AXEAN Festival 2025 forges new connections and creative futures in Bali

From world-class performances to songwriting collaborations, business matchmaking to industry dialogue, this year’s edition proved that the true rhythm of Southeast Asia lies in its spirit of community, innovation, and collaboration

AXEAN Festival 2025 recently concluded its most triumphant edition yet at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, attracting nearly 4,000 attendees and cementing its place as one of the region’s most influential music discovery platforms.

With glowing reviews praising its impressive curation and visionary programming, the sixth edition of AXEAN Festival 2025 delivered a dynamic fusion of discovery, dialogue, and community. The festival not only celebrated the region’s finest emerging talents but also fostered meaningful exchanges between artists, industry professionals, and delegates from around the world, reinforcing its reputation as a bridge between Southeast Asia’s creative energy and the global music stage.

“Enhypen VR Concert : Immersion” First-Ever VR Concert Coming To Manila From 20 November To 6 December

Announcement – Exciting news for ENGENEs! K-pop’s unrivaled storytellers ENHYPEN, who have showcased their solid live performances and powerful stages to establish a unique presence on the global scene, are set to meet fans worldwide in a whole new way through their first-ever VR concert, “ENHYPEN VR CONCERT : IMMERSION”, which is confirmed to be shown in Manila exclusively at Gateway Cineplex from 20 November to 6 December, 2025. Tickets will be available starting 8 November at 12PM via GatewayImmersive.com. Presented by Wilbros Live.

“ENHYPEN VR CONCERT: IMMERSION” begins with a mysterious invitation from ENHYPEN to their fans, ENGENEs. As whispers from the members echo through an unfamiliar hallway, the line between reality and fantasy starts to blur. The audience is then transported into ever-changing spaces: a vast office, an abandoned factory, and a rooftop where a pink moon and red moon coexist coming face-to-face with a whole new side of ENHYPEN never seen before. Moreover, fans can experience ENHYPEN’s visuals and performances vividly brought to life right before their eyes, closer than ever at a 0cm distance.

2025 Golden Indie Music Awards announces global guest performers, “Best Asian Creative Artist Award” nominees, and ceremony highlights

South Korean indie rock band Silica Gel and Thai rapper AUTTA (featuring Taiwanese trio The Chairs) are both set to deliver distinct showcases

The Golden Indie Music Awards (GIMA), Taiwan's premier independent music award-giving body, will be hosting its grand ceremony on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Taipei Music Center, and it will be livestreamed in South Korea and Thailand.

This year’s edition puts a spotlight on international guest performers, including South Korea’s leading indie rock band Silica Gel and rising Thai rapper AUTTA, who will be sharing the stage with Taiwan’s folk-pop trio The Chairs in a rare cross-border collaboration. The highly anticipated teamup is centered on this year’s theme, “Brave,” and will feature four more acts from across Asia whose work reflects fearlessness in confronting expectations and expressing uncompromising truth in music.

Aurora Music Festival Soars Higher with Converge as Official Partner

The Aurora Music Festival is reaching new heights as it teams up with Converge, the country’s leading fiber internet provider, as its official partner and event presenter.

This partnership celebrates the shared mission of connecting Filipinos—not only through technology but also through music, art, and cultural experiences that bring people together.

As Converge continues to expand its presence in people’s everyday lives, its participation in Aurora underscores the brand’s commitment to being part of the moments and passions that matter most. Festival-goers can look forward to exciting on-ground activities and interactive experiences that embody Converge’s dynamic spirit and dedication to Filipino creativity.

New K-Drama Dear X To Premiere On HBO Max On November 6

New Korean drama series, Dear X starring Kim You-jung and Kim Young-dae was featured at the 2025 Busan International Film Festival and is set to make its streaming debut on Thursday, November 6 on HBO Max.

The 12-episode romance thriller drama series from TVING is adapted from the popular award-winning NAVER Webtoon of the same name, written by Van Zi-un. Dear X tells the story of Baek Ah Jin (played by Kim You-jung), a successful actress who hides her history of trauma and rises to the top through manipulation and deception, protected at all costs by her love interest, Yoon Jun Seo (played by Kim Young-dae). 

The highly anticipated series has already garnered immense traction since its announcement and presents a star-studded cast, including Kim You-jung (My Demon, Love in the Moonlight), Kim Young-dae (No Gain No Love, The Penthouse: War in Life), Kim Do-hoon (Love Scout, Your Honor) and Lee Yul-eum (The 8 Show, Queen: Love and War). Dear X, the series, by legendary Director, Lee Eung-bok (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, Descendants of the Sun) and Park So-hyeon, is developed by Studio Dragon, produced by Monster Union and Siwoo Company, and written by Choi Ja-won and Van Zi-un.

