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Symphonic Asia Pacific recently hosted two complementary initiatives centered on community building and industry education: the Spotify Masterclass and Symphonic Social Night. Bringing together Symphonic Distribution’s partner artists, labels, and creative stakeholders, the event took place on the very same day at Sari-Sari Bar last June 18, 2026.
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Reveals album tracklisting with SZA & Erykah Badu
Steve Lacy press photo, credit: Gus Van Sant — download HERE
Steve Lacy releases new single “is it cool? (feat. SZA),” the latest offering from his upcoming album Oh yeah?, out July 17, 2026 via RCA Records.
This collaboration has been highly anticipated since the duo confirmed they were in the studio together back in March, and “is it cool? (feat. SZA)” undeniably lives up to the hype. Steve’s candid-as-ever lyrics blend seamlessly with SZA’s ethereal vocals – the result is a confessional reckoning with self-sabotaging habits and tumultuous romances, brought to life by two of R&B’s most influential voices.
LISTEN TO “is it cool? (feat. SZA)” HERE
PRE-ORDER Oh yeah? HERE
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Led by title track “BAD,” ‘GOLDEN HOUR : Part.5’ delivers a catchy and addictive new sound filled with bold energy, confident attitude, and instantly memorable hooks. The album’s five tracks each bring distinct colors and genres to the project; from explosive hip-hop and sleek dance production to moody alternative pop and rhythmic Latin-inspired influences. Alongside “BAD,” the album includes “MAMACITA,” “TOXIN,” “Fallin’,” and “Body,” creating a dynamic listening experience that highlights the members’ versatility and evolving musical identity.
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The release arrives at a remarkable moment in Myles’ rise. Earlier this month he kicked off his biggest world tour to date, spanning North America, Europe and the UK, and this November will headline a sold-out show at London’s The O2 - a milestone that sees him sell out one of the UK’s most iconic venues before the release of his debut album.
Speaking about the album, Myles says:
“This album is the most personal thing I’ve ever made. It came from looking back at old therapy notes, memories and experiences that shaped who I am, and trying to make sense of them through music. Every song reflects a different part of that journey - family, love, loss, mental health and self-discovery. More than anything, ‘My Mess, My Heart, My Life.’ is about learning to accept your past, understanding yourself a little better, and finding hope in the fact that we’re all a work in progress.”
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A failing marriage takes a dark turn when a man’s wife goes missing the day after he asks for a divorce in The Husband – an upcoming Korean crime thriller coming July 4 to Disney+.
What started off as a marriage made in heaven for Taeju and Seyun quickly descended into bickering and fighting, and after four years of misery, successful neurosurgeon Taeju finally decides to call it quits. But when Seyun goes missing under suspicious circumstances the day after her husband asks for a divorce, Taeju suddenly becomes the prime suspect as he works to evade police and rescue his estranged wife.
TOAST the Best of Bread has faithfully re-created all the hits of the 1970’s legendary band, Bread, as well as the solo works of its founders David Gates and James Griffin. Concertgoers and die-hard fans consistently praise the band for their strikingly accurate recreations of Bread's warm, sentimental tracks and complex harmonies. The band tours internationally, often packing major venues and bringing a feel-good, emotional experience to audiences worldwide.
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justin’s highly anticipated arts and music showcase, lunan, is officially sold out!
For those who missed it, don’t worry! Sony Music Philippines is currently running a promo giveaway for the fans who wish to experience the exhibit curated by SB19’s very own creative director. Interested participants may sign up through the following link: http://justin.lnk.to/lunangiveaway.
The promotional period runs until June 18, 2026 at 12 NN.
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National Geographic has unveiled the official trailer and premiere date for POMPEII: OUT OF TIME WITH TOM HIDDLESTON, a new three-part docudrama premiering July 23 on Disney+. Produced by Plimsoll Productions, the show will premiere on July 23.
Good things come in threes!
Lola Amour, Over October, and Shirebound are headlining the inaugural edition of Alt.chestra—a concert series that reimagines select songs with lush orchestral arrangements.
