Gab Cabangon finds peace after the hustle in new single “Kama”

 

The budding singer-songwriter is back with a soulful guitar-pop single about comfort, connection, and slowing down.”

 

Filipino singer-songwriter Gab Cabangon returns with the release of his new single, “Kama,” a soulful guitar-pop track that finds comfort in someone else’s arms after a long, exhausting day at work. Written by Cabangon himself, the song offers a gentle reminder that rest is not a reward but a necessity in a world that rarely slows down.

 

“I just wanted to write a comforting love song about how it’s okay to allow yourself to rest and lean on the people who matter,” Gab admits. “We live in such a fast-paced, demanding world, but we don’t have to face them alone. Sometimes, taking a pause helps us recharge before moving forward. ‘Hanapin mo ang iyong pahinga,’ as I would say.”

 

While undeniably penned as an intimate love song, “Kama” also serves as a reflection of the workforce culture, calling out environments that prioritize productivity and numbers at the expense of well-being and balance.

 

The young multi-hyphenate shares that he wrote Kama one evening after work, feeling stressed out. “I started thinking about how I needed to solve all my work problems immediately even though I was drained. Then I decided to take a break and just write a song as a way to process my thoughts. I think at that time I was also listening heavily to songs like Kumot by Solace Out the Door, Tulog Na by Sugarfree, and Janice by Dilaw. The result of that whole process was this love song.”

 

“Kama” is produced by Gab Cabangon and David Lina and mixed and mastered by Shadiel Chan and Jan Fuertez, respectively. Incorporating bedroom pop elements with R&B textures, the track showcases a soulful side of Gab that not many listeners know about. From a sonic standpoint, it slightly steps away from his signature stripped-down sound while retaining the warm, melodic intimacy that defines his early work.

 

“I’m not really known for doing these particular music styles, so I’m excited to see how people would respond,” the Pieces act says. “It’s definitely way less ‘sadboi,’ but you’ll still feel the singer-songwriter vibe that was present in my last single.”

 

“Kama” features backing vocals from Filipino singer-songwriter vydd and Kyla Miel Camerong of Solace Out the Door, with additional harmonies by Cabangon’s wife, Angeli. The track also incorporates trumpet and flugelhorn sounds—thanks to his friend, Gabriel Lazaro, who provided additional instrumental work to enrich the track’s sonic palette.

 

The release of “Kama” will be supported by a mini bar and café tour across Metro Manila, with the following dates and venues:

 

February 13, 2026 – UNWND Boutique Hotel, Poblacion, Makati (in partnership with Liga Artist Group)

February 28, 2026 – Cappo Coffee, Quezon City (in partnership with Live Hive Productions)

March 14, 2026 – Backdoor Maginhawa, Quezon City

 

Ticket details and updates are available at Gab Cabangon’s Instagram page.

 

Gab Cabangon’s “Kama” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

 

About Gab Cabangon

 

Gab Cabangon is a Filipino singer-songwriter based in Metro Manila. He describes his music as a “nonchalant millennial sadboi” style of indie pop music that blends chill guitar melodies with soulful singing. As an introspective artist, Gab loves writing songs and stories about going through different phases of life and heartaches that are both romantic and non-romantic.

 

Today, Gab Cabangon is also a solo recording artist, and he continues to showcase his music and share his stories while championing Filipino music in every stage and space he performs. Apart from gracing intimate shows and music festivals, he has performed abroad in small concerts and shows, particularly in the US and Australia. He has also performed and worked alongside some of the icons and legends of the Philippine music industry, including Nyoy Volante, Ebe Dancel, Johnoy, Rivermaya, and Noel Cabangon, among others.

 

Josh Groban Announces Very Special Guests Regine Velasquez And Martin Nievera

Announcement – Tony, EMMY and five-time GRAMMY Award-nominated singer-songwriter Josh Groban brings his newest tour ‘GEMS WORLD TOUR’ to Manila and announces his very special guests ‘Asia’s Songbird’ Regine Velasquez and ‘Concert King’ Martin Nievera for a must-see Valentine’s week concert on February 18, 2026 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live.

 

With over 35 million albums sold worldwide, Josh Groban’s career is defined by sweeping anthems such as “You Raise Me Up”, “To Where You Are”“February Song” and “The Prayer”. This tour celebrates his legacy of blending classical power with pop accessibility, featuring cinematic hits like “Believe” and “Evermore”, alongside an orchestra and choir for a truly immersive sonic experience. Groban possesses one of the most outstanding and instantly recognizable voices in music. Moreover, he continues to captivate fans everywhere as both a powerhouse vocalist and dynamic renaissance man with sold out concerts around the world.

