My Farewell Slam Book: Preparation Made Fun

My Farewell Slam Book by Marissa Sanchez is a celebration of preparation. I was admittedly happy to read this book because I am a PWD. My health condition means that I am closer to death than most people, and I want to be prepared for that. Plus, I also witnessed my late father battle through a terminal illness in the span of only a few months. I saw firsthand how my father ensured that his own affairs were in order before he passed away. So, I gladly answered some parts of the slam book already, and I must say that it was a fun process.

I think that Filipinos should finally start the conversation of death preparedness without the taboo. This book was written by a veteran Filipino actress, who has already made a name for herself in the industry. I particularly appreciate her performance in Safe Skies Archer. Her sensitivity towards the characters that she portrays is evident in her slam book. She did not take anything for granted, including how you want your eulogy to be. Meanwhile, her sense of humor translates into the book itself with its vibrant layout and graphics. She really grew up during the height of slam books, when they were ring bound, colorfully presented, and filled with witty yet practical questions. My favorite part was the Dreams, Fears, and Regrets chapter. I had a lot to write there, and I even had to attach another page for that. I am sure that her readers will also have a lot to share in this part of the slam book.

As the author stated in her Preface, she wrote this book in order to be even more prepared for her “graceful exit here on earth”. After answering the slam book, I feel that I have already prepared for my own graceful exit. While I hope that it is not yet soon, it pays to be prepared for the inevitable moment of my own demise. I would like to thank Ms. Marissa Sanchez for helping me bring closure to my own unresolved issues and to look forward to death without dread and disgust.

My Farewell Slam Book is now available!

A Maze to Grace: A Heartfelt Journey

A Maze to Grace: A Journey of the Heart by M.C. D. Rial was a helpful read in the midst of my personal crisis. I was battling a problem in my life when this book was presented to me, and I was initially hesitant to delve deeper into it because I was already exhausted. An insomniac night led me to read this in one sitting, and it did not disappoint.

I did not find the answers to my questions. It did not provide me with specific solutions to my personal problems. But I knew that I felt a sense of peace after reading the book. In the chapter Three Years of Public Ministry Equals Eternal Victory, it was emphasized that Jesus made deliberate and purposeful actions in his preaching. He fulfilled his mission on Earth after leading an ordinary life outside of the public eye. What touched me the most was that Jesus was also fulfilling His own personal mission, similar to what I am currently doing. I am now experiencing difficulties, but I am still doing my duty in the roles that God has placed me in. I realized that Jesus was able to execute his mission and was still able to show unwavering love. He faced persecution, yet he still forgave and performed miracles. My key takeaway from this chapter is that I do not need to become a martyr in my situation, but I should move forward with love in my heart. I should never lose faith and feel that I am alone.

After reading the book, I felt that it was difficult to be a good person in our challenging world, but it is still possible to become one. We just need to make the right choices and never lose faith. It is our responsibility to renew our faith because it will help us to be hopeful for a future in Heaven. Our challenges are sacrifices which will test our faith, but we must not lose hope. Our faith must endure and we should strive to do everything for the glory of God.

A Maze to Grace: A Journey of the Heart by M.C. D. Rial is now available!

Accidental Entrepreneur: A Book of Opportunities

I read Accidental Entrepreneur by Joynivee Chua as a roadmap to success. As a former entrepreneur, I am no longer keen on putting up another small business. I am now focusing on my writing and other job opportunities as I take care of my health. But I was pleasantly surprised because Accidental Entrepreneur spoke to me despite my hesitation to read about business. Indeed, it was a book filled with guideposts which can also be used in the journey called life.

My favorite part of the book was about entrepreneurial mindset. I believe that everyone needs to have this. We all need to thrive in these challenging times, and having the right mindset will propel us forward. Taking the initiative to help ourselves, being curious, and embracing failure may sound like basic knowledge, but it is worth reminding people to nurture these skills. It was a wake up call for me because even if I have already moved on to other pursuits, I can still use the mindset that entrepreneurship has taught me.

