Style Conquest 2024 Triumphs with Dazzling Fashion Show Featuring P-Pop Stars and Talented Designers

Manila, Philippines - July 1, 2024 - The highly anticipated Style Conquest 2024 concluded with remarkable success at the Green Sun Hotel on June 30, 2024. The event was a spectacular celebration of fashion, featuring stunning collections from a mix of industry veterans and promising new designers, along with show-stopping appearances by popular P-pop groups and a renowned VIVA Artist.

The runway came alive as P-pop groups G22, VXON, AJAA, and YES MY LOVE (YML), along with VIVA Artist Rabin Angeles, flaunted the latest fashion trends, bringing an electrifying energy to the event. Their participation added a dynamic and engaging element to the show, captivating the audience with their star power and charisma.

The designers showcased an impressive array of collections, each bringing a unique perspective and style to the runway. The event featured the creative talents of:

● PAUL MATT

● EDRICK PAZ

● JM ROSARIO

● CAMILLE BESACRUZ

● EMANUEL RIÑOZA

● KEIN DUMLAO

● NASH AUGUST

● BASIL MALICSI

Joining these established names were the six iAcademy Fashion Design graduates, who made their

debut with distinct and captivating collections:

● Joanna Santos - Presented contemporary and avant-garde couture with bold silhouettes and intricate details.

● Jannah Collado - Showcased a grunge style inspired by personal traumas and phobias, highlighting the transformative power of fashion.

● Abby Fernandez - Introduced a streetwear collection influenced by Japanese culture and urban spirit, emphasizing creativity and sustainability.

● Ellyn Denubo - Offered an experimental approach with unconventional cuts and materials, providing a fresh perspective on self-expression.

● Megan Davies - Displayed a blend of modern aesthetics and timeless elegance.

● Elene Mariano - Celebrated cultural heritage with a contemporary twist in her designs.

The event was divided into two shows, each bringing its unique flair:

● Afternoon Show: The grand opening began at 5 PM, featuring a variety of collections from various designers, setting an inspiring tone for the day.

● Evening Show: Starting at 8 PM, this segment spotlighted the iAcademy graduating students' collections, with P-pop groups and Rabin Angeles adding extra excitement to the runway.

Style Conquest is dedicated to creating opportunities for emerging designers, providing a platform for everyone. This event embodies inclusivity and artistic freedom, celebrating the innovative spirit of all designers.

Style Conquest 2024 was a testament to the creativity and innovation of both the iAcademy graduating fashion designers and the broader fashion community. As the event concluded, the excitement and inspiration it generated continued to resonate, promising a bright future for these talented designers and the industry as a whole.

R PR and Productions, the team behind the successful Style Conquest 2024, is thrilled to announce that Style Conquest will return this October. Stay tuned for more details as we prepare for another incredible showcase of fashion and talent.

Source: Style Conquest 2024

Photo: Style Conquest 2024

STAYC unveils debut full-length album Metamorphic on 1st July

Watch the music video for title track “Cheeky Icy Thang” here

 

 

Press images available for download here (credit HighupEntertainment)

STAYC are Sumin, J, Seeun, Yoon, ISA and Sieun.

 

For immediate release — K-Pop sensation STAYC finally releases their highly anticipated debut full length album Metamorphic on July 1st! This release comes after a month of tantalising teasers on their social media, with images which showcased the members in leopard patterns, with black-and-white tones highlighting their stunning visuals.

 

Metamorphic marks their first new music in approximately 11 months, following the release of their third mini-album TEENFRESH last August.

 

By naming their album Metamorphic, which signifies change, STAYC aims to showcase their growth. This first studio album, produced by Black Eyed Pilseung (B.E.P.), is released four years after their debut, and captures the story of their evolution and musical development. The six-member girl group has consistently displayed their unique, vibrant energy and quirkiness through the new genre term "TEENFRESH". In this album, they expand their musical spectrum with various tracks that embody their confident and distinctive coolness and new narratives.

The album features “Twenty”, “1 Thing”, “Give It 2 Me”, “Let Me Know”, “Nada”, “Beauty Bomb”, “Gummy Bear”, “Flexing On My Ex”, and “Trouble Maker”. Additionally, it includes unit songs like “Find” by Sieun, Seeun and J, “Fakin'” by Sumin and Yoon, ISA's solo song “Roses”, as well as the fan song “Stay WITH me” which was written by all the members, making a total of 14 tracks filling STAYC's debut full-length album. The members' active participation in songwriting and their contributions to unit and solo tracks underscores their musical growth and transformation.

 

The title track "Cheeky Icy Thang", is a cool song with a hot attitude, evoking images of a confident runway strut on a sizzling summer street. It captures STAYC's diverse charms—cool like ice, but hot and cheeky. High Up Entertainment's representative producer Black Eyed Pilseung (B.E.P), participated in writing and composing the song, further expanding STAYC's musical colour.

 

WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR “CHEEKY ICY THANG” HERE

STREAM ALBUM METAMORPHIC NOW 

 

 

Download Metamorphic album cover here

 

Album Tracklist:

1. Twenty

2. Cheeky Icy Thang *Title track

3. 1 Thing

4. Give It 2 Me

5. Find (Sieun & Seeun & J)

6. Let Me Know

7. Nada

8. Fakin’ (Sumin & Yoon)

9. Roses (ISA)

10. Beauty Bomb

11. Gummy Bear

12. Stay WITH me

13. Flexing On My Ex

14. Trouble Maker

 

STAYC has previously achieved hits with songs like “Teddy Bear” and “Bubble”, and successfully completed their world tour TEENFRESH in March, solidifying their popularity in Asia, North America and Europe. On July 26th they will return to Los Angeles for KCON LA 2024 as part of the star-studded lineup that includes BIBI, ENHYPEN, Kep1er, NCT127, NMIXX, P1Harmony, ZEROBASEONE.

 

Follow STAYC:

Facebook | YouTube | Instagram | X | TikTok

Source: Blackstar

SB19 debuts on THE FIRST TAKE!

Special performance of the viral hit song “Gento”

 

Famous for its impactful dance that gained popularity on TikTok

 

 

 

The latest episode of YouTube Channel THE FIRST TAKEhas been announced.

 

Episode 449 welcomes SB19, a five-member boy band from the Philippines, to make its first appearance on THE FIRST TAKE.

 

SB19 is the very first Southeast Asian artist to be nominated as Top Social Artist at the 2021 U.S. Billboard Music Awards, and they will be performing their song “GENTO,” which became a hit on TikTok for its addictive phrase and unique dance moves.

 

Enjoy the song, which expresses the message that “it is the accumulation of small efforts that leads to success,” in a special version exclusively for THE FIRST TAKE.

 

“It was a true first take, so we were very nervous and overwhelmed, but it was fun and an amazing experience,” SB19 shares. “Above all, we are grateful for this opportunity and for being able to represent the Philippines by performing our song here. We are honored to showcase our music and culture to the world through THE FIRST TAKE.”

 

THE FIRST TAKE is a Japanese YouTube channel that invites top singers and artists from all over the world to perform a song recorded in one take. Videos on The First Take are filmed in a studio, with shots of the performing artist and a microphone, set to a background that is usually white.

 

SB19 on the other hand, is the first Southeast Asian group and the first Filipino to be invited in the influential music media outlet. After the initial announcement, HALA THE FIRST SB19 skyrocketed at No. 1, 2, and 35 of X’s trend list in the Philippines, Japan, and Worldwide, respectively.

 

Aside from this recognition, the Philippines' five-member boy group also recently bagged a nomination for Favorite Asian Act in the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards.

 

SB19’s performance airs at 9 pm today, Manila time via THE FIRST TAKE’s YouTube channel. Watch it here.