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Based on the Acclaimed Bestselling Novel by Bret Easton Ellis
Starring Igby Rigney, Kaia Gerber, Homer Gere, Hayes Warner, Graham Campbell, Evan Rachel Wood, Wes Bentley and Jordan Roth
A summer of suspense, seduction and obsession begins with the premiere of FX’s “The Shards,” the new drama series from executive producer Ryan Murphy based on the acclaimed bestselling novel by Bret Easton Ellis. The series will premiere Thursday, August 6 at 9 a.m exclusively on Disney+.
Set against the vivid backdrop of 1980s Los Angeles, the series follows a group of privileged high school seniors at an elite prep school as they navigate identity, sex, jealousy, obsession and the dangers lurking beneath the surface of American adolescence.
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Barbie’s Cradle, one of the Philippines’ most iconic alternative bands of the late 1990s and early 2000s, are set to stage their highly anticipated comeback this year.
Fronted by lead vocalist and guitarist Barbie Almalbis and composed of members Wendell Garcia on drums, Rommel dela Cruz on bass, and Kakoy Legaspi on guitars, the multi-awarded supergroup will return with the release of three new songs, culminating in a special one-night-only concert on August 1, 2026, at the Music Museum.
“We’re excited to revisit the greatest hits and misses while also sharing new songs that reflect where we are now in our lives both as musicians and human beings,” shares Barbie Almalbis. “We’ve reached a point where we approach music-making with greater confidence and purpose. This new body of work is more collaborative and intentional than ever. We’ve poured months of hard work into these songs, and we can’t wait for everyone to hear what we’ve created.”
Approved press photos here
Acclaimed Filipino indie rock quartet ONE CLICK STRAIGHT has officially signed to The Rest Is Noise (TRIN) for global management.
Under the agreement, TRIN will oversee the band’s international bookings and management activities outside the Philippines, including artist development, touring, brand partnerships, synchronization and licensing opportunities, and other commercial and professional ventures aimed at expanding ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s presence in global markets. The partnership will be undertaken in collaboration with the band’s manager, Eezh Arcangel.
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“Avatar: Fire and Ash,” the Oscar®-winning global blockbuster, will stream June 24 exclusively on Disney+. The third film in Oscar-winning filmmaker James Cameron’s phenomenally successful “Avatar” franchise, which was released in December, grossed $1.48 billion worldwide at the box office and won an Academy Award® for best visual effects.
Featuring thrilling action, grand spectacle, and unforgettable characters, the film was praised by fans and critics alike for its spectacular visual effects, dazzling new environments, and stunning new creatures. The story moved and inspired audiences around the globe, resulting in an unforgettable theatrical experience that remained in first place at the domestic box office for 5 consecutive weeks.
P-Pop star justin teams up with acclaimed singer-songwriter Maki on his upcoming new single “dahon,” which he describes as a “vow of timeless love amid an ever-changing world.” The track is penned by Maki, a gifted singer-songwriter whose knack for heartwarming melodies and relatable sentimentality is prevalent in the material.
The collaboration marks another creative partnership between the two artists, following justin’s appearance in the sci-fi-inspired music video of Maki’s “habangbuhay pansamantala."
The Cuban-American actor pays tribute to the Estefans in playing Emilio for OYF Manila
The rhythm is about to get louder at the Proscenium Theater as American actor Jason Canela joins the Manila production of On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, taking on the role of music visionary Emilio Estefan when the highly anticipated musical opens on July 10 at Rockwell Center Makati.
Raised in Miami to the nation's biggest entertainment hubs in New York and Los Angeles, Canela brings with him a unique connection to the story at the heart of the musical. Best known for his work across television, film, and theater, he has appeared in major productions including Apple TV+'s Palm Royale, ABC's The Rookie, FOX's Pitch, and CBS's The Young and the Restless, where he made history as the first Latinx actor cast in a contract role during the show's then 45-year run. He is also widely recognized across Spanish-language television for his performances in Telemundo's ¿Dónde Está Elisa? and Univision's Cosita Linda.
