Throwback Spotlight: Sabrina Carpenter and Shanti Dope’s “Almost Love” Collab Remains a Groundbreaking Moment For Filipino Music

As global pop star Sabrina Carpenter takes center stage as part of this year’s Coachella lineup, fans are revisiting one of her most unexpected and culturally significant collaborations: “Almost Love,” originally released in 2018.

The track continues to stand out for featuring Filipino rap innovator Shanti Dope—a rare and forward-thinking move at the time. Long before global collaborations became more commonplace, the inclusion of Shanti Dope marked a pivotal moment, spotlighting Filipino hip-hop on an international platform and signaling the growing global potential of local talent.

Since then, Shanti Dope has built an impressive and influential career, consistently pushing the boundaries of Filipino hip-hop. His recent releases—“Ramdam Mo Ba?,” “Bloods & Crips,” and “One Take Freestyle”—demonstrate his continued evolution, sharp lyricism, and strong connection with today’s audience.

Romantic Comedy “Perfect Crown” Becomes The Number One Most Viewed Korean Series Premiere On Disney+ Globally

The Newly Released Series Starring IU And Byeon Wooseok Tells The Story Of A Modern-Day Grand Prince And A Corporate Heiress Whose Marriage Of Convenience Takes An Unexpected Turn

Disney+ today announced that the recently released romantic comedy Perfect Crown has become the number one most viewed Korean series on Disney+ globally (based on five days of views).

First premiering on April 10, Perfect Crown follows the people’s favorite royal, Grand Prince I-AN, as he becomes embroiled in a power struggle with other members of the royal family. With pressure on the prince to wed, he strikes up a marriage of convenience with Huiju, the heir to a Korean conglomerate, but as the pair work together to advance their own ends, emotions begin to flare and things don’t go quite as smoothly as planned.

Perfect Crown stars IU (When Life Gives You Tangerines, My Mister) as Huiju, the second in line to inherit one of Korea’s biggest conglomerates, and Byeon Wooseok (Lovely Runner, Strong Girl Nam-soon) as Grand Prince I-AN. The series is directed by Park Joonhwa (Alchemy of Souls, What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim) and is written by Yoo Jiwon.

Orange & Lemons to release “Too Young To Be Old,” announce 2026 European Tour

A deeply personal single leads the band into a new chapter marked by international performances

Iconic Filipino indie pop outfit Orange & Lemons are back with the upcoming release of their new single, “Too Young To Be Old,” alongside the announcement of a European tour set for May-June 2026.

The track explores the complexities of transition and self-awareness, capturing what vocalist and guitarist Clem Castro describes as “that strange middle space where you’re no longer reckless, but not quite settled either.”

Filipino singer-songwriter dwta turns a new leaf with defiant pop anthem “Tabi!”

The artist explores new sonic territory while honoring the roots that shaped her

Bicol-born singer-songwriter dwta makes a fearless statement with “Tabi!,” a genre-blurring track released on the same day as her birthday. While the song marks a vital shift in sonic direction and imagery, the song remains grounded in the artist’s unmistakable voice, showing artistic renewal and transformation.

Long recognized for her softer, introspective sound and earnest songwriting, dwta melds alt-pop sensibilities with folk textures, country-inspired banjo strums, driving percussions, and grunge-inflected electric guitars. The result is surprisingly a cohesive piece of work—one whose fearless new energy and quirks bring out the best in her.

Disney+ To Live Stream The World Premiere Of “The Devil Wears Prada 2” On April 21

Subscribers Score a Front-Row Seat to the Most Stylish Red Carpet of the Season

20th Century Studios’ “The Devil Wears Prada 2” Struts into Theaters April 29

Disney+ Philippines will live stream the can’t-miss, high-fashion world premiere of 20th Century Studios’ “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” offering subscribers around the globe an exclusive front-row seat to one of the most glamorous nights of the year. The star-studded event unfolds on Tuesday, April 21 (Philippine Time), at Lincoln Center in New York City, celebrating the upcoming theatrical debut of the film. The livestream begins at 5:30 AM, with a full replay available following the event.

