Jollibee Studios’ “My Crush is A Cactus Killer”

Jollibee Studios’ “My Crush is A Cactus Killer”

Tuesday, March 1, 2022

It goes without saying that change is the only constant thing in life. There are times when it brings people to difficult situations they need to overcome, but there are also moments when it leads them to the answers of their greatest whys. Either way, adapting to change can be an uncomfortable process — but the beautiful, empowering love that we find in the midst of it all is what makes the experience worthwhile.

On February 28, the country’s most loved fast-food chain, Jollibee is back again with a trilogy that portrays a love that is worth persevering. My Crush is A Cactus Killer, produced by Jollibee Studios, is a three-part series that follows the story of two people who found a joyful connection that carried them through the toughest times in their lives.

Directed by acclaimed Filipino film director, Sigrid Bernardo, My Crush is A Cactus Killer features up-and-coming artists Gigi de Lana and Raphael Balaccua.

The two will give life to the characters of Mandy (Gigi) and Mikey (Raphael) both of whom share a love for plants--a plantita and a plantito--but that is not the only thing they have in common: both have faced setbacks in their professional and personal lives due to the pandemic. As they try to put the pieces of their lives back together and weather through an uncertain situation, will a shared love of plants make them discover that love can make change easier?

“It’s a universal experience to go through a change, especially in the pandemic, but even though we say 'everyone goes through it', it doesn’t take away the fact that pain and loss is a difficult feeling,” said Arline Adeva, AVP and Head of Brand Communications, PR and Digital Marketing at Jollibee. “What we want to communicate through this new Jollibee Studios series is that hope and true joy could be found if we remain open to all the possibilities that these changes can lead us to.”

Through Jollibee Studios’ exclusive branded content for entertainment, it has captured the hearts of many people with true people and their real-life encounters at the heart of its stories.

Last December, Jollibee Studios released its first mid-length film which has garnered millions of views on the platform. Truly it’s a fitting testament to the Filipinos’ deep affinity with the Jollibee brand and its storytelling.

With My Crush is A Cactus Killer, the brand aims to spread hope, inspiration, and joy to people amid changing times.

Watch the latest and first ever mini-series exclusively available on the Jollibee Studios YouTube channel.

Read More

Eddie Benjamin delivers message of optimism during troubling times on new single “Weatherman”

Eddie Benjamin delivers message of optimism during troubling times on new single “Weatherman”

Friday, February 25, 2022

Australian singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Eddie Benjamin introduces his upcoming debut album with new single, “Weatherman,” out today via Vol. 1 Records/Epic Records.

A defiant call for optimism in troubling times, the promising newcomer imbues his message of hope with old-school soul and irresistible pop hooks. 

Over lilting keys, Eddie begins “Weatherman” with a plea for brighter days. “Go tell the weatherman I said, I want it sunny outside today,” he sings. 

While the tone is uplifting, Eddie penned the song while battling anxiety. “I felt out of control and didn’t know what to do,” the 20-year -old artist tells Rolling Stone. “I couldn’t help how I felt, and it summed up all these extremities in a really vulnerable way. You’re talking to yourself, asking for a sunny day.”

With its confessional lyrics and heady blend of soul, jazz, and pop, “Weatherman'' combines his many influences for a sound that feels classic yet uniquely his. “I’d like to expose this generation to timeless songcraft in a contemporary way,” he says. 

The addictive track also arrives alongside a colorful video, which made its broadcast premiere today via an MTV First Look, airing at the top of every music hour on MTV Live, MTVU, and MTV Biggest Pop, and simultaneously via a Nickelodeon Music premiere. Watch it HERE. 

The visual narrative highlights the rising star’s whimsical nature and love of all things classic. Colorful, cryptic, and full of mysterious figures, it’s a surreal, rich video that suits the depth and character of the track. Directed by Tyler Yee(Lana Del Rey, G-Eazy), it adds yet another dimension to the richness of his textured sophistipop—upbeat yet complex, familiar yet new.

Alongside the release, Eddie joins Justin Bieber’s Justice World Tour, which kicks off tonight in San Diego, CA, an appropriate fit for a pop visionary in his own right. The tour, which also includes Jaden, Harry Hudson, and ¿Téo?, will traverse the US and Canada. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com, while the tour routing can be found below.

