic Garden Concert, ending 2025 at the Sing60 Festival in Singapore. Shye is starting 2026 with her performance at Bangkok Music City, further solidifying her growing presence across Asia's indie music scene. She will also open as a guest for Wisp Live In Singapore 2026 this January.

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

Shye has supported international acts such as Daniel Caesar, Clairo, Superorganism, Sales, Men I Trust, and The Chairs during their tours in Singapore. In addition, she has represented Singapore in regional music reality TV shows such as 青年派计划 (Youth π Plan) in China and Chuang Asia in Thailand. Shye was also featured in the 2021 National Day theme song, "The Road Ahead" and took the stage at Singapore's SG60 National Day Parade in 2025.

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

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

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Harry Styles returns with “Aperture” new single and music video out now

GRAMMY Award®-winning global superstar Harry Styleshas premiered the music video for “Aperture,” the lead single from his highly anticipated new album KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. set to be released globally March 6, 2026 via Columbia Records. The music video for “Aperture,” finds Harry once again collaborating with acclaimed director Aube Perrie (“Satellite”, “Music For A Sushi Restaraunt”.)

KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. is the fourth studio album from Harry Styles and first music release since 2022’s record breaking album Harry’s House, which took home the top prize for Album of the Year at the 2023 Grammy Awards. The new 12-track album was written by Harry and executive produced by Kid Harpoon, see full tracklist below.

KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. is available for pre-order at all physical and digital retailers globally. In addition, exclusive color and bundle offerings available on the artist’s webstore. Pre-order KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. HERE.

Harry will make his long awaited return to the global stage with a seven city residency in 2026. Promoted by Live Nation, Together, Together will include 50 stops in Amsterdam, London, São Paulo, Mexico City, New York, Melbourne, and Sydney from May through December. Styles will perform exclusively in these cities in 2026. Highlights on the run include 30 shows at New York’s Madison Square Garden and a six night run at Wembley Stadium. Special guests include Robyn, Shania Twain, Fcukers, Jorja Smith, Jamie xx, Fousheé, and Skye Newman across select dates. Please visit hstyles.co.uk/tour for a full list of dates and more information.

KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY.TRACKLIST

1. Aperture

2. American Girls

3. Ready, Steady, Go!

4. Are You Listening Yet?

5. Taste Back

6. The Waiting Game

7. Season 2 Weight Loss

8. Coming Up Roses

9. Pop

10. Dance No More

11. Paint By Numbers

12. Carla’s Song

Pre-order the album here

Source: Nyou 

Next Gen: Introducing the new OPM artists poised for breakout success this 2026

Coming from different regions and backgrounds, these emerging acts deliver distinct stories, sounds, and cultural influences that add depth and diversity to the burgeoning music scene in the Philippines

A new wave of OPM artists is gaining momentum.

Poised for their official breakout moment in 2026, these fresh and compelling acts are set to drop new releases that defy conventions and embrace artistic promise. In the months ahead, their work is expected to leave a distinct mark in contemporary OPM, so make sure to show your support and bookmark their names as early as now.

[MORE PRESS PHOTOS HERE]

HARA (Davao) - HARA is the newest P-Pop girl group.The sassy six-piece act is ready to conquer the stage with their dynamic performances and unique sound entirely produced in their hometown. HARA is set to release their pre-debut track “My Love” this February 25, 2026.

AYO (Davao) – AYO is a 7-member boy group that is set to bring their A game into the world of P-Pop. The name is derived from the Visayan word “Maayo” (skillful, talented),embodying their potential as a vital newcomer. Expect thepop group is to debut new music this year.

DAELUX (Davao) - DAELUX is a seven-member Philippine girl group composed of Tabel, Zyra, Shami, Rhya, Ara, Slane, and Alice. Combining Filipina pride with a global flair, the group exudes grace and power in every performance, while enchanting listeners with their refreshing take on pop music. Raring for an exciting debut this year, the group has already started posting teasers via their official social media platforms.

Rock Opong (Iloilo) – Rock Opong has made waves as a grand finalist on The Voice Teens and a semi-finalist on Asia’s Got Talent. He got signed by Balcony Entertainment, marking his official debut with songs that come from a place of authenticity and warmth. he recently released his new single “Favorite,” a song that captures the warmth and comfort that comes with romantic love.