Another part of the book which I truly appreciate was the author’s emphasis on community. The right people can help you as you are starting up. The right people can help you build your business. The right community will support you as you adapt to changing times. Unlike other business books that I have read in the past, the focus on community is what sets this one apart. And I believe that with this focus, this book can resonate with more readers who are still hesitant to set up their own business.

I only wish that the author is more active online. She has the potential to help more people by continuing the conversation both online and offline. Her approachable writing style and common sense technique are ripe for possible teaching opportunities. I hope she can write more books and translate her message of community to having an actual one, even just online.

Accidental Entrepreneur is now available!

Living Without: A Celebration of Minimalism

I read Living Without by Romulae Gadaoni Jr. during the first month of 2024. It was a time of new beginnings, and it was fortuitous that this was the book that I had in my hands. I started reading it while I was stuck in traffic, thinking that it was a leisurely read. Little did I know that it was packed with deep but digestible nuggets of wisdom on minimalist principles.

I have already read quite a number of books on minimalism. While I did a lot of general cleaning and closet purges, I must admit that the impact of these books were short-lived. What sets Living Without is its holistic approach to minimalism. Unlike the other books which focused more on letting go of things that no longer spark joy, Living Without presents the reader with a picture of contentment. It is a mindset shift which focuses on being thankful for what is in front of you. It is a celebration of simplicity and saving money. It is a journey made with small steps. The approach that the author gives the reader is a marathon rather than a sprint. Inner peace and contentment with having a smaller space, fewer material belongings, and affirming your wholeness sound better than simply throwing things away and buying more. 

Of course, it is difficult to maintain a minimalist lifestyle in today’s fast-paced world. This is the reason why the author includes financial tips on developing better spending habits which are relatable and practical. My favorite is making your own coffee at home. This may sound like a no-brainer, but spending hundreds of pesos for one cup of coffee has been draining my savings of late. This is a timely reminder that homemade coffee does the same job of waking you up while allowing you to use that money for more important things.

It was a treat to read Living Without, and I highly recommend this book to everyone!

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TECNO Expands AI Horizons with Dynamic 1, its Innovative Debut Robotic Dog

Step into the future with TECNO's latest AI-enhanced innovation, the Dynamic 1 robotic dog, set to be unveiled at MWC Barcelona 2024.

Barcelona, February 26, 2024 – Innovative technology brand TECNO will debut its first AI-enhanced robotic dog, TECNO Dynamic 1, at MWC Barcelona 2024. The advanced robot embodies TECNO’s “Stop At Nothing” approach to innovating the technologies of tomorrow, with capabilities that can enhance everyday experiences. From smart home entertainment to assistance, education, and training, its intelligent, user-friendly functionalities make Dynamic 1 the perfect pet-like companion of the future.

Innovative Biomorphic Engineering Enriches Human-Machine Interaction

Dynamic 1 is TECNO's latest exploration of the diverse possibilities of human-machine interaction. Merging cutting-edge artificial intelligence with a lifelike design inspired by the German Shepherd, Dynamic 1 achieves both high aesthetic appeal and functional precision. Powerful torque output (45 N.m/kg) and a sophisticated cooling system in the knee joints enable the robot to mirror a dog's natural movements, such as climbing stairs, bowing and handshaking.

Dynamic 1 is equipped with an innovative headlight system that both illuminates its path and serves as an indicator for interaction. Furthermore, four microphones and advanced AI-driven voice recognition algorithms ensure outstanding voice control responsiveness and even more intuitive interaction.

AI HyperSense Technology Allows Dynamic Mobility

Dynamic 1 features an AI HyperSense Fusion System, ensuring that each movement is as stable as it is spirited. The robot integrates an Intel® RealSense™ D430 depth camera, dual optical sensors, and infrared sensors for comprehensive obstacle detection and safe navigation. At the core of its agility and resilience is an 8-core high-performance ARM CPU, enabling dynamic stability, rapid post-fall recovery, and speeds of up to 3.7m/s.  Meanwhile, 64GB onboard storage and the latest WI-FI 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 further facilitate seamless and robust performance.