Eddie Benjamin’s “Weatherman” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Vol. 1 Records/Epic Records/Sony Music.

Read More

Filipinos cheers for entertainment on Twitter in 2021

Filipinos cheers for entertainment on Twitter in 2021

Tuesday, February 15, 2022

Conversations on streaming platforms, local TV, movies, and music all rose in 2021

2021 was an exciting year for entertainment, even if people still mostly stay at home. People stay glued on their screens to watch global and local blockbusters such as #SquidGame and #HesIntoHer, down to jamming along to their favourite K-Pop and P-Pop tunes. Whatever form of entertainment they enjoy, people across Southeast Asia made sure to share every bit of their moment on Twitter.

The entertainment audience is highly active on Twitter. Movie buffs, music junkies, and series binge-watchers all gather on Twitter to share their thoughts on the things they enjoy as well as to find recommendations on what's hot among the community. Moreover, interest in streaming platforms content grew steadily with 25.5M Tweets[1] around shows and movies on streaming services from SEA in 2021. With more options and titles provided on-demand, people go to Twitter to discuss fan theories and express their excitement whenever a movie or show teaser drops online.

Entertainment in the Philippines saw a boost in streaming content, music, films, and TV show conversations, while the most talked about streaming services were Netflix (@Netflix_PH), iFlix (@iflixph), iQIYI (@iQIYIph), Viu (@Viu_PH), and WeTV (@WeTVPhilippines). These conversations showcase Filipinos' drive to be first in #WhatsHappening, and here's a rundown of what kept Filipinos entertained in 2021.

Over-the-top content is "on demand"

The conversation around streaming platforms in the Philippines has grown steadily across 2021, with 4.4 million Tweets about streaming platforms content from January to October 2021[2]. Viewers were spoilt for choice with streaming services providing every genre of entertainment possible on-demand, and took to Twitter to share when new seasons dropped. K-drama and superheroes movies, which has expanded its audience through streaming services, is now appealing to global viewers of all genres. From #HometownChaChaCha to the rave of #WandaVision, Filipinos Tweeted blow-by-blow reactions as well as their own reviews for certain episodes, contributing to the hype around the entertainment conversation on Twitter.

Aside from international content, people are also interested in locally produced content that is available on key platforms. Notable feat for Filipino pop culture in 2021 is the release of the animated adaptation of #TreseOnNetflix, to which Filipinos and international audiences highly anticipated in that year.

(Love) Local TV

The rise of streaming platforms does not waver continuous growth of conversations around local TV in the Philippines. There were over 27.4 million Tweets about local TV from January to October 2021[3]. In particular, people are taken by local series and the relationships between characters, such as Tweeting about their favorite highlights of #HesIntoHer or #TheWorldBetweenUs.

In addition, celebrities dominate the conversation on local TV. Fandom culture is the driving force behind this, as they Tweet their support for celebrities and loveteams such as #MaineMendoza and #DonBelle.

Cinema feels at home

Even if the cinemas are still closed, the conversation around cinema and movies is going steady in the Philippines. Over 3 million Tweets about cinema were tallied from January to October 2021[4], most of which are Tweets on the strong celebration and preference for locally produced movies such as #PrincessDayaReese and #HelloStrangerTheMovie, and the strong interest in the actors who top billed in these movies. International flicks also remain popular, proving that Filipinos are one of the first-movers when it comes to knowing the latest in global content, from seeing the much-awaited Justice League #SnyderCut to hyping up the buzz on #SpiderManNoWayHome.

Staying in tune

The biggest growth on Entertainment conversations goes to music, with a whopping 92.8 million Tweets from January to October 2021[5]. Twitter is the home ground of music fandoms, so it's no surprise that the music conversation is holding steady. Notably, SB19 (@SB19Official) rules the scene and is by far the most talked about band in the country. Fans are also eager to get their favourite bands even more visibility on shows.

Since Philippines is one of the top markets on #KpopTwitter conversations, some of the most talked about artists in the #stanworld are the likes of BTS (@BTS_twt), EXO (@weareoneEXO), and TWICE (@JYPETWICE).