 

Regine Velasquez, one of the best-selling Filipino artists of all time, whose legendary vocal range and hits like “Dadalhin”, “Pangako” and “On The Wings of Love” have earned her unprecedented accolades. Martin Nievera, the prolific singer-songwriter and TV host behind iconic hits like “Be My Lady”, “Say That You Love Me” and “You Are My Song” previously interviewed Groban and expressed immense excitement to transition from interviewer to stage partner for this historic reunion. Together, these multi-award-winning legends promise to make the evening an unforgettable showcase of world-class talent.

 

Reflecting on his return to the Philippines after seven years, Groban expressed a profound emotional connection to his Filipino audience, noting that the country holds “a very special place in my heart”. He credited the local fan base for their unwavering support, stating “Outside of America, the Philippines is one that got to truly accept my music. Filipinos have understood me and my music for the entirety of my career.”

 

For Groban, the upcoming Manila concert is a celebration of a relationship that spans decades. “Every time I have the opportunity to perform for my fans in the Philippines, it is a night of many things – most of which is gratitude – gratitude that I feel from my fans there since album one, day one,” he shared. “So whenever I come to the Philippines, whenever I get to play a concert there, I celebrate your country’s love of music.”

 

Don’t miss this unforgettable night of vocal excellence and musical history! Tickets are on-sale and available at SMTickets.com and SM Ticket outlets nationwide. Limited VIP Soundcheck Experience and VIP Superfun Package with Josh Groban are also available.

Beyond Blush: Sugar Doll’s Poppy Blush is Your Skincare-Forward Makeup Essential

Manila, Philippines – Are you ready to turn your everyday experience into a selfie-worthy moment? Get on the groove and try Poppy Blush by Sugar Dolls PH! It’s a must-have cream blush for women who need a touch of skincare glow, flawless color, and dewy radiance.

What sets Poppy Blush apart from its contemporaries is its versatility. It’s a hybrid skincare makeup that adds a gorgeous color to your look while enhancing your skin. Think hydration, antioxidants, and a silky-glide formula that blends like a dream and stays put all day. From getting on the daily grind to heading to a meeting, Poppy Blush keeps your glow game strong.

Are you in need of a vibrant drama or subtle chic? There’s a hue in this lineup just for you:

  • Pink Pop: A bold raspberry pink for fair to medium skin with cool or neutral undertones. Imagine a lively flush that brightens (never clashes!) and looks instantly youthful.
  • Heartbeat: Terracotta coral meets burnt orange. This sun-kissed shade amps up golden undertones and suits medium to tan skin. (Olive beauties, Heartbeat is made for you!)
  • Bubbleglow: If bubblegum pink makes you smile, dive into Bubbleglow. Think fresh and playful, perfect for porcelain to light-medium cool tones.
  • Cherry Rush: Brick red meets raspberry—your go-to for sculpting cheeks on medium to deep skin. Warm, earthy, and oh-so flattering for olive complexions.

Trying it on…

Poppy Blush goes deeper than pretty pigments. Packed with vitamins, it delivers deep hydration and skin conditioning, reinforces the skin barrier (hello, long wear!), and brings anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action to soothe and support. Plus, it actively mattifies and controls oil for the kind of radiance that’s never greasy.

Application? Effortless. Dab, blend, and you’re done—on cheeks, eyes, lips, wherever you want a multitasking color lift.

Thanks to its blendable, hydrated finish and pocket-friendly price, Poppy Blush is taking over the conversation online, while lighting up makeup bags everywhere in the world. Beauty experts and creators call it a “game-changer.” Now it’s your turn to glow!

Get your hands (and cheeks) on Poppy Blush and experience color, confidence, and care in one sweep. Selfie ready? Always. Glow on, doll!

Filipino singer-songwriter dwta closes whimsical folk era with self-produced anti-Valentine’s show

 

Apart from her upcoming music gig, dwta also recently dropped a cover of “Ang Pag-ibig Kong Ito,” her first official release of 2026

 

Filipino singer-songwriter dwta will be headlining her self-produced music gig, Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni dwta, on February 13, 2026, at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City.

Billed as an anti-Valentine’s show, Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni Dwta will feature a special extended set from the Bicol-born artist, whose body of work has redefined romantic and anti-romantic storytelling with sharp wit, offbeat visuals, and emotional sincerity. The evening will also bring together a stellar lineup of guest performers, including Shirebound, Janine Teñoso, Jan Roberts, Kenaniah, and LEYO.

Beyond the live music component, the event will put a spotlight on local merchants and creatives such as Hunghang Flashbacks, Amoy Scents and Candles, and Tattoo Studio PH. Hosting duties will be handled by Conyo Bicolano.

The show, according to dwta, is dedicated to ‘single’ listeners seeking meaningful, organic encounters. “This show is perfect for them. Since I’ve written more broken songs than love songs, this felt like the right chance to highlight them, especially with my new single. I’ll be playing a long set featuring my original songs, both old and new, along with the cover I recently released. I’ll also be teasing a song we’ve been working on that reflects this new dwta sound.”

