joem’s “Nakaraan” official music video might just be the push you need if you’re still thinking if whether to watch Enrique Gil’s “I Am Not Big Bird” comeback movie.
While “Nakaraan” is your perfect soundtrack while riding on a bus and dramatically staring out the window— the official music video teases fans of the antics of Enrique’s comedic quartet (Nikko Natividad, Red Ollero, Pepe Herera, plus the King of the Gil himself) and their colorfully complicated “iyak-tawa” experiences in Bangkok. Enrique is also seen in tear-jerker scenes in the music video, because you know, moving on is not linear.
The song has been making waves since its release on February 9, captivating fans who attended the movie’s promotional mall tour where joem gets to perform “Nakaraan” in front of thousands of viewers. This was followed by massive airplay from Manila’s largest radio stations, full-blown media pick-ups, TV, and physical guestings. On February 13, joem also had an appearance at the “I Am Not Big Bird” premiere night. These are definitely the most exciting times for a young artist. The future does shine bright for joem.
Watch joem’s Nakaraan (From “I Am Not Big Bird”) official music video here:
Support Filipino music. Listen to joem’s “Nakaraan” out now worldwide: joem.lnk.to/nakaraan
American singer-songwriter and hitmaker VAULTBOY is coming to Manila for the first time ever on June 13 at the Podium Hall. Tickets go on-sale on Friday, February 23 at 12NN via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets. Presented by Eventim Live Asia and Wilbros Live.
vaultboy is a singer-songwriter from Jacksonville, Florida who first began experimenting with music during high school and has been perfecting and growing his craft ever since. His chosen name pays homage to his love of video games, specifically the Fallout series.
Inspired by the likes of Alexander 23, Lauv and Blackbear, vaultboy is a creative driven by conversational lyricism and the human condition. Since his debut single release in May 2021, “everything sucks” has garnered over 250 million streams across all platforms, over 700k Shazams worldwide, and hit and held the Spotify Global Viral Chart #1 spot for two weeks as well as hitting #1 on QQ music’s western chart in China.
Stream Vaultboy’s self-titled EP on Spotify: vaultboy EP
Get ready to relive the magic of the Backstreet Boys as NICK CARTER graces the stage once again! The beloved pop icon is set to embark on his solo “Who I Am” Tour, making stops in Manila and Cebu this May. Presented by Wilbros Live, these highly anticipated concerts promise an unforgettable musical experience for fans across Asia.
Nick Carter, renowned member of the chart-topping Backstreet Boys, is gearing up for an exhilarating solo adventure with the “Who I Am” Tour. Following the tour’s successful runs in the United States, Canada, and South America, Carter is ready to dazzle audiences in Manila and Cebu with his electrifying performances.
Join us for an evening filled with nostalgia and excitement as Nick Carter takes center stage to perform tracks from his solo repertoire. From his latest singles like “Never Break My Heart (Not Again)” and “Made For Us” to timeless Backstreet Boys classics, Carter’s dynamic vocals and infectious energy are sure to captivate audiences of all ages. Get ready to sing along to your favorite tunes and create unforgettable memories with friends and fellow fans.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this musical extravaganza! Tickets for the Manila show will be available at TicketNet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets, while those for the Cebu show can be purchased at SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets.
Calling all Nick Carter fan club members! Enjoy exclusive access to pre-sale tickets starting on Friday, February 16 at 11AM. For everyone else, general ticket sales will commence on Saturday, February 17 at 11AM. Be sure to mark your calendars and secure your seats early for what promises to be an unforgettable concert experience!
Join us as we celebrate the return of a pop music legend! Follow Wilbros Live on social media for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes insights leading up to the concert dates. Get ready to dance, sing, and make memories as Nick Carter takes Manila and Cebu by storm. It’s a night you won’t want to miss!