Trisha Puso (Bicol) - Trisha started her career in 2010 as one of the pioneer artists of the CamSur Academy Project. Before joining the Academy, she was making her mark with her performances of cover songs. Her media contentcontaining performances gained a following, which eventually inspired her to write, compose, and produce her own songs. In 2024, she joined Sony Music Philippines as the first licensed artist from CamSur. Her new single, “Alapaap,” is slated to drop on January 28, 2026. The track circles around the concept of love and destiny, yearning for a love that makes one comfortable and safe.

Mikee Sarmiento (Metro Manila) – Mikee Sarmiento makes soulful pop music that lives in the quiet spaces between longing and comfort. Personal, cinematic, and deeply representative of the Filipino experience, Mikee’s music is characterized by heart-on-sleeve sentimentality, opening wounds and stirring up conversations about life, love, spirituality, and anything in between. His debut single, “Tahan Na,” will be released on January 30, 2026.

LU (Aurora) – Newcomer LU makes music that carries the imprint of her coastal hometown while exploring her own voice as a singer-songwriter. Raised in San Luis, Aurora, and now based in Quezon City, the folk-pop artist delivers melodically rich and beautifully sung tunes with earnest intentions. Her single “Lasing Na Sa’yo” recently found success on streaming, putting her on the cover of Spotify’s Fresh Finds Philippines, debuting at no. 1 on the playlist. She is slated to release her song “PUCHA” on February 13, 2026, an upbeat alt-pop heartbreak anthem.

NEW LORE (Metro Manila) - New Lore is a 3-piece band that creates music from art and poetry, with Carole Lantican on drums, Tita Halaman on vocals and guitars, and Kim Escalona on bass. Their listeners call it trauma pop, dream pop, ethereal alt pop, or whatever pop – just making what feels true and letting everyone else name it. It's music for the overfeelers, the almost-healers, and the quietly ambitious hearts. Their upcoming single, "substack girl," is a tender, self-aware love song about missing someone through the details of who they are. Built on hypnotic production and list-like lyrics, the song asks quiet questions about identity, growth, and whether love lingers in habits long after people drift apart. The song will be out on February 6, 2026.

These are emerging voices from Sony Music Entertainment that are pushing music to exciting, new places. Watch out for them in 2026.

Source: Nyou

no na Unleash New Single and Music Video “work” Available Now Across All Streaming Services

Watch Music Video for “work” Here

(Credit: Munachi Osegbu)

For immediate release – The first-ever global pop girl group from Indonesia, no na, kick off the new year with “work,” a striking, high-energy single that marks a powerful evolution in the group’s sound and energy. Out now via 88rising, the track arrives alongside a bold music video that showcases their choreography, stamina, and attitude.

“work” is the group’s most dance forward pop release to date. In this drum driven hype record powered by Indonesian beats and gamelan-inspired rhythms, percussive hits collide with chant ready hooks and relentless momentum, turning the track into a physical experience for the stage and the dance floor. It is confident, disciplined, and unapologetically loud - a statement of intent from a group stepping fully into their power.

Lyrically and sonically, “work” reframes ambition as ritual and resolve. The track is about showing up, putting in the hours, and earning the glow-up. As no na declare it, this is girl boss energy rooted in community, and craft. New year, new mode, no excuses. Each member of no na - Christy, Esther, Baila, and Shaz - brings a distinct presence to the record, highlighting the group’s chemistry and bond. The music video, directed by Fa & Fon, acts as a full performance breakdown that highlights their physicality and dance mastery. This era is about strength and collective drive, reminding audiences why no na are a force to be reckoned with. ​​​​​

(Credit: Munachi Osegbu)

The new track comes off the heels of the group’s recently released single, “the one,” which dropped in November. The dreamy pop song feels like a late night confession, containing hazy 80’s-inspired retro synths and beautiful string motifs that highlight the group’s musical chemistry. The song’s music video has gone on to accumulate a tremendous 4.4 million views, demonstrating the enormous reach the group has garnered in such a short amount of time. no na is set to take that energy into 2026, starting off the year with new music and a highly anticipated performance at the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang M7 World Championship Finals on January 25th in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Since debuting in 2025, no na have rapidly made their mark on the global stage with tracks like “shoot,” “superstitious," and “sad face :(,” earning buzz for their genre-blending sound and bold visual identity. Their growing list of collaborations, including Samsung, Tiffany & Co., and BAPE, reflects their rising influence at the intersection of music, fashion, and culture.

no na embody a new era of global pop, proudly rooted in Indonesian authenticity while resonating with audiences around the world.