Trailer And Key Art Revealed For “A Marvel Television Special Presentation: The Punisher: One Last Kill”

The special debuts May 13 at 9AM, exclusively on Disney+

A trailer, key art and stills for the intense, highly anticipated “A Marvel Television Special Presentation: The Punisher: One Last Kill,” starring Jon Bernthal as the titular vigilante, aka Frank Castle, has been unveiled ahead of its Disney+ debut. In the special, Frank searches for meaning beyond revenge, when an unexpected force pulls him back into the fight. 

“A Marvel Television Special Presentation: The Punisher: One Last Kill” is directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green from a script co-written by Bernthal and Green. The special episode debuts May 13 at 9AM, exclusively on Disney+ Philippines.  

Our Shame and HengJones bring Taiwanese waves in Manila for All Of The Noise 2026

From folktronica to indigenous hip-hop, Our Shame and HengJones co-headline the regional music showcase and conference festival alongside artists from Singapore, Indonesia, New Zealand, and the Philippines

Taiwanese new wave hits the Philippines this month as alternative pop duo Our Shame and acclaimed hip-hop artist HengJones co-headline All Of The Noise 2026, a three-day, multi-venue and culture festival set across Astbury Makati (April 17 and 19), Sari-Sari Makati (April 17 and 19), and 123 Block in Mandaluyong City (April 18).

As two of the most promising emerging voices in the Taiwanese independent music scene, both acts will be joining an eclectic roster of lineup from the Asia Pacific region, including Indonesia’s Grrrl Gang, Arash Buana, and Gavendri; New Zealand’s Phoebe Rings, Singapore’s Shye, and our very own BP Valenzuela, DJ Love, Elijah Canlas, Fitterkarma, Ourselves the Elves, SOS, and more.

Mark Carpio writes the ending he never expected in new EP, Huling Pag-ibig

Listen to the focus track “Paalam Na,” a powerful meditation on closure and healing

OPM hitmaker Mark Carpio drops his highly anticipated new EP, Huling Pag-ibig—released under EMPIRE.PH Music and ONErpm. Marking a milestone in his 10-year career, the 4-track EP weaves themes of love, loss, and emotional closure into one cohesive sonic package. Both introspective and freeing, the project also serves as an ending to a well-loved music era—one that positioned Carpio as both a prominent balladeer of his generation and a gifted songwriter known for his poignant yet earnest storytelling. 

Bicolana Rapper XYVRL Turns Up the Heat in Her “SWAGAPINA” Era with “Scottie T (Remix)” Featuring Ivo Impreso

Bicolana rapper XYVRL continues her bold 2026 run with the release of “Scottie T (Remix)” featuring Ivo Impreso of PLAYERTWO, now available on all major digital streaming platforms. The track serves as the latest offering from her emerging SWAGAPINA era — a fearless, internet-fueled creative world where identity and self-expression take center stage.

A high-impact evolution of her earlier single “Scottie T,” the remix elevates the original’s competitive energy with a harder edge and a wider perspective. Built on sharp hip-hop production and basketball-inspired wordplay, the track plays like a statement performance — confident, calculated, and impossible to ignore.

Ivo Impreso brings a commanding presence to the remix, delivering a hard-hitting Bisaya verse that reflects the realities of the grind in today’s music industry. His contribution adds both weight and authenticity, creating a dynamic exchange between two artists driven by hunger, discipline, and the desire to rise above the noise.

Ben&Ben reclaims chart dominance with viral smash “Lifetime (Reimagined)”

The song has reached No. 4 on Spotify Philippines Daily Top Songs Chart, and is expected to hit a new peak in the coming days

Award-winning Filipino folk-pop band Ben&Ben has surged back to the summit of the streaming charts with “Lifetime (Reimagined)”—released under Sony Music Entertainment.

The new version of the hit ballad has reached a peak of No. 4 on Spotify Philippines Daily Top Songs Chart, while making a dent internationally with a No. 3 debut on the Spotify Top Songs Debut – Global. 