The acclaimed songstress reveals that this gig will mark a pivotal moment in her journey as an artist, as it provides a fitting closure to the whimsical folk leanings of her previous era.

“After this, I’ll be stepping into a new era with a more mature sound and writing,” dwta adds. “It’s not just the music that’s changing, but also my appearance and overall vibe. I really hope people get to experience this show and see how I started back when I was just Jhasmine Villanueva. This isn’t just an ordinary gig; it’s a moment to show how my music has really evolved.”

Earlier this year, dwta released a cover of “Ang Pag-ibig Kong Ito,” originally performed by Lea Navarro and written by Carlos Agawa and Ernie Dela Pena. The track, which serves as her first official release in 2026, conveys enduring love and devotion despite odd circumstances in life.

“For my version, I wanted to focus more on the feeling,” dwta reflects. “I wanted the listener to imagine being inside the song. Like it’s late at night, you’re alone in your room, lying in bed, hearing the sound of crickets outside, crying quietly, and hoping that tomorrow will be better. That soft moment of vulnerability and hope is what I really wanted to convey in this song.”

Produced by Brian Lotho, dwta’s version underwent several iterations but eventually settled into a quieter, more somber arrangement that aligns with song’s emotional weight. The “Padaba Taka” songstress explains, “After talking it through with my team, we decided to follow what feels true to dwta. We ended up going for a more raw and intimate arrangement with acoustic guitar, slower pacing, and more strings.”

Dwta’s “Ang Pag-ibig Kong Ito” is available now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Tickets to Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni dwta are now available here.

 

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, and even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

Next Gen: Introducing the new OPM artists poised for breakout success this 2026

Coming from different regions and backgrounds, these emerging acts deliver distinct stories, sounds, and cultural influences that add depth and diversity to the burgeoning music scene in the Philippines

 

A new wave of OPM artists is gaining momentum.

Poised for their official breakout moment in 2026, these fresh and compelling acts are set to drop new releases that defy conventions and embrace artistic promise. In the months ahead, their work is expected to leave a distinct mark on contemporary OPM, so make sure to show your support and bookmark their names as early as now.

 

HARA (Davao) – HARA is the newest P-Pop girl group. The sassy six-piece act is ready to conquer the stage with their dynamic performances and unique sound, entirely produced in their hometown. HARA is set to release their pre-debut track “My Love” this February 25, 2026.

AYO (Davao) – AYO is a 7-member boy group that is set to bring their A game into the world of P-Pop. The name is derived from the Visayan word “Maayo” (skillful, talented), embodying their potential as a vital newcomer. Expect the pop group is to debut new music this year.

DAELUX (Davao) – DAELUX is a seven-member Philippine girl group composed of Tabel, Zyra, Shami, Rhya, Ara, Slane, and Alice. Combining Filipina pride with a global flair, the group exudes grace and power in every performance, while enchanting listeners with their refreshing take on pop music. Raring for an exciting debut this year, the group has already started posting teasers via their official social media platforms.

Rock Opong (Iloilo) – Rock Opong has made waves as a grand finalist on The Voice Teens and a semi-finalist on Asia’s Got Talent. He got signed by Balcony Entertainment, marking his official debut with songs that come from a place of authenticity and warmth. He recently released his new single “Favorite,” a song that captures the warmth and comfort that comes with romantic love.

Trisha Puso (Bicol) – Trisha started her career in 2010 as one of the pioneer artists of the CamSur Academy Project. Before joining the Academy, she was making her mark with her performances of cover songs. Her media content containing performances gained a following, which eventually inspired her to write, compose, and produce her own songs. In 2024, she joined Sony Music Philippines as the first licensed artist from CamSur. Her new single, “Alapaap,” is slated to drop on January 28, 2026. The track circles around the concept of love and destiny, yearning for a love that makes one comfortable and safe.

Mikee Sarmiento (Metro Manila) – Mikee Sarmiento makes soulful pop music that lives in the quiet spaces between longing and comfort. Personal, cinematic, and deeply representative of the Filipino experience, Mikee’s music is characterized by heart-on-sleeve sentimentality, opening wounds and stirring up conversations about life, love, spirituality, and anything in between. His debut single, “Tahan Na,” will be released on January 30, 2026.

LU (Aurora) – Newcomer LU makes music that carries the imprint of her coastal hometown while exploring her own voice as a singer-songwriter. Raised in San Luis, Aurora, and now based in Quezon City, the folk-pop artist delivers melodically rich and beautifully sung tunes with earnest intentions. Her single “Lasing Na Sa’yo” recently found success on streaming, putting her on the cover of Spotify’s Fresh Finds Philippines, debuting at no. 1 on the playlist. She is slated to release her song “PUCHA” on February 13, 2026, an upbeat alt-pop heartbreak anthem.