Varied Control Interfaces and Outstanding Endurance

Dynamic 1 offers users flexibility with a variety of options for controlling its functions, including via smartphone app, remote control, and voice command. With a 15000mAh battery, the robot is capable of up to 90 minutes of use, while its modular design allows for quick battery exchanges and simultaneous charging, minimizing downtime. A range of safety features give users peace of mind, protecting against common electrical issues.

In unveiling Dynamic 1, TECNO is showcasing its strength and imagination in the field of advanced robotics and artificial intelligence. TECNO is committed to pursuing the development of cutting-edge technology for consumers.

TECNO welcomes all visitors to experience Dynamic 1 firsthand at MWC Barcelona 2024. The innovative device, along with the industry's first combined AR glasses and Windows gaming handheld set, innovative concept materials, leading smartphones and AloT devices, will be on show at TECNO’s show stand, located at 6B11, Hall 6, Fira Gran Via.

Source: TECNO

LUNADIRA STUNS WITH DEBUT ALBUM 'i'll be alright, right?'

LISTEN HERE

Photo Credit: Amani Azlin

Singapore – Malaysian singer-songwriter Lunadira releases herhighly-anticipated debut album 'i'll be alright, right?'via TONGTONG Asia. The slow, scintillating reveal of thealbum's first four singles ("OVERTHINKING" & "GOSLOW", title track "i'll be alright, right?", and "cryingover nothing (wah wah)") offered a sneak peek into the artist's labyrinthine emotions, navigating the tumultuous waters of life, love, and self-discovery. Fans can listen to the album here: symphony.to/lunadira/ibar-album

Renowned for her saccharine vocals and lyrical brilliance, Lunadira tells stories that unfold like delicate flower petals,blending vulnerability, joy, and introspection. In 'i'll be

alright, right?' she bears a weariness with a thin veil of hope, streaked with familiar melancholia that’s heavy to feel but so easy to bop to. Balancing on this tightrope exemplifies how deft she has become as an artist since her salad days. From R’n’B to garage and grunge, she shapeshifts through a spectrum of genres and moods that constitute the pop of our times – eclectic and moving; fun and sultry.

She explains, "'i'll be alright, right?' as an album is a returning to one's self. It is not a celebration but an observation of the uncertainty of life and dealing with that ungracefully, and accepting thatthere is grace in uncertainty." Collaborating with longtime musical partner Reddi Rocket on the project, Lunadiraexplores new musical territories, emphasising authenticity over conventionality in their production process.

Having retreated into a creative cocoon after the release of herlast project 'Tangerine' in 2020, Lunadira has been re-discovering her sonic identity on the journey of completing her new album, honing in on and refining her craft – ever-evolving and boundless – to reflect her lived experiences in its truest form through her songwriting and sound.

The release of 'i'll be alright, right?' follows her recently-announced debut appearance at Joyland Bali 2024, where she will be playing alongside artists including JamesBlake, Kings of Convenience, and The Walters.

Lunadira - "i'll be alright, right?" (Official MusicVideo)

MORE ABOUT LUNADIRA

Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with music on the radio and MTV shaping a young Nadira, the enigmatic songstress had her start like many of her peers, posting earnest covers on the Internet until the first original track "Forever’s Not OurThing" lifted her from anonymity.

Following a slew of annual lovelorn laments, Lunadira’scollaborative EP with Reddi Rocket 'Tangerine' was released in 2020 to considerable fanfare, with the buoyant lead single "Hoodie" becoming an instant favorite, effectively expanding her reach of listeners.

The wide-eyed sweetness that oozed from 'Tangerine' has been sharpened by a personal reckoning that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. She emerged from it a woman still grappling with existential ponderings along with a heightenedawareness of herself and her main mode of catharsis—songwriting.

In her debut album 'i’ll be alright, right?', Lunadiraboldly confesses a sense of being unmoored, and thus endearsherself to fans – like the rest of us, she doesn’t have all the answers. Through her introspection, we see the parts of ourselves that also struggle; just like her, we want to know whether we’ll be alright.