About Nick Carter Sparking his career at the age of 12 years old, Nick Carter became an international pop superstar as the youngest member of iconic boy band, Backstreet Boys. Carter’s 30-year entertainment career has spanned far beyond the stages of sold-out arenas, with an array of projects in television and film, as well as a philanthropist and author. To date, the Backstreet Boys are the best-selling boy band in history and are one of the world’s best-selling music artists of all time. In 2002, Carter released his debut solo album, Now or Never, through Jive Records, which debuted at #17 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified Gold in the U.S., Japan and Canada. This debut marked the beginning of a successful solo career alongside his Backstreet Boys fame, with Carter releasing three studio albums to date. Nick has remained a beloved figure in popular culture throughout the years, touring with the Backstreet Boys for their “DNA World Tour” beginning in April 2022. Nick’s first solo tour in seven years, the international “Who I Am” tour, kicked off in the U.S. in October 2023 and followed the release of three new solo singles, “Superman,” “Made For Us,” and “Never Break My Heart (Not Again).” The “Who I Am” Tour will continue through 2024, reaching territories in South America, Canada and the United States.
Thea Astley has a brand new song out under Universal Records Philippines!
The powerful debut single is called “Never” and it’s a powerful R&B track that expresses one’s decision to never return to an ex-lover anymore. According to Thea, she was able to write this song during the height of the pandemic.
Despite the pleas and promises that she gets from that ex, the versatile singer and host stands firm, realizing the importance of self-worth. The lyrics capture the universal truth that true love opens one’s eyes, as expressed in “Naniniwala na ako sa sinasabi nila. Pag nagmamahal ng tunay, nabubulag ka.”
“Never” is more than a song; it’s a declaration of self-love and empowerment, resonating with those who have triumphed over heartbreak. To hype up the release, Thea dropped an artsy “Stages of a Breakup” post on Instagram. Likewise, an official music video for “Never” is coming our way soon!
FOLLOW THEA ASTLEY!
Facebook: facebook.com/theaastleyofficial X (formerly Twitter): @theaastley Instagram: @theaastley TikTok: @itstheaastley
Multi-talented and multi-awarded artist, singer/composer Nicole Laurel Asensio is all set to launch ”Mind Over Matter,” a musical concoction comprised of three vibrant original compositions that seep into the consciousness of a wandering psyche aching for atonement and acceptance.
The launch date is on January 26, 2024 on all listening platforms. The launch event will be on , 2024 at 19 East located on East Service Road. With a special guest performance by ang Bagong Luto ni Enriquez and Iwi Laurel.
Entrance is 500 pesos.
The EP title “Matter Over Mind” is a play on the popular saying “Mind over matter” — the reversal of the words connotes that keeping one’s head up through the struggles is often easier said than done and sometimes we need to come undone and be honest with how we feel before picking up the pieces and moving on… “As we are blessed with a brand new year, I am reminded of what it took to get to this point, the hardships, failures and finding the guts to keep going,’’ Nicole Laurel Asensio said. Thematically, “Matter Over Mind” also celebrates the resilience of human souls that have experienced hurt, God’s grace and the metamorphosis of “turning one’s scars into stars.”
The EP opens with “Comprehend,” a silky Neo-soul influenced tune with traces of modern and classic Rnb. It is written from the point of view of re-watching your life as a movie and seeing how each character either leaves or lingers through the seasons. The lyrical expressions and play on words are both poignant and poetic as they unfold the multi-layered process of healing from failed relationships. Although the lyrics might be bittersweet, most of the nectar is in the smooth arrangement that features thick vocal sections and an all saxophone section over a vibe-y beat.
“Vibecheck” is a sonic palette cleanser, a short and sweet reminder to check up on your loved ones. The chords and melody willingly settle in a cradle of gospel influences. Sung by Nicole Asensio, Kevin Yadao and Gabe Dandan, the short in-betweener is reminiscent of friends touching base and reminding each other not to worry because everything will eventually work out.
To complete the concoction
“Get it Right” is an English-Tagalog uptempo track that evokes funk, soul and jazz influences within its intricacies. Effervescent and light as it may be at first listen, it is also equally full-bodied as It sings of hidden tears and silent struggles hidden behind laughter and the longing to redeem oneself. The instrumentation is quite the indulgent thrill featuring a full live brass section, soulful piano and rhodes licks, a bouncy backbeat and a plush vocal section.
