Davao’s up-and-coming multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter joem continues to surprise fans by collaborating with video creator and co-Davaoeño, Katik for his “Pangako” music video. Watch it below:
If you’re not familiar with joem’s new muse, Aira Denielle, or better known as Katik, is the creator behind the viral “Die For You” dance challenge. The contrast between her quirky, budots-styled choreography and the mellow tune of this song by Japanese singer-songwiter, Joji was an instant sensation. Katik’s videos were even reposted by Joji’s record label, 88rising.
With Katik in joem’s “Pangako” music video, fans can see how the production referenced her colorful personality, while maintaining joem’s vulnerability as an artist. In-synch with the upbeat tempo of the song are the warm, butterflies-in-your-stomach moments that someone who had a teenage love can relate to.
But just like every young love, there’s a melancholic undertone in joem’s “Pangako” and it’s revealed at the very end of the video so make sure to watch until the very last minute: joem.lnk.to/pangako/youtube.
About joem
18-year-old joem of Davao City is a multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter who first made waves when he won his first ever music competition, Globe Virtual Hangouts GoJAM On Stage Talent search in 2022. Then only 16-year old, joem made a brave feat after flying all the way from his hometown, Davao to defeat more experienced finalists.
After earning nods from music executives and producers, he was awarded a record contract with Kroma Entertainment, Inc. One of the competition’s judges is multi-award winning producer, Brian Lotho who believed in the young blood by collaborating with joem for his new song, “Pangako” out now in all streaming platforms.
About “Pangako”
“Pangako” takes on an upbeat tempo but with a melancholic undertone as joem sings of a love that’s lost and a broken promise. He’s holding on to hope even if it’s just a wishful thinking—the next anthem of every sawi, no matter where you are in the Philippines.
“Pangako” was seeded at number 1 spot in Spotify’s Fresh Finds Philippines playlist and the 28th spot in New Music Friday Philippines on the first week since its release. Then it was followed by major editorial playlists such as OPM Rising, OPM Says Chillax, Relax Tayo, Pinoy Indie Mix.
Support Filipino music. Listen to joem’s “Pangako” out worldwide: joem.lnk.to/pangako
In a monumental move that underscores the Philippines’ increasing prominence in the international entertainment industry, the esteemed ASIA ARTIST AWARDS (AAA) is set to dazzle audiences in the heart of Bulacan.
This year, the Philippines proudly takes center stage as it hosts the prestigious AAA on December 14, 2023, at the iconic Philippine Arena, one of the world’s largest indoor venues.
The ASIA ARTIST AWARDS, a distinguished South Korean award-giving institution, stands as a beacon of excellence in the Asian entertainment sphere. Since its inception in 2016—a development spearheaded by the South Korean business newspaper Money Today, along with global media giants MTN and StarNews, the AAA has consistently celebrated the best the region has to offer in terms of film, music, television, and digital content.
Over the years, the AAA has recognized the talents of K-pop legends BTS and EXO, as well as trot singer Lim Young-woong, and actors Lee Jung-jae and Lee Seung-gi. Hallyu personalities Park Bo-gum and Im Yoon-ah were among the first recipients of the prestigious Asia Star Award. Since then, the AAA has also feted new blood, such as aespa and IVE. With its rich history of honoring established icons and spotlighting emerging talents, the AAA offers a panoramic view of Asia’s dynamic showbiz scene.
The sixth edition of the awards ceremony was a grand affair held on December 2, 2021, at the KBS Arena in Seoul, with the charismatic duo of Leeteuk and Jang Won-young taking on hosting duties. Their undeniable chemistry was on display once again when they returned for the seventh edition on December 13, 2022, at the Nippon Gaishi Hall in Nagoya, Japan. As of this writing, it remains to be seen if they will return for a third time or not.
Beyond the radiant spotlight and red-carpet moments, the AAA serves a deeper purpose. It acts as a venue for fostering collaboration and cultural dialogue among artists from different Asian nations. By facilitating these interactions, the AAA plays a vital role in shaping the future of entertainment in the region. It also promotes cross-cultural understanding, and champions the global proliferation of Asian pop culture.