The Strokes set new album Reality Awaits for June 26

“GOING SHOPPING” ARRIVES NOW PLAYING COACHELLA

Reality Awaits album cover art — Untitled (Cowboy) 1989 courtesy of Richard Prince “Going Shopping” single artwork.

Reality Awaits, the seventh studio album from The Strokes, is set for release on June 26 via Cult Records/RCA Records. “Going Shopping” is out now—listen here.

Recorded in Costa Rica with producer Rick Rubin and finished around the globe, Reality Awaits marks the band’s first new music since 2020’s much-lauded The New Abnormal and extensive global touring in its wake.

The Strokes will play major festivals around the world this spring and summer including this weekend and next at Coachella, in addition to dates headlining Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, Japan’s Summer Sonic 2026 and more.

Love, Lies, and Betrayal Await: Prime Video's Love Is Never Gone Premieres May 8

Joshua Garcia and Ivana Alawi’s gripping tale of romance and survival arrives exclusively on Prime Video

Prime Video today unveiled its upcoming Filipino romance drama series Love Is Never Gone, announcing its exclusive premiere date of May 8 and releasing the official key art. Produced by ABS-CBN Studios and Dreamscape Entertainment, it is set against the vibrant backdrop of Morocco, the series blends romance and suspense, following two lost souls who find strength and love in each other only to discover that lies and betrayal threaten to derail their path to happiness.

The series features a powerhouse ensemble led by Joshua Garcia, Ivana Alawi, Jameson Blake, Jane Oineza, Michael de Mesa, Epy Quizon, Fyang Smith, JM Ibarra, and Dina Bonnevie.

Lags Returns With Emotional New Single “Pansamantala”

After taking a year-long hiatus from releasing music, singer-songwriter Lags officially marks his return with the heartfelt new single “Pansamantala,” released on February 20, 2026. The artist is currently managed by GLXY Talent Management and signed under Universal Records.

“Pansamantala” is a deeply emotional acoustic ballad that explores the painful reality of loving someone who ultimately chooses their past over the present. The song was born from an intimate late-night talk with a close friend searching for closure, only to confront the painful realization that he was never truly the one chosen. That heavy, honest moment lingered — and Lags transformed it into a song that captures the quiet devastation of being left behind.

Built around raw Tagalog lyricism and a sincere, stripped-down arrangement, the track follows the confusion and heartbreak of someone asking the question many fear to say out loud: “Paano na ako?” From the opening plea “Tumingin ka sa’king mga mata, di mo ba ko nakikita” to the crushing realization of being “pinagpalit sa nakaraan,” the song unfolds like an intimate conversation, mirroring the emotional journeys of many listeners.

Disney+ Expands Strategic Collaboration With Korea Esports Association To Host Additional Livestreams Of Esports Events Throughout The Year

The Collaboration Kicks Off With The Esports Championships Asia Jinju 2026 Streaming On Disney+ From April 24-26 Followed By More Competitions Later This Year

Following on from the success of last year’s 2025 LoL KeSPA CUP livestream, Disney+ today announced it has expanded its existing collaboration with the Korea eSports Association (KeSPA) to bring additional livestreams of major esports competitions to audiences around the world. The expanded collaboration will include global live coverage of major flagship events including the Esports Championships Asia Jinju 2026, the 2026 LoL KeSPA CUP and the Korea national team send-off ceremony and LoL friendly matches before the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026.

Veniccio.com Presents International Chopin Competition Laureate on May 2, 2026, at the Ayala Museum

Veniccio.com, in partnership with MA Piano Academy, is excited to announce, “Kate Liu in Recital,” featuring world-class pianist Kate Liu. 

The concert marks Liu’s Philippine debut, which will premiere on May 2, 2026, at the Ayala Museum in Makati City. 

She will perform the piano works of Chopin, Schumann, and Brahms.

This production by Veniccio.com continues the effort of bringing internationally acclaimed artists to the Philippines and exposing Filipino listeners to world-class performers like Kate Liu.