CREATIONS, SENSATIONS and SENSIBILITIES
Nicole Asensio and Gabe Dandan’s writing tandem has proven prolific as this collection of tracks were all born out of impromptu jams caught on record.
“This collection of songs all began with impromptu jams. Nicole, me and our drummer Nigel Norris (who is currently in Europe) influences of artists we admire (like Steely Dan, Robert Glasper and Erykah Badu) set the tone for the initial jam session. We recorded the outcome in Southbay studio and Nicole developed her top-line ideas into lyrics and melodies, and later recorded her vocals with the help of recording engineer Mikel Miller. The arrangement blossomed as we would revisit each track daily and see what we could add or subtract. Because the chordal structure has its quirks and complexities, it was important to pay attention to detail. Renowned saxophone player Michael Guevarra did the horns arrangement for “Get it Right” and I did an impromptu arrangement alongside saxophone player Joeffrey Pangilinan for “Comprehend” “Vibecheck” was written in less than an hour. Nicole then sent it to our friend Kevin Yadao for additional vocals.” – Gabe Dandan
“The vocal arrangements where done in spare minutes between the busy gig season and late night production sessions. Gabe and I both agreed to give the harmonies unique colours to add a dose of something different in what may at first seem familiar sonically.” – Nicole Laurel Asensio
“Mixing and Mastering the EP was for me the most meticulous part, I really felt that this EP was closer to my heart than many projects I have had the pleasure of producing so I wanted to mix and master it myself, even if I was new to the craft. Nicole trusted me and obliged, she was also there for every step and adjustment, I think we work well together, not just as co-writers, but for the entire production and post-production process.” -Gabe Dandan
“For a number of years now, my musical inclination has been a blend of old and new, classic and current. I feel that sticking to one kind of sound or genre isn’t really for me, I like to create what feels right in that moment in time and in that particular frame of mind while still leaving something familiar, perhaps in the vocal interpretation and inflections. and I feel like Gabe has similar sensibilities. Like Gabe, my favourite thrill is also creating songs from impromptu jams, this to me is priceless, the amalgamation of time, place, emotion and taste coming together.” – Nicole Laurel Asensio
“Timelessness is more appealing to me than trends, It is an exciting process to see how we can make our own version of the music we grew up liking. Traces of funk, Neo-soul, RnB, jazz and gospel are evident throughout the songs, but perhaps what makes its flavour unique is savouring the the thematic choices and nuances that unfold with each tune.” – Gabe Dandan
“This year I feel like a lot of pent up songs and stories need to be told, while the inspiration is at a fever pitch, it’s important to express, produce, create and grow from each artistic pursuit. I am looking forward to releasing more songs, perhaps in “suites” of two, three or more songs at a time to explore more themes. God willing, there will be a full album to look forward to in the coming months too.” Till then I am grateful for every tidbit of music that comes my way I greatly appreciate every person that lends their ears to the stories we tell and will continue to create for as long as I can. – Nicole Laurel Asensio
“Yes! A full album! One thing I look forward to is how these songs are built from on-the-spot writing, it is an exercise in keeping an open mind and being adaptable to where the process takes you. We wrote a number of songs inside the recording studios, and it is perhaps an unusual process, but one we both have learned to embrace. Surprising ourselves and others with the musical fruit of impromptu sessions. I am grateful to scratch the surface of possibilities with “Matter Over Mind” and looking forward to the flow of creativity to come.” – Gabe Dandan
March 2, 2024 is set to be a night to remember as The Simon and Garfunkel Story’s internationally acclaimed cast graces Manila with a sensational performance at The Theatre at Solaire. Brace yourselves for a musical journey through time, a celebration of timeless melodies, and a revival of classic hits that have resonated across continents.
A Night of Nostalgia
Prepare to be swept off your feet by this West End hit performance, promising an unforgettable evening filled with the echoes of iconic tunes. Mark your calendars for this special concert that guarantees a magical experience, happening this March 2, 2024 at The Theatre at Solaire.