Photo courtesy of AAA Organizing Committee and PULP Live World Productions
In a significant development leading up to this year’s ceremony at the Philippine Arena, PULP Live World President and CEO Mr. Vernon Go, along with PULP Live World’s Vice President and COO, Ms. Happee Sy-Go, met with the AAA’s top brass at Shangri-La The Fort in Taguig City, Metro Manila. This landmark deal was finally made official last August 14, 2023, in the presence of StarNews CEO Mr. Bahg Junechul, TONZ Entertainment’s CEO Mr. Kuk Byoungjin, and its General Manager Ms. Kim Serin. The contract signing set the stage for the 2023 ASIA ARTIST AWARDS.
The Philippines, with its rich tapestry of cultural traditions and fast-growing entertainment sector, is the perfect backdrop for this year’s AAA. Of late, Filipino artists have consistently enchanted audiences worldwide, making it an epicenter of talent that resonates globally.
The 2023 ASIA ARTIST AWARDS is more than an awards ceremony. It symbolizes the potential of art to bridge gaps in society, transcend borders, and unite people under the banner of creativity. As December 14 approaches, the anticipation is palpable. The Philippines is gearing up to roll out the red carpet for South Korea’s brightest stars, ensuring an unforgettable evening of celebration and camaraderie.
The 2023 ASIA ARTIST AWARDS marks the first time the Philippines will host such an event. It was made possible through the efforts of StarNews, TONZ Entertainment, and the Philippines’ one and only trailblazer in live Hallyu events, PULP Live World.
For the latest news on the event, including the star-studded lineup of artists, fans are encouraged to follow PULP Live World’s official social media channels and website.
Howlers Manila is redefining what it means to be a festival. It’s not just a celebration of music; it’s an odyssey of self-expression, discovery, and community.
MUSIC: Dive deep into a sea of musical exploration! From pop to rock, indie to EDM, and many genres in between, our lineup showcases the best local talent, revealing hidden gems that you’ll soon adore. By blending diverse musical cultures, we introduce you to tunes and artists that resonate, surprise, and captivate.
COSPLAY KINGDOM: Unleash your inner star! We celebrate freedom, creativity, and acceptance. Dress as your favorite character and experience the liberation that comes from donning a different persona. Our specially curated Cosplay Kingdom offers a dedicated stage, games, and activities. When you step into your favorite character, you build a shield that lets you express, connect, and revel like never before.
ADVENTURE & ACTIVITIES: From the spine-tingling haunted maze to the pulsating beats of our Paradise Lost stage, there’s an experience waiting for every soul. And for those craving a physical challenge? Test your mettle on the Spartan Race obstacle course!
E-SPORTS: Gamers, we’ve got you! Dive into live competitions, explore top gaming brands, and engage in thrilling meet & greets. Your gaming dreams are set to come alive.
At Howlers Manila, communities from different walks of life merge, creating an unparalleled atmosphere. It’s a dream designed with Filipino heart and soul, continuously evolving, and always surprising.
Our team is dedicated to crafting experiences that allow everyone to disconnect from daily stressors, find joy, and be their authentic selves. Your smiles, your laughter, your happiness — that’s our ultimate reward.
Join us in this groundbreaking journey and be a part of something bigger, bolder, and more beautiful. #HowlersManila
Pop punk and indie rock both have certainly come a long way and evolved into more inclusive and musically adventurous genres, and without a doubt, Virginia Beach natives TURNOVER are definitely one of the biggest names in the underground scene that are among the catalysts of this evolution.
And the Filipino fans know it, which is why they will be excited to know that the band – consisting of vocalist Austin Getz, bassist Danny Dempsey, guitarist Nick Rayfield and drummer Casey Getz – will be returning to our shores, as part of their Asia Tour 2023. Truly, both longtime followers and fans of underground music with dream-pop, shoegaze and emo sensibilities know that this is the event specifically for them!
