James Arthur shares personal changes in life and relationships on new album, It’ll All Make Sense In The End

Listen to James Arthur’s new album, It’ll All Make Sense In The End.

British singer-songwriter James Arthur is finally back with his highly anticipated fourth studio album, It’ll All Make Sense In The End.

Having written and recorded bulk of the songs during the lockdown in the comforts of his home, the versatile hitmaker spent some time ruminating on the changes in his personal life, while using it as inspiration for his music-making journey. This enabled him and his collaborators to work on their own convenient time, round the clock, but not to the clock.

“And all of a sudden, the music started sounding great,” the former X Factor UK winner shares in a statement. “From day one there was a sound that I wanted to go for. Even early on, it sounded like a real album, a proper body of work. This is the first time I’ve made an album all in one place and you can hear this in the music. There’s something really comfortable about working in your own home – I was able to be more vulnerable than ever."

After writing the boldly autobiographical first single “Medicine,” James and frequent collaborator Andrew Jackson (“Train Wreck”) quickly came up with “Losing You,” an anthemic electronic-rock song that’s big on heart, riffs and emotive punch. 

Arthur reveals, “I wanted this album to have proper rock elements. The kind of rock I love is emo and pop-punk, so I wanted to domy take on that genre. Lyrically that song, like a lot of the songs, is the sound of someone who’s doing a lotof reflecting, a lot of processing and being really honest about where I’ve been in my head. And in that song I’m talking to myself: I feel like I’m always on the verge of losing you.”

Another important track in the album is the early keeper “Déjà Vu,” written with Jackson and Mark Crew (Bastille, Rag’n’Bone Man). Demonstrating the full range of his vocal abilities, Arthur sings, ‘You fucked me up, I can’t get enough,’ with astounding vagueness that is a bit of everything, depending on how the listeners interpret the material. 

“It’s been well documented that I’ve had my issues with all of those. It’s just quite honest stuff, really,” the iconic British artist adds.

Second single “September” is also part of the album, and shines through with its no-holds-barred confessional appeal and acoustic-meets-trap sound. As vulnerably naked in his lyrics as he ever was, Arthur also isn’t afraid to sing to the next generation: “Emily” is a tender, intimate mea culpa to the daughter he might one day have. 

"That arose from conversations about having kids,” the pop/rock dad explains. “Would I even be a good dad? What if they read about all the shit I’ve been through? It doesn’t matter, because ultimately I’m the guy who’s going to be there for you all your life."

The record also includes “SOS,” which Arthur describes as an album-defining song with 30 Seconds To Mars-esque chorus and a rap flow reminiscent of Miguel.

In moving out of London, the musician has created a safe space: a working place, family place, fitness place. In building that sanctuary he’s felt even more comfortable to be even more open, not just about the things that are inspiring him but also the things that are plaguing him. 

“Travelling, going to other people’s studios, doing sessions in new places – for someone like me who has a bit of social anxiety, all that was difficult,” the multi-platinum musician shares. “But working at home allowed me to be more vulnerable.”

It allowed him to finesse a sound that gels over the entire album, that process aided by additional production from Matt Rad, who’s worked with Taking Back Sunday, one of his favorite bands. He helps bring cohesion. 

“The sound is very simple. It’s basically raucous guitars with trap beats and strong, strong melodies,” Rad says of a musical approach he's been honing for years in his collaborations with superstar artists such as Ty Dolla $ign, Machine Gun Kelly and Juicy J. 

To date, James Arthur has sold over 30 million records worldwide and has to date released three hugely successful albums: James Arthur (UK No. 2), Back From The Edge (UK No. 1) and YOU (UK No.2), alongside nine solo UK Top 40 singles. He’s had two No.1 smash hits and was awarded a disc for reaching a billion streams on

Spotify with ‘Say You Won't Let Go’, the No.1 global hit that brought the singer-songwriter from Middlesbrough back from the edge (it currently has 1.7 billion streams on the platform). 

James recently dominated the airwaves and charts with his storming collaboration with Sigala ‘Lasting Lover’. The track was a No.1 airplay song in the UK, No.1 on iTunes and Top 10 on the Official Singles Chart.

James has announced tours of both UK and Ireland and North America in 2022, including a date at London's prestigious Royal Albert Hall.

James Arthur’s It’ll All Make Sense In The End is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music. For more details, check out his music website.