The Simon and Garfunkel Story Unveiled
Bask in the glory of a globally acclaimed musical tribute to the iconic duo, spanning over 55 years of their illustrious career. The show not only narrates the history of Simon & Garfunkel but also treats audiences to favorites such as “Mrs. Robinson,” “The Sound of Silence,” “Cecilia,” “Homeward Bound,” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water.”
A Global Triumph
This successful production has become a global phenomenon, leaving an indelible mark on audiences in over 50 countries. From three extensive tours across Canada and the USA to SOLD OUT shows at the prestigious LONDON PALLADIUM and a residency at VAUDEVILLE THEATRE in London’s West End, the group’s journey is nothing short of spectacular. Not to mention, celebrating a decade on tour is a testament to their enduring appeal. The Simon and Garfunkel Story has just celebrated 10 years on tour.
Witness the magic unfold at The Theatre at Solaire, where the cast promises an evening of pure musical enchantment. With a repertoire that spans decades, every note will transport you to the heart of Simon & Garfunkel’s timeless legacy.
CenterPlay, City of Dreams Manila’s contemporary entertainment bar, puts OPM (Original Pilipino Music) group The CompanY on the spotlight for this month’s Concert Series. The highly anticipated one-night only concert on January 31 at 9 p.m. is set to highlight the award-winning vocals of Moy Ortiz, Annie Quintos, Sweet Plantado, and OJ Mariano.
The CompanY was formed in 1985 and is best known for their contemporary jazz and a capella repertoire. The four-member OPM vocal harmony group is behind hit songs “Muntik na Kitang Minahal“, “Now That I Have You“, and one of the well-loved and bestselling ballad “Everlasting Love“, which also garnered the group various awards. With a musical career spanning almost four decades, the quartet earned the “Asia’s Premiere Vocal Group” title and has shared the stage with international starts including The Manhattan Transfer, Jim Brickman, Michael Bublé, Noel Pointer, and John Ford Coley, among others.
Local artist Highschool Playlist and DJs are also set to perform alternately from 8:00 pm to 1:30 am on the same night.
At CenterPlay’s monthly concert series, guests can reserve a seat or a table with consumables starting at P2,500 ordered from the menu comprised of bar knosh, burgers, fries, and beverages. Designed for the ultimate entertainment experience, CenterPlay is built with a snack and cocktail lounge around the stage and offers light meals, signature cocktail concoctions, beers, wines, and juices.
The CompanY’s live concert at the integrated luxury resort is the fourth presentation in CenterPlay’s Concert Series, following the sold-out concerts of OPM icons Rey Valera, Ice Seguerra and “Soul Siren” Nina in 2023.
For upcoming performances at CenterPlay, located at the focal point of the luxury resort’s main gaming floor, call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com. For more information, visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.
Fresh off the heels of their final North American shows and three-night hometown run, Jonas Brothers have announced that THE TOUR will also journey to the Philippines on February 22, 2024, to perform at the Mall of Asia Arena.
‘The Tour’ is their most ambitious outing to date with 98 shows across 26 countries. Every night is a celebration of five albums and features their best hits throughout the years including a variety of career-spanning deep cuts and fan-favorite hits.
Their monumentally successful North American run, which hit legendary venues including Toronto’s Rogers Centre, Chicago’s Wrigley Field and Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium, concluded this month at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. In 2024, the tour will continue its trek around the globe starting in The Philippines, Indonesia, and New Zealand in February. They will also perform for the first time ever in Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Austria, Czech Republic, Northern Ireland, Hamburg, Lyon, Munich and Norway.
The Jonas Brothers reaffirmed their status as global icons and left a lasting imprint on the hearts of their Filipino fans. Their upcoming concert in the Philippines is promoted by Ovation Productions with Blast TV as the official media partner. General on sale will be on 6 January 2024, at 12 noon through smtickets.com.
