VerJube Photographics invites you to experience the live music scene with your favorite artists as the website owner and music photographer Oliver Calingo and Jovelyn Bajo explore and give you facts on the current thriving state of the local music industry. They are Manila-based professional graphic/layout artists and certified music lovers.
Events are back in a big way. Many are lining up for an immersive live experience with a swirling evolution of iconic imagery, like what the #UMusicFanVerse2022 has recently brought us. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience engaging fans in the world of their favorite international and local artists.
The UMusic FanVerse is a week-long fandom gathering from October 17-23 at The Podium Hall Level 6, the biggest superfan-con and all-in-one music festival for Pinoy music fans.
It highlights life-sized experiential booths and awesome merch with over 50 artists' performances including Morisette, Darren, Blaster, December Avenue, Juan Karlos, Zild, Zack Tabudlo, UK’s Bonny Bailey, Irish singer Dermott Kennedy, Blaster Silonga, Zild, Singaporean singer-songwriter Lullaboy, Malaysian rapper Yonnyboii, Indonesian Idol Tiara Andini and a lot more.
Taking advantage of how fans are open to a much wider range of experiences, UMusicPh has also put up a pocket meet & greets with artists and we were grateful to talk to Zack Tabudlo and Juan Karlos last Sunday. That night, Zack Tabudlo was awarded a Diamond Award for reaching over 1 Billion Global Streams on his debut album Episode.
Structured with creative minds, new tools, art, technology, and a contemporary setting, this newer and immersive live experience will reach the largest audience possible and spark the interest of the younger generations.
IN PHOTOS: We've invaded this much-awaited event during Supernova Sundays with the treats of top-tier performances from Elise Huang, Huh Smile, Gabriel, VVS Collective, Jano Ft. Gabrang, MC Einstein, Over October, Jazelle, Unit 406, Southernwade, CHNDTR, Travis Atreo, Hey June!, Dionella, Tiara Andini, Fern + Kindred, Maximillian, One Click Straight, Zild, Johnny Orlano + Zack, Shanti Dope, Juan Carlos, Hayd, December Avenue, Yungblud, and Zack Tabudlo + Yonniboii + Tiara.
Photos by Jude Ng & Mike Yap
Special thanks to MNL Online & UMusicPH for this opportunity.
Belle Mariano keeps her star shining brightly in debut album, ‘Daylight’ and upcoming concert
Fresh from the massive success of the breakout series “He’s Into Her” and Star Cinema’s “Love is Color Blind”, the first film together of Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano, popularly known as “DonBelle”—the new generation phenomenal loveteam; Belle Mariano keeps her winning streak as she breaks into the music scene officially through the launch of her debut album entitled “Daylight”.
From her first hit single “Sigurado”, which is part of the soundtrack of He’s Into Her, people have discovered the sweet, dreamy vocals of the fast-rising young star, and along with it comes the clamor for more songs from Belle. And for the fans, it’s wish granted with the release of Daylight earlier this December.
And shortly after the launch of the dreamy music video of “Tanging Dahilan” which has garnered over 265,000 views since its premiere this month and debuted at no. 11 on YouTube Trending for Music,
Belle in another career milestone is the latest Filipino to be featured on Times Square’s billboard as the cover of Spotify’s Global Equal playlist.
She and Donny are also set to reprise their roles in the upcoming He’s Into Her season 2 next year while Love is Color Blind is still streaming via KTX.ph.
The young star is also taking her album Daylight to the big stage as she prepares to ring in the new year with her first major digital solo concert on January 29th. Tickets are now available through KTX.ph.
Behold a new songstress
In the seven-track album, Belle sets the tone of her fairytale-like brand of music with Sigurado (composed by Trisha Denise) followed by the reassuring sweet song With You (composed by Majarlica), the cozy Rainy Days (composed by Sab), the heartfelt Tanging Dahilan (composed by Gab Tagadtad), the inspirational For Your Eyes Only (composed by Trisha Denise), the wistful and poignant Nights of December (composed by Alexis Tagadtad), and the rousing final track Rise (composed by Jayda).
The track For Your Eyes Only also gets a highlight as it’s featured as part of the soundtrack of Love is Color Blind. It’s the perfect anthem for the movie’s story as it speaks about how a person does the things he/she does for that special someone. Just the same as everything that Cara (Belle Mariano) does is out of her love for Ino (Donny Pangilinan).
Rise is a powerful song that encourages and inspires everyone to rise above life’s struggles and challenges. The guitar and drums drive the chorus to give off such a rousing sound that seems to awaken that persevering nature in anyone who listens to the song.
While all the songs in Daylight speak about love and happiness, Nights of December is an exception as it talks about a love that wasn’t meant to be and learning to move on from it as she fondly recalls those lovely nights of December.