Excited for Entertainment in 2022

The vibrant conversations on Twitter surrounding movies, shows, and music in 2021 were a ray of hope for artists, producers, and directors alike in keeping entertainment alive and fresh for its audiences. They helped spotlight the industry, and local artists and shows gained more visibility through the conversations that happened only on Twitter.

For 2022, expect to see more reviews, reaction, and buzz on Twitter — where artists, fans, and even casual enjoyers gather to talk about all things entertainment.

[1] Source: Twitter internal data, Jan - October 2021. Tweets from the Philippines.

[2] Source: Twitter internal data, Jan - October 2021. Tweets from the Philippines.

[3] Source: Twitter internal data, Jan - October 2021. Tweets from the Philippines.

[4] Source: Twitter internal data, Jan - October 2021. Tweets from the Philippines.

[5] Source: Twitter internal data, Jan - October 2021. Tweets from the Philippines.

Read More

Jarlo Bâse marks his major label debut with soulful, laid-back track “Kalapati”

Jarlo Bâse marks his major label debut with soulful, laid-back track “Kalapati”

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Filipino singer-songwriter Jarlo Bâse is ready to carve his own lane in the music industry with the release of “Kalapati,” his first official single under Sony Music Philippines.

Recorded at Sonic State Audio, “Kalapati” doesn’t sound like a total diversion from his previous releases, but it has a more pristine quality to it as far as production is concerned. The laid-back tune finds the promising newcomer embracing a lighthearted but soulful direction while remaining adept in making accessible R&B/pop music that yields ecstatic returns.

Lyrically, the song deals about “loving someone for reasons that actually matter,” and as Jarlo Bâse puts it, “accepting them for who they are now, not for who they were, and definitely not for who we want them to be someday.” With Jarlo Bâse’s signature smoothness adding an element of a much-needed chill, “Kalapati” makes for an exhilarating listening experience: a bop that is ready to redefine romance in an exciting, youthful way.

While the song was initially conceived four years ago, it was only in 2021 when Jarlo Bâse was able to record the track in a professional studio. “I had to be patient,” the multi-talented artist reveals. “Waiting for the availability of studio was the most challenging part for me. It was all about timing, and making sure I was ready when an opportunity would arise. If my memory serves me right, I finished the song around four years ago. Most of what we did was re-record the different stems of the track, and polish what needed polishing.”

Underlining his reputation as a skillful singer-songwriter who is open to possibilities and sonic ideas, Jarlo Bâse wrote and produced “Kalapati,” with Brian Lotho overseeing the recording and production process, and Munimuni’s Jolo Ferrer on bass duties. 

“My good friend Jolo Ferrer played bass for this, which gave the track more color and movement. I also got to work with Brian Lotho of Sonic State Audio. Brian definitely knows how to work very well with artists and their songs. I thoroughly enjoyed the studio sessions with him.”

Jarlo Bâse is currently managed by Crown Artist Management—home to artists such as Maja Salvador (also its CEO), John Lloyd Cruz, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, and more. 

His latest single “Kalapati” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

Read More

"Lukot-Lukot Bilog Bilog" now on Tele-radio

"Lukot-Lukot Bilog Bilog" now on Tele-radio

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Visa, the world leader in digital payments and its partner, Tanghalang Pilipino, the multi-awarded resident theater company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, is bringing their financial literacy web series “Lukot-Lukot, Bilog-Bilog Pa More” to tele-radio this January.

Following a successful online launch, Tanghalang Pilipino in agreement with the Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC), will see the web series featured in “TARA, PEEPS!” a multimedia children’s program and broadcasted in DZRH Radio and cable channels nationwide. The show teaches Filipinos the importance of becoming better in managing their finances. It made its tele-radio debut on January 2, 2022 and will be aired every Sunday in January at 3:30PM.

“We are excited to explore new ways to reach more Filipinos, especially the youth, and help them become financially literate. This partnership between Tanghalang Pilipino and MBC to broadcast Lukot-Lukot, Bilog-Bilog Pa More on tele-radio is a welcome addition to our growing channels in promoting financial literacy through online and social media,” said Dan Wolbert, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines and Guam.