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Today, Disney+ debuted the official trailer for FX’s “The Bear,” the critically acclaimed, Emmy® Award-winning hit series. The series will premiere its fifth and final season on Friday June 26, exclusively on Disney+. All eight episodes will be available to stream at debut.
The fifth and final season of FX’s “The Bear” picks up the morning after Sydney Adamu (Ayo Edebiri), Richard “Richie” Jerimovich (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) and Natalie “Sugar” Berzatto (Abby Elliott) discover that Chef Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White) has quit the food industry, leaving the restaurant to them. With no money, the threat of a sale and a torrential storm in their way, the new partners must band together with the rest of the team to achieve one last service, hoping they’ll finally earn a Michelin star. Ultimately, they learn that what makes a restaurant “perfect” might not be the food, but the people.
Inspired by the picturesque feeling of reaching out for the phone to call someone, “nananabik” longs for a person at the wee hours of the night, trying to evade any form of contact despite the heart telling otherwise.
Known for their slice-of-life indie pop songs that reflect the complexities of young adulthood, Carousel Casualties continues the tradition of writing sophisticated tunes that hold more emotional weight even in its most subdued form. Their new track “nananabik” carries this familiar scenery with melodies that fizzle and gleam like lights lining the road: a well-crafted track like “Leona,” “season 1 episode 43” and the recent viral hit “hindi ko alam,” but more deceptively adventurous in a sonic sense.
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“The Testaments” is Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes at 88% and has garnered over 45M hours streamed globally on Hulu and Disney+ to date. The series has been gaining momentum, with viewership growing week over week. Views for episode 8 were up 76% from the premiere (based on 1 day views).
Organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) in partnership with Bago City LGU, CENRO Bago, and other stakeholders, the initiative highlighted the importance of safeguarding coastal communities.
In the music video, Xyriel portrays the painful reality of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), highlighting the sacrifices, silent struggles, loneliness, and emotional distance endured for the love of family. The story resonates deeply with many Filipinos whose loved ones continue to work far from home in hopes of providing a better future.
Known for its heartfelt lyrics, “Una” captures emotions that go beyond romantic relationships. While often seen as a love song, the track also speaks about longing, sacrifice, and unconditional love for family — themes that strongly connect with the experiences of many OFWs and their loved ones.
Filipino independent record label Offshore Music teams up with award-winning illustrator and comics creator Rob Cham for a special limited-edition merchandise to mark the 30th anniversary of the Eraserheads’ critically acclaimed fourth studio album, Fruitcake.
The limited-edition t-shirt features Cham’s modern take on the album’s whimsical world, giving listeners a fresh visual entry point into one of the most important works in Philippine music.
Known for his distinct visual storytelling, Cham approached the project as both a tribute and reinterpretation of the original Fruitcake universe.
LALALAFEST MANILA is happening on 21 August 2026 at the World Trade Center Manila. Curated and presented by Wilbros Live. Tickets to the festival will go on-sale on Saturday, June 13 at 12PM via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets nationwide.
Following the breakout success of her debut song “GAGA,” which garnered more than 300,000 TikTok creations and peaked at No. 60 on the Spotify Viral charts, RAMONA returns to the spotlight with the release of her new single, “Laguna,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.
RAMONA’s latest track chronicles the messy aftermath of a breakup. Balancing humor, confrontation, and disbelief, the angsty pop-punk anthem taps into the hyper-online generation’s obsession with decoding modern relationships and post-breakup behavior. It also unpacks the strange limbo between heartbreak and amusement: the spiral of watching someone move on suspiciously fast.
What started as an Iloilo-based music project between two friends, John Roxas and Arvy Zafra, has evolved into a band with unique sonic imagery: retro-pop with lush and ornate arrangements and post-punk sensibilities, perfectly carried by their previous single, “Hollow,” which was released in October 2025.
Imbued with newfound range and character, their latest single “Come & Go” takes the familiar cinematic approach with a more manic sound. It’s intentionally made to feel as if the listener is chasing after each note as the song drives forward.