Tastemakers around the world have taken notice of the risingartist as she has taken on the mantle as the first-ever Malaysian artist to perform on the COLORS stage. This landmark achievement has opened doors to further opportunities abroad, including invitations to perform at 2023's South By Southwest (SXSW) in both Austin and Sydney. Lunadira has shared the stage with global artists like Sabrina Carpenter, NxWorries, and Daniel Caesar, and is looking forward to what 2024 willbring, kicking off with her performance at Joyland Bali 2024.

'i'll be alright, right?' Tracklisting:

1. forever's not my thing

2. OVERTHINKING

3. GO SLOW

4. i'll be alright, right?

5. BITTER

6. I HATE IT HERE

7. BIRTHDAY

8. WISH U WERE DEAD

9. crying over nothing (wah wah)

Stream 'i'll be alright, right?' here:symphony.to/lunadira/ibar-album

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For more information: Secret Signals | TONGTONG Asia Follow Lunadira:Instagram | YouTube | TikTok

Source: Secret Signals

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Justin Timberlake drops new track “Drown”

New album, Everything I Thought It Was to be released March 15th via RCA Records – pre-order here

Multi-award-winning artist Justin Timberlake releases his new track “Drown” via RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment.

Written by Timberlake, Louis Bell (Taylor Swift, Post Malone), Henry Walter, Amy Allen, Kenyon Dixon and produced by Louis Bell, Cirkut (Maroon 5, The Weeknd), “Drown” marks the American pop star’s second single release ahead of his upcoming sixth album, Everything I Thought It Was, which drops on March 15.

Justin recently teased his fans on Instagram with a clip featuring the snippet of the track. The Cry Me A Riversuperstar previewed the emotional track with a short, stripped-down performance while seated at a piano. 

Renowned musician, actor, and entertainer Justin Timberlake also announced the long-awaited European and UK leg of his momentous The Forget Tomorrow World Tour with thirteen new shows in 8 countries. Produced by Live Nation, stops include performancesin Poland, Germany, Belgium, the UK, Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, and France. 

The tour now includes a significant 67 global shows spanning from April through December of this year. In North America, 22 performances have already sold out, and over 550,000 tickets have sold for the U.S. shows.   

Additional cities and date information to follow. For complete tour and ticket information, visit his official website.

Last month, Timberlake dropped his single and music video “Selfish,” which garnered over 57 million worldwide streams and over 14 million views on YouTube. Justin Timberlake also made a special musical guest performance on NBC’s Saturday Night Live, where he performed his single “Selfish” and “Sanctified.” Additionally, Timberlake announced his highly anticipated sixth studio album Everything I Thought It Was, which is set to be released on March 15^th (pre-order album HERE). 

ABOUT JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE 

Justin Timberlake is a multi-talented entertainer, recording artist, record producer, songwriter and actor. Throughout his career, he’s sold over 54 million albums and 63 million singles globally, and a further 70 million records as the lead vocalist of *NSYNC. Justin has won ten GRAMMY Awards across the pop, dance and R&B genres, including his successful solo albums Man of the Woods, The 20/20 Experience, FutureSex/LoveSounds, and his debut solo album, Justified – as well as his collaborations with Jay-Z. He’s garnered over 23 billion audio and video streams globally and won four Emmy Awards for his memorable stints on “Saturday Night Live.” On the big screen, he’s lent his voice to DreamWorks’ animated franchise phenomena TROLLS, including the third installment, 2023’s TROLLS BAND TOGETHER. His hit record “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” from TROLLS was nominated for “Best Original Song” at the 2017 Academy Awards. 

Follow Justin Timberlake:

Official Website | Instagram | YouTube

Justin Timberlake’s “Drown” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment/RCA Records.

Source: Nyou

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Filipino indie-rock band CHEATS to celebrate 10th anniversary with intimate show

Filipino indie-rock outfit CHEATS will be celebrating their 10^th anniversary in the local music scene with a headline show happening on March 16, 2024, at Balcony Music House in Makati City.

The “Accidents” band will be performing a long set featuring fan favorites and rarities. Joining CHEATS are some of their long-time music peers, including SOS, Oh, Flamingo! and Sandwich.