The five-episode online adaptation of the interactive musical launched in 2017 is written by Eljay Castro Deldoc and directed by Avic Ilagan. It features teenager Gwyneth and her journey to learn the values of proper financial management with the help of her family and friends, and some Filipino heroes brought to life. An interactive session after each episode’s airing with financial experts Salve Duplito and Rose Fres Fausto is also available, to share insights and easy-to-apply tips in various topics such as the value of saving, basics of credit, earning additional income, and scam awareness and prevention.

“We are one with Visa’s goal of a financially literate Filipino generation through the power of performance art. This agreement with MBC is one of our ways to contribute to this advocacy. With the power of theater matched with MBC’s nationwide coverage complementing our online presence, we will be able to reach more of our countrymen in the provinces and be an instrument to help them become wiser with their money,” shares Carmela Millado-Manuel, Tanghalang Pilipino Company Manager.

From its premiere back in 2017, Lukot-Lukot, Bilog-Bilog has reached over 50,000 students and educators all over the Philippines. At the height of the pandemic in 2020, it was made available to a wider audience through Tanghalang Pilipino’s Facebook and YouTube channels.

For more information about Visa and Lukot-Lukot, Bilog-Bilog Pa More, visit www.visa.com.ph.

Read More

Emmy Meli inspires a global movement with soulful new track “I Am Woman”

Emmy Meli inspires a global movement with soulful new track “I Am Woman”

Saturday, January 15, 2022

21-year-old singer-songwriter Emmy Meli is currently making waves with the viral popularity of her new single “I Am Woman.” 

The soulful R&B/pop track, which carries an uplifting message, recently spawned a global movement on TikTok where women of all stripes posted videos of themselves that match the description presented in the chorus. 

To date, “I Am Woman” has racked up more than 31 million views on TikTok, and has inspired more than a million videos on the platform alone.

Outside of the video app, “I Am Woman” is gaining traction both on streaming and radio. The track continues to climb on Spotify US at No. 68, and currently sits inside the top 200 of Spotify Philippines at No. 131. 

Emmy Meli’s latest hit has entered the top 40 of US Mainstream radio and various charts in several countries worldwide, including the UK (No. 67), US (No. 74), Canada (No. 55), Australia (No. 28), and New Zealand (No. 15)—to name a few.

With the rising artist taking the world by storm, Emmy is working double time in the studio to finish her debut album to be released under Arista Records. According to the American-born recording star, the biggest reward of writing a smash single is seeing it take off and create a positive impact to listeners out there, most especially women. 

“The reason I went into music was to inspire and to create something that nobody had ever created before,” she told Variety in an interview. “I want to help people love each other.”

Emmy Meli’s “I Am Woman” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Arista and Sony Music.

Read More

Sony Music Philippines expands word-class repertoire with hip-hop artists HBOM, REN, and Michael Bars

Sony Music Philippines expands word-class repertoire with hip-hop artists HBOM, REN, and Michael Bars

Friday, November 26, 2021

Sony Music Philippines remains committed in strengthening its world-class repertoire with the addition of iconic and prolific hip-hop artists HBOM, REN, and Michael Bars. 

In its bid to shine a spotlight on the genre’s movers and shakers, the record label promises to introduce these new music discoveries to the streaming generation through its sustainable promotional, marketing, and artist development efforts. 

The new roster is led by celebrated hip-hop veteran HBOM, who has made a remarkable contribution to the industry as an artist, entrepreneur, songwriter/composer, and music visionary. 

With over 8 million streams across all music platforms worldwide and four acclaimed albums under his belt, HBOM is responsible for leading his own music movement with protégés in the scene, including Filipino-American rap superstar EZ Mil and South African-based artist Michael Bars. 

“I’ve been in the hip-hop scene for over 20 years, and I’ve withstood the times when no one liked hip-hop,” the respected multi-hyphenate shares in a statement. “What makes my music standout is the distinct voice that I have. When everyone hears it, they already know its me.” 

HBOM’s new single “Witness,” which will be released on November 10, is a chill-hop jam about minding one’s own business, and settling down on what truly matters in life like family and adult priorities. The music video accompanying the track is co-directed by HBOM himself and frequent collaborator, TNES. 