Daylight comes out as delightful new music, with all tracks making a distinctively impressive impact and a dreamy touch, but particular standouts from the album are the mesmerizing melodies and lyrics of Tanging Dahilan, With You, For Your Eyes Only, and Nights of December.
Belle has indeed come a long way—starting out as a child star, her blooming acting career, and now as a singer. We can’t wait to see more of what’s up her sleeve in the coming years.
Head over to Spotify, ABS-CBN Star Music YouTube, and other digital music platforms to listen to Belle’s breezy, light, and relatable first album.
I’ve been listening to Zack Tabudlo’s music since “Binibini” was launched through Spotify and is still unpopular. Pero “Pano” (taken from his new song) ko nga ba naging paborito si Zack Tabudlo? It’s just that his music is an all-time favorite during work shifts in the time of pandemic and it turns out that Zack is one of the top artists I’ve been listening to in the annual Spotify Wrapped campaign. I always find myself watching his music videos in between Netflix movies too.
It’s been a stellar year for singer-songwriter Zack Tabudlo—ranking the platform’s most-streamed songs in the country for the song “Binibini,” going full circle in his debut album launch entitled “Episode,” and record-breaking achievements including the second most-streamed OPM song for “Nangangamba.”
Released under Island Records Philippines and MCA Music Inc, Episode is a comic book-inspired record inclusive of Zack Tabudlo’s own colorful cinematic universe. There are 14 songs based on his experiences, emotions, and stories put together from his journey and bringing it to life in the most eye-popping visuals and awesome music videos.
Now that vaccines for Covid-19 are rolled out across the country, people are gradually coming out of their homes and have started to enjoy the outdoors again. Just in time for Zack Tabudlo’s red carpet event—Episode is formally introduced to the public and launched 4 more additional music videos from this album.
He has also released Pano, a relatable song about showing vulnerability, commitment, and genuine love to a person. From his first viral song to the latest one, surely there’s more to expect from Zack in the coming days as he’s fast becoming one of the most sought-after artists in the Pinoy music scene.
As I continue to adore his music, I’m one of those people asking how this guy is owning these feels, composing the songs, and immortalizing them wholeheartedly. While best known for alt-pop RnB, but did you know that this guy has a stunning falsetto voice? I love him belting out those high notes, it makes me want to sing his songs more and more.
Every song is his own and Zack Tabudlo has grown immensely from The Voice Kids Philippines (2014)—transcending to an extremely passionate music artist and making songs to soundtrack the lives of the brokenhearted. I am looking forward to watching him in the live concert scene soon.
Meanwhile, Jude Ng, a photographer friend of mine was there at the event to personally witness the catchy, soulful vibe of Zack Tabudlo. We gushed about it over chat, with me clearly letting him know how envious I am of him meeting Zack. I then asked him about his experience attending a music event again in over a year or so. As for his impression of the singer-songwriter, he adds, “He is a very humble and very nice guy.”
Photos in this post are all his work. As for me, living the work-from-home scenes nowadays is my new normal which won’t be bringing me to music events like the old days. Nevertheless, I’m just happy that my friend is shooting events again. Palakpak brigade na lang ako sa susunod.
Watch out for the upcoming release of the “Give Me Your Forever” music video on December 27! Sharing with you my top 5 music videos from the album Episode below.
Episode 2: Para Sa Mga Ex (feat. James Reid)
Episode 4: Hindi KO Kaya (feat. Paulo Avelino & Charlie Dizon
Episode 5: Calm Me Down
Episode 8: Habang Buhay
Episode 10: Simula Palang Nung Una (feat. Empoy & Albert Nicholas)
Third iQiyi Filipino Original ‘Lyric and Beat’ is a musical that pays tribute to Jonathan Manalo’s music
The tandem of Andrea Brillantes and Seth Fedelin or SethDrea as fans fondly call them—continues their streak as they roll into the new year.
For the second time, SethDrea will top bill another series for iQiyi titled “Lyric and Beat,” the third iQiyi Filipino Original along with other great young talents such as Darren Espanto, Sheena Belarmino, AC Bonifacio, Jeremy Glinoga, and Angela Ken.
Veteran actresses and musicians, namely Joanna Ampil, Agot Isidro, and Nyoy Volante also join the young stars.
A romantic musical, the much-anticipated series is inspired by and features music by Jonathan Manalo, who is known to many as the creative director of ABS-CBN Music who has penned so many hits for the country’s greatest musical; talents.
The teaser was revealed during the ABS-CBN-iQiyi partnership launch press conference last month.
20 years and beyond of Jonathan Manalo’s music
The story tells the journey of both the brightest and the misfit students of the Philippine National Conservatory of Music in which they must compete and excel with their natural talents to earn their rightful place of representing the school in the esteemed National Music Competition.
The series, other than a groundbreaking milestone between two content giants in Asia, is also a landmark achievement making Filipino talent and original content easily accessible globally.