Weapons Begins Streaming Exclusively On HBO MAX October 24

New Line Cinema’s Weapons, a Warner Bros. Pictures’ release, will make its global streaming debut exclusively on HBO Max on Friday, October 24. Weapons stars Josh Brolin, Julia Garner, Alden Ehrenreich, Austin Abrams, Cary Christopher, with Benedict Wong, and Amy Madigan.  

When all but one child from the same class mysteriously vanish on the same night at 2:17 am, a community is left questioning who or what is behind their disappearance.  

Zach Cregger directs from his own screenplay, and also produces alongside Roy Lee, Miri Yoon, J.D. Lifshitz and Raphael Margules, with Michelle Morrissey and Josh Brolin executive producing. 

Stream Weapons on HBO Max from October 24. Subscribe to HBO Max at  www.hbomax.com or via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store from only ₱149/month & ₱1,040/12 months and stream on HBO Max via your preferred device. 

Costa Cashman redefines what it means to be a “Gangsta” in his most compelling single yet

From street survival to self-made success, Cashman flips the term into an anthem for growth and grit earned through real hustle

Rising hip-hop powerhouse Costa Cashman returns with a new single that flips the narrative of what it truly means to be a gangsta.

His new track, “Gangsta,” featuring Fern and produced by dot.jaime, celebrates transformation, discipline, and success earned through grind and growth.

On “Gangsta,” Costa Cashman continues to expand his distinct Cheke sound, a sonic signature that fuses grit with cinematic ambition. The track builds on the success of his previous hit “HUSS,” marking a refreshing pivot in Cashman’s storytelling: one that reflects his past struggles while embracing the victories of his present.

Charlie Puth Announces Fourth Studio Album, Whatever’s Clever!

Charlie Puth has announced details on his forthcoming fourth studio album, Whatever’s Clever!, set for release on March 6, 2026 via Atlantic Records.

Offering the first taste of what’s to come, the multi-award-winning, Diamond-certified artist and multi-instrumentalist releases “Changes,” a timeless and uplifting single showcasing exactly what Puth does best; offering infectious hooks, sing-out-loud choruses and signature piano solos enough to lift even the heaviest of hearts and feet. 

Listen to the rousing new single “Changes” HERE.

NINO’s Latest Track “Flutter, Lover” Is A Dreamy Daze

A mesmerizing entry into the RnB/Soul genre, Diorama's NINO has just released his latest single, "Flutter, Lover," a song that talks about personal aspirations, and a partner who's got your back.

When asked about the concept, NINO shared a poetic vision: "While writing, I was imagining myself lying in bed while looking up at a butterfly fluttering delicately above me. I wanted to be like the butterfly, free enough to hover in the air and be confident despite all my fragility."  A common theme of NINO's songs, surrendering yourself to its melody and dreamy lyrics will put you in a daze — much like the gentle beat of a butterfly's wings. His unique vocals paired with his imaginative lyrical narrative is a day dreaming combo.

More than the "flutter" portion of the song, "lover" reframes it through an intimate lens—as NINO puts it, "In another lens, I see the butterfly as my partner. Someone who exudes beauty, whom I admire deeply and inspires me to become a better version of myself." Whether you're drawn to the whimsical "flutter" side, the heartfelt "lover" perspective, or the blend of both emotional spectrums, "Flutter, Lover" will reel you in with its playful, sincere, and intimate vibes.

Stream "Flutter, Lover" now on your favorite platforms, and follow NINO and Diorama FM on all social media platforms for updates.

Rock royalty meets new wave rebellion in The Dawn and Sean Archer collab track “Delikado”

Bridging eras and emotions with cinematic intensity, “Delikado” tells a gripping father-and-son narrative wrapped in post-punk energy

Iconic rock legends The Dawn team up with rising alternative artist Sean Archer for their new single “Delikado”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment. The upbeat, guitar-driven track blurs generational lines and musical boundaries while making sure to retain their distinct music stamp in the mix.

Steeped in themes that revolve around tension, truth, and tenderness, “Delikado” is an emotionally charged anthem that explores the relationship dynamics between a father and a son, mirroring love, fear, and understanding. Beneath its edgy riffs and pulsating beats lies a more profound message: always look over your shoulder, and be mindful of what lurks in the night. 

The world falls apart beautifully in Jewel Owusu’s new EP, the end of everything

With lush, experimental production and disarmingly honest lyrics, Owusu delivers a compelling mixtape about heartbreak, loss, and identity

Filipino-Ghanian artist Jewel Owusu has released her new mixtape project, the end of everything on all digital music platforms worldwide.