Stream “work” HERE

Watch “work” Music Video HERE

About no na

no na is the first all-Indonesian girl group built for the global stage. Formed and developed by 88rising, members Baila, Shaz, Christy, and Esther represent the cultural and regional diversity of Indonesia. Blending R&B and pop with soulful, dance-driven energy, their sound captures the warmth of the tropics and the confidence of modern femininity. Since debuting in 2025, no nahas made waves with singles like “shoot,” “superstitious,” and “sad face :(,” and collaborations with brands including Samsung, BAPE, and Tiffany & Co. Rooted in Indonesian identity and fueled by global ambition, no na are redefining what it means to be international pop stars from Southeast Asia.

Follow no na:
Instagram | TikTok | X | YouTube | Facebook

For additional information on no na, please contact:

mabuhay@blackstar.space

Ben&Ben releases "Duyan" MV feat. Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos

The song completes the ‘Mahiwaga trilogy,’ which includes hit songs “Pagtingin” and “Araw-Araw”

Ben&Ben continued to solidify their status as one of the most important voices of OPM in 2025. The acclaimed band made history as the first Filipino act to surpass three billion streams on global streaming platform Spotify, while also earning major wins at the 28^th Awit Awards, including Album of the Year for their third studio album, The Traveller Across Dimensions and Best Performance by a Group Recording Artist for "Triumph.” As the year drew to a close, Ben&Ben’s music found itself intertwined with national consciousness when “Kapangyarihan,” their collaboration with SB19, emerged as a modern anthem in protest spaces, echoing public anger amid allegations of corruption surrounding flood control and infrastructure projects.

Now, as they turn the page to a brand-new year, the multi-awarded nine-piece collective invites listeners to start the year on a more intimate yet optimistic note with the release of their new single “Duyan”—out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Written and composed by frontman Miguel Benjamin and produced by longtime collaborator Ziv alongside Ben&Ben, “Duyan” represents a profound, romantic bond that defies distance, time, and obstacles. The rousing pop-rock ballad encapsulates what true love really means: deep affection, unwavering loyalty, and the choice to remain committed even when faced with challenges and adversities.

According to Miguel, he wrote the song three days before his wedding, while sitting alone in his car. The song contains everything he wanted to tell his then-future wife.

“There are songs where artists write themselves in the music, and this is one of them,” Miguel explains. “That day, the idea of fully offering oneself to another person stayed with me. It’s a love inspired by lifelong commitment, shared journeys, and selflessness. More than anything, I realized that I was ready to make the promise before God. I felt it in the deepest part of my heart.”

Musically, the band worked closely with their good friend and constant collaborator Ziv to honor the song’s emotional core, while “maximizing the soul and expanse of the band’s instruments to take it to the fullest version it was meant to become.”

The song is part of the Mahiwaga Trilogy, Ben&Ben’s thematic arc on romantic relationships. The series began with “Pagtingin,” a groovy meditation on love at first spark and infatuation, and continued with “Araw-Araw,” a folk-pop ode to choosing your partner every single day. “Duyan” closes the chapter with finality, speaking of lifelong commitment and assurance.

“Two years after I wrote the song Duyan and kept it as a very personal part of my life, it made sense for it to be put out there,” shares Miguel. “It also made sense for it to be the conclusion of the trilogy of songs/videos Pagtingin and Araw-Araw.”

Music Video

The song will be accompanied by the release of a music video starring real-life couple and actors Gabbi Garciaand Khalil Ramos, who also appeared in the previous installments of the Mahiwaga Trilogy. For Khalil, returning to the project was a full-circle moment for both Gabbi and him.