Another big bonus for the musical is how it pays homage to the wonderful 20 years of music by songwriter, composer, arranger, and record producer Jonathan Manalo.
A recipient of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)/Gawad Sudi 2020 - National Music Award for outstanding musical achievement, Manalo started out as an aspiring songwriter who built his way into the industry with his innate talent.
Before becoming a hitmaker and ABS-CBN Music’s creative director, Manalo won the 2001 Himig Handog SongFest and the 2003 MetroPop.
Article by Jovelyn Javier | December 22, 2021
Gigi De Lana takes the lead and makes magic with Gerald Anderson in ‘Hello, Heart’
Singing sensation Gigi De Lana is all set to make her acting debut in the Filipino iQiyi original series, “Hello, Heart” as she is paired with one of the country’s premier leading man, Gerald Anderson—in a romantic-comedy that follows the story of Heart, a hardworking woman with a good heart but no luck and Saul, a no-nonsense gentleman with a lost soul.
De Lana, known to many as a grand finalist in “It’s Showtime’s Tawag ng Tanghalan” first season in 2016 has come a long way.
After becoming viral with her cover of the Roselle Nava original, “Bakit Nga Ba Mahal Kita,” the singer has since released her debut single “Sakalam” that instantly shot to the top spot of Spotify Philippines Fresh Finds Playlist, now a PLDT brand ambassador, a regular of ASAP Natin ‘To, and performing at the Filipino music festival, 1MXDubai recently.
In her first starring role, the singer admits feeling nervous and pressured acting opposite Anderson, an industry veteran but is grateful for the blessing and opportunity. She also sings the Roselle Nava hit as the series’ official theme song.
Gerald, coming from the success of his two primetime series, “A Soldier’s Heart” and “Init sa Magdamag” and among Google Ph’s most searched personalities—only has good words for his leading lady saying, “ABS-CBN and her fans will be proud of her.”
Despite working with a new actress, he shares his working experience with her has been breezy. “Kailangan comfortable siya and then let the rest happen. Nag-enjoy lang kami and we feel like we made magic.”
Gigi will also headline her first digital concert: Gigi De Lana: Holiday Vibes today, December 11, 8pm with YouTube Music Night’s third session with guest Jason Dy. Hosted by Samm Alvero and Edward Barber, it will stream for free on the following YouTube channels: Star Music, MYX, MOR, and One Music Ph.
Directed by Raz Dela Torre, the web series also stars Alyssa Muhlach and Ms. Celeste Legaspi in a special appearance.
Reserve the series now as Hello, Heart premieres on December 15, 8pm with new episodes released weekly via the iQiyi app or www.iQ.comworldwide.
Article by Jovelyn Javier | December 11, 2021
Content giants ABS-CBN and iQiyi join forces for the very first Filipino iQiyi originals
“Over the past year, we’ve seen a very positive trend of international viewers consuming more Asian content,” says Kuek Yu-Chuang, iQiyi’s vice president of International Business during the Asian Contents and Film Market (ACFM) held last October in Busan, South Korea in a report by Screen Daily.
The global streaming platform announced a batch of exciting original Southeast Asian content lined-up including a major partnership with ABS-CBN for the production of the three very first Filipino iQiyi original series: romantic-comedy-dramas “Saying Goodbye” and “Hello, Heart” and musical series “Lyric and Beat.”
Made exclusively for the global audience of iQiyi, the multi-content collaboration also serves as the very first local originals in Southeast Asia by iQiyi.
It’s another groundbreaking moment for ABS-CBN as it propels original Filipino stories and unique Filipino talent to the global podium through iQiyi, one of the largest online video platforms in the world.
“This partnership reflects both iQiyi and ABS-CBN’s shared vision in showcasing Filipino talent and bringing it to the global stage. What the C- and K-dramas have taught us is that there is a global hunger to see more of that Asian talent, beauty and culture.
And with this world-class, multi-title partnership with ABS-CBN, iQiyi is proud to present amazing productions from the Philippines to audiences across iQiyi's 191 territories worldwide. There is a place for us in the global spotlight and it's time for the Philippines to shine,”says Sherwin Dela Cruz, iQiyi Philippines country manager during the virtual press conference last month.
SethDrea in their most mature roles topped iQiyi’s trending shows
Fresh from the success of their primetime inspirational series “Huwag Kang Mangamba,” the tandem of Brillantes and Fedelin—who first worked together in “Kadenang Ginto” (2018-2020)—take the notch further as their first web series Saying Goodbye topped the trending iQiyi shows upon its premiere last Saturday.
As Elisse and Ricky, Saying Goodbye is about an improbable pair who find connection with each other through their mutual love of Yeng Constantino’s music. This enduring friendship takes them to many of life’s adventures, even in the most difficult—Ricky’s heart condition and the possibility of saying goodbye.