The singer and actor, known for his versatile talent and charismatic presence, has been eagerly awaited by fans who have been anticipating his return to the music scene. This new single is called “Biglaan” and it showcases Donny’s growth as an artist and his ability to convey heartfelt emotions through his music.
It’s a whimsical song that tells the story of a guy unexpectedly falling in love with a girl. It’s a light and catchy tune that captures the magic of spontaneous romance. Donny has been very hands-on in writing and arranging the song. “Biglaan” was produced by Shadiel Chan and follows his song “Wings” released in October 2021. Right now, it has over 4 million streams on Spotify.
During the midnight release of “Biglaan”, Donny’s fans made the hashtag #BiglaanOUTNOW trend on X (formerly Twitter)
Fans can expect an accompanying music video that brings the story of “Biglaan” to life, adding a visual dimension to the already captivating narrative.
The song went straight to the 2nd spot on iTunes PH Charts and is part of the recent New Music Friday Playlist on Spotify.
Released under Universal Records Philippines, Donny Pangilinan invites everyone to join him on this musical adventure and experience the joy of unexpected love through the rhythm and lyrics of “Biglaan.”
After a series of music releases that garnered multiple nominations, Nicole Laurel Asensio is set to release on December 1 a brand new original Christmas duet entitled “Sana Masaya Ka” with iconic OPM artist Jeffrey Hidalgo, produced by Gabe Dandan and released under Warner Music.
“Sana Masaya Ka” is a bittersweet duet that unfolds the story between former lovers spending their first holiday season apart. Nicole’s silken vocals evoke nostalgia and Jeffrey Hidalgo’s smoky timbre resonates deeply into the very fibres of the bed of instruments arranged by Gabe Dandan. The classic and organic elements brought by strings and woodwind sections blanket the song with a much needed warmth and familiarity as the characters sing of healed hearts and happier holidays to come.
“It was well past midnight when I was in the throes of compiling lyrics and melodies for a different Christmas release.
Gabe arrived at the studio coming from another Christmas project. Because the holiday spirit was still ringing in our ears, I wanted to try writing another Christmas song even if it was creeping close to sunrise. Gabe begun jamming chords with a classic OPM feel and slow jazz accents, I loved them instantly. The challenge now for me was to express my sentiments in Tagalog. Save for some lyrical adjustments, the songwriting was done in one session,” Nicole shares.
“Our process is very spontaneous, it creates a creative environment that allows us to surprise ourselves. After finishing the song, Nicole expressed that she wanted to try making it a Christmas duet because it was something we haven’t done. I immediately thought of Jeffrey Hidalgo as a perfect match for Nicole and the song because of his warm smoky vocal tone,” Gabe Dandan echoed.
“I was delighted hearing Gabe’s suggestion, I have a lot of respect for Jeffrey as a singer, actor and director, his voice really is something special. It took me about a week to muster up the courage to ask him if he was willing to do this and then send him a demo. It didn’t take Jeffrey long to respond and when he said yes, i was so grateful… it was a clear sign that I had to save my other Christmas project for another year and finish off 2023 with this one,” Nicole added.
“The last time I had a Christmas single was 25 years ago so I am really looking forward to the release of this track. Nicole and Gabe asking me to do this collab is really an unexpected blessing, ” Jeffrey Hidalgo exclaimed.
The Recording Process
“Working with Jeffrey for the first time and Nicole numerous times was very chill and spontaneous, we were just recording over food and drinks at Nicole’s home studio, despite the relaxed setting it was a very productive evening, ” Gabe Dandan added.
“This was one of the best collaboration experiences I’ve had in the studio if not, the best! My favourite aspect of being a musician is the recording process and recording this single was the most fun I’ve had in the studio. I enjoyed working with Nicole and Gabe immensely. I loved how they took me out of my comfort zone with out-of-the-box harmonies that were peculiar but so delectable to the ears. I loved their vision for the song form the get-go, so I was all in,” Jeffrey replied.