 

About THE FIRST TAKE

 

THE FIRST TAKE is a YouTube channel that clearly captures the performance of musicians and singers performing in a single take. With the concept “capture the take. This moment. This sound. THE FIRST TAKE. It only happens once,” THE FIRST TAKE presents pure music in overwhelming quality with no exaggerated performance.

 

The channel started on 15 November 2019 and has now hit 9.69 million subscribers (as of 7 June 2024). Total views have exceeded 1.4 billion, and contents have been viewed from over 220 countries and regions around the world. Growing as a comprehensive music platform, new initiatives have been launched and become viral contents. THE FIRST TAKE INTERNATIONAL features international music stars such as Harry Styles, Avril Lavigne, V from BTS, Jason Chan and Jolin Tsai, having them to give their 1TAKE performanceexclusively on the channel.

 

Follow THE FIRST TAKE on socials:

 

Website: https://www.thefirsttake.jp

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/The_FirstTake

X: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_first_take

THE FIRST TIMES: https://www.thefirsttimes.jp

 

 

ABOUT SB19

 

SB19 is a multi-awarded five-member boy group from the Philippines. The group is composed of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin and debuted in October 2018 with their single ‘Tilaluha.’ They gained popularity with their second single ‘Go Up’. Since their debut, SB19 has amassed fans (A’TIN) across the globe and was recognized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as the Philippine’s Youth Ambassadors. The “SB” in SB19 stands for “Sound Break,” which represents their aspirations of disrupting the music scene and bringing Filipino music and culture into the international spotlight. SB19 broke into the global spotlight as the first Southeast Asian and Filipino act to be nominated in the Billboard Music Awards as Top Social Artist in 2021. They are also the first Filipino act to land on the international Billboard Social 50 and Next Big Sound Charts. Their latest release, "GENTO", debuted at #8 on the Billboard World Digital Sales Charts.

 

SB19 is self-managed by 1Z Entertainment, a company built and managed by the members of SB19.

 

Website: https://www.sonymusic.co.jp/artist/SB19

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

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

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

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

Source: Nyou

Steve Aoki Drops His 9th Studio Album ‘Paragon’

Featuring collaborations with NE-YO, Lil Jon, Kid Cudi

 

New Single & Music Video “Heavenly Hell” with NE-YO Out Today

 

 

Listen to ‘Paragon’ here: steveaoki.lnk.to/Paragon

 

Watch the music video for “Heavenly Hell” with NE-YO: HERE

 

Renowned producer and 2X GRAMMY-nominated artist Steve Aoki has unveiled his 9th studio album, ‘Paragon.’ The story of ‘Paragon’ builds off of the expansive Hiroquest universe Aokihas established through his music, trading cards, and a newly released graphic novel. The album showcases the contemporary global dance sounds Aoki encounters during his 200+ concerts each year. It features his latest collab with Kid Cudi, the vibrant sounds of South Africa on “Mad” with Moonchild Sanelly and the Amapiano-heavy “Visa” in collaboration with Major League DJZ. “Bum Bum” with Natalhão highlights Brazilian Baile Funk, while “Get Lower” with Lil Jon blends American hip-hop with EDM. Accompanying the album, Aoki released the vibrant music video for "Heavenly Hell," a collaboration with three-time, Grammy award-winning hitmaker NE-YO. The video vividly transitions from heaven to hellish scenes. Watch the video HERE

 

“This album revisits the core themes that defined my early work, with a strong emphasis on crafting tracks that get people moving,” Aoki shares. “Although it spans a variety of genres, it remains true to the essence of dance music, uniting cultures worldwide through a myriad of sounds. At the center of ‘Paragon’ is my collaboration with NE-YO. NE-YO has voiced so many essential dancefloor anthems, and it’s an honor to work with him on this next chapter. ‘Heavenly Hell’ has been going off in my sets around the world, and I’m excited to officially share it with the everyone.”

 

“Been a long time coming, this collaboration,” NE-YO adds. “Super excited for the world to hear what we’ve come up with! Thanx for the vibes, Steve!”

 

 

Sonically, the album is a snapshot of an Aoki concert experience, full of high-energy moments. One of the biggest songs in Aoki’s sets is his remix of Kid Cudi’s “Pursuit OfHappiness.” The pair reunite on ‘Paragon’ with “Electrowavebaby 2.0,” another contagious crossover anthem. Elsewhere on the album, “Lose My Mind” with K?D, “Voices In My Head”   with Bassjackers (featuring Teddy Bee), and “Better Run” with Just_us provide festival-ready electro sounds, while “Play The Track” with 22Bullet provides a melodic techno vibe. There are also singalong moments on big vocal-driven records such as “Drive” featuring KIDDO.

 

From the studio to the stage, Aoki's passion for pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic landscapes shines through in every track. His previous album ‘HiROQUEST 2: Double Helix’ was inspired by nostalgia and the dynamic sounds of contemporary dance, Latin music, and more. The first'HiROQUEST' drew from Aoki's alternative music and punk band roots.

 

This year, Aoki has been on his Heavenly Hell Tour, previewing ‘Paragon’ songs for audiences in each city he visits, including major festivals such as EDC Las Vegas, Tomorrowland Winter, and Ultra Miami. Aoki has brought along fellow Dim Mak artists, including Callie Reiff, Deorro, Nostalgix, Pickle, Cheyenne Giles, Yetep, Ookay, Henry Fong, and Wolfgang Gartner, to join him on select stops. Tonight, Aoki celebrates ‘Paragon’ with a record-release party at Brooklyn Mirage. For tickets, please visit www.stevesoki.com.

Steve Aoki 2024 Tour Dates

June 28 - Brooklyn, NY - The Brooklyn Mirage

June 29 - 30 - Sun Kissed Summer Festival 2024 - Fresno, CA

June 29 - Las Vegas, NV - Hakkasan

June 30 - Las Vegas, NV - Wet Republic

July 6 - Kristiansand, Norway - Palmesus

July 6 - Torre Del Mar, Spain - Weekend Beach Festival

July 7 - Romania - Neversea

July 8 - Mallorca, Spain - BCM

July 10 - Ibiza, Spain - Ushuaia

July 11 - Calgary, AB, Canada - Cowboys Music Festival

July 12 - Las Vegas, NV, USA - Omnia

July 13 - Las Vegas, NV, USA - Wet Republic

July 16 - Barcarès, France - EMF - Electrobeach

July 19 - Mezőtúr, Hungary - East Fest

July 20 - Weeze, Germany - Parookaville

July 21 - Boom, Belgium - Tomorrowland

July 27 - Boom, Belgium - Tomorrowland

July 28 - Montecosaro, Italy - MIND Festival

July 29 - Zrće, Croatia - Noa

July 31 - Mykonos, Greece - Cavo Paradiso

August 2 - Las Vegas, NV, USA - Omnia

August 3 - Toronto, ON, Canada - Veld Festival

August 4 - Las Vegas, NV, USA - Wet Republic

August 8 - Cluj-Napoca, Romania - Untold

August 9 - Saalburg-Ebersdorf, Germany - SonneMondSterne

August 10 - Cullera, Spain - Medusa

August 11 - Batumi, Georgia - Mono Hall

August 12 - Zrće, Croatia - Noa

August 14 - Galliploi, Italy - Praja

August 16 - Catanzaro, Italy - Miraya Beach Park

August 20 - Cyprus - Odessey

August 21 - Barcelona, Spain - Opium

August 21 - Ibiza, Spain - Ushuaia

August 22 - Mallorca, Spain - BCM

August 29 - Colonia Tepeyac, Mexico - Fenapo

August 30 - Las Vegas, NV, USA - Hakkasan

 