“We wanted to do a show that has a 'party like it's the mid-2010s' vibe, which is the reason why we chose Sandwich, SOS, and Oh, Flamingo! to share the stage with us,” the eclectic 7-piece act explains in a press statement. “They were among the bands we loved (and still do) and played a lot with back when the band was just starting out. We’ll all play lengthy sets, and while we haven’t come up with a set list yet, we’ll likely play as many of our favorite songs as possible from the last 10 years.”

The intimate gathering also doubles as a launch for the band’s special limited-edition merchandise, particularly the classic CHEATS logo shirt with new colorways, re-released for those who haven’t had the chance to get one or want to collect them all.

CHEATS also expressed gratitude to the fans who have continuously supported their work all these years. “Thanks to everyone who has supported the band, whether you’ve been there since the early days or just discovered us fairly recently. This will be our first show since last September, so we’re itching to play again for all of you.”

CHEATS was first formed by Jim Bacarro in 2013 and features Bacarro on vocals, keys, and guitar; Saab Magalona and Candy Gamos on vocals; Manny Tanglao on bass; Jason Caballa and Kyle Quismundo on guitars; and Enzo Hermosa on drums. The 7-piece band has produced three critically acclaimed studio albums to date: 2016’s Cheats, 2017’s Before The Babies, and 2022’s Houseplants. They have also headlined several music festivals here and abroad, such as Wanderland Music and Arts Festival, Clockenflap Music and Arts Festival, Laneway Music Festival, and AXEAN Festival, to name a few.

Tickets to 10 YEARS OF CHEATS are now available via bit.ly/cheats10. Early bird passes have already sold out, but regular passes are still available for PHP 800.

10 YEARS OF CHEATS is presented by CHEATS and GNN Entertainment Productions.

Source: GNN Entertainment Productions

SZA releases 5-track audio bundle for “Saturn”

Top Dawg Entertainment/RCA Records’ 4x-time Grammy award-winning artist SZA, releases a 5-track audio bundle for “Saturn.”

The bundle includes the live version of “Saturn,” first heard during the 2024 GRAMMY Awards in a stunning performance from Mastercard’s GRAMMY House; plusthe main, sped-up, a cappella and instrumental versions.  

The reception for SZA’s new single has been positive so far. Variety praised the track for its dreamy and hazy qualities, noting that it’s “SZA in classic SZA form, singing of the despair and helplessness plaguing the world at large and setting it against rich, enveloping production.” Billboard calls it an “enchanting” new single which finds “the superstar disappointed with the world around her and wonders if life would be better if she could start over on Saturn.”

The main version of “Saturn” was written and produced by SZA, Carter Lang, Rob Bisel, Solomonophonic and Monsune. 

 Next month, SZA will set sail overseas for several festival dates, including Lollapalooza Argentina on March 16, Festival Estéreo Picnic 2024 on March 22, and more.  For all upcoming tour stops, please visit https://www.szasos.com/tour/. 

Links to “Saturn”

https://sza.lnk.to/Saturn

https://sza.lnk.to/Saturn/youtube

Continue to listen to SOS:  https://sza.lnk.to/SOS

 Download hi-res publicity photos: https://www.rcarecords.com/artist/sza/

Follow SZA:

https://www.instagram.com/sza/

https://twitter.com/sza

https://www.facebook.com/sza/

###

For more information, please contact:

Theola.Borden@RCArecords.com

 SZA’s Saturn is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment/ Top Dawg Entertainment/RCA Records.

Source: Nyou

MGMT RELEASE “DANCING IN BABYLON” FEAT. CHRISTINE AND THE QUEENS

Video Features Christine and the Queens’ Chris with Cameos by John Cameron Mitchell and Julian Morris


 
MGMT has offered a final taste of new music ahead of the Feb. 23 release of their upcoming Mom + Pop album Loss Of Life, in the form of “Dancing in Babylon.” The song and video both feature Christine and the Queens’ Chris, marking the first ever duet on an MGMT album. Listen to “Dancing in Babylon” HERE. Buy/Stream Loss of Life HERE.
 