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Following the radiant charm of their critically acclaimed debut DEFINITELY LOVE!, ALYSON returns to the spotlight with AFTER OURS—a sonically ambitious sophomore album released via Offshore Music Philippines.
ALYSON’s second full-length album lingers in the aftermath of a romantic connection, exploring uncertainty after intimacy, the temptation that complicates devotion, and the painful realization that love endures not through perfection but through choice. Embracing a more sophisticated approach to songwriting and production, AFTER OURS treats the art of listening to albums as a sanctimonious experience, with each track carefully sequenced and every detail presented with intentionality at every level.
Tata Taktumi (“Tata”) has released her new single “Not So Bad” via Pacific Music Group (PMG), the Pan-Asian global music and entertainment company. Tata, the human led hybrid artist, was developed under the creative direction of multi Grammy Award winning producer Timbaland. The project underscores a clear philosophy: technology requires human intention, and creativity is still driven by real people. Stream “Not So Bad” here.
“Not So Bad” is anchored by Tata’s real vocals and performance, alongside creative direction from Timbaland. While the project has drawn global attention for its use of emerging technologies, the foundation remains deeply human, rooted in lived experience, artistic instinct, and hands-on collaboration.
International powerhouse vocalist Jessica Sanchez joins forces with Asia’s Phoenix Morissette for “Stronger Than Before,” an anthemic new single that celebrates resilience, faith, and personal growth. Written by Jessica Sanchez and Rodney Jason, and distributed by Universal Records, the track is now available on all major streaming platforms. Released during the month that celebrates Mother’s Day, the song carries an added layer of meaning for listeners, especially mothers whose strength and sacrifices echo its message.
“Stronger Than Before” traces a journey of overcoming doubt and emerging renewed. Jessica—who tried her luck in various competitions before ultimately winning America’s Got Talent in 2025—draws from both her personal and professional experiences to shape the song’s emotional core.
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GRAMMY®-nominated pop superstar Zara Larsson keeps the global party going with Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, a collection of remixes and collaborations that gives new life to her already famously vibrant songs. Revisiting each track from her breakthrough album Midnight Sun, Zara invites a worldwide all-woman cast of friends and faves to an inclusive celebration that crosses borders, genres, and vibes for an unforgettable excursion into free-wheeling self-expression.
The artists joining Zara on the set span diverse sounds and countries of origin, and range from absolute icons to rising stars to indie tastemakers: Shakira, Robyn, Tyla, PinkPantheress, Kehlani, JT, Madison Beer, Emilia, Helena Gao, Margo XS, BAMBII, Malibu, and Eli. Watch visualizers for every song HERE now, and stream or purchase Midnight Sun: Girls Trip right HERE via Epic Records / Sommer House.
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Less than a year since they first took to the streets of Tokyo to dance with Mickey & Friends for their “What We Got” music video, J-Pop sensations King & Prince are back with an exciting new nine-part travel series – King & Prince: Our Meet-Up in LA - coming June 17 exclusively to Disney+.
The new unscripted series follows King & Prince members Ren Nagase and Kaito Takahashi as they travel around Los Angeles, visiting the sights, completing challenges, and chatting and unwinding - giving audiences an unfiltered look at the duo’s personalities and friendship.
Starring King & Prince’s Ren Nagase and Kaito Takahashi, King & Prince: Our Meet-Up in LA was planned and produced by NICHIKI Co.,Inc.- the team behind their popular variety series Kintore.
Fresh off from the success of her last single “Sikretong Tayo Lang May Alam,” which entered the Spotify Viral 50 Philippines chart and surpassed a million streams within five months, SHANNi continues her upward trajectory with the release of her new single “Teleserye”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment.
Driven by conversational lyrics and emotionally poignant storytelling, the alt-pop newcomer pours her heart out on betrayal and manipulation that comes from toxic relationships and friendships. On “Teleserye,” she paints a familiar portrait of having endured chaos in silence before ultimately finding the courage to walk away and find her peace in the process.
