Category Archives: Local

Pinoy Playlist Music Festival 2023: Gunita At Mga Bukas

Pinoy Playlist Music Festival (PPMF) has always been envisioned to roll-out the tapestry of Filipinos across generations, genres and the places where they originated in production as well as in terms of inspiration. This is why we have always described it as “across ages and genres.” For 2023, we want to emphasize the “future-shaping” power of music through new Pinoy songs as well as the re-making and re-interpretation of past Filipino music.

We have always associated “tributes” with the past but we think we should also pay tribute to Pinoy music as it is being re-made and reshaped by new creations, new arrangements and new interpretations. There is no future music without a memory of what has come before it; but a memory also starts to fade if a song is no longer played. That is why for 2023, PPMF’s theme will be “Gunita and Mga Bùkas” (“Memories and Futures”.)

For 3 days, starting Sept 29 to Oct 1, at least 45 performances across the 3 venues of the BGC Arts Center in Taguig City namely, the Globe Auditorium, the Zobel de Ayala Recital Hall and the Sun Life Amphitheater, will be conducted by various Filipino artists solo, in a group, or in collaboration with each other. Forums on the different aspects of music-making will also be facilitated during the PPMF days. The sets will also be punctuated with photos from the Camera Club of the Philippines and innovative digital art by Filipino artists.

Each performance will bear at least a tinge of “change” from how it has been usually performed or heard on playlists. It will be curated with a mix of genres with a good measure of genres that bear excellent pieces but have not been heard enough on popular platforms. Each day will also be punctuated on primetime with special performances that pay tribute to the Ryan Cayabyab Awardees this year, namely the Alfonso “Coke” Bolipata, Mel Villena and Regine Velasquez-Alcasid.

Artist line up:

Day 1 (September 29, Friday): Abby Clutario, Adjeng, jasmine and noelle , Joey Ayala, Mijon, Pauline Cueto, raven, Sam Concepcion, Simon Tan Walotao, Sitti, & Tamara

With special tribute performances for Mr. Alfonso “Coke” Bolipata by Pundaquit Virtuosi & Steps Dance Studio.

Day 2 (September 30, Saturday): Autotelic, Ebe Dancel, 春 haru, Kammerchor Manila, Leanne and Naara, Of Mercury, Rivermaya, The Edralins, Viñas Deluxe with Winter Sheason Nicole & Tiny Deluxe, Viva, Vicor, & Wild Dreams Records Artists: Amiel Sol, Matt Wilson, Nicole Abuda, & Rob Deniel, & Young Cocoa

With special tribute performances for Mr. Mel Villena by AMP Decktet, The CompanY, Pikong, & Mitch Valdes.

Day 3 (October 1, Sunday): Arman Ferrer, Davey Langit, Debonair District, Gary Granada, Janine Teñoso, Lara Maigue & Gian Magdangal, Nica Del Rosario, Room for Cielo, Therese Villarante’s “Girl With A Broken String” feat. Ivy Gallur & James Gulles, & The Nightingales

With special tribute performances for Ms. Regine Velasquez-Alcasid by Katrina Velarde, Phi Palmos, Trina Belamide, Ima Castro, Sweet Plantado-Tiongson, Jona, & Jed Madela.

It will also end with the musical artist expressing a wish for how we can shape the Pinoy Music futures together. This will hopefully help push for a collective and active voice to support for Filipino music in all its forms.

But wait, there’s more! The audience will also get to start their Pinoy Playlist Music Festival journey by joining special conversations and workshops with music experts:

Day 1: “Filipino Songwriting: From Dreams to Sheet” with Trina Belamide, Jonathan Manalo, and Moy Ortiz

Day 2: “AI: Friend or Foe in Filipino Music?” with Thyro Alfaro, Gino Cruz, and Marlon Barnuevo, moderated by Maria Isabel Garcia

Day 3: “The Difficult Filipino Audience (Perfect Ka, Teh?)” with Direk Floy, Dexter Martinez Santos, and Paolo Valenciano

Get ready for a Pinoy Playlist Music Festival weekend on September 29, 30, & October 1! 3 days, 3 stages, ALL MUSIC, ALL PINOY!

PPMF is presented by the Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. (BAFI) through BGC Arts Center and curated by National Artist for Music Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, Moy Ortiz and Noel Ferrer.

For 3 days, PPMF 2023 will be the stage for remembrance not only for its own sake but with the stamp of “now” and as it engenders the shaping of the future of Pinoy Music.***

Get your 1 Day Pass or Festival 3-day Passes, available via the TicketWorld website bit.ly/PPMF2023Tickets (or call 8891 9999) and at the BGC Arts Center TicketWorld Box Office.