 Source: Nyou

Fully vaccinated Filipinos can now visit the holy land

For the first time in more than eighteen months, vaccinated individual and group travelers from the Philippines are now welcome to enter Israel and explore the country’s rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes. 

 

The Israel Ministry of Tourism announced that fully vaccinated tourists from the Philippines can resume all travel to Israel. After kicking off the pilot reopening program in May of 2021, which initially allowed a select number of tour groups to enter the country, all vaccinated travelers may now visit Israel after the extended closure due to COVID-19 restrictions. 


“To say we are excited that Israel is reopening to travellers is an understatement,” said Sammy Yahia, Tourism Director for Philippines and India. “Israel has taken incredible steps to protect its people and visitors and we pride ourselves on ensuring a COVID-safe and unforgettable trip to those who will be entering our beautiful country. With leading vaccination rates and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, we are eager to welcome visitors back with open arms -- of course, at a safe social distance.” 


Israel’s Prime Minister Naftali Bennett along with several other Ministers within the country (Tourism, Health, Transportation, etc.), have come together and formed the following plan which has been approved by the COVID cabinet with developments and new COVID variants being monitored closely. 


“We have been awaiting this moment, to bring back international travellers into our country, for a very long time now,” said Yoel Razvozov, Israel’s Minister of Tourism. “We’re ecstatic to share our country with everyone once again and I’m proud to be working closely with our Prime Minister Naftali Bennett among other Ministers within the country to ensure a thoughtful, safe return to tourism." 


The guidelines for entry include: 

Taking a PCR test 72 hours before an outbound flight, filling out a passenger declaration, and a taking a PCR test upon arrival in Israel (needing to quarantine in hotel until results return or 24 hours pass – the lesser of the two). 

To enter the country, one must: 

  • Have been vaccinated with two doses of the Pfizer, Moderna, Astrazenica, Sinovac or Sinopharm vaccine at least 14 days prior to the day of entry into Israel (14 days must have passed since receival of second dose upon arrival into Israel, but no more than 180 days upon leaving Israel - i.e., if it has been six months since the second dose, you will need the booster shot to enter).

    • Those that have received the booster vaccine dose, and at least 14 days have passed since received, can enter Israel.

  • Have been inoculated with one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 14 days prior to the day of entry into Israel (14 days must have passed since second dose receival upon their arrival into Israel, but no more than 180 days upon leaving Israel - i.e., if it has been six months since your second dose, you will need the booster shot to enter).

    • Those that have received the booster vaccine dose, and at least 14 days have passed since received, can enter Israel.

  • Have recovered from COVID-19 and who present proof of the results of a positive NAAT test at least 11 days prior to the day of entry into Israel (no more than 180 days upon leaving Israel).

  • Have recovered from COVID-19 and have received at least one dose of the WHO-approved vaccines.


In depth guidelines can be found HERE or thru this link:  

https://corona.health.gov.il/en/directives/air-travel-covid19-green/?tab=by-air&utm_source=InforuMail&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Travel+Trade+Volume+16 

Source: Philippine Office, Israel Ministry of Tourism

Sony Music Philippines expands word-class repertoire with hip-hop artists HBOM, REN, and Michael BarsA

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Sony Music Philippines remains committed in strengthening its world-class repertoire with the addition of iconic and prolific hip-hop artists HBOM, REN, and Michael Bars.

 

In its bid to shine a spotlight on the genre’s movers and shakers, the record label promises to introduce these new music discoveries to the streaming generation through its sustainable promotional, marketing, and artist development efforts.

 

The new roster is led by celebrated hip-hop veteran HBOM, who has made a remarkable contribution to the industry as an artist, entrepreneur, songwriter/composer, and music visionary. With over 8 million streams across all music platforms worldwide and four acclaimed albums under his belt, HBOM is responsible for leading his own music movement with protégés in the scene, including Filipino-American rap superstar EZ Mil and South African-based artist Michael Bars.

 

“I’ve been in the hip-hop scene for over 20 years, and I’ve withstood the times when no one liked hip-hop,” the respected multi-hyphenate shares in a statement. “What makes my music standout is the distinct voice that I have. When everyone hears it, they already know its me.”

 

HBOM’s new single “Witness,” which will be released on November 10, is a chill-hop jam about minding one’s own business, and settling down on what truly matters in life like family and adult priorities. The music video accompanying the track is co-directed by HBOM himself and frequent collaborator, TNES.