The eight-track EP captures the fragility, resilience, and transformation that come with endings—be it ordinary or life-altering—but experienced through the turbulent lens of youth.

At once poetic and piercing, the end of everything explores what it means to come undone and be rebuilt, weaving existential reflection with sonic experimentation. Owusu’s songwriting unearths the nuanced devastation of loss, heartbreak, and disillusionment, but with hope still clinging behind the trail.

Madison Beer Shares New Single “Bittersweet”

(Photo Credit: Morgan Maher; download hi-res version HERE)

Today, two-time GRAMMY nominated and platinum selling artist Madison Beer has released a new single, “bittersweet” via Epic Records. It follows her highly infectious dance track, “yes baby.” 

Beer says about the song, “bittersweet is about the end of a chapter and the difficulty of coming to terms with it, while also recognizing that deep down you know it’s for the best—and finding peace in that along the journey”

Last month, Beer released her first new song of 2025 - “yes baby”. Released alongside a fierce music video, created and co-directed by Beer and director Aerin Moreno, and received praise from outlets including Billboard, which raved, “Beer understands how to follow through on a fun, flirty electropop banger, as she proves again.” 

Khalid Releases New Album After The Sun Goes Down

Multi-platinum selling global superstar Khalid releases his new album after the sun goes down via Right Hand Music Group/RCA Records. Through a collection of 17 songs the album explores themes of love, self-discovery, openness, and a refreshed sense of freedom ushering in a bold new chapter for Khalid. 

after the sun goes down is executive produced by ILYA (Ariana Grande, Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith) and includes songs co-written and co-produced by Elvira Anderfjärd and Luka Kloser (Addison Rae), Oscar Gorres (Troye Sivan), Ryan Tedder (Beyoncé, Tate McRae), Rodney Jerkins (Destiny’s Child, Lady Gaga), Julia Michaels (Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber), and Michael Pollack (Miley Cyrus, Maroon 5). It features previously released songs “out of body” and “in plain sight” which Rolling Stone called “infectious” and Billboard said, “The top-tier dance production and casual excellence of Khalid’s vocal help make this “dump his ass” anthem hit that much harder.”

Jolianne and Arthur Nery reconnect in “Palayo Sa Mundo”

Following their 2024 collaboration, the pair deliver another heartfelt tune steeped in emotion, chemistry, and grace

Filipino singer-songwriter Jolianne reunites with chart-topping R&B star Arthur Nery on their collaborative single “Palayo Sa Mundo”—released under Sony Music Entertainment. The smooth yet soulful pop track paints a picture of romantic love that is strong enough to make the world wait.

Marking their second collaboration following “Lullaby,” from Arthur Nery’s 2024 album, II: The Second, “Palayo Sa Mundo” finds the two Bisaya artists seamlessly blending their voices in a tender duet that feels both effortlessly captivating and intimate.

for KING + COUNTRY drop new single “World on Fire,” featuring Taylor Hill

The Christian pop duo’s new song ushers in a new era of passion and purpose

Photo by Jeremy Cowart

With four GRAMMY® Awards, 13 No. 1 hits, and over 3 billion career streams, for KING + COUNTRY have solidified themselves as one of the most respected duos in music. Signed to Curb Records, Joel and Luke Smallbone are stepping into a new era—with brand new music, a renewed creative vision and the same passion for delivering powerhouse live performances that have wowed sold-out arenas across the globe.

Barbie Almalbis takes over Shibuya Crossing in “All U Wanna Do” music video

The award-winning singer-songwriter braves rain, rush hour, and onlookers in a spontaneous Tokyo shoot directed by Niña Sandejas

Photo by Nina Sandejas

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Barbie Almalbis has released the music video for her latest single, “All U Wanna Do.” 

The striking visual piece was shot guerilla-style at the iconic Shibuya Crossing, capturing Almalbis’ impassioned performance amid a bustling city life in Tokyo, Japan.

Singing with only her earphones as accompaniment, Almalbis stands in stark contrast to the rush of strangers around her, transforming a fleeting moment into a deeply personal expression of frustration, resilience, and artistry. 

Symphonic Distribution Signs Underdog Music Philippines to Strategic Distribution Deal

Symphonic Distribution, a leading music technology and services company for independent labels, managers, and artists, today announced the signing of Underdog Music Philippines, one of the country’s fastest-growing independent labels. This signing marks the next chapter of Symphonic’s continued growth in the region, after making several key hires on the A&R Client Development Team in Asia earlier this year.