The series is written and directed by Dolly Dulu and features the tracks “If We Fall In Love” by Angela Ken and “Saying Goodbye” by Sab. It also launches the pairing of PBB Connect housemates, Kobie Brown and Andi Abaya.
Watch the first episode of Saying Goodbye now on the iQiyi app or www.iQ.com to catch up on the newest episode.
Article by Jovelyn Javier | December 11, 2021
A Whole New Level with Sahara, Tom Morello, and Anne Marie
Where are we in the world? Here’s getting back to writing and sharing an optimistic view of overcoming various hindrances in life and holding back in this time of pandemic. We’re fortunate enough to be back and now ready to give out some music news and at the same time staying healthy despite the impacts of Covid-19. We’re grateful for this opportunity and still we continue to pray for everyone’s safety around the globe.
It seems very timely that we have received this request to feature these three artists namely American singer Sahara, Rock & Roll icon and two-time Grammy winner Tom Morello and English singer Anne Marie.
Sahara Revives Jaya’s hit single ‘Dahil Ba Sa Kanya’
Sahara, renowned locally as the American Anthem Diva and the official singer for minor league NASCAR events, is full of admiration for OPM artists like Jaya, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, Kyla, and Charice.
She has expressed her excitement in launching her solo career out of her lifelong love for OPM and Filipino culture.
"I want to be among the greatest singers in the world singing the most beautiful music in the world, for me that's the Philippines and OPM, of course. But even more so, It’s the quality of the vocalists and musicians. Even in Las Vegas, many of the best musicians are Filipinos and I’m blessed to be close to them and be able to work with them. I also consider Filipina vocalists to be some of the best in the world and I want to challenge myself and be among them."
Her cover of ‘Dahil Ba Sa Kanya’ officially marked her debut as a solo artist. It’s a phenomenal take on the Jaya hit original. Sahara’s unique, incredible delivery is soulful and resonates with many. You ache along with her voice as she delivers the lines “Dahil nga ba sa kanya / Nakalimutan mo aking sinta / Ang sabi mo noon hanggang wakas / Tayong dal'wa ay magsasama / Dahil nga ba sa kanya / Naririto ako't nag-iisa / Pag-ibig mo sa akin ba'y naglaho na.”
Sahara said learning ‘Dahil Ba Sa Kanya’ made her truly fall in love with OPM and Tagalog. "The language is such an integral part of the music. So much meaning and emotion in so few words. It’s truly beautiful."
Known as a world-class, classically trained singer, Sahara said singing Tagalog (OPM) songs are very challenging compared to other foreign (language) songs. "Definitely harder. There are several sounds that aren’t common in other languages. Especially the “ng” sound in words like 'tanging'".
And while she can belt out expertly in English, Spanish, French, Italian and German, Sahara loves Tagalog for the unique way it expresses emotions and meaning. "Why I love singing in Tagalog? It's the passion. So much passion. A single word can express so much joy or sorrow, and as an emotional artist it’s very fulfilling. To be honest, the passion in OPM is missing in so much of modern Western music. The world could learn something from OPM. I can’t imagine singing anything else."
For the meantime, Sahara is currently working on a soft album of original OPM with some of the best Filipino composers and arrangers.
For Sahara, she's just happy to have everyone supporting her music journey since the beginning.
"Salamat! Thank you! We have some fans who have been following for years even when we were only posting karaoke videos, and their support has meant everything. And then there were only a handful of people who heard me sing in Tagalog live for the first time, and it was their reaction that gave me the confidence and courage to record it. They changed my life. More so, we feel like the fans we have - and I hope my future fans - believe in the power of music. No matter what language or genre it is."
Sahara’s debut single ‘Dahil Ba Sa Kanya’ is now available on Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, and other digital streaming platforms worldwide.
Tom Morello releases new single ‘Driving to Texas’ featuring Phantogram
Tom Morello is widely known as a barrier-breaking guitarist who continues to push the limits and prove the transformative power of music. Throughout his remarkable career, Morello has collaborated with everyone from Wu Tang Clan to Johnny Cash.
On The Atlas Underground Fire, as he did in 2018’s The Atlas Underground, Morello took a path into new sonic territory with the project’s breadth of talented collaborators, thus transforming his sound. With his guitar leading the way, Morello continues to create powerful alloys of different genres.
“I’d worked with Josh from Phantogram on my first Atlas Underground album and I was thrilled when he and Sarah reached out about collaborating on this record. This song is creepy as hell - a dark journey, a struggle for a tortured soul. The guitar solo needed to feel like a vengeful angel who has come down to decide the fate of the protagonist. Will they descend into the abyss or will they find redemption?
‘Driving To Texas,’ really shows the breadth of the music you’ll hear on this record. Sarah has one of the most haunting and beautiful voices of anyone singing today and Josh’s production is stylistically so fresh and eerie,” said Tom Morello.