 

 

‘Paragon’ Tracklist:

1. Heavenly Hell (ft. NE-YO)

2. Clapback (ft. Raphaella)

3. 2x2 with Chapter & Verse & Alika

4. Mad (ft. Moonchild Sanelly)

5. Electrowavebaby 2.0 with Kid Cudi

6. Bum Bum with Sandro Silva and Natalhão

7. 3 Days (ft. Kalan.FrFr)

8. Visa with Major League DJz (ft. Mannywellz)

9. Weirder Things (ft. Xander850)

10. Drive (ft. KIDDO)

11. Play The Track with 22Bullet

12. Lose My Mind with K?D

13. Better Run with Just_us

14. Flashing Lights with Bassjackers

15. Voices In My Head with Bassjackers (feat. Teddy Bee)

16. Get Lower with Lil Jon

17. 3 Days (ft. Kalan.FrFr) [Steve Aoki Hyro Energy Remix]

18. Paragon

 

 

ABOUT STEVE AOKI

Counting nearly 3 billion music streams to his name, Steve Aoki is a true visionary. Billboard described the 2x-GRAMMY-nominated music producer, artist, fashion designer, entrepreneur, NFT futurist, and Dim Mak Records founder as “one of the most in-demand entertainers in the world.” A Guinness World Record holder for the “Most Traveled Musician in a Single Calendar Year,” Aoki has performed at nearly every top festival around the world, including Coachella, Ultra Music Festival, Lollapalooza, Fuji Rock Festival, Tomorrowland, and Electric Daisy Carnival. Aoki also graced recent covers of Entrepreneur Magazine, Success Magazine, Electronic Musician, and Adweek as their “Visionary of the Year.”

 

As a globally successful cross-genre solo artist, Aoki has collaborated with an impressive list of varied artists, including BTS, Maluma, Snoop Dogg, Linkin Park, blink-182, One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson, Machine Gun Kelly, Lil Uzi Vert, 2 Chainz and Daddy Yankee, on top of having released three Platinum singles, six Gold singles, and over ten Top 10 radio records.

 

Aoki approaches each new endeavor with the same sense of dedication he’s put into his past achievements, including the Grammy-nominated Netflix documentary I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead (2016) and his memoir BLUE: The Color of Noise (2019). In 2012, he also founded THE AOKI FOUNDATION to support organizations in brain science and its research. His influential record label Dim Mak, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2021, is known for being a launching pad for the careers of prominent acts like Bloc Party, The Chainsmokers, Bloody Beetroots, The Kills, Zedd, and Diplo.

Connect With STEVE AOKI: Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Spotify

 

ABOUT NE-YO

NE-YO is a three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning R&B hitmaker, iconic songwriter, actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist whose illustrious catalog has generated a combined total of 23 billion streams worldwide.

 

His debut single, 2005’s “So Sick,” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified quadruple-platinum. Since then, the Motown Records/Compound Entertainment recording artist has racked up a collection of global hits including “Sexy Love,” “Closer,” “Because of You,” “Miss Independent,” and “Push Back” [feat. Bebe Rexha and Stefflon Don].”  

 

Additionally, NE-YO has proven to be as powerful with his pen as he is in the recording studio and on stage, penning bangers like Rihanna’s “Unfaithful,” “Russian Roulette,” and “Take a Bow,” along with Beyoncé’s 2006 breakup anthem “Irreplaceable” and songs for such artists as Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Carrie Underwood, Celine Dion and Mario among others. 

 

The multihyphenate has also leveraged his platform as a musician to pivot into acting. His film and television credits include NBC’s World of Dance, Netflix’s Dance Monsters, Empire, Stomp the Yard, Save the Last Dance, Battle: Los Angeles, George Lucas' Red Tails, The Wiz Live!, Starz’ Step Up: High Water, Hip Hop Family Christmas Wedding and The Sound of Christmas. He starred in the latest season of 50 Cent’s acclaimed drama series BMF on STARZ.

 

Source: Blackstar

1999 WRITE THE FUTURE AND LØREN RELEASE NEW SINGLE & MUSIC VIDEO “GASOLINE”

OUT NOW VIA 88rising AND RCA RECORDS

🎧ྀི LISTEN TO "GASOLINE" HERE
📺 WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO HERE
⬇️ DOWNLOAD ARTWORK HERE

(“Gasoline” artwork - download HERE)

Music collective 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE has released their latest single “Gasoline” with South Korean rock singer/songwriter LØREN. Out now via 88rising and RCA Records, the single is accompanied by a high-octane music video. Listen to “Gasoline” HERE.
 
“Gasoline” is an electrifying pop-punk re-emergence for both LØREN and the genre-bending collective 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE. The all-English single touches on LØREN's inner turmoil and angst as he struggles against both his personal demons and societal pressures. Meanwhile, the music video, directed by James Mao, perfectly captures the spirit of teenage angst and rebellion. Watch the “Gasoline” music video HERE.

(photo credit James Baxter/@jamesbaxter – download hi-res HERE)

The new track follows the releases of 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE’s latest singles "Raw I Know I Got It" with NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, “fIT chECK fREEsTYle” with pop experimentalist Jean Dawson, “WhAT yoU WaNT” with genre-bending artist Deb Neverand “PUMP IT UP ε=┌(^_^)┘,” featuring Indonesian rap powerhouse, singer and producer Rich Brian and breakout rapper TiaCorine.
 
Earlier this year, 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE released their debut compilation project, hella (˃̣̣̥╭╮˂̣̣̥) ✧ ♡ ‧º·˚:, which features genre-spanning collaborations from the likes of Rich Brian, Warren Hue, Ghostface Killah, Busta Rhymes, Smino, Cuco, Amaarae, Offset, BADBADNOTGOOD, Westside Gunn, Dumbfoundead and more. The album boasts A-list features across 24 songs, pulling back the curtain on 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE’S anachronistic lore while capturing the sights, sounds and vibrancy of Northern California culture and beyond, through the lens of 88rising honcho Sean Miyashiro’s childhood nostalgia and wonder. Listen to the full project HERE.
 
Stay tuned for more from 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE.
 
About 88rising
88rising is a pioneering global music and media company representing the best of Asian talent and culture. Since its inception, 88rising has paved the way for many music industry firsts for its artists. Under the leadership of founder & CEO, Sean Miyashiro, the company has also grown its brand to include a global festival, Head In The Clouds Music & Artist Festival, and special partnerships with the likes of Coachella, Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and many more. With over 200 million followers across global social media platforms and over 50 billion streams and views, 88rising’s global influence is undeniable.
 
About LØREN
LØREN’s self-written and self-produced first three singles including “All My Friends Are Turning Blue” have connected with listeners around the globe with their eccentric rock sounds, collectively garnering over 15M YouTube views.
 
He co-signed with 88rising to release his debut EP, Put Up a Fight, with the lead single, “Folks,” followed by “Panic.” That same month, he was named one of Paste Magazine's ‘The 20 Best Acts We Saw at SXSW 2023’ and just a few weeks later he performed in the Sahara Tent at Coachella. Billboard Magazine has since spotlighted him in the ‘Sound’ section of the magazine and he has performed at multiple festival slots including Head in the Clouds and Summer Sonic.
 
Before his solo projects, LØREN participated as a lyricist for BLACKPINK’s “THE ALBUM” including “Pretty Savage,” “You Never Know” and “Lovesick Girls”— the latter for which he appeared in the music video as the male lead. LØREN also received production credit for G-Dragon's single “Bullshit” off the Kwon Ji Yong album under his old moniker, Cawlr.
 