 

Another globally renowned artist in the roster is 19-year-old Michael Bars, who recently worked with Filipino hip-hop artist Michael Pacquiao on the viral banger “Pac-Man.” As an award-winning wordsmith known for making socially conscious music that transcends cultural barriers, Michael Bars has proven himself as a highly skillful rapper and producer with more than 8.7 million streams across all combined digital platforms worldwide.

 

“My main goal is to build a bigger name in the music industry and to spread my message as an artist,” says the South Africa-based hip-hop newcomer. “I use rap music as my weapon to talk about my life and I don’t cuss in them because it’s easier for children to rap along to the lyrics.”

 

His new single “Never Stop,” which recently dropped on November 3, is a massive jab of an anthem about picking one’s self up and never backing down in a fight. The song was inspired by his personal experience dealing with bullies in his high school years. Featuring 10-year-old R&B singer Sky, the track captures a visceral but powerful performance between the two artists.

 

Rounding up the urban roster is Filipino rap artist REN, formerly known as Balasubas. As a talented rapper that stands out with his unique style and confidence, the Dongalo Wreckords member has amassed over 5 million views on YouTube alone in less than two years.

 

“I’m grateful to the label for giving me the opportunity to inspire more people,” the young rapper expresses his gratitude on being part of the label’s esteemed pool of artists. “I want to use my gift in telling stories that uplift the lives of my community and promote positivity.” 

 

REN has recently released his first official single “In Throw” under Sony Music Philippines. Delivering incisive but melodic flow against a confrontational beat, the track deals with surviving life challenges through hard work and determination. REN adds, “behind this music was a story; a story of a person who is doing his best to continue in spite of rejection and judgment.” The music video is helmed by Aleksei Hipolito, a frequent collaborator of the rap thespian.

 

The launch of HBOM, REN, and Michael Bars is part of the strategic vision of Sony Music Philippines to promote the vibrant hip-hop music scene in the Philippines, and diversify their catalog in the streaming, mobile, and social-driven platforms all around the world. 

 

Listen to their tracks:

 

REN – “In Throw”

Michael Bars – “Never Stop”

HBOM – “Witness” (pre-save link)

Source: Sony Music Philippines

Stay healthy, stay informed: Protecting yourself from prostate cancer

Compared to the staggering numbers of COVID-19 cases over the past year, over 8,000 newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients in 2020 hardly made any statistical buzz. However, it is possible that the actual number is over 8,000 but patients exhibiting symptoms have not sought professional help and were not counted. According to medical experts, more proactive disease awareness and education is key.

 

As part of its advocacy to make Filipinos more aware of their healthcare needs, Johnson & Johnson (Philippines), Inc. continually and strongly supports activities that would better spread the right information about prostate cancer across the country. Activities such as the recent Usapang Prostate Cancer lay forum and Libreng Patingin teleconsultations spearheaded by the Philippine Urological Association, in partnership with the Department of Health, Philippine Society of Uro-Oncologists, and Cancer Warriors Foundation, Inc. Both events were held on Prostate Cancer Awareness Month last September.

 

Led by the country’s top urologists, the Usapang Prostate Cancer webinar discussed how prostate cancer can be tricky to detect, as its more worrying symptoms only present themselves when it is already in its late stages, which makes it, ultimately, harder to treat. This characteristic is also why prostate cancer is responsible for the ninth highest number of cancer-related fatalities in the country, as reported by GLOBOCAN.

 

“Prostate cancer tends to affect older men, particularly those 50 years old and above,” shared Dr. Erwin Benedicto, head of Medical Affairs of Johnson & Johnson’s (Philippines), Inc.“There are cases of younger males getting diagnosed with prostate cancer, but it is extremely rare. Another problem with prostate cancer is that its symptoms are largely invisible, easily mistaken by many as signs of aging.”

 

According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, there are usually no early warning signs for prostate cancer. However, in rare cases, these warning signs can include a need to urinate frequently and sometimes urgently, difficulty starting or holding back urination, weak or interrupted flow of urine, painful or burning urination, difficulty having an erection or painful ejaculation, and pressure or pain in the rectum.

 

It is also important to remember that urinary symptoms do notnecessarily mean a person has cancer. Prostatitis and Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy, described as enlargement of the prostate, are diseases that can cause similar symptoms and are just as common as prostate cancer.

 

“The level of knowledge and awareness about prostate cancer in the Philippines is low despite the statistics,” said Raghu Krishnan, president of Johnson & Johnson (Philippines), Inc. “As a company in the business of caring, we have made it our mission to make information about the disease, including treatments and support, available to every Filipino family. Information alone can save many lives.” 