“Thematically, it’s beautiful to see how the story progressed since Pagtingin,” shares the Filipino actor, singer, and filmmaker. “I vividly remember how we shot those two videos, and the film LSS. Gab and I grew alongside these songs. At every stage of the trilogy, we could deeply relate to it, because it reflected the different phases of our own relationships through the years.”

Miguel praised both actors in the music video for their enduring role in the band’s visual storytelling. “It was so good to be able to work with our longtime friends Gabbi and Khalil once more in this music video. You could say we’ve both grown so much in life and in our careers ever since the last project we did together. It was great catching up and telling stories of the past and making new memories.”

Directed by Lunchbox Studios under the helm of Daniel Aguilar, the wedding-themed music video brings the trilogy to a close through rosy, introspective visuals.

Ben&Ben said viewers can expect to see a wonderful blend of magic and everyday life in the music video: “We’ve been working with (Lunchbox Studios) for a while now, and for this video, we wanted to do a very intimate but expansive conclusion to the videos we’ve done before. We collaborated on a concept of a portrayal of the stages of commitment done in magical realism.”

Ben&Ben’s “Duyan” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch out for the music video of “Duyan” on Ben&Ben’s official YouTube channel.

Source: Nyou

HARRY STYLES NEW SINGLE “APERTURE” SET TO BE RELEASED GLOBALLY THURSDAY JANUARY 22, 7PM ET

NEW ALBUM KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. 

AVAILABLE MARCH 6, 2026

Today, GRAMMY Award®-winning global superstar Harry Styles has announced the release of the lead track “Aperture” from his upcoming 4^th album KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. The highly anticipated single is set to be released globally January 22nd at 7pm ET. 

KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. the 12-track album, executive produced by Kid Harpoon, will be released March 6th, 2026. Pre-order limited edition vinyl + CD, exclusive merchandise, box sets, and more: https://www.hstyles.co.uk/

Source: Sony Music

Beyond Blush: Sugar Doll’s Poppy Blush is Your Skincare-Forward Makeup Essential

Manila, Philippines – Are you ready to turn your everyday experience into a selfie-worthy moment? Get on the groove and try Poppy Blush by Sugar Dolls PH! It’s a must-have cream blush for women who need a touch of skincare glow, flawless color, and dewy radiance.

What sets Poppy Blush apart from its contemporaries is its versatility. It’s a hybrid skincare makeup that adds a gorgeous color to your look while enhancing your skin. Think hydration, antioxidants, and a silky-glide formula that blends like a dream and stays put all day. From getting on the daily grind to heading to a meeting, Poppy Blush keeps your glow game strong.

Are you in need of a vibrant drama or subtle chic? There’s a hue in this lineup just for you:

• Pink Pop: A bold raspberry pink for fair to medium skin with cool or neutral undertones. Imagine a lively flush that brightens (never clashes!) and looks instantly youthful.

• Heartbeat: Terracotta coral meets burnt orange. This sun-kissed shade amps up golden undertones and suits medium to tan skin. (Olive beauties, Heartbeat is made for you!)

• Bubbleglow: If bubblegum pink makes you smile, dive into Bubbleglow. Think fresh and playful, perfect for porcelain to light-medium cool tones.

• Cherry Rush: Brick red meets raspberry—your go-to for sculpting cheeks on medium to deep skin. Warm, earthy, and oh-so flattering for olive complexions.

Poppy Blush goes deeper than pretty pigments. Packed with vitamins, it delivers deep hydration and skin conditioning, reinforces the skin barrier (hello, long wear!), and brings anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action to soothe and support. Plus, it actively mattifies and controls oil for the kind of radiance that’s never greasy.

Application? Effortless. Dab, blend, and you’re done—on cheeks, eyes, lips, wherever you want a multitasking color lift.

Thanks to its blendable, hydrated finish and pocket-friendly price, Poppy Blush is taking over the conversation online, while lighting up makeup bags everywhere in the world. Beauty experts and creators call it a “game-changer.” Now it’s your turn to glow!

Get your hands (and cheeks) on Poppy Blush and experience color, confidence, and care in one sweep. Selfie ready? Always. Glow on, doll!