LØREN became Global Ambassador for Saint Laurent, and starred as the model for the fashion house's eyewear campaign. Heavily influenced by his music, his fashion is also garnering worldwide recognition, and has landed him in covers for Dazed Korea, Vogue Hong Kong, Female Singapore and Numero Netherlands. LØREN has already started to break barriers as a true artist, and is bringing back the nostalgia of rock music to this generation.

CONNECT WITH LØREN
Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | Website

Source: blackstar

Viola Natividad's New Song "DAHIL SA 'YO" Inspires Listeners to Embrace Hope and Purpose

Singer-songwriter Viola Natividad offers a message of hope and redemption with the release of her new single, Dahil Sa ‘Yo—out now on all digital streaming platforms worldwide.

 

In Dahil Sa ‘Yo, the Christian contemporary artist speaks transparently about her personal relationship with God and takes the listeners on a journey of healing, embracing hope, and rising from the rubble. It’s the newest anthem to finding one’s meaning and purpose.

 

“I wrote the song ‘Dahil Sa ‘Yo’ reflecting on the kindness and faithfulness of God in my life. It's about how He transformed my shameful past into a life filled with hope and purpose,” Viola revealed. “When I look back on my previous feelings of failure and shame, I am reminded of how God turned things around, redeeming me from those dark and painful moments.”

 

Arranged by Stephen Tan, mixed and mastered by Jan Levi Sanchez, with backing vocals by Carlo Natividad and Stephen Tan, this hopeful ballad is Viola’s debut project with Reverb Worship PH, CBN Asia’s music arm.

 

Viola’s brand of music is no stranger to messages like these—as she has written and performed songs about faith—Muli, Ah Basta, and Bawat Tagumpay, Ikaw ang Nagbigay, to name a few. She hopes that with Dahil Sa ‘Yo, her ruminations about faith and personal experiences will also comfort anyone seeking truth and redemption.

 

“I hope that those who listen to the song are reminded that no matter how tough, shameful, or painful life may seem, there is always hope in the Lord. Life becomes meaningful and valuable through Him. He has the power to turn the ugly into beautiful, mend what's broken, bring clarity to confusion, and provide healing and restoration,” she said.

 

Join the journey of finding hope and purpose. Listen to Viola Natividad's Dahil Sa 'Yo—now available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and all major streaming platforms worldwide. Follow Reverb Worship PH on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for more updates.

Source: CBN Asia

BLXST ANNOUNCES ANTICIPATED DEBUT ALBUM ‘I’LL ALWAYS COME FIND YOU’ OUT JULY 19 ON RED BULL RECORDS/EVGLE

PRE-SAVE ALBUM

WATCH ALBUM TRAILER HERE


ALONGSIDE ALBUM TRAILER, BLXST DROPS NEW SINGLE 

“DANCE WITH THE DEVIL” FEATURING ANDERSON .PAAK

WITH OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO DIRECTED BY CITY JAMES

WATCH MUSIC VIDEO HERE

Photo Credit: Amy Lee

 

June 28, 2024 –  Grammy-nominated singer, rapper, and producer, Blxst, announces his debut album, 'I’ll Always Come Find You', is set for release on July 19 via Red Bull Records/EVGLE. The news arrives with the project’s next single, “Dance With The Devil” featuring Grammy-winning multi-hyphenate, Anderson .Paak. The duo are a match made on the dance floor, bringing their quintessential SoCal vibe to a groove-laden track; rich with live horns and climactic strings.

 

On their collaboration, Blxst shares, “I’ve been a fan of Anderson .Paak since his ‘Malibu’ album. His approach as an artist and tone of voice inspired me while coming into my own artistry. Full circle moment, he organically reached out to me summer 2023 to collaborate with him and the group Free Nationals. I took it as an opportunity to shoot for the stars and asked for him to be a part of my debut album as well. This song is a perfect blend of two artists from California and is sonically undeniable from first listen. Conceptually, the song paints a picture of the tug-of-war with temptation in love and relationships.”

 

Subtle easter eggs have dropped surrounding the album’s theme since Blxst’s debut Coachella performance where he sported a jacket with the name “Birdie” splayed across the back while a classic Buick Grand National graced the stage. Just weeks later he released the visualizer for his single “Risk Taker” with Offset which sees the same car outfitted with a “Birdie” license plate on a late-night drive. This album's trailer took these concepts one step further; this time with Blxst in the driver’s seat of the Grand National wearing black driver’s gloves as he pulls up to a chauffeur car service garage called Evgle & Son.

 

Stirring excitement around his first full-length record, Blxst added, “This is the most confident I’ve ever felt in my music. What I had to overcome while making this album changed my entire creative process, and the fans deserve to see the growth from that. I would be doing a disservice to not reach the heights I dreamed of reaching when I first started as an artist. No better time than now.”

 

In addition to “Risk Taker”, Blxst released a third track from the album earlier this year, setting the tone with his cross-cultural reggaeton hit “Rewind” (20M+ streams) with Colombian superstar Feid. All three singles see Blxst experiment with sounds outside of his signature LA-rooted R&B, foreshadowing a multi-dimensional album to come. On the heels of Blxst’s performance at Kendrick Lamar’s celebrated Pop Out this month, look out for another live moment from Blxst this weekend ahead of the BET Awards where he’s nominated for “Best Group” alongside South Central riser Bino Rideaux on behalf of their mixtape, 'Sixtape 3.'

 

Blxst- “Dance With The Devil (feat. Anderson Paak.)” (Official Music Video)

 

About Blxst

Blxst has architected a new era of West Coast hip-hop and culture by hand, as not only a rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer, but also as a creative visionary who mixes, masters, and self-edits his own videos and artwork. Back in high school, the South Central native taught  himself how to produce and record, going on to collaborate with YG, Mozzy, Snoop Dogg, Nas,  and more. Following a string of buzzing singles in 2019, he forged an ironclad creative partnership with Bino Rideaux on their first critically acclaimed 'Sixtape'. During 2020, he partnered with Red Bull Records and unleashed his solo debut EP, 'No Love Lost', to unanimous tastemaker praise. Upon release, it rose to #3 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums Chart, #6 on the Rolling Stone Breakthrough 25 Chart, and #11 on the Trending 25 Chart, while the Gold-certified single “Overrated” soared to #15 at Urban radio. The deluxe edition of 'No Love Lost' has yielded over 1.3 billion streams along with the Platinum-certified smash “Chosen” (feat. Ty Dolla $ign and Tyga), which garnered over 300 million streams in less than a year while breaking into the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching #1 at Rhythmic and Urban radio.

 

In 2021, Blxst dropped the Just For Clarity two-pack and 'Sixtape2' with Bino Rideaux, and claimed a place in XXL’s coveted 2021 Freshman Class. He also earned the Billboard Rising Star Award, becoming the first artist to ever receive the honor at the 2021 Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Summit. With excitement at a boiling point, he sold out his entire fall 2021 No Love Lost Tour in ten seconds.

 

Now posting up more than 2.8 billion career streams, Blxstkickstarted 2022 with the “Best New Artist of The Year” win from the XXL Awards, and the release of his sophomore solo project ‘Before You Go’ which debuted at #90 on the Billboard 200. The album spawned Rhythm & Urban radio single “About You”, for which he was nominated for “Best Male R&B/Pop Artist” at the 2022 BET Awards, priming his sold-out first-ever global tour across North America, Australia, New Zealand, and 11 dates through Europe. Whilst on the road, he nabbed the AIM Awards’ “International Breakthrough” honour, and returned home in the fall to accept the “Rookie of the Year” award from Future at Billboard’s R&B & Hip-Hop Power Players 2022. Following two sold-out hometown shows at the Hollywood Palladium, the LA Times declared, “Blxst is leading the new wave of L.A. hip-hop.”