Founded with an artist-first philosophy, Underdog has quickly built a reputation for championing Filipino musicians across genres, from chart-topping vocalists to rising indie bands, while shaping a new era of transparency and global opportunity in the Philippine music industry. Key artists at Underdog include Morissette, who is also a co-founder of the company and widely known as “Asia’s Phoenix”; Manila-based indie/alternative folk band The Ridleys; and Manila-originated alternative pop band Over October.

Morissette Marks 15 Years with Ember: A Night of Legacy and New Beginnings

When the lights go down at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on October 28, 2025, the crowd will rise to its feet to welcome back one of the most powerful voices of her generation. Morissette, Asia’s Phoenix, celebrates 15 years in music with Ember, a concert designed not only to showcase her vocal brilliance but to reflect on a journey that has inspired millions.

This year has already been monumental for her. She starred in her first feature film, Song of the Fireflies, where she showcased her dramatic range alongside her signature vocals. Her rendition of “Golden,” featured in the Netflix hit Kpop Demon Hunters, went viral and captured headlines, reaffirming her ability to leave a mark on both local and global audiences. Beyond the screen and streaming platforms, she has continued to bring Filipino artistry to international stages, building a legacy that now comes full circle on the Araneta stage.

Masculados Comes Home to Universal Records

conic Filipino group Masculados is returning to their musical roots by signing back with Universal Records, the label that launched their meteoric rise to fame. The group expressed immense excitement about embarking on the latest chapter of their career under the banner that first propelled them into the spotlight.

Universal Records Executive Vice President Ramon Chuaying gladly shared his enthusiasm for the reunion, stating: “We are glad that Masculados is coming back to their home label. We shall be working on new songs with Masculados, and we look forward to delivering more hits. Yung mga millennials and Gen Z, gusto nating malaman nila yung kasikatan ng Masculados.”

ONErpm bolsters Philippine presence with Offshore Music partnerships and new artist signings

The music powerhouse is also set to introduce their growing roster with a special show happening in Sari-Sari bar on October 7, 2025

ONErpm, a global music powerhouse in distribution, label services, and publishing, continues to deepen its presence in the Philippines through strategic partnerships with breakthrough artists and prominent independent labels. At the forefront of these developments is its newly announced collaboration with Offshore Music, home to trailblazing acts such as Ely Buendia, ena mori, Alyson, and M1ss Jade So—to name a few. 

Ely Buendia, CEO and Chairman of Offshore Music reveals the depth of the conversations that led to the collaboration. A key factor in Offshore Music’s decision is ONErpm’s alignment with the label’s values, particularly around sustainability, transparency, and fostering genuine communities of music.

Tickets to Over October’s anniversary concert runs out in two hours

The chart-topping indie band announces to add 500 more passes for fans

Photo by Iya Forbes

Alternative pop band Over October is making waves once again as they celebrate their eleventh anniversary with a free major concert at the MOA Amphitheater on October 12, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. onwards.

The upcoming event generated overwhelming demand, with more than 3,000 passes claimed within just two hours of registration.

In response, the band announced today that they are adding another 500 passes exclusively through the SM Malls Online app at 6:00 pm, giving more fans the opportunity to join what is set to be one of their most ambitious projects to date.

CreaZion Studios Wins Big at the Asian Academy Creative Awards 2025!

Premier film and content company CreaZion Studios clinched three National Awards at the Asian Academy Creative Awards (AACA) 2025 for its acclaimed works on the film sang Himala (co-produced with Unitel, Straightshooters,and Kapitol Films) and the TV series Beauty Empire (produced in partnership with GMA Network and Viu Philippines). The announcement was made last September 29 through AACA's official social media channels.

National Winners

• Best Feature Film
• Isang Himala – CreaZion Studios, UXS & Kapitol Films
• Best Direction (Fiction)
• Isang Himala – Director Pepe Diokno
• Best Cinematography (Fiction)
• Beauty Empire – Jay Abello
• Produced by GMA Network, Viu, and CreaZion Studios

Nateman, Baby Blood, and Yung Bawal join forces in minimalist hip-hop jam “PUSO AT ISIP”

Filipino rappers Nateman and Baby Blood team up with acclaimed producer Yung Bawal on “PUSO AT ISIP,” a vibey, minimalist jam that explores the beautiful chaos of love caught between passion and reason.

Built on Yung Bawal’s lush yet groovy production, the track sets a magnetic backdrop for Nateman and Baby Blood’s sharp lyricism, weaving a story of desire tempered by hesitation. 