Morello, the co-founder of Rage Against The Machine, Audioslave, and Prophets of Rage will release this forthcoming album The Atlas Underground Fire on October 15 by Mom + Pop Music. The album’s first single was the classic rock AC/DC rock anthem “Highway to Hell” featuring Morello, Bruce Springsteen and Eddie Vedder which debuted at #1 on Classic Rock radio.
Featuring a jaw-dropping cast of collaborators including Bruce Springsteen, Eddie Vedder, Chris Stapleton, Mike Posner, Damian Marley, and more, Morello’s insane guitar playing will be on full display taking the instrument into the future and forging an alternative/rock/EDM masterpiece with all-time legends and cutting-edge firebrands.
Anne Marie drops brand new single ‘Kiss My (Uh Oh)’ with Little Mix
Anne-Marie has released her highly anticipated new album ‘Therapy,’ an inspiration from the girls’ joint love of the movie, Bridesmaids. The official video for ‘Kiss My (Uh Oh)’ was directed by Hannah Lux Davis, sees Anne-Marie in character as a bride-to-be who embarks on her hen-do overseas alongside her bridesmaids that include Little Mix’s Perrie, Leigh-Anne, and Jade. Brimming with laughter and chaos, the video trails the group of friends living life to the full, albeit without the pregnant Perrie and Leigh-Anne, who retire for the night before the real evening of partying begins for Anne-Marie, Jade and the rest of the crew.
A long-awaited collaboration that’s generated huge excitement amongst both Anne-Marie and Little Mix fanbases, ‘Kiss My (Uh Oh)’ has all the ingredients to become the break-up anthem of summer ’21.
Sampling Lumidee’s early 00’s R&B classic ‘Never Leave You (Uh Oh)’, the slick production and all-out, empowering track documents the liberating feeling that comes with walking away from a toxic relationship
It’s a narrative that has seen protagonist Anne-Marie earning huge success following the releases of ‘Ciao Adios’, ‘FRIENDS’ and ‘Alarm’. Anne-Marie co-wrote the track with Kamille (Little Mix, Headie One) and production from Lewis Thompson (David Guetta, Joel Corry) alongside Mojam (Summer Walker, Aitch).
With five UK Top 10 hits, five billion streams and a swarm of platinum-selling releases, Anne-Marie’s remarkable vocal range and every woman candour has made her one of the biggest artists on the planet. As she prepares to reach a whole new level with the release of her eagerly anticipated second album ‘Therapy,’ Anne-Marie celebrated its release by playing a global livestream show last August 7th.
Joined by her full live band, and set to feature dazzling visual production, the livestream will see Anne-Marie perform the entirety of her new album live and in-full for the first time, all delivered in stunning 4K resolution and Dolby Atmos sound via ON AIR’s brand-new, cutting-edge streaming platform.
“I cannot wait to a very special performance of my new album ‘Therapy’ for you all. I’ve missed performing so much and this is the closest thing we are going to get at the moment! So, I have to imagine you all in my mind and that you’re there with me, singing every lyric. We’re going to go on a rollercoaster rider of emotions, so don’t hold back! LET IT OUT!! Scream, shout, dance, cry and smile. I can’t wait.” says Anne-Marie.
Alanis Morissette Just Added Another Manila Show after a Soldout First Night
Music fans are in for a treat as seven-time GRAMMY winner Alanis Morissette returns for a two-night concert on April 6 & 7 at the Mall Of Asia Arena, celebrating 25 Years of Jagged Little Pill, her most iconic breakthrough album.
Ovation boss Renen de Guia said that the additional date, April 7, was due to public clamor after tickets to the April 6 date quickly sold out.
Alanis Morissette 2020 World Tour In Manila is presented by Ovation Productions in cooperation with TAP Go: Stream Sports Anywhere! Advance ticket sales for the MOA Arena concert is on Feb. 29, 2020, after the concert’s sponsor Globe Telecom holds its exclusive ticket sales for subscribers on Feb. 28, 2020.
Since 1995, Alanis Morissette has been one of the most influential singer-songwriter-musicians in contemporary music. Her deeply expressive music and performances have earned vast critical praise. Morissette’s 1995 debut, Jagged Little Pill, was followed by nine more eclectic and acclaimed albums.
She has contributed musically to theatrical releases and has acted on the big and small screen. Outside of entertainment, she is an avid supporter of female empowerment, as well as spiritual, psychological and physical wellness. In 2016, Alanis launched Conversation with Alanis Morissette, a monthly podcast that features conversations with a variety of revered authors, doctors, educators, and therapists, covering a wide range of psychosocial topics extending from spirituality to developmentalism to art. On December 5, 2019, Jagged Little Pill, The Musical, made its Broadway debut at the Broadhurst Theatre in New York City. Also in December 2019, Alanis released her newest song, Reasons I Drink. The track comes off Alanis’ highly anticipated ninth album, SUCH PRETTY FORKS IN THE ROAD, due out May 1st. For more information, see www.alanis.com.
