NOBITA embraces kundiman sensibilities on tender ballad “Di Na Mag-iisa”

Now officially signed to Sony Music Philippines, the IKAW LANG hitmakers are ready to leave a lasting mark in the industry

NOBITA’s rapid rise is no longer a mystery to music fans who have been familiar with their poignant song “Ikaw Lang,” which currently ranks as the third most streamed single on Spotify Philippines as of today. In less than two years, the pop-rock outfit has built an impressive portfolio by releasing songs that capture the beating heart of the young generation, and bringing light, love, and inspiration to as many people as possible. 

The five-piece hitmakers have indeed come a long way from their humble beginnings as semi-finalists of the prestigious battle of the bands, Muziklaban. Thanks to the overwhelming success of “Ikaw Lang,” which has amassed over 40 million streams on all digital music platforms combined, NOBITA is putting their own spin to the school of ‘hugot’ pop songwriting with their trademark tenderness and inevitable warmth.

Sony Music Philippines Launches New Christian label ‘WATERWALK RECORDS’

Local Christian label launches with 12 new tracks across a variety of genres

Sony Music Philippines today announced the launch of WATERWALK RECORDS, a music label focused on bringing fresh Christian music to a new, streaming generation. The label will feature faith-based entertainment artists from across the length and breadth of the country, who represent the best of Christian music combined with their own unique styles.

“In the Philippines, Christian music emerges from daily life and is a reflection of the country’s rich culture,” said Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Sony Music Philippines. “Pop music inspired by Christian melodies has arguably created some of the most interesting music in recent years. It’s a diverse genre full of talented artists who use faith as a regular way of connecting with people. WATERWALK RECORDS has huge opportunities to grow as we work with talented artists such as Morissette, Gloryfall and Hazel Faith and others to bring their music to fans all across Asia”.

of Mercury navigates new phase in music journey with two-track release, CHANGIN’ vol. 1

of Mercury, formerly known as Nathan & Mercury, marks a new chapter in their music journey with the release of their two-track volume, CHANGIN’ Vol. 1—out today via Sony Music Philippines.

The dual release, which features the songs “I’M FINE” and “HEAVEN ON EARTH,” finds the band pushing their sound to an unexpected direction and displaying remarkable consistency in terms of musicality and songwriting. “Think of this release as a re-introduction to us,” of Mercury explains. “This release is a statement from us that we’re growing, we’re changing: a foretaste of what the album is going to be.”

Nobody’s Home hits the road in the music video of Ely Buendia-produced “Cigarette Daydreams”

The Filipino alt-rock trio reimagines Cage The Elephant’s chart-topping 2014 hit

Filipino alternative rock trio Nobody’s Home has released the official music video of their new single “Cigarette Daydreams”—a cover of Cage The Elephant’s chart-topping hit in 2014.

Directed by Ysa Aranda of Swimming Pictures, the clip features the promising trio on a random road trip, performing in front of a warehouse and running away from reality “to find peace of mind,” as the lyrics suggest.

As for the concept behind the music video, Aranda shares that it’s derived from her own personal experience, particularly the feeling of comfort that driving brings. “I had to go for a drive and dream scenarios that would resonate to the song itself. Aside from the lyrics of the song, driving has helped me cope specially in these trying times, hence the driving scenes present in the MV.”

Peaceful Gemini embraces Filipina identity and power on “Mariposa” music video

Acclaimed rapper-songwriter Peaceful Gemini honors the importance of Filipina identity on the music video of “Mariposa,” her first official single under Sony Music Philippines. 

Directed by young filmmaker Josh Cesario, the visual narrative brings to life the shared historical and socially contingent relationship between women and nature. 

Centered on the themes of sisterhood, women empowerment, feminine intimacy, and rituals, the “Mariposa” music video finds both Peaceful Gemini and fellow rapper DB tha Girl embracing the tropical island vibes with an anthem that carves out a space for women of color to move past patriarchal pressures and embrace their innate power. 

LOIR takes listeners on a fun, cozy ride with debut single “Sakay”

Filipina R&B artist LOIR invites listeners to a joyful sonic ride with her debut solo single “Sakay,” released under Sony Music Philippines.

Brimming with luscious beats and deep, laid-back grooves, the exciting newcomer’s latest song touches on the playful, romantic side of getting to know someone during a road trip in the countryside.

For her part, LOIR channels the warmth that comes with the thrilling stages of infatuation, providing soulful, understated vocals that aim for resonance rather than stylistic venture. “I’ve always been particular in capturing the essence of the material by prioritizing the message first before taking the delivery and aesthetic appeal into consideration,” LOIR explains in a statement. “Most of my songs are confessional in nature, so I make sure to sing from the heart and interpret the message clearly, but without sacrificing my own music style.” 

Filipino hip-hop group Shockra returns with heist-themed video for new song “Operation 10-90”

After taking hiatus to focus on their booming individual careers, Filipino hip-hop supergroup Shockra returns with an epic banger inspired by the recent resurgence of heist-themed films.