The event is produced by PULP LIVE WORLD and co-presented by Skesh Entertainment and will be held at the Skydome, SM City North Edsa. Gates will open at 6pm and show starts 8pm.
Formed in 2009, Turnover’s beginnings were mainly rooted with the release of their self-titled EP in 2011, and a split single release the following year with contemporaries Citizen – but like any other underground/indie rock band, found its true strength in performing live and touring, both with fellow rising stars and established names in the scene, including Angel Dust, Blind Justice, Turnstile and New Found Glory. Though the tours were initially in the United States, Turnover began extending their reach with subsequent rounds in the United Kingdom and ultimately, in Southeast Asia.
To date, the band has five full-length albums under its collective belt, namely: their 2013 emo/pop-punk-inspired debut Magnolia, 2015’s Peripheral Vision (which sonically switched to dream-pop…), 2017’s Good Nature (which Alternative Press cited to be among the year’s most anticipated albums…), 2019’s Altogether and their most recent 2022 outing Myself In The Way.
Tickets to see Turnover: Live in Manila go on sale this August 5th for *PHP2,950.00 and will be available via SM Tickets outlets nationwide, and/or can be purchased online via smtickets.com. For more information and updates, interested parties can log on to pulp.ph. See you in the pit!
K-pop girl group Dreamcatcher first visited Manila in 2019, and the members are excited to reunite with their Filipino InSomnias.
A day before their Dreamcatcher: Under the Moonlight in Manila show, JiU, SuA, Siyeon, Handong, Gahyeon, Dami and Yoohyeon met the media for a press conference.
“It’s really been a long time since we visited the Philippines, and I’m sure InSomnias have been waiting for us for a long time. I hope this particular concert satiates their needs,” SuA said through an interpreter.
The group also talked about their music style since Dreamcatcher’s sound is known to have elements of rock and metal. Siyeon said each member has a different preference when it comes to music, but she is a big fan of metal rock bands.
Yoohyeon shared her thoughts about also gaining popularity worldwide. “When [we] visit other countries and hear the fans cheer for us, that’s when I realized how many fans we have in the global stage.”
What’s Dreamcatcher’s secret for staying this long in the music industry? In a heartbeat, Yoohyeon said, “Teamwork.” Siyeon added that the love for the music that they’re making is something that’s important to them.
Another important thing for the group is communicating and talking with each other. “We try to share photos with each other and have a conversation about even small topics,” Dami said.
The members learned a few Filipino expressions for their fans. They practiced saying “Mahal ko kayo,” “Salamat po,” and “Akin ka.”
Filipino InSomnias, get ready for an unforgettable and dreamy night with Dreamcatcher!
Catch their Dreamcatcher: Under the Moonlight in Manila show on Aug. 28 at the New Frontier Theater.
Special thanks to Random Minds. DREAMCATCHER: UNDER THE MOONLIGHT IN MANILA is the first show under Random Hits Live 2023 series, a series of shows that will showcase your favorite local and international artists singing unique setlists.
Words by Ava Sumortin Photos by Seth Valenzuela See more photos here
Catch the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 fever wherever you are! It could be right where 16 of the world’s 32 best basketball teams will engage in battle — at the massive Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan, the historic Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City, or the state-of-the-art SM Mall of Asia Arena in the Bay Area in Pasay City.0
Or, it could be somewhere else. If you want to have the best of both worlds — world class basketball and world caliber entertainment — then theFIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Fan Zone (FIBAWC Fan Zone) is the place to be starting Opening Day.
Truly, thank goodness it’s Friday! Entertainment galore, mixed with star celebrity sightings and exciting raffle prizes, awaits visitors when the FIBAWC Fan Zone opens on August 25 at the fully-airconditioned Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City.
And the best thing about this super special event is that ADMISSION IS FREE! So, bring the whole family, invite all your friends, and drive right to the very heart of Metro Manila’s foremost fun destination.