The “Dancing in Babylon” clip was directed by MGMT’s longtime collaborator Ray Tintori, who previously helmed videos for the band’s classics “Time To Pretend,” “Electric Feel” and “Kids.” It also boasts the talents of the iconic John Cameron Mitchell (Hedwig and the Angry Inch), British actor Julian Morris (Pretty Little Liars, New Girl) and his real-life husband, artist Landon Ross.
 
WATCH “DANCING IN BABYLON” VIDEO HERE
 
“I always loved MGMT's multiverse, their freedom and talent, their limpid songwriting and killer soundscapes. Regal, inspiring,” Chris says of the collaboration. “When they reached out for this power ballad, I was honored and also excited to dive into their dream, because I have the same all-encompassing approach with my work. I loved the backstory of the lyrics as well, and I work my lower register here more than usual. I felt invited into their cool movie, and I’m glad to be now a part of the galaxy. Let's work on more love in the love galaxy.”
 
"Creating the ‘Dancing in Babylon’ video with Chris and Ray was a prodigious affair (love), requiring everyone involved to operate in six dimensions at once, all while simultaneously making a simple turkey sandwich with Dijon mustard,” MGMT’s Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser say. “The sandwich that emerged is a cosmic mille-feuille that would be presentable in most high-end French diners.”
 
“I went back for the second day of shoot – the day where they decided to reinterpret a war scene, but with delirious soldier fits, very Cronenberg, with mushes of brain as knickers and, on my own armor, a pussy-shaped flesh,” Chris continues. “I love how the video developed into this baroque odysseus of love. I love how personal and insane it gets with them. Very rejuvenating and liberating. And also, more utopias like this. Resistance is in our imagination. We can alchemize all this world's pain and turn it into hope, for a better future. Literally, put flowers back at the end of guns. This is a good song for that. Love songs cure despair. End of transmission.”
 
Loss Of Life is the long-awaited follow-up to 2018’s Little Dark Age. Loss Of Life was produced by MGMT, along with Patrick Wimberly (Solange, Lil Yachty, Joji). Longtime collaborator Dave Fridmann (The Flaming Lips, Spoon) mixed the album as he has done on the group’s past four full-lengths.
 
On Loss Of Life, additional production was supplied by Daniel Lopatin (Oneohtrix Point Never) and James Richardson. Brian Burton (Danger Mouse) provides additional production on “Mother Nature” and Miles A. Robinson served as associate producer and engineer across the album.
 
MGMT has previously released videos for album tracks “Mother Nature,” “Bubblegum Dog” and “Nothing to Declare.” The themes of Loss Of Life will be further explored through future videos made by a remarkable roster of writers, producers and directors.
 
Watch the “Nothing To Declare” video HERE
 
Watch the “Bubblegum Dog” video HERE
 
Watch the “Mother Nature” video HERE
 
Pre-order Loss Of Life HERE
 
“All joking aside (never!), we are very proud of this album and the fact that it was a relatively painless birth after a lengthy gestation period, and are happy to be releasing this baby into the world with Mom + Pop,” MGMT says. “Musically speaking, we are running at around 20% adult contemporary and no more than this, please.”
 
MGMT is teaming up with Pitchblack Playback to host listening parties (in the dark) for the much-anticipated new album 'Loss Of Life' — uniting MGMT fans to listen to the album in full prior to its public release. For those unable to attend an event in person, join fans around the world exclusively on VEEPS for a livestream of this advance listening experience, straight from the heart of Hollywood. The event in Los Angeles includes a conversation between MGMT (Andrew VanWyngarden & Ben Goldwasser) and "Bubblegum Dog" music video co-director and comedian Tom Scharpling. All proceeds from the events and livestream go to The Loveland Foundation”
 
Tues 20 Feb - Soho Hotel Screening Rooms, London
Wed 21 Feb - Cine Tonalá, Mexico City // National Sawdust, New York // Golden Age, Sydney
Thurs 22 Feb - NeueHouse, Los Angeles // Club 13, Paris // VEEPS live stream
 
Ticket Registration for in person events HERE
Global Live Stream HERE
 
 
 
photo: Jonah Freeman, hi-res download here
 
Loss Of Life tracklisting:
1. Loss Of Life (part 2)
2. Mother Nature
3. Dancing In Babylon (featuring Christine and the Queens)
4. People In The Streets
5. Bubblegum Dog
6. Nothing To Declare
7. Nothing Changes
8. Phradie's Song
9. I Wish I Was Joking  
10. Loss Of Life
 