Alanis Morissette’s hits include You Oughta Know, Hand In My Pocket, Ironic, You Learn, Head Over Feet, All I Really Want, Thank U, Mary Jane, Uninvited, Perfect, Forgiven, Right Through You, Wake Up, and more.
New Track "Pipiliin Pang Maghintay" by Noel Cabangon Gives Us All the Feels
Multi-platinum recording artist Noel Cabangon returns with brand new single "Pipiliin Pang Maghintay" that is sure to give all the feels. The poignant track is about a love that just won’t be denied despite the odds and serves as the singer/songwriter's latest original composition.
Inspired by beloved kundimans of yore, Cabangon’s new song promises to be a classic in the making with its soothing melody and universal theme of true love, one that sacrifices without counting the cost.
Pipiliin Pang Maghintay is now available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, and Amazon Music under Universal Records.
Imago Releases Unplugged Collection of All-Time Hits
OPM rock band Imago is back to give a new flavor to the hits of their past with the release of "Imago: Unplugged." Produced by Buddy Zabala, the EP is a collection of stripped-down versions of songs the band popularized over their storied career.
The EP features six tracks, including the hits "Sundo," "Akap," "Taralets," and one of their latest singles "Pag-ibig na Walang Balik," sung by the band's newest vocalist Kiara San Luis.
Talking more about the EP, the band says "A majority of the songs of Imago started with an acoustic guitar and we wanted to show these songs in that birthing state where it had shape and form already while being raw and bare."
On top of the "Unplugged" EP, the band is also busy creating new tracks to continue their evolution, including their latest single "Partida (featuring BenteDos)." This new track blends together San Luis' sweet vocals and a surprising hip-hop twist with featured artist BenteDos, exploring themes of the risk-taking involved when heading into a romantic relationship.
Imago: Unplugged - EP and Partida (feat. BenteDos) are now streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, and Amazon Music under Universal Records.
Boyce Avenue with December Avenue and I Belong To The Zoo in One Concert Together
The “Boyce” are coming back due to popular demand. Boyce Avenue, one of the biggest independent bands, returns to Manila for a one-night Valentine’s weekend concert on February 16th at the Araneta Coliseum.
This time, they will be joined by two of today’s most-streamed local artists in the Philippines – December Avenue and I Belong To The Zoo. Tickets go on-sale on Saturday, October 26 at 10AM via TicketNet.com.ph or call 8911-5555 for more information.
Boyce Avenue is a Florida-based band whose name is a combination of two streets they grew up on in Sarasota. The band is popular for its strong acoustic roots and consists of the three Manzano brothers - Alejandro (lead vocals, guitar, piano), Fabian (guitar, vocals) and Daniel (bass, percussion, vocals).
The band was formed in 2004 and in 2007 they began posting their videos on YouTube to great success. To date, they have over 4.8 Billion YouTube views and over 13.2 Million subscribers, making their channel one of the most popular in the world. The band frequently tours North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, the Middle East and visits new countries every year.
December Avenue is best known for their massive hits “Sa Ngalan Ng Pag-Ibig”, “Bulong”, “Huling Sandali”, “Dahan” and “Kung ‘Di Rin Lang Ikaw” which features Moira, who successfully toured with Boyce Avenue in 2018.
I Belong To The Zoo, a solo folk-acoustic artist, is popular for his chart-topping hits like “Sana”, “Balang Araw,” and “Patawad, Paalam”.
Catch Boyce Avenue with December Avenue and I Belong To The Zoo in this one of a kind concert experience performing your favorite love and hugot songs on the Valentine’s weekend. Presented by Wilbros Live.
Hannah Pangilinan Introduces Latest Single “Limits”
Hannah Pangilinan, a 19-year-old singer-songwriter, is now ready to make her own name in the music industry with the release of her newest single 'Limits.'
Known to many fans as "Hannah Kathleen," Hannah has shown her musicality through her popular YouTube channel, has since released the track "Nagbabakasakali" under Universal Records.
Her first original track "Limits" is an easy-listening tune that represents "attempts to paint a picture of what it looks like when the line between emotional support and emotional dependence isn’t drawn." Talking more about the track, Hannah says "it takes back the agency that was once lost by someone whose value and love was taken for granted."
Hannah, whose musical influences include Bruno Major, Daniel Caesar, Honne, Tom Misch, Raveena, and PREP, aims to release more original music soon.