Another globally renowned artist in the roster is 19-year-old Michael Bars, who recently worked with Filipino hip-hop artist Michael Pacquiao on the viral banger “Pac-Man.” As an award-winning wordsmith known for making socially conscious music that transcends cultural barriers, Michael Bars has proven himself as a highly skillful rapper and producer with more than 8.7 million streams across all combined digital platforms worldwide. 

“My main goal is to build a bigger name in the music industry and to spread my message as an artist,” says the South Africa-based hip-hop newcomer. “I use rap music as my weapon to talk about my life and I don’t cuss in them because it’s easier for children to rap along to the lyrics.” 

His new single “Never Stop,” which recently dropped on November 3, is a massive jab of an anthem about picking one’s self up and never backing down in a fight. The song was inspired by his personal experience dealing with bullies in his high school years. Featuring 10-year-old R&B singer Sky, the track captures a visceral but powerful performance between the two artists. 

Rounding up the urban roster is Filipino rap artist REN, formerly known as Balasubas. As a talented rapper that stands out with his unique style and confidence, the Dongalo Wreckords member has amassed over 5 million views on YouTube alone in less than two years. 

“I’m grateful to the label for giving me the opportunity to inspire more people,” the young rapper expresses his gratitude on being part of the label’s esteemed pool of artists. “I want to use my gift in telling stories that uplift the lives of my community and promote positivity.” 

REN has recently released his first official single “In Throw” under Sony Music Philippines. Delivering incisive but melodic flow against a confrontational beat, the track deals with surviving life challenges through hard work and determination. REN adds, “behind this music was a story; a story of a person who is doing his best to continue in spite of rejection and judgment.” The music video is helmed by Aleksei Hipolito, a frequent collaborator of the rap thespian. 

The launch of HBOM, REN, and Michael Bars is part of the strategic vision of Sony Music Philippines to promote the vibrant hip-hop music scene in the Philippines, and diversify their catalog in the streaming, mobile, and social-driven platforms all around the world.

Read More

the vowels they orbit reflects on the struggles of first heartbreak on new song “Una”

the vowels they orbit reflects on the struggles of first heartbreak on new song “Una”

Thursday, November 25, 2021

It’s always the first cut that turns out to be the deepest, if not the most life-changing. Indie pop-rock outfit the vowels they orbit knows this by heart, and on their comeback single “Una,” waxing poetic about ‘the person that used to be your everything’ sounds more of an emotional cleansing than a retreading of the good old days. 

“No matter what you do, there is nothing that can replace your first,” said the acclaimed group. “Whether it’s your first love or your first day of school ever, there’s something special about the first time. It’s a relatable topic that Nikka, the songwriter and vocalist, felt the need to write about.” 

More mature musical direction 

Taking on a more mature musical direction with a grittier sound that extends beyond the charming weightlessness of their previous singles, “Una” is unapologetically brash and confrontational, but its sense of melodic resonance shines through the surface with exquisite vulnerability. The surging guitars and passionate vocals blow up into a calming eruption, as the anger and frustration reach for a bittersweet realization. 

“The guitars stand out the most in the track, which is a first for us,” vocalist and guitarist Nikka Melchor points out. “There’s minimal acoustic guitar, yet the two electric guitars playing harmoniously create a nostalgic feeling which we aimed for. ‘Una’ made use of a lot of different chords, as compared to our other 2-4 chord songs, resulting to more of a head bang than our usual head bop.” 

Production aspects 

For a song that is produced to feel the pain through the music even if the listener is not going through the same situation, producer Rye Sarmiento emphasizes the feeling of nostalgia with layers of instruments and usage of first takes, particularly the almost-raw vocal quality of Nikka Melchor. Sarmiento succeeds in translating the song’s vision into a wounded material through-and-through, resulting into compelling glimpses of regret, longing, and affection. 

Music video “Una” is also accompanied with a music video directed by raliug a.k.a. Daniel Aguilar. First time working with the young creative, the vowels they orbit shares that the entire process was such a breeze, and that its concept resonates with them on an intimate level. 