 

In November, Blxst reached a new career high with his first two GRAMMY Award nominations for “Best Melodic Rap Performance” as a feature on Kendrick Lamar’s “Die Hard” with Amanda Reifer, and “Album of the Year” on Lamar’s revered LP, 'Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers'. He finished the year earning several “Best of 2022” titles from key opinion leaders such as Associated Press, Rolling Stone, LA Times, and more.

 

Paying homage to the city that raised him, Blxst delivered the 'Just For Clarity 2' EP in 2023, with four tracks featuring respected scene-shapers such as Roddy Ricch, Mustard, Terrace Martin, and Larry June. A bite-sized project with mass appeal, Blxst comes across confident yet self-aware, and he owes it all to LA. Rounding out the year, he released 'Sixtape 3.' the highly-anticipated third instalment from his fan-favourite series with Bino Rideaux. The duo brought their soulful melodies across the West Coast in a sold-out run that highlighted their meteoric rise to success.

 

Pegged as an “Artist to Watch” by Billboard, Complex, Pigeons & Planes, UPROXX, and more, Blxst continues to traffic in a lane of his own, bringing the game with him.

 

 

Watch “Dance With The Devil” music video here: https://blxst.ffm.to/dwtdmv

Watch the album Trailer: https://blxst.ffm.to/iacfytrailer

Pre-Save the album here: https://blxst.ffm.to/alwayscomefindyou

 

###

 

Download Media Kit Here

 

 

For more information: Secret Signals | Red Bull Records

 

Follow Blxst: Website | Instagram | X | YouTube | TikTok

 Source: Secret Signals

Watch SB19 and Apl.de.Ap as they host an epic house party on “Ready” music video

SB19 and Apl.de.Ap are throwing a massive house partyon the music video of “Ready,” the dance-pop track released under Sony Music Entertainment.

“The concept of the music video revolves around the guys being away for a while and returning home to mount a party of a lifetime,” Apl.de.Ap explains. “While shot in Manila, it’s designed to be purposely ambiguous in location, and the maximalist design is intentional. It represents the arrival of SB19 as an international act. It’s an honor to be celebrating with the next pride of the Philippines.”

Working with Ben Mor

American filmmaker Ben Mor, who has directed visuals for some of the biggest global pop icons in recent memory, including Katy Perry, Britney Spears, John Legend, NAS, and the Black Eyed Peas, helmed the MV. A good friend and frequent collaborator of Apl.de.Ap, Mor has always been fascinated by the design language of this country and has showcased it in many videos.

Apl.de.Ap revealed, “We have worked together for years as he has shot many Black Eyed Peas’ videos. The shoot was a bit of logistical madness because immediately after this, he was off to Athens to shoot another cool music video.”

Despite some logistical challenges, the 2 Proud act expressed satisfaction with the final outcome. The Filipino-American rapper also revealed that he wanted to showcase a visually cool part of the Philippines that was different from what people usually see on postcards and in films.

“I believe the house has a real aesthetic and character. But I let the professionals take it from there.”

A fun shoot

SB19’s Pablo admitted that the creative process for the MV was different from anything they’ve done as a group. This time around, they’ve worked with a more Westernized approach, not completely relying on a storyboard.

“Apl.de.Ap was fun to work with and very chill,” he said. “His energy was infectious! Even the dancers and the talents gave their all. There’s never a dull moment in the shoot.”

Justin also raved about the experience of collaborating with Apl.de.Ap’s team. While they’re used to embracing story-driven concepts for an MV, the youngest member of the group shared in a statement that it felt great having fun on the shoot, as if it didn’t feel like work at all.

“Somehow it offered a refreshing reprieve,” he said.

“Ready” marks a monumental collaboration between P-Pop kings SB19 and international hip-hop superstar Apl.de.Ap. A shiny club number that captures the sound of summer effortlessly regardless of the season, the collaborative song was penned by the Black Eyed Peas resident rapper with Jean-Baptiste, Vince Nantes, and Denzel. SB19’s Pablo and Josue (Radkidz), on the other hand, contributed to the production of the track, adding final touches and subtle sonic elements.

SB19 and Apl.de.Ap’s “Ready” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the MV here.

Source: Nyou

TECNO CAMON 30 Pro 5G for only PhP15,999!

Industry-leading smartphone with esports-grade performance and flagship camera in the PhP15k price range

 

Manila/June 28, 2024 Vlog and play like a pro using just one device with innovative technology brand TECNO’s CAMON 30 Pro 5G, competitively priced at PhP15,999.

Part of the game-changing, ultra-fashionable and power packed CAMON 30 Series, the CAMON 30 Pro 5G features a Triple 50MP camera system with SONY IMX 890 50MP OIS on main camera, 4K 60fps  Eye-tracking Autofocus front camera and ultrawide rear camera, Mediatek Dimensity 8200 Ultimate 5G processor, 70W Ultra Charge with 5000mAh, and 24GB RAM + 256GB ROM (extended 12GB RAM).

Vlog like a pro with exquisite imaging

With the CAMON 30 Pro 5G, everyone is a vlog master. CAMON 30 Pro 5G’s iconic, industrial design is inspired by professional side-axis cameras. It is equipped with three 50MP cameras for exquisite imaging – the SONY IMX890 50MP OIS Main Camera, the 50MP 114° Anti-Distortion Wide-Angle Lens, and the 50MP Eye-tracking Autofocus Front Camera. The cameras feature dual color temperature flash, OIS+EIS anti-shaking, and an AI-powered “Social Turbo'' for optimized video calling.

The large SONY IMX890 1/1.56” sensor allows more light into the lens and increases sensitivity to capture unparalleled beauty in every scene. Assisted by OIS, in daylight the 50MP ultra-high-definition lens doesn’t miss a detail. At night, industry-leading pixel fusion technology turns the main camera lens into a night vision tool, recording all the drama of the night. The wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the giant views of the great outdoors. The powerful front lens brings new definition to selfies, turning standard selfies into flawless social media-ready masterpieces.

For video shooting, both the front and main cameras support 4K 60fps video for immaculate vlogging with supreme clarity and smoothness. 4K 60fps leaves enough space for post-production, footage is still clear after cropping, and it can be processed into slow motion while remaining smooth. For live video streaming, improved front camera resolution elevates clarity during live broadcasts on social platforms. This is crucial when displaying products or showing off makeup skills.

CAMON 30 Pro 5G also features the industry’s first built-in AIGC Portrait function, removing the hassle of third-party apps to let users invent creative personalized portraits for on-trend, fashionable and fun social media avatars.

 

Play like a pro with eye-catching performance

Gamers will also enjoy big wins when CAMON 30 Pro 5G unleashes its powerful weapon – the MediaTek Dimensity8200 Ultimate 5G chip with 4nm processing, 3.1GHz octa-core peak performance, Imagiq 785 AI imaging processor, and AnTuTu score 964000+.

Fittingly, the Farlight 84 Philippines Championship official phone, CAMON 30 Pro 5G can support 13 hours of continuous competition. Meanwhile, CAMON 30 Pro 5G can provide up to 120fps support for MLBB & Honor of Kings, and 90fps support for PUBG.

Play like a pro with CAMON 30 Pro 5G’s unbeatable features. The excellent hardware and software support also includes 144Hz self-adaptive refresh rate True AMOLED screen, stunning Dolby Atmos sound with stereo dual speakers, 9-layer gaming-grade cooling, heavy duty battery with 15 minutes charging time from zero to 50%, 24GB RAM + 256GB ROM, X-axis Linear Motor, and wet hand touch.

CAMON 30 Pro 5G’s Rheinland Low Blue Light Certification reduces blue light damage to eyes. The PWM 2160Hz high-frequency dimming solves the flickering problem of the mobile phone screen in low-brightness scenes, and effectively reduces visual fatigue after using the mobile phone for a long time in a low-brightness environment.