Member rappers Abaddon, Crazymix, Flict-G, Tuglaks, Kial, Numerhus, Smugglaz, and Inozent One hop on a mythical beast of a track called “Operation 10-90,” which effortlessly blends their collective music influences with hard-hitting beats from Jan-C and Tha Black G. 

“It took us two years to find the perfect beat for our comeback single,” Flict-G shares in a statement. “After finally deciding on the overall direction for this particular song, we decided to discuss and go ahead with our plan. We’re inspired by ‘90s action films, and somehow, we wanted to incorporate that vibe in our brand of provocative hip-hop sound.”

We Got releases comically bizarre music video of “Panahon”

Eight-piece reggae collective We Got has released the official music video of their new single “Panahon.”

Directed by Shai Advincula, the story takes place in the time of pandemic, where a woman in isolation found unexpected companionship in the unlikeliest of circumstances. 

According to Advincula, the concept behind the music video revolves around the idea of isolation and the crazy things that we do to cope with the loneliness that comes with it. She explains, “Over the past year, our lives have shifted by being stuck at home most of the time. There are a lot of things that we’re missing from our pre-pandemic life, one of which is the affection we get from a companion. But how do we cater to our need for affection in a socially distanced world? The music video shows a bizarre but refreshing take on coping.”

Barbie Almalbis shares her challenging but colorful adult life on new album, Scenes From Inside

Acclaimed Filipino artist Barbie Almalbis celebrates her 25th year in the music business with the release of her fourth studio album, Scenes From Inside—out today on all digital music platforms via 12 Stone Records and distributed by Sony Music Philippines.

Derived from her experiences as a musician, a mom, a friend, a wife, and a pet lover during the time of quarantine, the 9-track concept album marks a new chapter in Almalbis’ challenging but colorful adult life. 

According to the award-winning multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter, the process of making an album can be tedious at times, but for Scenes From Inside, Almalbis was given a chance to record the album at a more relaxed pace, in her most convenient time. “I’m kind of used to recording at home and working virtually with producers, engineers, and my band, just sending files to each other back and forth,” the Dahilan singer admits. “I’m grateful for all the new tools that we have now. It has made collaboration and communication much more doable.”

Bianca waxes poetic on memory and longing with debut single “Tenth of July”

After racking up more than 2.5 million steams on Spotify with her heartfelt reimagining of an alt-rock classic, rising singer-songwriter Bianca fulfills the promise of her music journey with the release of her proper debut single under Sony Music Philippines.

Written by Bianca herself, “Tenth of July” delivers emotional resonance note per note, while retaining the spare, soothing vocal quality that listeners have grown to love from her. Seizing the moment with bedroom intimacy and captivating folk-pop detail, the track speaks fondly about memory and longing, and the beauty of remembering—as if it were words to live by.

Zelijah maps creative journey with new EP, Press F To Drop Out

Award-winning rapper, songwriter and producer Zelijah has finally dropped his long-awaited EP, Press F To Drop Out, a collaboration with rising rapper Ellis G.

The 6-track release navigates a story of two college dropouts pursuing their passion in music and arts, while facing the challenges of juggling adult responsibilities and landing a lucrative career out of their chosen paths. Lyrically, it’s a self-assured work that thwarts expectations, which allows Zelijah and Ellis G to break out of their mold and embrace vulnerability.

On a musical standpoint, Press F To Drop Out is an innovative piece of work that explores music beyond the fringes and outside of the two artists’ comfort zone. “We made it happen by incorporating unusual sounds and instruments, as well as trying new genres we wouldn’t usually dive into,” Zelijah points out. “The ending result is a colorful EP that caters to every emotion.”

Two puppies star in the rom-com music video of Sponge Cola’s “Labis-labis”

Two puppies fall in love in the most adorable, unexpected ways on the music video of Sponge Cola’s “Labis-labis”—out now on YouTube. Showcasing unadulterated romance from the perspective of pets, the visual narrative steps into the world of meet-cute and courtship between two-year-old poodle, Alex and six-year-old mixed breed aspin, Jamie. 

According to guitarist Armo Armovit, the romantic comedy-inspired story pays tribute to the unconditional loyalty and friendship that their pets have given them through the years. “We all have pets and love them very dearly, and this is our way of saying thanks.” Vocalist and guitarist Yael Yuzon shares the same sentiment, honoring the dogs that have been with them through thick and thin. “My dogs have been taking care of me. It makes sense to pay tribute to Mini Me and Finny Finn Finn.”

Ace Banzuelo conquers the insurmountable with trap-infused pop single “Mayari”

Manila-based singer-songwriter/producer Ace Banzuelo has captivated music listeners from all over the world with his introspective fusion of electronic, hip-hop, indie, and pop music. His earlier singles “Himala” and “Malayo,” both released in 2020, have amassed a combined 4 million streams on Spotify alone, making him one of the most exciting new solo acts in recent memory.