Aside from the talks and performances, BGC Art Mart will also be open from 3PM to 9PM featuring arts and crafts from a variety of local artisans.

For more information, visit www.bgcartscenter.org/ppmf2023

Follow BGC Arts Center on Facebook (fb.com/bgcartscenter) for more updates!

Buruguduystunstugudunstuy:Ang Parokya ni Edgar Musical rocks this 2024

The word in the country’s theater scene is out. It was no less than Parokya ni Edgar frontman Chito Miranda that dropped Newport World Resorts’ upcoming musical title, “Buruguduystunstugudunstuy.” One look and ‘90s OPM enthusiasts will instantly recognize the musical’s title as the band’s sophomore album that spawned some of their smash hits. The tongue twister of a title, Buruguduystunstugudunstuy: Ang Parokya ni Edgar Musical is set to rock its way to the Newport Performing Arts Theater’s marquee.

Lead rocker Miranda made the announcement on the NWR Musicals social media pages on September 11. The post further revealed that the musical, developed by Newport World Resorts’ production outfit Full House Theater Company, is slated to make its epic debut on the grand stage next year.

Nationwide casting call is now underway for the new musical. Auditions are open for males and females, ages 18 to 50 years old, who can sing and dance. Those interested must submit their CV, including an audition video singing 16 bars of any Parokya ni Edgar track. Submissions are open from September 12 to October 1 and can be emailed to PNE2024@gmail.com.

Following the round of online submissions, a three-day in-person audition will take place from October 16 to 18. Aspirants who passed the initial screening will receive an invitation for the final callback auditions on October 24 to 26.

Escape the ordinary at Newport World Resorts, you know you want to. For more information on Buruguduystunstugudunstuy: Ang Parokya ni Edgar Musical, visit http://www.newportworldresorts.com and follow @newportworldresorts and @nwr.musicals on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, and @nwresorts on Twitter. Use the hashtags #Buruguduystunstugudunstuy #AngPNEMusical #NWRMusicals. Make the most of your visit and sign up for an Epic Membership or download the Epic Rewards Mobile App for free at the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Fil-Jap boy group SKYGARDEN joins AltG Record’s Roster; debut single KOKOA, out now

SKYGARDEN, the beloved Japanese trio consisting of Ryoichi “Ryo” Rivera Nagtsuka, Hiro Ozaki, and Iwaki “Iwa” Maegawa, officially joins GMA Music’s dynamic sub-label AltG Records.

The contract signing happened last July 28 with GMA Music Managing Director Rene Salta, Artist and Repertoire Manager and in-house producer Kedy Sanchez, and SKYGARDEN manager Ruby Cuevas.

Since their debut in 2022, the SKYGARDEN trio of Ryo, Hiro, and Iwa have won the hearts of Filipinos with their infectious energy, creative ideas, and engaging video content. Their videos quickly went viral across social media platforms, amassing impressive viewership on Facebook, Tiktok, and Youtube. This chaught the attention of the Kapuso Network and let them to become contestants in GMA’s top-rating game show Family Feud.

“We all started as content creators. Our goal is to entertain our audience with the various challenges we take on. And of course, now that we are part of AltG Records, we also want to share our songs with the Filipinos and sana ma-feel nila ‘yung passion ng mga kanta namin'” says Ryo.

The trio’s unique blend of talents and cultural influences will be heard soon. They have been producing covers of popular OPM songs, adding their unique spin and Japanese touch. Their much-anticipated debut single “KOKOA” is now available. Written by Hiro, the song carries a profound message of love and affection. The title was derived from the Japanese phrase “Kokoro kara Aishiteru” which translates to “I love you from the bottom of my heart”. It was inspired by Iwa’s experience in love and blends Japanese anime rock with Tagalog lyrics.

“We’ve always believed in pushing boundaries and bringing something fresh to our audience. ‘Kokoa’ is a testament to our dedication to authenticity and creativity. Our music, just like our content, is a reflection of who we are as individuals and as a group”, shares Ryo.

For more information, visit www.gmanetwork.com.

PPop Group ALAMAT is set to conquer their first solo concert

Shoutout to all PPop fans, especially to the Magiliws, mark your busy calendars for the Christmas season as ALAMAT brings you a definitely fired up performance as they debut their solo concert at the New Frontier Theatre on December 1, 2023!

Formed by Ninuno Media and under Viva Records, ALAMAT is composed of six members: Taneo, Mo, Jao, Tomas, R-Ji, and Alas. The group debuted with their first digital single, “kbye,” that was released last February 14, 2021.