Located at the ground floor of the Entertainment Mall of the SM Mall of Asia on Seaside Blvd., adjacent to the iconic giant Ferris wheel, the MOA Music Hall will welcome visitors to the FIBAWC Fan Zone from August 25 to September 10 from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
The fun-filled activity dates coincide with the frenzied action raging on the same days at the nearby Mall of Asia Arena, where the Group and Final Phases of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 will be held. Fans are ready to be regaled by interactive booths from global partners and local sponsors, basketball arcade machines, shooting activities and challenges, and more.
Surprise celebrities have also been invited to mingle with fans for Meet and Greet sessions and photo opportunities. Other than the exciting prizes that will be raffled off, fans can also purchase FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 merchandise as well as tickets to games.
Yes, tickets! The hottest commodity around today! Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, a watch party will be assembled for those who want to follow the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 games held in Okinawa and Jakarta!
Imagine that! Since these fixtures will not be available to regular pay-per-view customers here, except in limited institutions, from the FIBAWC Fan Zone, you can watch Luka Doncic and Slovenia and defending champion Spain battle with global competition in Japan and Indonesia for the right to fly to the Philippines for the Final Phase of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 at the MOA Arena.
How about that for the ultimate treat? So, everybody, get ready, because the heat is on. And it couldn’t get any hotter than at the FIBAWC Fan Zone! See you there!
The rising GenZ singer known as rhodessa whose hit “Kisame” is currently breaking records and expectations, has just released a fresh track titled “Mina(mahal ko),” and according to this newly minted sensation, the song serves as another heartfelt tribute to her enduring admiration for Twice member Mina Myoi, as the title aptly suggests. “Mina(mahal ko)” weaves a tale of rekindling a once-lost love, making it yet another relatable gem from rhodessa.
22-year old rhodessa (real name Rhodessa Marie Uy) and her label Viva Records has just premiered the official music video “Mina(mahal ko)” last August 20 at the Viva Café amidst supporters, friends and family.
Supporting rhodessa at the music video launch was Vicor Records artists and singer-songwriters Marielle Belleza and Rob Deniel. Also present are fellow Viva Records act Amiel Sol. Hosting the event was Cup Of Joe’s Gian Bernardino and special guests Janine (Tenoso) and Jao of ALAMAT.
The official music video for “Mina(mahal ko)” are Jeremy jay Abaño and Deo Tejada with DOP Ben Garcimo and is produced by Viva Records. To date, rhodessa’s previous single “Kisame” has reach 18 million streams on Spotify and shows no sign of letting up anytime soon.
Live Nation is thrilled to announce the visionary artist, d4vd will be coming to Manila!
The Petals to Thorns Tour kicks off on 27 November in Singapore, followed by Kuala Lumpur, Manila and Seoul. Registered members of Live Nation Philippines can secure tickets first during the exclusive Live Nation pre-sale on Thursday, August 31st from 10am until 11:59pm. Register from presale access at livenation.ph. The general on-sale for Petals to Thorns tour in Manila will start Friday, September 1st at 12pm local time at ticketnet.com.ph and its outlets.. Please visit livenation.ph for full details.
For complete tour, ticket information, visit livenation.ph
MON NOVEMBER 27 – CAPITOL THEATRE, SINGAPORE WED NOVEMBER 29 – ZEPP KL, KUALA LUMPUR MON DECEMBER 4 – NEW FRONTIER THEATRE, MANILA SAT DECEMBER 9 – MUSINSA GARAGE, SEOUL
Expanding the possibilities of Pinoy hip-hop, Spotify launches Kalye X, its latest initiative dedicated to collaborations between artists, fans, and the community. As part of the initiative, Spotify worked with emerging and established Pinoy hip-hop artists to release a series of Spotify Singles. A first-of-its-kind in the Philippines, these original tracks bring together local artists to showcase the depth and diversity of Pinoy hip-hop.
From August until October, three Spotify Singles will be released, featuring artists from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Kicking it off is the dynamic pairing of Midnasty and Cookie$, presenting their track as an ode to the vibrant Visayan scene. Hailing from Zamboanga, the inventive collective Morobeats led by DJ Medmessiah, reimagines the sound of Mindanao hip-hop with their unique track. Lastly, representing the streets of Manila, Gloc 9, Hero, and Ramdiss will pull off a three-way collaboration like no other.