Liu won the attention of the classical music world during the 17th International Chopin Competition, where she established herself as one of the foremost interpreters of Chopin. 

New Korean Series Filing For Love Starring Shin Hae-Sun To Premiere On HBO Max On April 25

Shin Hae-sun and Gong Myoung star in new Korean comedy series Filing for Love, set to premiere on Saturday, April 25 on HBO Max.

The 12-episode series follows an unlikely duo, In-a (played by Shin Hae-sun) and Ki-jun (played by Gong Myoung), as they navigate through workplace politics, a secret past, and revenge, all while falling in love in this refreshing romantic comedy series.

Starring Shin Hae-sun (See You in My 19th Life, Mr. Queen), Gong Myoung (Second Shot at Love, Way Back Love), Kim Jae-uck (Death’s Game, Her Private Life) and Hong Hwa-yeon (I Am A Running Mate, Mental Coach Jegal), Filing for Love is directed by Jamie K Lee, written by Yeo Eun-ho, created by 

Yang Hee-seung, with Lee Young-ok and Hong Won-joo as Executive Producers. The series is produced by Studio Dragon.

Stream Filing for Love on HBO Max from April 25.

It's just March, but here's June: Ligaya Escueta's New Shoegaze Single

New music alert! Punk rock young blood Ligaya Escueta releases a new single titled June, a dreampop love song that sonically reiterates the ache of young romance in a soft, almost ethereal melody. The song is now available on all digital streaming platforms. 

Coming down from the high of her previous emotionally-charged album "Dollweb" (2025), Abigail Escueta, better known as her stage name, Ligaya Escueta, pulls yet the heartstrings of her listeners with the release of June. 

“Love songs have always been hard for me to write. I just feel like so much has been said about love that it kind of feels so overwhelming to try to sum it up in a song,” shares the 19-year-old musician, expressing her difficulties creating such a vulnerable track. However, for June, Escueta remarks how fast the flow came naturally to her the moment the idea came to mind. “A lot of lyrics came easily to me. I got the choruses done quickly, but was only able to finish the verse lyrics in the car on the way to a gig, which is a funny story.” 

NYMA’s Kat Bautista Named Judge for Hashtag Asia Awards 2026

Kat Bautista, Founder and Chief Operating Officer of NYMA Talent Management, has been named as one of the judges for the Hashtag Asia Awards 2026, a regional platform recognizing excellence in social media and digital campaigns.

Bautista brings over a decade of experience in digital strategy, talent management, and brand partnerships. Under her leadership, NYMA Talent Management has grown into a leading agency representing some of the Philippines’ most influential creators, artists, and personalities, helping bring Filipino talent to a global stage.

This year, Bautista also serves as a judge for the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards and the Webby Awards, further underscoring her recognition as a trusted industry voice across global award-giving bodies.

Live-Action Adaptation Of The Guilt-Driven Japanese Coming-Of-Age Story “The Flowers Of Evil” To Debut April 9 On Disney+

Based On The Hugely Popular Manga of the Same Name, This Upcoming Series Is Adapted For The Screen By Keita Meguro and Shuho Takase And Stars Fuku Suzuki And Ano

When a teenage boy is caught smelling his female classmate’s gym clothes, his blackmailer will send him down a guilt-ridden spiral in The Flowers of Evil, a harrowing new Japanese coming-of-age story debuting April 9 on Disney+.

Driven to despair by life in his dull hometown, high school student Takao Kasuga finds comfort in the pages of his favorite literary works. Inspired by the poems of Baudelaire, Kasuga yearns for the attentions of his seemingly perfect classmate Nanako Saeki, but when he gets caught smelling her gym clothes after school, he’ll find himself being pushed down a dark path by his blackmailing classmate, Nakamura. As Takao spirals with guilt over one bad decision, Nakamura takes advantage of him, pushing him to make even worse decisions at every turn. Caught in a terrifying situation with seemingly no escape, things come to a head at the local town festival.