Since then, the group has released their ‘Pasulong’ EP last October 28, 2022 that consists of six songs which are the R&B-flavored dance track “Aswang” (vampire) as the carrier single. The funky sounding dance-club track “Gayuma” (love potion) ups the party atmosphere for the Curseboxx-arranged beats and sounds. A highlight here is the festive and rousing new original titled “Hala.” Then there’s the Thyro Alfaro-written “Maharani” which is equal parts R&B-inflected bop and love song that definitely became the hit-track of the EP. And completing the EP are previously released singles “ILY ILY” featuring Lyca Gairanod and the NEXXFRIDAY produced, Jin Chan-written “Say You Love Me.”

As they enter the year 2023, ALAMAT has given their fans a taste of their upcoming mini-album, ‘IsaPuso’ with the two pre-release singles titled “Day and Night” and “Walang Hanggan” that certainly enjoyed by every Magiliw (ALAMAT’s fandom name).

As ALAMAT is bound for an ultimate high as one of PPop A-listers, just after their Pinoy pride performance at the FIBA Basketball World Cup at the Philippine Arena last August 25 alongside prominent OPM artists like Sarah Geronimo, John Roa, Ben & Ben, and The Dawn —

The group announced their upcoming debut solo concert on their social media accounts last Thursday, August 31.

Ticket selling will start on September 15, 2023.

Rhodessa unveil “Mina(mahal ko)” music video

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.

Alternative rock band Wickermoss reunites with AltG Records

Wickermoss, the Filipino alternative rock band, is making a return to their roots as they reunite with AltG Records after 18 years. Founded by Reiman Gesmundo (guitars) and Roger Alcantara (bass), Wickermoss captured the hearts of their fans with their melancholic sound with an eclectic mix of various influences such as pop, folk, jazz, and progressive rock. The band’s breakthrough album “Falling Leaves,” originally released under AltG Records, contains noteworthy tracks such as “Buwan,” “Falling Leaves,” and “Letters.”

This deeply resonated with their audience because of the raw emotions that came with their music. In 2019, Wickermoss emerged from their hiatus, driven by a shared determination to delve into a treasure trove of unreleased songs. With this emergence, they also introduced their new members: Allen Lucas (vocals and acoustic guitar), Rigil Borromeo (guitars), and Karmi Santiago (drums). Presenting their latest offering, “Babalik,” the band reaffirms their fondness for transforming their emotions into songs.

The single, written by Gesmundo, navigates the complexities of pain, anger, and the intricate aftermath of heartbreak. It delivers a candid portrayal of the emotional journey that follows heartbreak. “I created the song during the lockdown when I joined a songwriting workshop online. That’s the song that came out, and we played around with it as a band until it was completed. I also thought of doing something different this time because most heartbreak songs are about letting go and hoping that the other person is happy. ‘Babalik’ is more about the feelings of anger and hurt and the genuine emotions a person feels following a heartbreak,” says Gesmundo.

The reunion of Wickermoss with AltG Records marks a wonderful homecoming for the band. “Returning to AltG Records feels like a homecoming. The label’s support not only fuels our creativity but also reminds us of our purpose as musicians. We simply want people to relate to our music. We listen to music to feel that someone understands, to see that there are also others who go through what we are experiencing. Music is a companion, and we want to be our listeners’ companion,” shares Alcantara.

Catch Wickermoss and their new single under AltG records, “Babalik,” streaming this August 25 on digital platforms worldwide. For more information, visit www.gmanetwork.com

Sarah Geronimo and SB19 in powerful song collab titled ‘Ace Your World’ for Acer’s 20th anniversary in the Philippines

As part of Acer Philippines’ 20th anniversary and the celebration of Acer Day 2023, Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo and phenomenal P-pop boy group SB19 are collaborating on a song titled “Ace Your World.”

The song, which will be available on online streaming platforms starting August 4, was written and composed by Radkidz, the duo of John Paulo Nase (Pablo) and his brother, Joshua Daniel Nase.

“This song is very different from other songs we have released. “Ace Your World” is more edgy and hype. We gave Pablo creative freedom to write this song, and it turned out exceptionally well. The song conveys Acer’s message to #AceYourWorld perfectly,” said Princess Laosantos, Senior Marketing Manager at Acer Philippines.

Written in English and Filipino, it urges listeners to take control of their lives and “Ace Your World” no matter what they do. Through the song, Sarah G and SB19 encourage everyone to stay strong regardless of their challenges because their lives are their own destinies.

Listen to the powerful voices of Sarah G. and SB19 as they sing “Ace Your World” on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and Deezer. A music video will be released soon.