“The music video highlights distractions as a coping mechanism for the sudden longing of your Una,” the band shares in a statement. “You can leave your home, go see friends, and have a good time, but the memories of that person will always find a way to creep in.” 

Newfound success 

Recorded in Backdoor Studio during a 5-day lock-in session, “Una” serves as the first single off the vowels they orbit’s sophomore EP, soon to be released under Sony Music Philippines. 

Late last year, the vowels they orbit found renewed success after their hit single “Selos” made it to the official soundtrack of the globally renowned queer series, Gaya Sa Pelikula, directed by JP Habac (I’m Drunk I Love You) and produced by Globe Studios. To date, the soulful alt-pop track has racked up more than 2.4 million streams on Spotify alone, and has consistently enjoyed airplay on mainstream and alternative radio stations in the Philippines. the vowels they orbit’s “Una” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

Read More

James Arthur shares personal changes in life and relationships on new album, It’ll All Make Sense In The End

James Arthur shares personal changes in life and relationships on new album, It’ll All Make Sense In The End

British singer-songwriter James Arthur is finally back with his highly anticipated fourth studio album, It’ll All Make Sense In The End. 

Having written and recorded bulk of the songs during the lockdown in the comforts of his home, the versatile hitmaker spent some time ruminating on the changes in his personal life, while using it as inspiration for his music-making journey. This enabled him and his collaborators to work on their own convenient time, round the clock, but not to the clock. 

“And all of a sudden, the music started sounding great,” the former X Factor UK winner shares in a statement. “From day one there was a sound that I wanted to go for. Even early on, it sounded 

like a real album, a proper body of work. This is the first time I’ve made an album all in one place and you can hear this in the music. There’s something really comfortable about working in your own home – I was able to be more vulnerable than ever." 

After writing the boldly autobiographical first single “Medicine,” James and frequent collaborator Andrew Jackson (“Train Wreck”) quickly came up with “Losing You,” an anthemic electronic-rock song that’s big on heart, riffs and emotive punch. 

Arthur reveals, “I wanted this album to have proper rock elements. The kind of rock I love is emo and pop-punk, so I wanted to domy take on that genre. Lyrically that song, like a lot of the songs, is the sound of someone who’s doing a lotof reflecting, a lot of processing and being really honest about where I’ve been in my head. And in that song I’m talking to myself: I feel like I’m always on the verge of losing you.” 

Another important track in the album is the early keeper “Déjà Vu,” written with Jackson and Mark Crew (Bastille, Rag’n’Bone Man). Demonstrating the full range of his vocal abilities, Arthur sings, ‘You fucked me up, I can’t get enough,’ with astounding vagueness that is a bit of everything, depending on how the listeners interpret the material. 

“It’s been well documented that I’ve had my issues with all of those. It’s just quite honest stuff, really,” the iconic British artist adds. 

Second single “September” is also part of the album, and shines through with its no-holds-barred confessional appeal and acoustic-meets-trap sound. As vulnerably naked in his lyrics as he ever was, Arthur also isn’t afraid to sing to the next generation: “Emily” is a tender, intimate mea culpa to the daughter he might one day have. 

"That arose from conversations about having kids,” the pop/rock dad explains. “Would I even be a good dad? What if they read about all the shit I’ve been through? It doesn’t matter, because ultimately I’m the guy who’s going to be there for you all your life." 

The record also includes “SOS,” which Arthur describes as an album-defining song with 30 Seconds To Mars-esque chorus and a rap flow reminiscent of Miguel. 

In moving out of London, the musician has created a safe space: a working place, family place, fitness place. In building that sanctuary he’s felt even more comfortable to be even more open, not just about the things that are inspiring him but also the things that are plaguing him. 

“Travelling, going to other people’s studios, doing sessions in new places – for someone like me who has a bit of social anxiety, all that was difficult,” the multi-platinum musician shares. “But working at home allowed me to be more vulnerable.” 

It allowed him to finesse a sound that gels over the entire album, that process aided by additional production from Matt Rad, who’s worked with Taking Back Sunday, one of his favorite bands. He helps bring cohesion. 