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The wildly imaginative animated adventure follows animal lover Mabel as she uses a groundbreaking technology to “hop” her consciousness into a lifelike robotic beaver, uncovering a hidden animal world shaped by its own rules. Alongside charismatic beaver King George and an unforgettable community of local wildlife, Mabel embarks on an action-packed mission that invites audiences to experience nature like never before.
Filipino rapper WAIIAN celebrates the success of his 2025 album with the staging of “BACKSHOW” - The BACKSHOTS Late 1st Anniversary Show, co-presented by Sony Music Entertainment and Lightning in a Bottle Studios (LIAB Studios). The event serves as an anniversary tribute to his full-length album, BACKSHOTS.
With its release last year, BACKSHOTS has positioned itself as one of the most important Filipino hip-hop albums of the 2020s era: a crossover record that reinforces the importance of authenticity and staying true to one’s craft while refusing to conform to social expectations. To date, the critically acclaimed album has achieved over 30 million cumulative streams on Spotify alone, leaving an indelible impression among general listeners and music fans.
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Photo by Mayks Go.
Our favorite post-punk extraordinaire, lambanog brewer, skater, and barber Sexy Jay has dropped yet another gritty track on streaming, and it's the crowd favorite “Singaw”—out on May 21, 2026, via Offshore Music.
The Taguig-based art punk artist had already been performing this song live for years, where it generated countless reactions for its absurd premise surrounding the pain of mouth ulcers and its hypnotic instrumentation reminiscent of the brooding energy of Joy Division’s “Disorder,” off the classic 1979 album, Unknown Pleasures.
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National Geographic has revealed the premiere date and official trailer for BEST OF THE WORLD WITH ANTONI POROWSKI, a new four-part travel docuseries premiering June 8 on Disney+.
Inspired by National Geographic’s acclaimed “Best of the World” franchise, the series follows Emmy winner Antoni Porowski, known for his food and culture storytelling, as he sets out to uncover what truly makes a destination unforgettable. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, he explores Mexico City, Paris, London and his hometown of New York City, seeking out the people, flavors and experiences that extend beyond the guidebook.
Whether he’s getting rare access inside Big Ben’s Great Clock, sampling the generations old art of cheese making at Quatrehomme Paris, drifting off in a surreal dreamscape at Queztacoatl’s Nest in Mexico City or handing out medals alongside world-class volunteers at the finish line of the New York City Marathon, each stop cracks open a vivid slice of the culture, craft and creativity that brings the very best of the world to vibrant life.
Following the commercial success of “Lifetime (Reimagined),” which peaked at No. 1 on both the Official Philippines Chart and Billboard Philippines Hot 100, Ben&Ben returns with “Autumn (Reimagined),” a vital reworking of their beloved 2023 original.
Reimagined with a richer sonic palette, the new version elevates the band’s gold-hued sound with atmospheric textures and soaring instrumentation. The result is a compellingly familiar release that balances emotional weight with fuller arrangements.
HBO Max has announced the official season two green light for the upcoming original Harry Potter series, ahead of the Christmas 2026 debut of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. The second season is scheduled to begin production this Autumn. The series will be available to stream exclusively on HBO Max.
Jon Brown (HBO’s Succession, The Franchise), who is a Writer on season one, has been elevated to Co-Showrunner for season two.
Francesca Gardiner quote: “As we have laid out our plans for the overlapping production schedules to finish season one by Christmas and to return to production for season two this Autumn, it has become clear that bringing on a Co-Showrunner is the key to maintaining our momentum. I’ve loved working with Jon from the very first day we met on Succession through to these recent times together on Harry Potter. Not only do I have huge admiration for his writing, but he’s also a brilliant collaborator and a lovely person. We are lucky to have him.”
Our operatives rendezvoused at Quality Bistro for a debrief that was no low-profile event. Film talent in attendance at the afterparty included stars John Krasinski, Sienna Miller, Michael Kelly, Max Beesley, Betty Gabriel, and JJ Feild; and Director Andrew Bernstein. All systems were a go as the attendees celebrated another successful mission!