Formed in 2002, MGMT released their influential, Grammy-nominated debut album Oracular Spectacular in 2007, followed by Congratulations in 2010 and a self-titled project three years later. The title track of the duo’s most recent album, 2018’s Little Dark Age, became an out-of-nowhere viral smash during the COVID-19 pandemic. It spawned more than five million videos about social justice, trans rights, anime and the war in Ukraine, and is currently the band’s #1 most streamed song and third most streamed all-time behind “Electric Feel” and “Kids.”
 
FOLLOW MGMT
WHOISMGMT.COM | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

Source: Blackstar

Patricia Heart joins all-star roster of Sony Music Entertainment, releases debut single “Kahit Di Ako ang Gusto Mo”

The track blends confessional songwriting style with a soul-stirring, crossover sound

Filipino singer-songwriter Patricia Heart is ready to captivate the mainstream audience with her authenticity and music talent. The CamSur-based recording artist has recently signed with Sony Music Entertainment, the home to an all-star roster of OPM acts such as Ben&Ben, SB19, Clara Benin, Ace Banzuelo, Denise Julia, O Side Mafia, Demi, and dwta—to name a few.

Apart from being the newest addition to the growing family of the international record label, the promising newcomer sets her sights on representing her hometown on the global stage while showcasing her individuality through music.

Her debut single “Kahit Di Ako ang Gusto Mo” hints at an even brighter future as Patricia Heart defies expectations with her unique brand of charisma and songwriting chops. Buoyed by a suspenseful intro of synthesized strings and dramatic instrumentation, the soulful ballad reveals her experience as a young woman trapped in a toxic relationship, struggling to find light at the end of the tunnel.

Patricia Heart explains, “This song was written after losing one’s self to an obsessive, toxic relationship and eventually realizing the need to walk away from it in order to reclaim my sense of self-love. I have been in this kind of situation before. But you know: it takes two to tango, so no matter how badly we want to keep that relationship, if the other person is not as invested as you or you keep on sacrificing your worth as a person, it will never be saved.”

The emotional single showcases Patricia Heart’s confessional songwriting style, infusing even more unfiltered woundedness into her sonically rich sound. Showcasing drama and, to an extent, dark humor to the mix, the budding pop/alternative talent marks her debut with an earworm that will surely gain traction among listeners of all ages, who can relate to her earnestness as a singer-songwriter.

“There’s so much that I can offer as an artist, and I hope the general public will love Kahit Di Ako ang Gusto Mo,” Patricia Heart shares. “It’s a song that comes from a place of hopelessness and trauma, but it’s also a cautionary tale that encourages the listener to never put other people’s feelings above your own, especially when you’re constantly losing your own person in the process.”

“Kahit Di Ako ang Gusto Mo” will be part of her upcoming debut EP, Songs of Siren, to be released soon. The highly anticipated release will contain five songs and is “poised to cast a spell on listeners once they hear the siren sing.”

Patricia Heart’s “Kahit Di Ako ang Gusto Mo” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

dwta and Arthur Miguel reflect on unrequited feelings in collab single “Tahan na”

The heartfelt tune marks the second time that the two artists have worked together for a project—the first one being a reworked version of the streaming hit “Lihim”

Acclaimed singer-songwriter dwta teams up with chart-topping newcomer Arthur Miguel on “Tahan Na,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

Capturing the universal experience of longing for love and connection, “Tahan Na” expresses the realities of harboring unrequited feelings for someone not capable of reciprocating the same level of affection.

According to the Bicolano recording star, the heartfelt track illustrates the beauty of not giving up hope for love despite being constantly let down by circumstances.

She adds, “Tahan Na tells us to acknowledge our feelings of longing and heartache but also to remember that our value isn't based on someone else's feelings. In the end, it's a song about staying strong, not giving up, and believing in the transformative power of love.”