“The sound is very simple. It’s basically raucous guitars with trap beats and strong, strong melodies,” Rad says of a musical approach he's been honing for years in his collaborations with superstar artists such as Ty Dolla $ign, Machine Gun Kelly and Juicy J. 

To date, James Arthur has sold over 30 million records worldwide and has to date released three hugely successful albums: James Arthur (UK No. 2), Back From The Edge (UK No. 1) and YOU (UK No.2), alongside nine solo UK Top 40 singles. He’s had two No.1 smash hits and was awarded a disc for reaching a billion streams on 

Spotify with ‘Say You Won't Let Go’, the No.1 global hit that brought the singer-songwriter from Middlesbrough back from the edge (it currently has 1.7 billion streams on the platform). 

James recently dominated the airwaves and charts with his storming collaboration with Sigala ‘Lasting Lover’. The track was a No.1 airplay song in the UK, No.1 on iTunes and Top 10 on the Official Singles Chart. 

James has announced tours of both UK and Ireland and North America in 2022, including a date at London's prestigious Royal Albert Hall. 

James Arthur’s It’ll All Make Sense In The End is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music. For more details, check out his music website.

Read More

Love is a gamble in Dionela's latest single "Sugal"

Love is a gamble in Dionela's latest single "Sugal"

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

Rising star Dionela is riding the soul train with the release of his new single “Sugal”—out today via MCA Music Inc. 

The soothing R&B track equates loving someone to betting your heart in a gamble: it’s a risky endeavor that has no assurance of winning or losing, but it’s part of growing up. 

“The song is about being courageous in falling in love again after so many heartbreaks from your past toxic relationships,” the Agaw singer-songwriter/producer adds. 

With his velvety vocals floating freely into the background, Dionela delivers a captivating performance that fleshes out both his persona and aesthetic. Over slick, bedroom beats and somber instrumentation, he sings as if coming from a place of innocence and earnestness—never holding back, but ready to accept whatever consequences that might come his way. 

“Sugal” is written and produced by Dionela himself and is considered as a product of both love and experiment. The promising newcomer shares, “everything, from tracking to mastering, I did it in my room. There are flaws about the track when it comes to the technical side, but I’m beyond happy about the result. It feels like the first time I rode a bike without the training wheels and I’m super proud of it.” 

The song follows the online success of “Agaw,” which has amassed over a million streams to date, and the moody but inescapable tune “Gone,” released in 2020. 

“Sugal” is out now on all streaming platforms worldwide via MCA Music Inc.

Read More

Camila Cabello embraces her Latina roots with pop edge on new single “Oh Na Na”

Camila Cabello embraces her Latina roots with pop edge on new single “Oh Na Na”

 

Off the heels of her latest release, “Don’t Go Yet,” three-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated, multi-platinum, and chart-topping singer/songwriter Camila Cabello teams up with platinum-selling star Myke Towers and critically acclaimed top producer/artist Tainy on her new song, “Oh Na Na”—out today via Epic Records/Sony Music. 

An upbeat bilingual song that mixes English lyrics with Spanish, “Oh Na Na” finds Camila exploring her Latina roots, while embracing her incredibly infectious pop and urban-leaning past. With percussion-infused beats and clubby melodies on its arsenal, the earworm of a bop shows Camila’s versatility as a vocalist, and how capable she is in introducing music with profound cultural histories to the streaming generation. 

“Oh Na Na” serves as the second single from her upcoming third studio album Familia. Her new track was written by Tainy, Camila Cabello, Ilya Salmanzadeh, Savan Kotecha, Alejandro Borrero, Ivanni Rodríguez, Myke Towers and Rickard Goranssonand, and was produced by Reggaeton hitmaker Tainy of NEON 16. The latter is known for some of the biggest worldwide hits of recent years, including J Balvin's “Mi Gente” and Cardi B's “I Like It.” 

A few days ago, Camila teased her fans on social media with the cover art of “Oh Na Na” which shows tropical-influenced visuals filled with vibrant colors, summer fruits, and eccentric drawings. To date, the Instagram post gathered more than 500,000 likes on the platform, and got her fans ecstatic over her new music era. 

Camila Cabello’s “Oh Na Na” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Epic Records/Sony Music.

Read More