 

 

On-trend, pro-environment design

The design of the CAMON 30 Pro 5G is inspired by professional side-axis cameras. When holding it for lateral shooting, the feeling of it is very close to a real high-end camera, no matter the appearance of the camera design, or photography, video cue lights, or the layout of the flash. The CAMON 30 Pro 5G is available in exquisite colors: –the Alps Snowy Silver (vegan leather) , Iceland Basaltic Dark (glass), LOEWE Design Edition (coffee grounds)

The cooperation with LOEWE Design, a major fashion industrial design brand, also shows the pace and determination of TECNO to keep up with international fashion trends. The back cover of LOEWE Design Edition is made of environmentally friendly coffee grounds, which perfectly fits the current concept of the latest technology and environmental protection.

The leather version has skin made of industry-first suede Tech-art leather back panel. The design incorporates the advanced suede material with a glossy marble texture giving the device a one-of-a-kind look and feel. TECNO’s Nature Flow texture technology makes each smartphone a unique work of art with a luxurious touch. The flagship smartphone is splash and dust resistant.

 

Catch the first sale of CAMON 30 Pro 5G

The CAMON 30 Pro 5G 12+256GB will retail for PhP15,999. It will be available at TECNO Mobile PH  in TikTok Shop,TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Lazada, TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Shopee. and TECNO Partner Retail Stores nationwide. Catch the first sale of CAMON 30 Pro 5G on June 28, from 8PM to 12MN at the Unbox Diaries TikTok live sale, for only PhP12,499 with limited stock.

Meanwhile, TECNO CAMON 30 is also available on all online and retail stores for only 8,999PhP. It features a 50MP auto-focus front camera and a 50MP main camera with a large industrial-sized sensor and 100MP Ultra Clear mode, a smooth 120Hz adaptive high refresh rate screen, an expansive memory of up to 256GB+16GB (including 8GB of extended RAM). It also comes with a sizable 5,000mAh battery paired with a 70W super-fast charger and bypass charging function, ensuring that you stay powered up throughout your day. For more discounts, follow TECNO PH on Facebook for upcoming sale announcements.

 

-END-

 

About TECNO

TECNO is an innovative technology brand with operations in over 70 countries and regions across five continents. Since its launch, TECNO has been revolutionizing the digital experience in emerging global markets, relentlessly pushing for the perfect integration of contemporary, aesthetic design with the latest technologies. Today, TECNO has developed into a recognized leader in its target markets, delivering  state-of-the-art innovation through a wide range of smartphones, smart wearables, laptops and tablets, HiOSoperating systems and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing”, TECNO is committed to unlocking the best and newest technologies for forward-looking individuals. By creating stylish, intelligent products, TECNO inspires consumers worldwide to never stop pursuing their best selves and their best futures. For more information, please visit TECNO Philippines’ official site: https://www.tecno-mobile.com/ph/

For any related media queries, please contact pr.ph@tecno-mobile.com.

Source: TECNO Philippines

LISA “ROCKSTAR” NEW SINGLE & VIDEO OUT NOW

LISTEN HERE & WATCH HERE


 

(June 28th, 2024) – Today world-renowned rapper, singer, dancer and style icon, LISA (Lalisa Manobal) releases her new single, “Rockstar,” via LLOUD Co./RCA Records.  Listen to “Rockstar'' HERE. “Rockstar” showcases LISA’s ability to effortlessly flow between dexterous raps and high-energy pop vocals as she sings, “Gold teeth sitting on the dash she a rockstar. Make your favorite singer wanna rap baby lala.” The new single was produced by Ryan Tedder and Sam Homaee. 

 

In tandem with the song, LISA has also shared the official video for “Rockstar” directed by Henry Schofield and choreographed by Sean Bankhead. Shot on location in Bangkok, the video finds Lisa taking over the city with an ode to her Thai culture and authentic Thai street life as she embodies her true rockstar with showstopping choreography. Watch the video HERE. 

 

LISA first teased the new single earlier this month on social media through the launch of her TikTok account which set a Guinness World Record by gaining 1M followers in 2 hours and 18 minutes. She announced the single last week to much fanfare and excitement from fans as well as the likes of Rolling Stone, Billboard and more. 

 

“Rockstar'' is LISA’s first solo single released under the new partnership with her management company LLOUD Co. and RCA Records. Launched earlier this year, LLOUD CO. was founded by LISA in an effort to create a platform to showcase her overall vision in music and entertainment that pushes boundaries. 

 

LISA is best known as a member of one of the most popular K-pop girl groups BLACKPINK. Beyond her success with BLACKPINK, LISA has broken several records globally as a solo artist with singles “Lalisa”and “Money” charting in the top 10 of the Billboard Global 200 and “Money” holding the record as the longest-charting song by a solo female K-pop artist on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US and on the U.K. Singles Chart

 

LISA broke three Guinness World Records in 2023 as the most Instagram followers for a K-pop artist (currently at 103 million followers on the platform), she is also the first solo K-pop winner at both the MTV Video Music Awards and the MTV European Music Awards.

 

Outside of music, LISA is set to star in the upcoming season of the hit HBO Original series, The White Lotus, season 3. This role will mark her major on-screen debut and is filming in her native Thailand.

Along with her global dominance in music and unparalleled stage presence, she is known for her unique fashion sense and trendsetting style, making her a prominent force in the global fashion industry. She has had several major partnerships and is currently the face of Bulgari. 

Photo Credit: Jack Bridgland 

Download hi-res photo here



FOLLOW LISA: INSTAGRAM 

 

For more information on LISA, please contact The LEDE Company:

Christopher Iacullo |chris.iacullo@ledecompany.com 

Kristin Somin | kristin.somin@ledecompany.com

Alex Labrie | alex.labrie@ledecompany.com

 Source: Sony Music Entertainment Philippines

Jolianne returns to her roots with the release of R&B ballad “I’ll Be Somebody You Want”

The promising R&B star embraces moments of vulnerability on her comeback single

 

 

Rising singer-songwriter Jolianne gears up for her new era in music with the release of “I’ll Be Somebody You Want,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

The R&B ballad is all about finding a genuine romantic connection with someone who isn’t afraid to embrace all facets of who you are as a person, regardless of your complexities and imperfections.

Written by Jolianne herself, the song shows strong moments of breakage and vulnerability as the Cebuana yearns for a kind of love that is patient and unconditional, yet firm enough to withstand atrocities that may come in the way.

She admits, “I wrote this about somebody who only ever loved me at my best. But you don’t get to choose which parts of a person to love. You take the good with the bad. I want to be loved as unconditionally as I love.”

“I’ll Be Somebody You Want” is produced by RJ Pineda, who is known as a keyboardist for Filipino bands such as Apartel and Brat Pack. According to Jolianne, it was her first time to collaborate with the acclaimed musician, whom she described as versatile, tasteful, and well-versed in music theory.

The promising recording star reveals, “This track was produced by RJ Pineda, a legend on the keys. There are so many layers to unpack in this song’s production. Even now, after having heard the track over and over, I still pick up on hidden gems that I didn’t know were there prior.”

The most heavily produced song in my catalogue so far, “I’ll Be Somebody You Want,” ensures that Jolianne’s vocal performance shines front and center, while also putting a premium on the nitty-gritty details concerning the arrangements and sonic detail. Music-wise, it’s a return to form: a back-to-basics approach that is reminiscent of early Jolianne, but with the musicality and taste even more refined and elevated as before.

“I’m also intent on showing people the human behind the art. I’m getting comfortable writing about my own lived experiences instead of writing about second-hand experiences.