“As a way to bring Spotify’s Kalye Hip-Hop playlist to life, Kalye X aims to amplify the everyday stories and experiences, told by passionate artists and communities. With the growth of Pinoy hip-hop listenership doubling in the past year, it’s important that we empower our artists to share their craft with fans in a deeper way, as well as push the boundaries of Pinoy hip-hop music culture,” said Kossy Ng, Head of Music for Spotify Asia.
Filipinos are fired up for hip-hop
Through its chest-thumping beats and infectious rapid-fire lyrics, Filipinos have had an incredible appetite for Pinoy hip-hop. Local hip-hop songs witnessed an impressive 700% growth in local streams in the past five years, while Spotify’s Kalye Hip-Hop playlist saw a five times increase in listenership since it launched in 2018.
Notably, listenership of Pinoy hip-hop also grew globally at 600% strong with top markets including the United States, Canada, and Australia and more. Spotify’s global reach not only gives artists the opportunity to connect with fans and potential new listeners from around the world, it also serves as a way for Filipinos living overseas to stay connected to local culture.
Speaking at the launch party held in Brooklyn Warehouse in Manila, Kossy Ng, Head of Music for Spotify Asia was joined by hip-hop artists Al James and Cookie$ and shared more insights on the vibrancy of the Pinoy hip-hop scene.
Filipino rapper and songwriter Al James gave a shoutout to the OG Pinoy rappers for inspiring him to pursue his own dreams. “Just by listening to them, they became my mentors. They passed on the energy of Pinoy hip-hop to us. I’m proud of what and where Pinoy hip-hop is now. He also weighed in on the possibilities of Pinoy hip-hop in the global scene, “Parang sabi ni Cookie$ kanina, na-represent niya ‘yung Cebuano. Kaya ng Cebuano, Tagalog, tumagos sa ibang bansa”.
Cookie$ shared how he found his voice as a way to represent his roots, “When I started rapping in Bisaya, I found my niche, and it made me stand out. My language has a very distinct sound and tends to be very passionate. It is important to put Bisaya culture on the map and inspire others looking to follow their passion. Spotify has been continuing to help me and other artists elevate Filipino talent while remaining true to our roots and distinct artistries.”
For the community, by the community
Spotify’s Kalye X launch brought together hip-hop artists and the community to celebrate the potential of Pinoy hip-hop, with live performances by Midnasty, Morobeats, and Al James. Inspired by the Kalye Hip-Hop playlist, the interactive graffiti street art installation by Kayo Cosio and Trip63 breathed life into the venue, while the dance battle featuring the Philippine All-Stars with music by DJ Jazz Zamora displayed hip-hop’s boundless energy.
Continue on Kalye X’s journey, with Spotify taking the launch of the three Spotify Singles to the heart of Cebu on 26 August, Davao on 23 September, and Manila on 28 October, where the artists will unveil and perform their latest tracks in the first-ever series of Spotify Kalye X concerts. For more information, follow @spotifyph on social media.
Samsung’s Join the Flip Side event dazzled attendees at Conrad Manila as it unveiled the latest Galaxy devices with a spectacular launch party, bringing to life the brand’s promise of self-expression, creativity and productivity, and overall wellness.
In a program hosted by Erika Kristensen, Samsung shared a rundown of the newest Galaxy groundbreaking innovations — the Galaxy Z Flip5, Z Fold5, Watch6, and Tab S9—marking a new era of unparalleled premium experiences. Samsung invites consumers on a journey to discover an all-new Galaxy as Samsung showcases its latest innovations designed to open possibilities and transform lives.
At the launch, the newest #TeamGalaxy members Catriona Gray and AC Bonifacio were introduced and also shared what one could expect over on the flip side. AC Bonifacio also kept the crowd hyped up throughout the night with an energetic performance.