“Jeffrey has a beautiful signature vocal tone that can smooth over the rough edges of even the most painful lyrics and make it an easy listen. His depth as an actor/director makes his delivery and storytelling hit home. I learned a lot while tracking him. It makes me smile when I think about how this project is entirely homegrown and home recorded. Lawrence Nolan recorded himself playing drums from his home, Gabe played Bass, Guitar, Hammond and Rhodes as well as sang backup vocals from home. The strings and woodwinds played by Ted Amper and Carlo Mikhail were recorded by us in my home and our friends Jess Fermino, Mark Enriquez and myself took turns tracking vocals. Learning the quirks of the process and making mistakes was definitely part of what made this song even more memorable,” Nicole beamed.
“Recording the musicians was smooth because all the musicians we worked with are not just talented but patient, I did the string and woodwind arrangement on the spot and hummed it to Ted (Cello) and Carl (Woodwinds and violin) on the fly Carl and Ted were so easy to work with. I am thankful for our friends in music,” Gabe shared.
The song was then sent to Angee Rozul for mixing then to Waxie Joaquin and Enrique Santamaria of Waxiefied Sound Production for further Mixing and Mastering in Dolby Atmos.
“Though I’m more known as a pop balladeer, my personal musical preference really leans more towards the indie-alternative genre. I’ve been a fan of Nicole ever since General Luna, and a bigger fan now that she’s a solo artist. I love how distinct her voice is and how she seems to be comfortable in whatever genre she dips her feet into. Our collaboration might seem unexpected to some but after hearing our voices together, I love how it all just makes perfect sense. I love how Gabe and Nicole both know exactly what they want yet, they let me explore as well within my vocal range and style” Jeffrey replied.
“Hindi man tinadhana, sana masaya ka”
“It really is a bittersweet season for some, I wrote the lyrics and melody because not everyone’s Christmas is “Merry” Though it is easier said than done, focusing on the blessings gets us by. Relationships fail. People make mistakes and grow apart. However, the markings of truly loving someone is wishing them love and happiness even if you are no longer involved with them…you still want to know they are alright, and that they’ll still have a Merry Christmas even if you’re not in the picture anymore. I suppose one would dedicate this song to their TOTGA (the one that got away),” Nicole muses.
“I think I have 2 TOTGAs that I would have dedicated this song to, many many years back. I am just so glad I’m not in the position of the characters in the song nowadays. I’m in a much better place. LOL! But seriously, I am sure many people will be able to relate to this song if not at the moment, then at some point because because this has happened to a lot of us. You sincerely want to wish a past lover happiness, yet deep inside, you still really want to be with that person too. Ouch. Hahaha!,” Jeffrey jokingly said.
“Pagsapit ng bagong taon… saan ka man naroroon.”
“I am looking forward to next year because we will be working on compilations and EPs instead of singles, more ideas to execute, much more music to be made. I’m very excited for the different musical styles Nicole and I will be exploring,” Gabe said.
“Working with Gabe as a producer, sparked the producer in me as well and I am suddenly hungry to create more music next year,” Jeffrey gives a wink.
“I am grateful to still be making music and happy whenever inspiration strikes. More songs are already in the works for next year. I don’t know how many years on earth I’ll have to do this, and that makes me so much more grateful for the instances God allows creativity to flow, ” Nicole concludes.
Hiling ko lang ngayong pasko, Sana masaya kayo!
SONG CREDITS
Lyrics: Nicole Asensio Music: Nicole Asensio, Gabe Dandan, Musical Director: Gabe Dandan Drums: Lawrence Nolan Bass: Gabe Dandan Guitar: Gabe Dandan Piano: Brad Coronel Rhodes and Hammond: Gabe Dandan Violin: Carlo Mikhail Cello: Ted Amper Mikhail Vocals: Nicole Asensio, Jeffrey Hidalgo Backup Vocal Arr. Gabe Dandan and Nicole Asensio Backup Vocals: Gabe Dandan, Nicole Asensio Recording Engineers: Gabe Dandan, Nicole Asensio, Jess Fermino, Mark Enriquez Mixing Engineers: Angee Rozul, Waxie Joaquin, Ek Santamaria Mastering Engineers: Waxie Joaquin, Ek Santamaria