 

 

“While there is no known cure yet for prostate cancer, Johnson & Johnson Philippines is making great strides in fighting the disease. Our team of medical experts are continuously finding new ways to improve overall survival rate, prevent progression, and enhance the quality of life of patients. We are hopeful that one day, we can cure prostate cancer completely.”

 

 

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About Johnson & Johnson (Philippines), Inc.

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe good health is the foundation of vibrant lives, thriving communities and forward progress. That’s why for more than 130 years, we have aimed to keep people well at every age and every stage of life. Today, as the world’s largest and most broadly-based healthcare company, we are committed to using our reach and size for good. We strive to improve access and affordability, create healthier communities, and put a healthy mind, body and environment within reach of everyone, everywhere. We are blending our heart, science, and ingenuity to profoundly change the trajectory of health for humanity. Learn more at www.jnj.com. Follow us at @JNJNews.

Source: Johnson & Johnson Philippines

Heroes For Children 2021

I joined @unicefphils’ #heroesforchildren2021 because I wanted to stay fit and healthy while a) releasing my first book and b) helping children in need! I enjoyed this challenge and I am grateful to have finished the race 💙 #fitspo @runrio_inc

SB19 addresses critics on the arcade game-inspired music video of “Bazinga”

The globally renowned pop group takes the visuals to the next level with themes of graffiti, gaming, and superhero noir 

Filipino pop supergroup SB19 has officially dropped the music video for “Bazinga,” the third single off their critically acclaimed EP, Pagsibol.

 

Set in an underground combat zone, the music video shows the multi-awarded quintet defeating their enemies in an Arcade combat game. In true SB19 fashion, it also doubles as an up-in-arms statement against the unwarranted criticisms hurled at the P-Pop group since the beginning of their music journey.

 

The song itself is written as a response to the hostility that is rapidly proliferating on the Internet, and a wakeup call for the band to focus their energy instead on meaningful expressions of art and music, and the love that they’ve been getting from fans all over the world. “One way to lighten the load is by writing a song that proves that we won’t back down to the negative comments and we’ll persevere,” the chart-topping boyband shares in a statement. “As it says from the lyrics, ‘Hate niyo’ygasolina’ - we continue to flourish and emerge as better individuals, despite the hostility.”

 

The “Bazinga” MV is directed by Jonathan Tal Placido, and co-directed by Chapters, the production team behind their post-apocalyptic “What?” video. SB19’s very own Justin de Dios also heavily contributed to the concept of the material, which blends themes of graffiti, gaming, and superhero noir against a chaotic but visually interesting anti-establishment backdrop.

 

The release of the music video comes off the heels of SB19’s nomination at the prestigious MTV Europe Music Awards for Best Southeast Asia act. According to SB19, being nominated alongside the region’s biggest names is already an achievement, and makes them work even harder to put the Filipino music on the international map.

 

“The BBMA nomination was a big, big thing for us already. Now being nominated for the EMAs, which is another prestigious and well-known award-giving body, has us so overjoyed,” SB19 says. “And being backed up by our loved ones, and A’TIN, further motivates us to keep pushing on. We hope to keep up the traction and to hit our goals of introducing Philippine music globally.” 

 

Aside from their notable achievements, the envelope-pushing pop ensemble and their label, Sony Music Philippines, will be releasing an exclusive line of merch slated to drop before Christmas. A representative from the label shares that the project stands out in terms of visuals, packaging, and presentation, and is aligned with the group’s global appeal and branding. “This line of merch is different from those previously available, and it went through a lot of revisions and quality checks to ensure that the products are top-notch. The look and feel is premium, plus fans can’t get these items anywhere else.”

 

SB19 will also headline Our Zone 2021: Anniversary Concert, featuring performances, games, special guests, and surprises. The special event, which will stream live on 27 Nov 2021 (Sat) 5PM PHT and 28 Nov 2021 (Sun) 5PM PHT, marks the Pinoy boyband’s third anniversary celebration. Tickets are available at ktx.ph and www.sb19ozone.com.

 

The ”Bazinga” music video is out now. Watch the music video here.