The stripped-down, alt-country song was written by dwtain 2022. It has gone through multiple iterations since then, with Brian Lotho co-producing the tune with the young singer-songwriter under one condition: capture the immediacy and emotional vulnerability of the moment when the latter first conceived the material in her own bedroom. Nothing more, nothing less.

dwta or Jhasmine Villanueva in real life, explains, “To recreate that cozy vibe, we recorded the acoustic guitar while sitting on the floor, mirroring the casual and intimate setting of my bedroom, where I often find inspiration. We wanted the song to feel like a comforting hug for anyone who listens to it. At first, we weren't sure if we should make it sound like a lullaby or a grand melancholic dance within a castle. But then we thought, why not blend both elements? So, we incorporated strings like the violin, reminiscent of a grand ballroom, while still maintaining the gentle strums of the acoustic guitar and the soft melodies of the keyboard, blending them together to create something special.”

“Tahan Na” marks the second time that dwta and Arthur Miguel have worked together on a project. The two accomplished solo artists linked up last year on the reworked version of “Lihim,” which blends Tagalog and Bicolano with captivating results.

Villanueva emphasized that working with Arthur Miguel has always been a remarkable experience. Having great connection and chemistry when it comes to writing, collaborating, and performing songs as a duo, dwta is grateful to the budding crossover act for allowing her to experiment with different musical elements and expandher skills as both a songwriter and performer.

“I realized that his singing style and emotions would add a lot to the song's meaning and make it even more heartfelt,” dwta muses. “Our collaboration has opened up new opportunities for growth and exploration in our music. Working with Arthur Miguel is really enjoyable for me, and every time we work together, there's always something new to learn, some adventure, and lots of fun moments.”

dwta and Arthur Miguel’s “Tahan Na” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

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PREP SHARE NEW SINGLE "GETAWAY" FEATURING THAILAND'S PHUM VIPHURIT 🇹🇭

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Photo Credit: Ian Hippolyte

February 22, 2024 – Singapore – London-based four-piece PREP have released a new single "Getaway" via Bright Antenna Records, featuring an artist their fans in Southeast Asia have been waiting for for a long time – the one and only Phum Viphurit from Thailand. "Getaway" is a track about the conflicting feelings of needing a break from a situation, but knowing you don’t want to leave it behind forever. Fans can listen to the song here: ffm.to/_getaway

On their collaboration with one of Southeast Asia's most sought-after indie artists, PREP shares, "We were on tour in Thailand - it was a pretty intense time for us, playing some of the biggest shows we’d done. But we’d been in touch with Phum and one afternoon he found us this studio where we could all go and hang out together. It was this beautiful hidden spot, a real retreat from the world, surrounded by greenery, with kids playing under the trees outside. And the song came together with him pretty much there and then, very quickly and simply."

PREP recently toured Asia in 2023 – they played at VERY Festival in Thailand before heading to China for a string of headline shows and finished off the run with Clockenflap in Hong Kong. They have over 500,000 monthly listeners and subscribers from Southeast Asia alone, and the band hallmarks their time building their fanbase in Asia as an important pivot where PREP’s sense of sonic possibility expanded. "At one point we thought PREP would just be a studio project," keyboardist Llywelyn ap Myrddin elaborates. “But we played gigs that went really well, and we spent some amazing time in Asia.” 

In 2015, the four members of PREP came together to cut deep grooves that mine contemporary R&B and electronica while hearkening back to the soft, sheer sound of the late ’70s and early ‘80s—what some listeners have retroactively dubbed yacht rock. The love for that style united vocalist-lyricist Tom Havelock, keyboardist Llywelyn Ap Myrddin, drummer Guillaume Jambel, and producer Dan Radclyffe. PREP is pop music that feels tip-of-the-tongue familiar even though you’ve never heard it before.

The freshness of fusing well-worn genre tunes with modern sounds is a product of the distinct backgrounds that make up the group. Llywelyn has a classical music education in composition and piano; Guillaume moonlights as a house producer and DJ; Dan produces hip-hop; and Tom works as a pen-for-hire songwriter in the pop music world.

Listen to "Getaway feat. Phum Viphurit" here: ffm.to/_getaway
 

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