Featuring the acclaimed songwriter behind releases by Kylie Minogue, Usher, Jennifer Lopez, and other international artists, the reimagined ballad pairs Filipino R&B heritage with global songwriting experience
Filipino R&B star Jay R reimagines one of his iconic recordings with “Bakit Pa Ba” (Empty) Taglish Version, featuring multi-awarded Filipino-Puerto Rican singer-songwriter and producer Lil’ Eddie.
The new version retains the emotional, suave feel that made “Bakit Pa Ba” a defining entry in Jay R’s repertoire while adding English lyrics that complement its Tagalog passages. Rather than leaning on elaborate production, the track stays intimate and less ornate, letting the fragility and nuanced delivery take center stage.
Jay R adds, “We actually worked with three different producers before finding the sound we loved. Rather than overproducing the track, we kept the background vocals minimal and let our raw voices, emotions, and signature vocal runs do the heavy lifting. Lil Eddie also suggested keeping the opening acoustic and drum-free to preserve the soul of the original.”
The collaboration took shape while the two artists were touring the Philippines to promote their duet “Statue (Taglish Version).”