Filipino hip-hop continues to evolve, and one artist helping shape its current landscape is WAIIAN. Following the massive success of his acclaimed album BACKSHOTS, the rapper is set to celebrate its milestone anniversary with a special live event titled “BACKSHOW” – The BACKSHOTS Late 1st Anniversary Show.
Co-presented by Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and LIAB Studios, the anniversary concert promises an immersive live experience that pays tribute to one of the most talked-about Filipino hip-hop albums in recent years.
BACKSHOTS Continues To Leave Its Mark on Filipino Hip-Hop
Released in 2025, BACKSHOTS quickly gained recognition for its raw authenticity, genre-blending sound, and unapologetic storytelling. The album resonated deeply with listeners for staying true to WAIIAN’s artistic identity while challenging expectations within the local music scene.
Today, the project has amassed more than 30 million streams on Spotify, cementing its place as one of the standout Filipino hip-hop releases of the decade.
Beyond streaming numbers, the album has developed a strong cult following among fans who connect with its honesty, sonic experimentation, and emotional depth.
“BACKSHOW” Brings the Album to Life With a Full Live Band
While the idea for “BACKSHOW” was already in motion before BACKSHOTS officially dropped, the anniversary event now arrives at the perfect time.
For the first time, WAIIAN will perform the entire album with a live band setup, offering audiences a new way to experience the music.
The rapper described BACKSHOTS as one of the proudest and most personal projects of his career, sharing that the live show felt like the natural next step now that the band has developed stronger chemistry through months of performing together.
Fans can expect a more dynamic and emotionally charged interpretation of the album in a live setting.
A Strong Lineup of Collaborators and Guest Artists
The anniversary show will also showcase performances from artists within WAIIAN’s creative circle and fellow LIAB Studios collaborators.
The lineup includes:
- Karmela Roxy
- Bad Indie Eye
- Nicole Anjela
- SHNTI
- Yorko
- DJ MILKY
- Kartell’em
- DJ Bebi Keychain
- Alisson Shore
- La Mave
The diverse roster reflects the collaborative and community-driven spirit that has helped shape WAIIAN’s music and artistic journey.
Spotify RADAR Recognition Signals Bigger Things Ahead
The timing of “BACKSHOW” also coincides with WAIIAN’s inclusion in Spotify’s RADAR 2026 program, which spotlights rising artists poised for greater international visibility.
The anniversary concert additionally serves as a preview of what fans can expect ahead of another major album release planned later this year.
For supporters of Filipino hip-hop, the event signals an exciting new chapter for one of the genre’s most compelling voices.
Event Details for “BACKSHOW”
“BACKSHOW” – The BACKSHOTS Late 1st Anniversary Show will happen on May 15, 2026, at 123 Block.
Exclusive event merchandise will also be available in limited quantities during the show.
More than an anniversary celebration, “BACKSHOW” highlights how Filipino hip-hop continues to grow through artists willing to stay authentic and push creative boundaries.
With BACKSHOTS, WAIIAN created a project that resonated because it felt honest, fearless, and deeply personal. Bringing the album to life onstage with a live band makes the celebration even more meaningful for fans who have connected with the music over the past year.