Follow Acer Philippines on its social media platforms: @AcerPH on Facebook, @acerph on Instagram, and @acerphils on Twitter, or go to http://www.acer.com for more details.

WATCH: Rise High’s latest single, Tinig ng Pag-ibig, inspires and empowers

Imagine a song with lyrics so moving, so heartfelt and riveting that it actually empowers its listeners to affirmative action.

That’s the magic behind Rise High’s latest single, Tinig ng Pag-Ibig, which had a successful launch last Tuesday, July 25, at 19 East.

While some bands are relentlessly driven in their pursuit of fame and fortune, Rise High aims for a far nobler and loftier dream of driving home their message of love, acceptance and transcendence through their original music.

Rise High during their recent Wish Bus guesting last week

By doing so, it’s not surprising how their core truth resonates strongly among their devout fans and listeners, whose expanding demographic continues to amaze the group.

Lead vocalist Lura Angeles summed it up succinctly when she explained the story behind the band’s name. She said, “It’s all about taking second chances. All of us have our struggles, we always have battles to face, and there are no shortcuts. You just have to face it head on. You just have to be headstrong. And that’s how you rise high!”

No strangers in the band circuit, Rise High is the brainchild of guitarist, singer and band leader Edil Luyon, who assembled the earlier incarnation of the band around 2016. Its current members are Edil Luyon (vocals, guitar and bandleader), Lura Angeles-Luyon (vocals), Philippe Arriola (bass), Obet Luzon (keyboards), Joseph Rivera (drums) and Dave Erin (guitar).

Rise High during their recent launch at 19 East

Two years earlier, the group, then called Ecoustic Soul, honed their musical chops by playing pop covers for events, including weddings, parties and corporate events.

Even then, Edil already had a clear vision of the musical avenue he wanted to tread. He narrates, “Even before 2014, I already had this big dream of creating our own music, our own compositional landscape so to speak, and I knew in my heart what our primary message would inspire and drive us.”

He also credits the band’s current manager for instilling in them the life-changing impact of the mantra “live your dream,” which the band members have always used as a guidepost in their day to day lives and work ethic.

Some of his first compositions include Iyo, I Surrender, May Bukas Ang Bukas, and Dakila, an ode brimming with spiritual praise and fervor.

Rise High at 19 East

A cursory peek at their Spotify playlist also reveals a goldmine of singles and EPs including Bumalik Sa Simula, Lala Land and Magsasayaw, which incidentally also happens to be the soundtrack for the feel-good Net25 sitcom, Good Will, which stars David Chua, Devon Seron, Raymond Bagatsing, Smokey Manaloto, Meg Imperial, Kat Galang, Regine Angeles and many others.

Asked about Edil’s compositional genius and why most of his compositions always seem to revolve around romantic relationships, Philippe, the band’s bassist teases, “Retired playboy kasi!” “

Hindi retired! Chismoso lang!” Edil retorts, alluding to his penchant for eavesdropping on his bandmates’ phone conversations with their ‘significant others.’ True enough, a good bulk of their songs run the gamut from unrequited love, to moving on after a bad breakup, or even finding love the second time around — songs that strongly impact millennials and GenZs.

Though primarily rooted in the local band scene, perhaps by sheer luck, Edil always manages to have one foot in the showbiz world, having done arranging chores and session work for Regine Velasquez, Vice Ganda, Christian Bautista, JM de Guzman, Jaya, Nina, Sheree Vidal, Jed Madela, Jayson Sia, Jeffrey Hidalgo, Arnee Hidalgo, Stevie Woods, Aldrin Nolasco, Emanuel Quibilan, and the late Keith Martin.

Rise High band leader/guitarist and vocalist Edil Luyon

He has also done film scoring for indie movies including director Dexter Cayanes’ Pangaris and Ang Musa, and Vic Acedillo, Jr.’s Ang Nerseri. Edil also feels strongly about getting the late senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago’s nod for his out-of-the-box concept for her last political jingle.

With his bubbly personality and infectious charm, it’s not too farfetched if Edil gets an overload of showbiz assignments in due time.

He nonchalantly shrugs, “It’s not really a top priority for now, but it would be great if some of our original songs get used for a movie or teleserye. Now, THAT would be something!”

Rise High vocalist Lura Angeles-Luyon

With the constantly evolving local music landscape, Edil and his bandmates take great pride in being indie artists, who rely mainly on music-sharing platforms for their promo and marketing.

“For the most part, we’ve been relying on Spotify, but we plan to invade TikTok soon,” Edil reveals. “That’s where the numbers are.”