Jolianne’s “I’ll Be Somebody You Want” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Source: Nyou

Henry Moodie drops new single “bad emotions”

Photo Credit, Katie Silvester - DOWNLOAD HIGH-RES HERE

 

Future global pop superstar Henry Moodie has releasedhis incredible new single, ‘bad emotions’, via Robots & Humans (UK), Columbia Records (US) and Sony Music Entertainment. The single is accompanied by a music video which is now available. ‘bad emotions’ is Henry’s latest single taken from his upcoming EP, good old days.

 

On “bad emotions”, Henry delivers yet another epic ballad - his exquisite vocals flourish as the crux of the new single, accompanied by sublime production that features exquisite guitars alongside stunning piano. It is beautiful and charming in equal measures, holding a deep relatability that fans and new listeners will no doubt resonate with. The single is accompanied by a beautiful video directed by Joel Barney, and together they demonstrate once again why Henry Moodie is seen as one of the most exciting new UK pop stars on the scene today.

 

Speaking about ‘bad emotions’, Henry said: “‘bad emotions’ is a song about my journey with my mental health. I remember the day I went to the studio and I was planning to write a different song about my friend, but on the train journey up there I had a panic attack. Songwriting has always been a form of therapy for me and I knew that if I went into the studio that day talking about my mental health, I would feel better when I left. I hope this song helps anyone going through a hard time!”

 

Announced last week was Henry Moodie’s European and UK tour, coming October and November 2024 and includes a London show at the iconic Roundhouse on Monday 28th October. Full tour dates below and tickets can be purchased HERE. 

 

At just 20-years-old, Henry Moodie already achieved more than 450 million streams worldwide, landed in the Top 10 most viewed UK artists on TikTok in 2022 and has been named amongst Amazon Music’s Artists To Watch in 2023. Following the completion of a songwriting diploma at music school BIMM, Henry found his voice as a solo musician and songwriter, oozing a level of emotional vulnerability, and sweeping, timeless lyrics. Henry released his debut EP, ‘in all of my lonely nights’, in the winter of 2023. With a combined 450m streams across tracks including self penned and produced ‘you were there for me’, global top 100 hit 'drunk text' and the heartfelt ‘pick up the phone’, a track which received 350k streams in it’s first day alone. Henry’s debut headline UK and European tour sold out in days - including an incredible show at London’s KOKO - and he continues to perform throughout the summer at festivals across the UK, Europe and Asia.

 

In Southeast Asia, Henry will be performing at:

 

Saturday 20th July – We The Fest, Jakarta

Sunday July 21st – Good Vibes Festival, Genting Highlands

Sunday August 25th – Summersonic, Bangkok

 

 

‘bad emotions’ single artwork - DOWNLOAD HIGH-RES HERE

 

LISTEN TO ‘bad emotions’ HERE

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR ‘bad emotions’ HERE

 

DOWNLOAD PRESS ASSETS HERE

 

FOLLOW HENRY MOODIE ON SOCIALS

 

INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

Source: Nyou

AFGAN: The Indonesian icon makes a global splash with Sonder, his second all-English project, out now

The Indonesian icon makes a global splash with Sonder, his second all-English project, out now. The release includes an official music video for “ESCAPE,” feat. Kpop’s hip-hop queen, Jessi, and “Criminal,” a single feat. R&B star, thuy.

 

“ESCAPE” music video — Sonder streaming link — assets folder

 

 

 

Afgan —one of Indonesia’s biggest music exports— releases Sonder, his second all-English and most ambitious project yet, which is out now via EMPIRE. The EP includes collaborations with two groundbreaking, female Asian acts, “Criminal” with Vietnamese American R&B star, thuy, and “Escape” with Kpopicon, Jessi. The release includes an official music video for “Escape,” which finds Afgan and Jessi on a friend’s retreat in Bali. Stream Sonder here and watch “Escape” here.

 

Sonder, recorded entirely in London, is Afgan’s most personable body of work. An artist since he was 18 years old, who’s been an Indonesian household name for over a decade, Afgan has found his voice. “I’ve come so far and have grown and experienced so much,” Afgan shared. “I didn’t have a say back then on how I wanted my music to be. I was controlled by the market, by what people expected me to be. I really didn’t have the confidence to speak out. But through the years, I’ve become more and more courageous to explore new sounds and to open up more about myself, for people to get to know me on a deeper level. That’s the direction I want to go with my artistry— I want to be more honest. I don’t want to fit in a box and stay in that box forever, because it’s comfortable for everyone. I see myself leaning more towards this direction and evolving.” The meaning of the album’s title, a word Afgan came across on Pinterest, stayed with him, because it’s true— everyone has their own complex story and none are the same. The stories Afgan tells on Sonder include “Escape,” which captures his need for “me” time to recalibrate, especially after living in the public eye for years. He details his overwhelming fear of commitment due to trauma on the emotional ballad, “Shallow Water,” and he discovers comfort in solitude on the euphoric dance track, “Lonely Night.” He courageously opens up lyrically and further departs from his pristine image as his nation’s darling to bring a sense of relatability to his fans like never before.

 

Afgan has been redefining Indonesian music on the global stage with his commanding vocals, emotionally charged songwriting and R&B sensibilities. Over his illustrious career, he’s built a massive passionate fanbase of nearly 20 million followers across his social media and hundreds of millions of streams across his music catalog. His 2021 groundbreaking album, Wallflower —his first English project and foray into the global pop market— spotlighted his influence and opened new doors for the Jakarta-based superstar. It earned #1 on Netease International Chart and landed on 10 Spotify New Music Friday Playlists. The album’s top singles, which included “M.I.A” featuring Jackson Wang, “Touch Me” (Remix by Robin Thicke), “Say I’m Sorry,” and “If I Don’t Have Your Love,” have generated more than 40 million streams. Afgan’s star quality continues to take stock internationally. In February, Afgan announced his comeback with the emotionally-riveting single, “Shallow Water,” alongside his U.S concert debut in New York and Los Angeles. The three, sold-out, headlining dates is a new benchmark for Afgan.

 

Afgan, the shortened moniker for Afgansyah Reza, grew up in Jakarta, as a shy individual, finding solace in music and honing his natural talent in the privacy of karaoke rooms. His mother’s love for powerhouses like Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and Brian McKnight would come to shape his vocal style — he would imitate these artists, practicing their belting and runs. One day, serendipitously, a label VP overheard Afgan’s captivating rendition of John Legend’s “Ordinary People” during a karaoke session and offered him a record contract on the spot. Afgan released his debut album, Confession No.1, in January 2008 and since then, has become an influential, beloved name in Asian entertainment with eight solo albums under his belt. Known for his soulful, buttery vocals, coalesced with R&B and ballad roots, Afgan has headlined arenas throughout Asia, including at Java Jazz Festival, Joyland and PESTAPORA, and toured 60 dates in 2023 alone. His dynamic performance extends from the stage to TV and film, such as the popular Korean reality series, Tripmate: Who Are You. Over the years, his exceptional talents have been recognized with accolades such as winning the MAMA Award for Best Asian Artist Indonesia in 2018 and the VLive Award for Favorite Artist Indonesia in 2019. He’s collaborated with fashion brands, like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Coach and Kenzo, and with artists such as B.I, Jackson Wang, Robin Thicke, and Raisa. Most recently, two of his singles, “Panah Asmara” and “LenggangPuspita,” went viral on TikTok with millions of videos created. As he embarks into his next era, a year that’s already brimming with promise, including a new album and more world dates, Afgan is unabashedly him.