Source: Nyou

Twisted at 25

Twisted 25th Anniversary Edition by Jessica Zafra was a source of joy. I was born in 1986, so when I was reading her column in 1994, I just realized now that I was quite precocious. Having said that, her book of articles from the 90’s was a blast from the past. It has been ages since I read the words beeper, biodata, cassette, videotape, fax, and many more. I love Jessica’s wit and sarcasm, and her sense of irony was pretty much how I learned context clues in grade school. Reading her stories again made me realize that the 90’s may sound like a faraway time, but in reality, it still remains relevant.

I am still making sense of the world we live in during the pandemic, but Jessica’s love letter to the 90’s helped me remember a simpler time when R.E.M ruled supreme and the Eraserheads (which Jessica has formerly managed) toured America. I remain to be her fan and avid reader. Her website, http://www.jessicarulestheuniverse.com/, is her writing depository, and I highly recommend it. Her writing workshop schedules are also posted there. I am planning to join her classes someday.

Filipino actor Piolo Pascual stars in the music video for Cheats’ new single “Hakbang”

Watch the official music video of Cheats’ “Hakbang.”

Award-winning actor Piolo Pascual stars in the music video for Cheats’ melancholic new single “Hakbang,” the first single off their upcoming third studio album.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Quark Henares, the black and white visuals find Pascual dealing with a nervous breakdown in his own apartment, while the band members of Cheats are in the background, trying to cope with the challenging times by acting relaxed and normal.

The music video ends with the Filipino actor joining Cheats in a dance sequence choreographed by PJ Rebullida.

“I think everything about this thing happened at the perfect time,” says lead vocalist and guitarist Jim Bacarro in a statement. “I’ve always wanted to work with Quark and Piolo. We’ve been long-time fans of their work, and I’m glad that they’re game to collaborate with us on this special project.”

Written in English during the onset of the pandemic last year, “Hakbang” was originally conceived as part of Bacarro’s solo album. But plans changed along the way, and Bacarro asked his friend, Ali Sangalang of Linya-Linyato translate the song into Filipino. 

“It fits because thematically, the song was meant to sound like Filipino pop bands in the ‘70s ala Cindrella,” says the Cheats frontman. “I think it finally feels right because of how we’re writing it. Ali and I have been writing a bunch of songs together in Tagalog.”

The track was recorded at Kodama Studios, with Mikey Amistoso as producer.

The music video of Cheats’ “Hakbang” is out now. Watch it here.

Follow Cheats on social media:

Facebook | Instagram

Source: Nyou

syd hartha reflects complicated attitude towards love and relationships on folk-pop single “kung nag-aatubili”

The Filipino singer-songwriter’s latest song will be part of her upcoming 2022 EP

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Filipino singer-songwriter syd hartha returns to her roots on the stripped-down single “kung nag-aatubili.” 

The folk-pop tune will be part of her upcoming 5-track EP to be released in the first quarter of 2022, and serves as her first original material for 2021 after contributing vocals for Tokimeki Records’ city pop-inspired “Carnival” and participating in Coke Studio Season 4.

According to the 19-year-old artist, “kung nag-aatubili” reflects her complicated attitude towards romantic relationships and intimacy, which stemmed from the traumatic experiences that she endured during her younger years.

 

“I wrote this song a long time ago when I realized that I was starting to like someone, and I was already starting to let that person in my world, little by little,” syd admits. “Back then it just didn't feel right, and I feared the idea of getting to know me deeply and everything I’ve become. Looking at it in the present, I figured that these feelings are a by-product of the inner wounds, and my inability to move forward from the things that happened in the past. This also serves as an important lesson to me, that when I decide to commit to love someone, I should love them for who they are now, and accept them for what they’ve been through.”

Dialing back her sound to its bare essentials without sacrificing her newfound maturity in songwriting, sydhartha has penned another understatedly beautiful track that feels more introspective than her usual confessional entries. 

Marked by warm, laid-back guitar arrangements and soothing vocals, “kung nag-aatubili” starts restrained but assured of its exquisiteness, and builds into a musical wanderlust towards the end. In terms of production, her goal is to make it as raw and intimate as possible, arriving with the promise of a home—strong, unapologetic, but comfortable in her own shedding.

The song will be accompanied by a music video slated to be released in the coming weeks. The visual treatment is conceptualized by syd herself, who in turn, wants to make the storytelling mirror her personal truths. “For this music video, Swimming Pictures helped me execute my own ideas and it was amazing working with them,” says the folk-pop act.

“kung nag-aatubili” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines. The lyric video is available here.

Source: Sony Music Philippines