Additional celebrity attendees included Emily Blunt, Matthew Rhys, Kevin Kane, Aimé Donna Kelly, Ramona Singer, Racquel Chevremont, Mia Alario and more.
Photo Credit: StarPix/Dave Allocca
Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan: Ghost War, starring John Krasinski returning as Jack Ryan alongside Wendell Pierce, Michael Kelly, and Sienna Miller, now premieres this week exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.
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Global tour dates announced for Westlife 25: The Anniversary World Tour
Globally renowned pop group Westlife today release their monumental era-defining album 25 - The Ultimate Collection, a celebration of their record-breaking 25-year journey at the very top of global pop. The album is available across multiple formats including 1CD, 2CD deluxe, 1LP, Amazon Exclusive 1LP picture disc and cassette.
The release follows “Chariot”, written by Ed Sheeran, Johnny McDaid and Will Reynolds, and co-written and produced by Steve Mac, which was instantly added to the BBC Radio 2 New Music Playlist (A List). The track features on the new album alongside recent release “Your Love Amazes Me”, with the collection bringing together 21 of the band’s most beloved songs including “You Raise Me Up,” “Uptown Girl,” and “Flying Without Wings” alongside brand-new material recorded by all four members: Shane, Nicky, Kian and Mark.
Filipino singer-songwriter Dom Guyot teams up with Filipina femcee Zae for “manloloko,” a summer-ready bop that blends infectious rhythms with confrontational verses. The track doubles as a call for listeners to reclaim their voice and refuse manipulation in all forms.
Lyrically speaking, “manloloko” is about exposing deception and standing firm against people who exploit others for personal gain—be it your loved ones, friends, or the folks in power. Through unfiltered storytelling and fierce vocal performances, Dom and Zae flip the narrative on men who believe they can deceive without consequences.
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There are albums that soundtrack a particular moment in life, and there are albums that linger long even after the music fades.
With AFTER OURS, Filipino city pop collective ALYSON delivers the latter: a richly layered, emotionally expansive sophomore record that positions the young band among the most promising torchbearers of modern OPM.
Mateus Asato is bringing his world tour to the Philippines in 2026. Considered one of the most prominent guitar players of the modern era, the renowned musician will be holding a special show at Aster Events Place in Mandala Park, Mandaluyong City, on July 31, 2026.
Produced and presented by GNN, Mateus Asato Live in Manila will feature performances of songs from his highly anticipated debut solo album, ASATO, as well as fan favorites. His self-titled record, which was released in February this year, doubles as a sonic travelogue that combines jazz, pop, and R&B influences with a prolific level of artistry and technique.
Prior to solidifying his global reputation as a virtuosic Brazilian-Japanese guitarist, Mateus Asato has collaborated with some of the biggest pop superstars, from Bruno Mars to Selena Gomez. As a fully fledged solo artist, he was often praised for his soulful guitar playing, earning accolades from several music media, including Guitar World Magazine’s list of the “TOP 10 Guitarists of the Decade,” Total Guitar’s “TOP Guitarists Right Now (2020),” and Guitar World Magazine’s “Hottest Guitar Players In The World (2022).
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Bread virtually invented soft rock in the early Seventies, and the group’s biggest hits – “Make It With You”, “If”, “Baby I’m-A-Want-You” and “Everything I Own” – remain staples on lite-rock radio.
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Shakira will co-headline the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Final Halftime Show on Sunday, July 19, alongside Madonna and BTS. For the first time in FIFA World Cup™ history, the final will feature a halftime show, bringing together global artists for a singular moment at the intersection of sport, culture, and purpose, to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.
As announced today at Global Citizen NOW in New York, 'Dai Dai' will be the official anthem of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise USD $100 million by end of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ to provide children around the world with access to quality education and sports. Shakira is partnering with Global Citizen and FIFA to provide access to education for children in underserved communities with Shakira’s royalties from 'Dai Dai' being donated to the Education Fund, and Sony Music will match the first $250,000 raised with a donation. Additionally, Shakira is donating $1 from every ticket sold to her upcoming 'Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran' tour to the Education Fund.