Former Westlife member Brian McFadden Performs Solo in Manila & Cebu
Irish singer and songwriter Brian McFadden rose to fame as one of the original members of the Irish boy band WESTLIFE is coming to Manila and Cebu on the following dates:
> Nov 16 - Mediterranean Ballroom, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino
> Nov 17 - New Frontier Theatre, Araneta Center, Quezon City
Joining Brian as a very special guest both for Cebu and Manila, is our very own first-ever Idol Philippines champion, Ms. Zephanie Dimaranan.
Romantic Intimate Concert with Brian McFadden PH Tour: Playing our favorite songs from Westlife is presented by EKG Productions.
Ticket Prices:
Php 6,000 - Best seats with Meet & Greet and Individual Photo-op with Brian
Tickets available for Manila at www.ticketnet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets. For inquiries, call (02)911-5555 or (02)532-8883.Tickets available for Cebu at www.smtickets.com/events/view/8253 and SM Tickets Cinema outlets and Waterfront Cebu City Hotel Ticket Booth.EKG Productions hotlines: 0998 964 4585 (MANILA) and 0998 964 4589 (CEBU).
In June 1998, McFadden joined the Irish boy band WESTLIFE alongside Kian Egan, Markus Feehily, Nicky Byrne and Shane Filan. Together, they made chart-topping songs, “Swear It Again”, “If I Let You Go”, “Flying Without Wings”, “Seasons in the Sun”, “Fool Again”, “My Love”, “Uptown Girl”, “Queen of My Heart”, “World of Our Own”, “Unbreakable”, “Mandy”, and many more.
He also released his debut solo single “Real to Me”, which reached No. 1 in Ireland and the United Kingdom.
He was based in Australia for a while, where he found success not only as a singer-songwriter but also as a radio presenter. He was also a judge on the reality talent search, “Australia’s Got Talent.” He toured with Keith Duffy, member of Boyzone, as Boyzlife in 2016, 2017 and 2018.
Come and have a Romantic Intimate Concert with Brian as he plays our favorite songs from Westlife! It will surely be a great night singing his old and some new songs from Brian himself.
K-drama fans are on a roll! Korean actor and international model Jang Ki Yong is coming to Manila for the first time this November 17 Sunday at the Samsung Hall (SM Aura) as part of his 2019 JANG KI YONG 1ST FAN MEETING [FILMOGRAPHY] Tour.
Exciting on-site activities and up-close interactions await Jang Ki Yong’s fans in Manila as announced by the concert and live events promoter Wilbros Live.
Tickets to 2019 JANG KI YONG 1ST FAN MEETING [FILMOGRAPHY] IN MANILA are now on-sale via SMTickets.com and all SM Tickets outlets nationwide. Call SM Tickets at 470-2222 for more information.
Jang Ki Yong won the hearts of Filipino viewers with his supporting role in “Go Back Couple”, a hit Korean drama series that aired on Abs-Cbn last year. Having started his modeling career with Seoul Fashion Week in 2012, he made his acting debut two years later through the SBS drama "It's OK, It's Love."
After two years, he ventured into TV drama acting through the SBS series “It’s Okay, That’s Love." Jang Ki Yong won the Best Male Actor Award in the 37th MBC Acting Award Drama series for his MBC drama "Come and Hold Me." Early this year - in May 2019, Jang Ki Yong received the Best New Actor for TV at the prestigious 55th Baeksang Arts Awards. In addition to this, he was loved in tvN’s “WWW search word' and made his screen debut with the movie 'Bad Guys: The Movie.'
Boyz II Men Returns to an Intimate Concert in Manila
Four-time GRAMMY® Award-winning group Boyz II Men is heading back to Asia and performing in Manila, returning from a U.S. tour and residency in Las Vegas at The Mirage Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The group, consisting of founding members, Nathan Morris, Shawn Stockman, and Wanya Morris, will bring a lively show, including fan-favorite songs like “I’ll Make Love to You,” “Motownphilly,” “End of the Road and more,” along with new show elements on stage.
“We’re so excited to be going back to Manila and bringing the Boyz II Men show to the fans who always greet us with so much warmth and we look forward to showing them some of the new skills that we’re bringing to the stage.”
For their Manila concert, the legendary R&B trio will be performing on December 12 at Resort World Manila’s Newport Performing Arts Theater. Tickets are now available via www.ovation.ph, www.ticketworld.com.ph & all TicketWorld outlets. For inquiries, call (02)891-9999 or (02)532-8883.
Boyz II Men holds the distinction of being the most commercially successful R&B group of all time with three No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, selling over 64 million albums worldwide. They had engraved three of the longest-running No. 1 pop singles in history -- “End of the Road,” spending thirteen full weeks on top of the Billboard Hot 100, which historically concluded the decades-old record held by Elvis Presley, subsequently followed by I’ll Make Love To You with a 14-week reign.
The third No. 1 is “One Sweet Day” with Mariah Carey which ruled the Billboard chart for a total of sixteen weeks, an all-time record they had held until August of this year. In September 2019, Boyz II Men commemorate the 25th year anniversary of the record that cemented their status as music royalty, the 12x platinum, triple Grammy Award-winning album II.