Singer-songwriter Leila Alcasid, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, entrepreneur Nico Bolzico, and travel and lifestyle content creator Camille Co then took guests on a tour of different Galaxy zones, which are experiential installations that brought to life exactly how the new Galaxy devices complement modern lifestyles.
Express yourself with the Galaxy Z Flip5
As part of the evening’s interactive experiences, guests were able to discover their best side at the Self Expression Studio where they took photos at the Mirror Selfie Station and the Flex Every Angle Photo Booth where they got to experience the versatility of the Flex Cam. Guests also took fun group selfies at the Groufie Station with the various hands-free selfie options The Flex Showcase meanwhile highlighted the Galaxy Z Flip5’s Flex Window widgets, which allows you to get productive on the go with just a few clicks and swipes. As the ultimate pocketable self-expression tool, you can let your individuality shine with the biggest cover screen yet, at 3.4 inches.
Work and play with the Galaxy Z Fold5
At the Productivity Cafe, guests enjoyed curated drinks at the Coffee Station while checking out the features and functions of the new Galaxy Z Fold5. At the Gaming Lounge, guests tried out their favorite games with the Galaxy Z Fold5’s immersive 7.6” main display while at the Multi-Tasking Station, the Galaxy Fold5 was showcased as a powerful productivity tool through its sleeker S Pen, advanced Taskbar, and Split Screen features.
The Entertainment Pod displayed a diorama of cinema with the Galaxy Fold5 as its movie screen. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, users can watch videos on one screen and type texts and comments using flex mode in the other half. No need to worry about bulkiness as the Galaxy Fold5 is the thinnest Fold yet thanks to the Zero Gap Hinge.
Sleep better and live healthier with the Galaxy Watch6 series
At the Wellness Den, the new features of the Galaxy Watch6 series were on full display. The Sleep Up station highlighted the innovative capabilities of the Galaxy Watch6’s Sleep Monitoring functions such as the Sleep Scores, Sleep Stages analyses, and intuitive information with Sleep Coaching.
Guests also got active with stationary bikes while wearing the Watch6 to experience its various functions. With the innovative 3-in-1 BioActive Sensor, users can enjoy an efficient way to monitor exercise efforts and check on their health as the Galaxy Watch6 series monitors both blood pressure and electrocardiographic (ECG).
The wide selection of versatile watch faces as well as new one-click band options were highlighted as well at the Straps Station. These devices pack holistic health offerings and powerful performance in a refined and sleek design – 30% slimmer bezel, a 20% larger and more vibrant display, and more interactive user interface.
To further champion overall wellness, Samsung Philippines has partnered with Emma The Sleep Company, an award-winning German brand that advocates for better sleep experiences; and the 24/7 health consultation app KonsultaMD to enable better health and everyday wellness through technology. There will also be exclusive promotions and discounts for Samsung Members, Emma Sleep customers, and Watch6 Customers. Meanwhile, Samsung and KonsultaMD will be hosting health talks, wellness activities, as well as offer promotions and discounts to Samsung Members, KonsultaMD subscribers, and Watch6 Customers.
Activities will be announced throughout the rest of the year.
Get creative and productive with the Galaxy Tab S9 series At the Creative Playground, guests explored the new features of the new Galaxy Tab S9 series with a live digital mural showcasing how the Galaxy Tab S9 series is a great device for creativity. There was also a Doodle Corner where guests got to try out the PENUP App and S Pen Handwriting features of the tablets. The Galaxy Tab S9’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X display also had its own corner full of different backgrounds showing how it can adapt to different lighting situations to ensure an epic viewing experience.
The DeX Mode corner showcased the Galaxy Tab S9’s versatility – where the tablets can be used like a laptop with a keyboard and mouse, and how users can experience the multi-window functionality and ecosystem connectivity with other Galaxy devices at the Ecosystem Integration corner. The experience was taken up a notch by submerging the devices in an aquarium at the Underwater Writing corner, showing how the IP68 rating of both the Galaxy Tab S9 series and the S Pen allows you to work or play anywhere.