After the viral resurgence of their anthemic hit “Ale” on TikTok and various streaming platforms, Filipino band The Bloomfields are embracing a remarkable second-wave momentum with the release of their newest single “Tayo, Na Dali!,” a fun and exuberant, ‘60s pop-inspired jam that serves as gracious giveaway to the fans who have kept their music alive across generations.
Brimming with nostalgic groove and infectious warmth, “Tayo Na, Dali!” exudes the enduring power of music to unite people on the dance floor and beyond.
Filipino singer-songwriter syd hartha reunites with acclaimed artist TONEEJAY for their latest collaborative single “dito muna tayo,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.
Capturing the human need to stay in spaces that soothe the mind and nurture inner peace, the folk-pop track draws inspiration from syd’s emotional connection to the ocean: a place that she describes as a source of calm and contentment throughout her life.
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Photo by Round Festival
In a game-changing moment for Filipino and Southeast Asian pop music, P-Pop powerhouse KAIA teams up with South Korean-based Filipino boyband HORI7ON and Filipino boy group 1st.One for the release of “Sulong,” the official theme song of the ROUND Festival 2026.
WREXHAM, WALES — Filipino violinist and singer-songwriter Muri (Muriel Gonzales) made her Focus Wales debut on May 16, 2026, performing on the festival's AXEAN Stage as the sole representative of the Philippines. Joining artists from Malaysia and Indonesia on the AXEAN showcase — a curated spotlight on Southeast Asian music within the festival — Muri brought her signature blend of violin swells, neo-soul vocals, and introspective songwriting to the stages of Wrexham, North Wales.
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Blending hazy R&B production with raw storytelling, the track speaks to listeners silently battling pressure, anxiety, and self-worth issues
Rising R&B artist and prominent content creator Jemay Santiago marks a triumphant return to music-making with the release of her new single, “1A,” the new single off her highly anticipated EP, Depresyon.
The chill, laid-back track pivots from Santiago’s curated world of virality and public success to reveal a more intimate side of her. On “1A,” the R&B newcomer confronts failure and self-doubt with striking honesty, challenging the glamorized narratives often associated with mainstream music culture.
Integrating hazy textures with nocturnal beats and vulnerable storytelling, “1A” delivers an unfiltered glimpse into the silent battles many people face behind closed doors.
International powerhouse vocalist Jessica Sanchez joins forces with Asia’s Phoenix Morissette for “Stronger Than Before,” an anthemic new single that celebrates resilience, faith, and personal growth. Written by Jessica Sanchez and Rodney Jason, and distributed by Universal Records, the track is now available on all major streaming platforms. Released during the month that celebrates Mother’s Day, the song carries an added layer of meaning for listeners, especially mothers whose strength and sacrifices echo its message.
“Stronger Than Before” traces a journey of overcoming doubt and emerging renewed. Jessica—who tried her luck in various competitions before ultimately winning America’s Got Talent in 2025—draws from both her personal and professional experiences to shape the song’s emotional core.
“‘Stronger Than Before’ is such a special song to me because it really reflects so much of my personal journey—both in my career and in my life,” Jessica shares. “This song is about resilience, growth, and finding strength through those difficult moments. I wanted it to be an anthem for anyone who has ever felt knocked down but chose to rise again.”
David Guetta releases his version of Milky's viral hit "Just The Way You Are," sampling Stardust's iconic "Music Sounds Better With You”. The track fuses 2000s vocals with a French house groove to create one of the most anticipated club records of the year. The campaign has already spent 11 consecutive weeks in the OCC Top 20, amassed 120 million+ streams, and generated over 3 million TikTok creations to prove its timeless essence. The incoming release was played by David Guetta live at LIV Beach in Las Vegas last weekend which was widely received across socials. Having originally been released in 2002, the record found new life when DJ and producer Mall Grab, one of the most credible voices bridging underground dance and mainstream club culture uploaded an edit to SoundCloud and worked it into his sets throughout last year. The groundswell it created led to an official release which immediately flew into the charts and secured A-list adds at Radio 1, Capital and Kiss FM.