The song dares to ask a timeless question: do we follow the quiet pull of peace or dive headlong into the risks of adventurous love? With sultry melodies, clever and playful verses, and Caribbean-inspired rhythms, “PUSO AT ISIP” is designed to keep listeners vibing long after the first play.

Pinoy Playlist Music Festival 2025 Is Back!

Pre-Lineup Tickets Now Available For Only P1,000 For A Limited Time

The much-awaited Pinoy Playlist Music Festival (PPMF) 2025 is opening its Pre-lineup Sale, giving music fans the chance to secure their tickets early at a special rate of P1,000 for a day pass (regular rate at P1,900). This limited-time offer allows audiences to secure their access to the festival experience before the official artist lineup is revealed.

Happening on November 28-30, 2025, at the BGC Arts Center, this year’s festival carries the theme “Halo-halo, Sapin-sapin, Sabay-sabay”, a celebration of Filipino music in all its richness, diversity, and layers. This year, PPMF will feature diverse performances, conversations, and stories across all genres and generations, bringing artists and audiences together in a shared celebration of Filipino music.

American Rapper-Singer J.I.D Announces Massive ‘God Does Like World Tours’ Manila On May 2026

Grammy nominated American rapper-singer J.I.D announces the Asia leg of his much-awaited massive ‘God Does Like World Tours’ and will include a stop in MANILA on May 30, 2026 (Saturday) at The Podium Hall. Presented by Eventim Live Asia and Wilbros Live. Tickets go on-sale on October 8 (Wednesday), 11AM via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets.

Born and raised in East Atlanta, J.I.D grew up on his parents’ collection of classic funk/soul LPs, and broke onto the scene with his 2015 EP, DiCaprio. The EP saw him collaborating with hip-hop duo EARTHGANG, whom he’d previously joined on a 2014 tour. Spotted here by J. Cole, J.I.D was promptly signed to Dreamville/Interscope Records. Soon after the signing, J.I.D made his major-label debut with the widely celebrated The Never Story (2017) which was quickly followed by the critically acclaimed album DiCaprio 2 (2018). The sophomore project garnered significant press attention and earned the rapper a spot in that year's XXL's Freshmen class. J.I.D further cemented his status as an exciting rap talent with standout performances on Dreamville's Platinum-certified, Billboard #1 compilation Revenge of the Dreamers III (2019), which received GRAMMY nominations for "Best Rap Album" and "Best Rap Performance." His growing popularity led to a collaboration with Imagine Dragons on "Enemy" for Netflix's Arcane soundtrack, amassing nearly two billion streams, achieving 4x RIAA Platinum status, and earning nominations at the MTV Music Awards, AMAs, and iHeart Awards.

Doja Cat releases her highly fifth studio album, Vie

“Gorgeous” music video out now!

GRAMMY award-winning global superstar Doja Cat releases her fifth studio album, Vie out now via Kemosabe Records/ RCA Records. 

Doja Cat also unveils the music video for her new track, “Gorgeous.” The music video was directed and shot in New York City by Bardia Zeinali (Justin Bieber / Sabrina Carpenter) and including appearances by Yseult, Paloma Elsesser, Alex Consani, Irina Shayk, Amelia Gray, Ugbad, Ida Heiner, Mona Tougaard, Alek Wek, Karen Elson, Sora Choi, Imaan Hammam, amongst others. 

On the release, Doja Cat states, “The French word “Vie” (translated in English: “life”) was a choice of wordplay by me starting with the simple fact that this is my 5th album. I wanted to stretch this from the roman numeral “five” tattoo on my collarbone. Five in numerology represents curiosity, adventure, and change. I chose Vie as a nod to La Vie en Rose and tied it together with the theme of romance and throughout this project I give my interpretation on love, sex, romance, pain, and wonder within a relationship. These songs can be pertained to the relationship with yourself or others. I feel strongly about the meaning of the word Vie because without life there is no love and without love there is no adventure. This is an adventurous album and with homages and nods to the 80’s, 70’s, and 90’s, I wanted to give my own personal modern twist.”

The Bloomfields channel cut-out psychedelia in “Pink Skies” music video

Inspired by Filipino collage artists, the trippy video embraces imperfection as a mark of authenticity

The Bloomfields are set to release the official music video for their latest single “Pink Skies.”

Helmed by the band’s bassist Louie Poco, who both directed and edited the project, the video takes the form of a surreal animated collage, unfolding in a kaleidoscope of psychedelic imagery, band performances, and pop-art influences.

For Poco, the project was more than just a technical experiment; it was a true work of heart and passion. “It was my first time experimenting with green screen and animated collage,” he shares. “No AI involved, just countless hours of hands-on editing and flexing creative muscles.”