To add up to his roster of achievements, Ace Banzuelo was also handpicked as part of Spotify Radar’s global emerging artist program for a second year in a row—an impressive feat that allows his music to reach more people outside of the country. “I can't deny the amazing feeling I get when I heard about this,” the 20-year-old artist said. “I know this is just the beginning for me as a young musician, but I truly value everyone who supports the music and the Asian scene. With this recognition, I stay committed to my dreams and improving my craft.”

Rapper/producer Zelijah dives deep into teenage nostalgia on “17”

Zelijah takes a trip down memory lane on his new song “17,” out today via Sony Music Philippines.

Trading verses with fellow hip-hop artist Ellis G on bossa-infused, lo-fi beats and stripped-down guitars, the Filipino rapper/producer strikes a balance between honing a music palette that distills the algorithm-driven sounds of today and approaching the intersection of various music styles with a pop flair.

According to Zelijah, “17” was supposed to be a sad little tune about cherishing the best years of our lives in a bubble, tucked away from the hassles of adult responsibilities. “But the vibe it gave us when we were working on the song was just purely nostalgic so we thought of writing the lyrics about the 2012 and 2017 era where both of us were 17 years old,” the multi-talented artist admits in a statement. “Personally, this age bracket is where we worry less about the world and only think about ourselves and all the mundane things— free from our life problems.”

Viral Rico Blanco TikTok gets reimagined by producer/singer-songwriter raven

The earworm of a track also features verses from new artists Naila and somere.

Rising producer/singer-songwriter raven teams up with indie pop artists Naila and somere on the new single “S.U.K.I.”—released today via Sony Music Philippines.

The lo-fi jam, which was produced by raven and Rico Blanco, takes into account the pain and longing of someone who gave his all, but failed miserably to mend what’s left of the romantic relationship. Collaborators Naila and somere, who also provided their lilting vocals to the insanely catchy bop, are also credited as songwriters for this special project featuring different generations of musicians.

Sponge Cola puts a refreshing spin on romance with new song “Labis-labis”

Aside from churning out modern rock classics that carve a special place in our collective consciousness, Sponge Cola has always been adept in capturing the divine feeling of romantic high, the cautionary tale that comes after, and the journey caught in between the respective timelines. 

The “Siguro Nga” hitmakers have mastered the art of helming the soundtrack of our lives with universal appeal, and this time, they are putting a uniquely captivating but relatable spin on the ‘love song’ format with the release of their new single “Labis-labis” via Sony Music Philippines.

SB19 stakes its claim to global domination with larger-than-life single “What?”

After exciting the public with impressive teasers that raised the bar to global standards, SB19 finally unravels a new music era that not only elevates their sense of creative aptitude and sonic ambition, but also uncovers their range and discipline as thespians of their own craft. 

Released today via Sony Music Philippines, their new single “What?” stakes its claim to global domination with a contagiously massive sound that’s larger and louder than life. Veering away from the glossy, dance-pop tunes and anthemic ballads of Get In The Zone, SB19 are pushing the envelope production and songwriting-wise on their latest track, as they command supremacy of P-Pop’s explosion in the global market without resorting to formulaic tricks and pandering to trends. 

We Got tackles romantic relationships gone astray on reggae tune “LDR”

Eight-piece reggae outfit We Got has finally dropped their new single just in time for summer.

Released under Sony Music Philippines, “LDR” is an easygoing tropical tune that shows how cruel a long-distance affair could be most of the time. 

Punctuated by offbeat rhythms, syncopated bass lines, and punchy horns, the song cuts through the emotional core with its realistic take on relationships gone astray.

In a collective statement, We Got shares how “LDR” managed to tackle themes that center on trust, temptation, and eventually, lost love. “We have observed that this situation keeps happening over and over. We made this song not to raise more hurt feelings, but to help them realize that there’s more to life than dwelling on lost relationships.”

Raven turns romantic confession into pop-rap hybrid on “Paraluman”

Inspired by his observations on life and its parallel sources from film, art, literature, and pop culture, Raven makes genre-bending jams that resonate on a universal level. Aside from writing and performing his own songs, the 21-year-old singer-songwriter also dabbles into the production side of music-making, often blurring the lines of bedroom pop, lo-fi rap, indie folk, and chill music to create boundless singularity that appeals to a young generation of listeners. 

SB19’s Justin De Dios stars as Alex Bruce’s love interest in “Yakap” music video

SB19 fans (or A’TIN) are in for a treat as their very own Justin De Dios makes a surprise cameo in the music video of Alex Bruce’s endearing bop “Yakap”—released on February 5 (Friday) on video-sharing platform, YouTube.

Justin De Dios portrays Alex Bruce’s love interest in this visual spectacle filled with incredibly surreal and romantic scenes. “It's a fun and creative concept,” De Dios said. “I really like the fact that the MV showcases both the ‘maangas’ and cute sides of Alex.”