 

 

 

 

For press inquiries and additional information :

Mark Bonifacio of EMPIRE PH at mark.bonifacio25@gmail.com

 

 

More of Afgan on :

IG — X — TikTok — Facebook — YouTube

 

Audience :

● 9.5M+ Twitter followers

● 5M+ Instagram followers

● 125M+ YouTube views

 

Discography :

 

Sonder (2024)

 “ESCAPE” (MV)

 

“Shallow Water” (MV)

 

Wallflower (2021)

  “M.I.A.” feat. Jackson Wang (MV)

  “touch me” remix feat. Robin Thicke (MV)

  “if i don’t have your love” (MV)

  “say i’m sorry” (MV)

 

Other Highlights

B.I, Bipolar Sunshine & Afgan “Lost At Sea” (MV)

Afgan “so wrong but so right” (MV)

Source: Empire

Little Mix’s Perrie releases second solo single “Tears”

Photo by Georgie Gibbon

 

Fresh from the success of her debut smash single “Forget About Us,” global sensation Perrie today releases her new single “Tears.”

 

“Tears” is a Motown influenced, smooth and sultry track written by multi-platinum winning producer Ido (Justin Bieber, Camilla Cabello, Shawn Mendes) and Feli Ferraro.

 

Perrie says, “This song is about coming out of a bad situation and letting go of what has happened in the past. It's that point where you feel empowered, and you leave the tears behind because you've come out the other side. It’s a sultry and smooth track that I'm really excited for you all to hear.”

 

Perrie stepped out as a solo artist in April this year with her debut solo single ‘Forget About Us’. The single smashed straight into the Official Charts Top 10 Singles Chart, topped The Official Big Top 40 from Global for two weeks and was the No.1 UK radio airplay record for an astonishing five weeks. This month Perrie is one of the performers at Capital Radio’s ‘Summertime Ball’ at Wembley Stadium.

 

Perrie has spent the last year and half writing and recording her upcoming debut solo album. Across the eclectic and diverse record, she had a heavy hand in creating, there are nods to her rock n roll-influenced childhood, Motown, disco, country, 80s and, of course, bright, bold pop. The unifying thread is Perrie’s strong, soaring vocals that fearlessly grapple with each melody and top note. 

 

Nearly all of the highly personal album was written and recorded at Perrie’s North London home, a place she feels the safest. Her fiancé Alex suggested they turn their unused dining room into a home studio, which he had built for her with everything she needed to lay down the tracks. As well as being embedded in her sanctuary she also explored working with producers and co-writers—the elite squad of which included artists Ed Sheeran and RAYE as well as Johnny McDaid, FeliFerraro (BTS, Normani) and Jon Bellion (Maroon 5, Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber)— which allowed her to be as vulnerable and creative as possible for this debut product.

 

“Going into sessions as a solo artist now and being able to say what I want and I feel is just the most amazing experience. I’ve never really done that before—that’s why I’ve wanted to just explore all my different emotions and different parts of my life.”

 Source: Nyou

 

FOLLOW Perrie here:

 

INSTAGRAM | TIK TOK | YOUTUBE

NIKI RELEASES ASTROLOGICALLY-INSPIRED SINGLE “BLUE MOON”

NEW ALBUM BUZZ OUT AUGUST 9

“Something NIKI does really well is get to the emotional heart of the matter.”
– NPR
 
“NIKI has returned with a gorgeous piece of folk-pop that’s wise beyond its years.”
– PAPER
 
“a sonic time capsule of a breakup album that explores heartache in perhaps its most devastating form”
– Vanity Fair
                                                           
“NIKI has gone from self-made YouTube artist to a history-making star.”
– GRAMMY.com

(Still from “Blue Moon” music video, directed by Ivana Bobic)

Jakarta-born, LA-based singer-songwriter NIKI revealed a new single titled “Blue Moon.” It follows the announcement of her upcoming album Buzz out August 9via 88rising and flirtatious lead single “Too Much Of A Good Thing.”
 
"Blue Moon" was penned by NIKI during her 2023 Nicole World Tour, in the aftermath of a four-year relationship that felt like home but suddenly fell apart. A Blue Moon in astrology is a cosmic rarity, often linked to heightened clarity. It's fitting, then, that NIKI taps into this energy, sharing her experience with vulnerability and openness.
 
NIKI says "I wrote Blue Moon lamenting the slow, then sudden demise of a truly significant relationship. It’s about the deepest and rarest of loves we might stumble upon (once in the bluest of moons, if we’re lucky), and then realizing we’d stumbled upon it too early for it to stand a chance. It’s that classic trope of right person, wrong time."
 
Like lead single "Too Much Of A Good Thing", "Blue Moon" is co-produced with close friend and collaborator Ethan Gruska. In addition to vocals, NIKI contributed drums, guitar, and piano.The song also features heart-wrenching violin, viola, and string arrangement from legendary multi-instrumentalist Rob Moose - known for his work with  Bon Iver, The National, St. Vincent, and many more.

(“Blue Moon” single artwork — download HERE)

The accompanying music video directed by Ivana Bobic combines the moody undertones of NIKI’s lyrics with a scene reminiscent of the flying house in The Wizard Of Oz. While writing the song, NIKI held The Wizard of Oz in mind when imagining "the cruelest cyclone" throwing the circumstances around the relationship into chaos.
 
NIKI also recently performed the album's lead single “Too Much of a Good Thing” on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Watch the video HERE.
 
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO “BLUE MOON”
WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO HERE
CLICK HERE TO PRE-SAVE/PRE-ORDER BUZZ
 
In celebration of the forthcoming album, NIKI will embark on her biggest tour to date spanning 41 markets in North America, Europe, the UK, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. A full list of tour dates and tickets are available HERE.

(press photo, credit: Annie Lai; courtesy of NIKI/88rising — download HERE)

What eventually became Buzz, the third studio album by singer-songwriter and globally-renowned star NIKI, started with an urgent quake from the innermost core of her being. What surfaced in its wake was a collection of warm, stirring folk-rock songs, which crackle and flare like a bonfire between close confidantes. “I went through an identity crisis,” says the 25-year-old of Buzz. “It took a lot of trial and error, and I just stumbled upon pieces of myself along the way. I named it Buzzbecause it feels like I'm on the precipice of something about to happen.”
 
For NIKI, things have been happening progressively since she was a high schooler in Jakarta, Indonesia. As a student at an international academy, she cut her teeth scribbling lovesick poems in English class and performed acoustic guitar covers of American pop songs on YouTube. With a six-string in hand, and her family and classmates cheering her on from the audience, Nicole Zefanya then staked her claim to global stardom as NIKI.
 
And claim it she has - with over three billion streams worldwide, sold out shows on multiple continents, massive sets at festivals across the globe, front row seats at Paris Fashion Week, four songs on a Marvel film’s soundtrack, and some of the most phenomenal, confessional songs being released in 2024, NIKI has already established a veteran’s resume before the age of 25.
 
On Buzz, her songwriting remains as intimate as ever. In her initial sketches of songs for Buzz, NIKI took cues from other lane-paving women with confessional, honest lyricism soundtracked by guitars.  “Joni Mitchell is my songwriting north star,” she says — and uncompromising feminist luminaries like Stevie Nicks, Carly Simon and Liz Phair. To match the wandering spirit of Buzz, NIKI cultivated her own elastic approach to guitar.
 
To further harness this creative and personal sea change, NIKI began enlisting producers who had worked with her favorite contemporary singer-songwriters. She tapped Tyler Chester, who’d captured tracks with Madison Cunningham and Sara Bareilles; she also recruited Ethan Gruska, who counts Fiona Apple and Phoebe Bridgers as collaborators.

Buzz reverberates with the hard-earned wisdom of a young woman who charges dauntlessly towards her dreams — but can still spare a laugh if she stumbles

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Source: blackstar