Source: Nyou

Sugar Dolls Poppy Blush

Sugar Dolls, one of the leading local Filipino makeup brands today, has just released Poppy Blush! It is their cream formula blush which is perfect for those who are beginning to build their makeup kits. It is easy to apply, and it contains vitamin E and shea butter. It is also priced below ₱200, making it an ideal product for students and young professionals. Buy it here: https://s.shopee.ph/BNivAGRCw for Shopee or https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSHose3LGJsFM-sEVzP/ for TikTok Shop!

CAVETOWN RELEASES ALBUM RUNNING WITH SCISSORS ALONG WITH EMPOWERING ‘CRYPTID’ MUSIC VIDEO

ALSO ANNOUNCES LIMITED RUN TOUR

PERFORMED ‘BABY SPOON’ ON KELLY CLARKSON – SEE PERFORMANCE HERE

WATCH
CRYPTID VIDEO

LISTEN
RUNNING WITH SCISSORS (ALBUM)  

RUNNING WITH SCISSORS TOUR

September 27- Chicago, IL - The Salt Shed
October 8 - Los Angeles, CA - The Wiltern
October 25 - Brooklyn, NY- Brooklyn Paramount

Cavetown, the moniker of UK-born artist Robin Skinner, has released his new album, Running With Scissors, out now via Futures Music Group. The record marks a defining moment in Skinner’s career: an emotionally expansive body of work that captures the disorienting threshold between youth and adulthood, braided together sonically through hyper-pop, heavy guitars, and his signature dream-pop sounds.

Released today alongside the album is the lead single and music video for “Cryptid,” a song and short film that explores Skinner’s experience as a transgender person at a moment when trans rights, safety, and even visibility are being threatened. In the video, “cryptids” live underground, hidden away by a world that fears and misunderstands them, until they finally emerge to challenge the narratives imposed upon them. While the video centers the trans experience and incorporates trans symbolism throughout, Skinner’s intention is broader: to hold up a mirror to how society has historically recast many communities, Black, queer, immigrant, disabled, and others, as “other. “In allowing myself to love,” Skinner says, “I’ve also allowed myself to feel anger about things I would usually ignore. I hope this feels empowering for people to sing back.”

In tandem with the album’s release, Cavetown has announced a limited run of Running With Scissors Tour headline shows in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Brooklyn, bringing the album’s themes of growth, reckoning, and connection into intimate live settings. In partnership with PLUS1, $1 from every ticket sold will go to local organizations working to support and empower the health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ communities, underscoring Cavetown’s continued commitment to advocacy and community care.

Written on the other side of an intensive two-year healing process, Running With Scissors is shaped by two profound life shifts: falling in love with the person Skinner wants to build a future with, and the birth of his first sibling, 26 years his junior, which prompted a deep reckoning with family history, masculinity and responsibility. Throughout the album, Skinner explores what it means to reparent yourself, to decide which parts of your upbringing you carry forward, and which you cut away in order to show up differently for the people you love.

The album opens with “Skip,” a buoyant love song Skinner calls “the first I’ve written with genuinely positive overtones,” capturing the childlike joy of loving from a place of safety. Its final chord flows directly into “Cryptid,” revealing love and anger as intertwined forces. Elsewhere, “Rainbow Gal” refracts intimacy through distance with shimmering 8-bit textures; “Baby Spoon” tenderly reimagines masculinity through care and softness; “NPC,” “Reaper,” and “Straight Through My Head (DO IT!!!)” confront dissociation, burnout, intrusive thoughts, and self-survival; while “No Bark, No Bite” and “Micah” grapple with family, inheritance, and the kind of man, and sibling, Skinner hopes to be.

Running With Scissors also marks a major creative milestone. For the first time in his career, Skinner invited collaborators into the core creative process, working closely with Chloe Moriondo, Underscores, Ryan Raines, David Pramik, and Couros, whose contributions expand Cavetown’s sonic universe.

The album closes with its title track, “Running With Scissors,” which distills the record’s central metaphor: adulthood as risk, imbalance, and forward motion. “Everyone’s running with scissors,” Skinner reflects. “There’s so much to be scared of, but there’s also so much fun to be had, and you’ll miss all of it if you don’t just wing it.”