AXEAN Festival 2026 heads back to Bali for its seventh edition

With growing global recognition, the platform continues to reshape how the world engages with the region’s artists

AXEAN Festival, Southeast Asia’s top intra-regional music showcase and conference platform, is scheduled to return for its seventh edition at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, from August 29 to 30, 2026.

Launched in 2020 by a collective of music industry professionals across the region, AXEAN Festival has exponentially grown into a key export platform for Southeast Asian music, as well as a prominent convergence for cross-border collaborations and partnerships between global industry stakeholders and artists. To date, the music showcase and conference event has successfully hosted both virtual editions (2020-2021) and in-person gatherings (2022-2025) in Singapore and Bali. Over six editions, AXEAN has featured nearly 300 artists representing more than 20 countries.

‘Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special’ Hits Superstar Numbers Driving 6.3M Views on Disney+ and Hulu

Fans fuel anniversary into full blown celebration from events and activations to massive brand collaborations and nonstop social conversation

Two decades later, Hannah Montana still owns the spotlight as a defining cultural icon, proved by this week’s celebration:

The Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special drove 6.3M views on Disney+ and Hulu after three days streaming.

The celebration of the anniversary drove nearly 1,000% increase in viewing of the Hannah Montana catalog this past week.

Thai Pop's Rising Star ALLY Launches Global Push with Manila Visit

Thai pop star ALLY (Achiraya Nitibhon) came to Manila this month as the first stop of her international campaign for new English single “but you,” marking her official push into the Southeast Asian market.

At just 21, ALLY has emerged as one of Thailand’s most promising new-generation artists, known for her dynamic performances, fashion-forward presence, and emotionally resonant pop sound. Her Manila stop signals the beginning of a broader regional rollout aimed at connecting with international audiences and building a global fanbase.

Her latest track, “but you,” represents a pivotal moment in her artistic journey. Performed entirely in English, the song blends R&B, pop, and lo-fi hip-hop influences into a smooth, atmospheric soundscape that captures longing, emotional distance, and the ache of enduring feelings often tied to an undefined relationship.

Central Cee releases highly anticipated EP “ALL ROADS LEAD HOME”

Featuring “Iceman Freestyle” & “Slaughter” Ft. J Hus

Central Cee releases his highly anticipated EP, ALL ROADS LEAD HOME. The seven-track project arrives in the wake of two stand-out records, “Iceman Freestyle” and “Slaughter” featuring J Hus.

“Slaughter” saw two of the UK’s most influential voices unite on record for the first time, a landmark collaboration for Cench, whose work with UK artist collaborations have been notably selective to date. The track has quickly emerged as a fan favourite, underlining the chemistry between the pair and setting the tone for the wider project.

Leona Releases Song About Losing A Pet Dog

After a heartfelt hiatus, Leona returns with their most personal release to date, “Isang Sandali Pa,” under Universal Records Philippines.

The band reveals that the song was written as a tribute to their bassist’s beloved dog who passed away a few months ago. What began as a deeply personal expression of grief became a universal anthem for anyone who has ever wished for just one more moment — one more embrace, one more quiet second to hold on.

“We wrote this song as a tribute to our bassist’s beloved fur baby who passed away a few months ago. We hope it reaches anyone who’s still holding on to beautiful memories.”

9 Kick Founder Weining Hung Named to Pollstar’s 2026 “Women of Live”

Pollstar, a prominent trade publication for the concert and live music industry, has announced its 2026 Women of Live list, celebrating influential professionals and visionaries worldwide. Among this year’s lone Asian honoree is Weining Hung, Founder and Director of 9 Kick—a Taipei-based management and booking agency responsible for playing a crucial role in connecting Asian indie artists with international audiences.

Hung is widely recognized for her work as co-founder of LUCfest, Taiwan’s premier showcase festival and conference. Launched in 2017, LUCfest became a vital meeting point for international industry professionals and Asian talents. As the festival enters its next phase of growth, LUCfest is currently exploring strategic cooperation and new partnerships to carry its legacy in ensuring its continued impact on the global stage.