Eraserheads: Combo On The Run premieres worldwide in over 190 countries with a newly reworked cut
The acclaimed Filipino docufilm Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will mark its global debut on Netflix starting May 30, 2026. The official streaming release will be available in more than 190 countries, bringing the legacy of the iconic band to the forefront of a wider crossover.
The Netflix premiere will feature a newly reworked cut of the film, including never-before-seen footage, additional material, and a refined edit that expands the band’s story while preserving its integrity in storytelling.
Filipino newcomer Sean Archer captures the complexities of young adulthood in Kung Ano Ano—a gripping guitar-rock record released under Sony Music Entertainment.
Loosely translated as a “mixed bag,” Sean Archer’s latest release reflects the project’s collage-like nature. Rather than adhering to a singular theme, the EP embraces conceptual spontaneity in surprisingly riveting ways.
“Kung Ano Ano is a collection of songs about different things, events, and people in my life,” shares the singer-songwriter/producer. It mirrors life as it is: chaotic, impulsive, but meaningful.”
Photo by Ann Tanginan
Building on the enduring spirit of the local gig scene, Filipino events production company Minsan Studio continues the tradition of its newly minted series, “Minsan Gig sa Skydome,” this May 2026 for two consecutive nights with a diverse, cross-generational lineup. Titled “Minsan Maingay” (Sometimes Loud) on May 8 and “Minsan Malumanay”” (Sometimes Calm) on May 9, the two-part show promises contrasting but complementary live sonic experiences, anchored in three main key points: accessibility, nostalgia, and community.
The “Minsan Gigs Skydome” series was conceived by key figures in the local music scene, including Monty Macalino of Mayonnaise and Jugs Jugueta of the Itchyworms, both ardent collaborators of the production outfit, with a clear object to reintroduce audiences to the simple, unadulterated joy of watching live gigs again. Drawing inspiration from the resurgence of nostalgia-driven culture, the initiative was adopted by its founder Jason Conanan to reunite artists and audiences of the Route 196 era, while reimagining the experience within the confines of an accessible and inclusive setting.
Veering away from the usual concert formats, “Minsan Gig sa Skydome” takes a more relaxed, free-flowing approach. Attendees are encouraged to engage with the event on their terms, whether by watching full sets, stepping out for a break, bringing food, or simply enjoying the space at their own pace. Its bias toward familiarity and ease mirrors the organic nature of the gig culture it seeks to foster and revive.
According to Conanan, the series of gigs is also guided by Minsan Studio’s commitment to accessibility, both in terms of ticket pricing and venue choice. By staging performances at SM Skydome, perched atop the country’s most prominent mall in Northern Metro Manila, the organizers aim to reach audiences who may not typically visit established gig venues such as bars and smaller music spaces. The addition of air-conditioned comfort, optional seating, and flexible viewing arrangements also expands the appeal, catering to both long-time gig-goers and new listeners alike.
The May edition includes two thoughtfully curated lineups:
May 8: “Minsan Maingay”
A high-energy event featuring rock-driven and distortion-heavy acts (with the exception of one act) like Sandwich, Mayonnaise, NOBITA, Setsuna, One Click Straight, Chicosci, and Fragments.
May 9: “Minsan Malumanay”
A more subdued but still fun night, showcasing indie and alternative acts such as The Ridleys, Minaw, The Bloomfields, Jensen & The Flips, Soapdish, El Manu, and Amiel Sol. The show also features a stand-up comedy set by James Caraan.
Both nights embody the evolving identity of the “Minsan Sa Skydome” series not as a conventional concert experience, but as an open, communal space for audience connection. As Conanan puts it, “Hindi ito concert. Gig lang. Enjoy lang.”
For tickets and inquiries, follow Minsan Studios’ official channels for updates.