Although the Boyz have consistently toured across the United States and around the globe, performing a mix of their latest tracks and treasured classics, venues continue to sell out to the rim. The reason is abundantly clear – for the past two decades, Boyz II Men have given fans a rich catalog of hits filled with soothing harmonies and unparalleled vocal excellence. More accomplishments lead the iconic a capella group to pop culture ubiquity, along with 3 Billboard Music Awards, 9 American Music Awards, 9 Soul Train Awards, a 2011 MOBO Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music, and in 2012, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Boyz II Men’s other chart-topping hits are “On Bended Knee,” “Water Runs Dry,” “A Song For Mama,” and “4 Seasons of Loneliness,” among others.
Boyz II Men Live in Manila 2019 is presented by Ovation Productions on its 40th Year Promoting the Biggest Names in Live Entertainment, in cooperation with TAP Edge: The Home of Live Action Sports.
Fern. Drops a SWEET Collaboration with Kiana Valenciano
A sweet new collaboration has been released as two of OPM's hottest young artists come together for the first time in Fern.'s latest track SWEET (with Kiana Valenciano).
The track explores the physical manifestation of love - showing signs of maturity from the young singer-songwriter-producer. Joining him is Kiana Valenciano, who lends her sweet vocals to add even more flavor to the mix. Talking about the collaboration, Fern. says "working with Kiana was a blast, with her being such a talented artist - she fit my vision for the song perfectly."
SWEET has been released ahead of Fern.'s upcoming second EP "LOVELESS," which is set to bring forth more of Fern.'s personal and musical growth. The track has been included in multiple playlists across Spotify in Asia (Singapore. Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand). The song is now available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, and Amazon Music under Universal Records.
Chart-topping pop R&B artist Austin Mahone is set to return to Manila live on October 22, 2019 at the New Frontier Theater. The much anticipated one-night-only show in the Philippines follows a series of sold-out concerts in Madrid, Osaka, Yokohama, Guangzhou, and Shanghai.
Austin Mahone Live in Manila 2019 is presented by Ovation Productions on its 40th Year Promoting the Biggest Names in Live Entertainment, in cooperation with TAP Edge: The Home of Live Action Sports. Ticket prices are P4,760/ 3,700/ 2,640 /1,590 available via www.ticketnet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets. For inquiries, call (02)911-5555 or (02)532-8883.
In 2011, Mahone started posting YouTube videos of himself performing song covers by artists such as Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars, and Jason Mraz. The viral content created an impact significant enough to land him a high-profile deal with Cash Money Records, the label home of Drake and Lil Wayne. Mahone subsequently released his first single 11:11, followed by Say Somethin’ and Say You're Just A Friend.
This unblemished hit streak leads him to debut on the road as the opening act for Taylor Swift's Red Tour and headline a series of major shows for MTV's Artist To Watch. The Secret, Mahone’s first EP, soared to No. 5 on the Billboard 200, along with crowd favorites All I Ever Need and Mmm Yeah featuring Pitbull which reached No. 2 on the iTunes Chart and Top 20 on the Billboard Pop Songs Chart.
His immediate rise to pop stardom earned Austin a number of accolades, including an MTV Video Music Award, MTV Europe Music Award, iHeartRadio Music Award, Radio Disney Music Award, Teen Choice Award, and Young Hollywood Award. As of today, he has amassed a solid online following over 30 million followers strong across all social media platforms.
Then came 2016 when the young vocalist’s solo music took a sudden turn from groovy teen pop towards romantic, 90’s pop-infused R&B, seeing Austin in a recent collaboration with Grammy-nominated musicians, namely Hardwell, Flo Rida, Chris Brown, 2 Chainz, and Pitbull. Austin Mahone is all grown up, and so is the loyal fan base he has built over the years. There are more complex stories to be told, thus supplying his reinvention era with boundless sonic potential.
Earlier this year, the 23-year-old singer-songwriter introduced this brand-new sound with the retro track Why Don’t We penned by Charlie Puth. The instant bop easily accumulated more than 7 million streams on Spotify. In June, Austin followed it up with the fresh summer anthem Dancing With Nobody produced by Ian Kirkpatrick (Dua Lipa) and written by Sam Martin (Maroon 5) and Lindy Robbins (Demi Lovato). Austin shares, “I wanted Dancing With Nobody to be a fun, upbeat song that will make everyone feel that they just can’t help but get up and dance.” The stand-alone single has since racked up over 3 million Spotify streams, shaping 2019 to be the biggest year of his career.
Austin Mahone’s other hits include What About Love, Creatures of the Night, Send It featuring Rich Homie Quan, Shadow, Lady featuring Pitbull, Say Hi, among many others.