And speaking of numbers, Edil feels overwhelmed with the fully capacity crowd at their 19 East album launch, which also featured fast-rising artists Davey Langit, Abby Clutario, Emanuel Quibilan, Bill and the Judiths, Ella Guevarra, with the special participation of Edil’s kids: Felix Ryan (drums) and Krie Nivela (bass) and their singer/guitarist friend Yuriel Arcay, collectively called The Lucays.

Also spotted in the audience was the Good Will cast—David Chua, Raymond Bagatsing, Meg Imperial, Regine Angeles—together with the show’s producer, respected journalist and talk show host Korina Sanchez.

Edil with special guest and good friend, South Border guitarist Janno Queyquep

Edil adds, “Our album launch wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of 19 East’s top honcho Wowee Posadas, who so graciously encouraged, supported and believed in our music.”

Also sharing the stage spotlight was South Border lead guitarist and session ace Janno Queyquep, whose tasteful and dazzling fingerboard prowess had always inspired Edil, himself a consummate soloist and showman.

“It’s always an honor to play with Janno, who I’ve always looked up to not just as a guitar god and mentor, but also a good friend who offers very sensible musical and songwriting nuggets of wisdom.”

Guest performers The Lucays (Felix Ryan, drums and Krie Nivela, bass)

Onstage, Edil’s longtime dream came to fruition as he traded blistering solos with his guitar hero, while tightly locked in on the band’s propulsive groove.

If rain is a sign of good luck, the relentless downpour brought in by Typhoon Egay that same night could very well be a clear indication of even better days ahead for Edil and his cohorts.

It’s going to be a busy August for Rise High as they gear up for a series of bar tours in the Quezon City area, aside from radio guestings and other promotional gigs.

WATCH Rise High performing Tinig ng Pag-ibig during their 19 East gig

NOBITA releases debut album, BETTERFLY

The 8-track album finds the band expressing their introspective take on life, optimism, and companionship with an affinity for soul-baring production and vulnerable songwriting. The record is co-produced by constant collaborator Isagani Palabyab of Monostery Studio, and was written and co-arranged by NOBITA. BETTERFLY is led by the track “Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan,” which captures the immediacy of romantic love, and the inescapable thrill that it brings to people. The soulful ballad reflects NOBITA’s core competencies as lyricists and musicians, delivering heartfelt sentiments with bluesy chops and ‘60s-style harmonies. The much-awaited release also contains new songs such as “Hay Buhay,” which honors the beauty of being alive and in love, and “Bukang Liwayway,” a strings-laden ditty that confronts challenges with a hopeful, persevering tone. Both songs encapsulate NOBITA’s self-assured musical direction: never hurried and deceptively simple, but coming from a place of sincerity and warmth. Track list:

Kahit Sandali
Sa Ulan
Hau Buhay
Paruparo Na Walang Hanggan
Totoo
Paano Uusad
Bukang Liwayway
Kalangitan

The band’s rapid rise to mainstream acclaim is no stranger to the public. The Pinoy five-piece act hit it big with “Ikaw Lang” and “Unang Sayaw,” which currently rank as two of the most streamed OPM tracks in Spotify history. 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. NOBITA’s new album, BETTERFLY is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

P-POP SONG “KABANATA” AIMS TO MOTIVATE AND UPLIFT CONFIDENCE IN PURSUING

We are is excited to announce the release of the P-Pop song entitled “Kabanata” by the inspiring group BILIB. This powerful song serves as a motivating anthem, uplifting the spirits of those who lack confidence in themselves and reminding them that they have the ability to achieve great things if they believe in themselves. “Kabanata” embodies the advocacy of BILIB, which is to motivate people, especially the youth, to pursue their dreams and realize their fullest potential.

The song’s lyrics carry a message of encouragement and empowerment, aiming to instill self-belief and trust in one’s own abilities. It serves as a reminder that challenges are merely chapters in the journey of life, and with determination and faith, individuals can overcome obstacles and accomplish remarkable feats. “Kabanata” creates an atmosphere of positivity and inspires listeners to embrace the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. BILIB strongly believes in the power of motivation, particularly for young individuals who aspire to fulfill their dreams. Through the captivating melodies and relatable lyrics of “Kabanata,”

BILIB seeks to ignite the spark within each person, enabling them to embrace their potential and pursue their goals with unwavering confidence. The group hopes that “Kabanata” will resonate with listeners of all ages, urging them to break free from self-doubt, rise above challenges, and conquer their aspirations. By spreading this message of motivation and self-belief, BILIB aims to positively impact lives and build a society in which individuals are inspired to take charge of their own narratives.

Watch Kevin Pableo’s vlog from BILIB’s official grand launch