Beyond the music, Cavetown continues to be a vital community builder. His long-running This Is Home Project, an LGBTQ+ youth initiative supporting housing, mental health services, creative programs, and crisis support, has raised over $700,000 for organizations serving queer young people. That same spirit of care, advocacy, and responsibility runs throughout Running With Scissors, underscoring Skinner’s evolution not just as an artist, but as a person deeply committed to the world he wants to help shape.

With Running With Scissors, Cavetown steps fully into adulthood without abandoning the millions of listeners who have grown up alongside him. “I don’t want this to feel like it’s for kids,” Skinner says. “Because I’m not a kid anymore. I want it to feel like we’re moving forward together.”

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Mitski Announces New Album, Nothing’s About to Happen to Me, Out February 27th via Dead Oceans; Releases Lead Single/Video, “Where’s My Phone?”

“Where’s My Phone?”

Photo Credit - Lexie Alley

Mitski announces her eighth studio album, Nothing's About to Happen to Me — out February 27th via Dead Oceans — and releases its lead single/video, “Where’s My Phone?” Supported by a live band and orchestra, Nothing’s About to Happen to Me finds Mitski immersing herself in a rich narrative whose main character is a reclusive woman in an unkempt house. Outside of her home, she is a deviant; inside of her home, she is free.

Today’s fuzzed-out rock song, “Where’s My Phone?,” hints at the range of sounds and energy across the album: “Where did it go // Where’s my phone // Where’s my phone // Where did I leave // Where’d I go // Where’d I go,” she sings. New Yorkercartoonist Emily Flake depicts her interpretation in the below cartoon.

“Where’s My Phone?” arrives alongside an unhinged, emotionally kaleidoscopic video directed by Noel Paul. Based on Shirley Jackson’s novel, We Have Always Lived in the Castle, and using a playful, primitive style of filmmaking, it presents Mitski playing a paranoid woman who is trying to protect her sister inside a gothic house while battling increasingly absurd, human obstacles. Creating a complex psychological palette, the intruders - whether menacing or friendly - cascade one upon the other building into total pandemonium.  

Watch the Video for “Where’s My Phone?”

Mitski wrote all of the songs and performed all of the vocals on Nothing’s About to Happen to Me. Produced and engineered by Patrick Hyland and mastered by Bob Weston, the album continues the musical through line established with 2023’s The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We, and features live instrumentation by The Land touring band and ensemble arrangements. The orchestra was recorded at Sunset Sound and TTG Studios, arranged and conducted by Drew Erickson, engineered by Michael Harris.

Pre-Order/Pre-Save Nothing’s About to Happen to Me

Nothing’s About to Happen to Me Tracklist

1. In a Lake

2. Where's My Phone?

3. Cats

4. If I Leave

5. Dead Women

6. Instead of Here

7. I'll Change for You

8. Rules

9. That White Cat

10. Charon's Obol

11. Lightning

Mitski is "the most alluring and enigmatic musician in indie rock" (Rolling Stone) who “keeps shifting in all these really brilliant and wonderful ways” (NPR Music). Throughout her career, she’s released seven albums, four of which are certified gold. Her song, “My Love Mine All Mine,” was a global sensation, and is four-times platinum. Mitski’s varied collaborations with other artists include two co-writes on the most recent Florence and the Machine album, Everybody Scream, and with David Byrne and Son Lux for the Oscar nominated “This Is A Life.” She is currently writing the music and lyrics for the musical adaptation of The Queen’s Gambit.

“A mesmerizing study in movement” (Variety), Mitski’s live show has also been described as “highly stylized, brilliantly realized, super cool” (Philadelphia Inquirer) and “unusual, enigmatic and utterly compelling” (The Guardian). Her first concert film, Mitski: The Land, was played in over 600 cinemas across 30 countries in October 2025, cementing her as “the rare indie star who has earned the big-screen treatment” (Uproxx). It was released in conjunction with The Land: The Live Album.

Nothing’s About to Happen to Me Cover Artwork | Painting by Marc Burkhardt

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Mark Bonifacio | blackstar PH –

mabuhay@blackstar.space