NEW LORE (Metro Manila) – New Lore is a 3-piece band that creates music from art and poetry, with Carole Lantican on drums, Tita Halaman on vocals and guitars, and Kim Escalona on bass. Their listeners call it trauma pop, dream pop, ethereal alt pop, or whatever pop – just making what feels true and letting everyone else name it. It’s music for the overfeelers, the almost-healers, and the quietly ambitious hearts. Their upcoming single, “substack girl,” is a tender, self-aware love song about missing someone through the details of who they are. Built on hypnotic production and list-like lyrics, the song asks quiet questions about identity, growth, and whether love lingers in habits long after people drift apart. The song will be out on February 6, 2026.

 

These are emerging voices from Sony Music Entertainment that are pushing music to exciting, new places. Watch out for them in 2026.

 

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, and even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

JADE announces deluxe edition of debut album That’s Showbiz Baby! The Encore

 

Global music superstar JADE today releases the deluxe edition of her outstanding debut album, THAT’S SHOWBIZ BABY! THE ENCORE.

 

The deluxe album features 8 additional songs, 7 new tracks including the powerful ‘Church‘  and the socially conscious anthem ‘This Is What We Dance For’ alongside JADE’s highly praised cover of the Madonna classic ‘Frozen

 

This is the grand finale of the That’s Showbiz Baby! era!

 

The full track list is:

  1. Angel Of My Dreams
  2. IT girl
  3. FUFN (Fuck You For Now)
  4. Plastic Box
  5. Midnight Cowboy
  6. Fantasy
  7. Unconditional
  8. Self Saboteur
  9. Lip Service
  10. Headache
  11. Natural At Disaster
  12. Glitch
  13. Before You Break My Heart
  14. Silent Disco
  15. Church
  16. This Is What We Dance For
  17. Dreamcheater
  18. Best You Could
  19. Use Me
  20. Frozen
  21. If My Heart Was A House
  22. Tar

 

The deluxe album is available on CD and vinyl. The CD will be released on 19th December, with vinyl released on 27th February 2026. Pre-order here: https://jade.me/THEENCOREPR

 

Upon its release in September, the album ‘That’s Showbiz, Baby!’ ‘ had the biggest opening week for a debut album of 2025 on the Official UK Albums Chart and topped the Official Record Store Chart. The album sees JADE work with a variety of A-list collaborators on the project, including Mike Sabath, Lostboy, Cirkut, RAYE, and Pablo Bowman. It features the previously released singles ‘Fantasy,’ ‘Midnight Cowboy,’ ‘IT Girl,’ ‘FUFN,’ and ‘Plastic Box,’ in addition to ‘Angel Of My Dreams,’ the smash hit that catapulted JADE’s solo career into the spotlight.

 

Released last summer, ‘Angel Of My Dreams’ immediately turned heads on a global scale with its attention-grabbing sound and larger-than-life, hyper-stylized visual directed by Aube Perrie (Megan Thee Stallion, Harry Styles). The song to date has amassed over 107 million streams, debuted in the Top 10 of the UK Official Singles Chart, and has just gone Gold in the UK. The overwhelming success of ‘Angel Of My Dreams’ helped lead to JADE’s triumphant night at the 2025 BRIT Awards, where she took home the award for ‘Pop Act’—making her the first former girl group member to win a solo award—and delivered the stand-out performance of the night with a live rendition of the track.

 

‘Angel Of My Dreams’ was named the No. 1 song of 2024 by DIY Magazine and a Top 10 song by The Guardian, DORK, Clash, and NME. JADE was nominated for an Ivor Novello Award for ‘Best Contemporary Song’ for the track, and Dazed named it video of the year.

 

This summer she performed showstopping sets at major festivals including Glastonbury, Radio 1’s Big Weekend, All Points East, Mighty Hoopla, TRNSMT, and the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland.  She also played a special full orchestral concert at the BBC Proms in Newcastle, alongside supporting Chappell Roan at her shows in Edinburgh.

 

In October JADE hit the road for her first solo UK and Ireland tour, ‘That’s Showbiz, Baby!!’ – THE TOUR visiting Dublin, Belfast, Brighton, Manchester, Glasgow, Leeds, Bournemouth, Birmingham, Newcastle, and London’s prestigious Roundhouse. Next year the tour hits Europe and the USA.

 

JADE has won numerous awards in the last year, including the Trailblazer Award at the Rolling Stone UK Awards, the 2025 Popjustice Twenty Quid Prize for ‘Plastic Box,’ and Artist of the Year at the Artist & Manager Awards. She finished this year by picking up the Musician Award at Harper’s Bazaar’s prestigious Women Of The Year ceremony earlier this month.

 

To date, JADE has achieved over 300 million streams of her solo work.

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS; FOREIGN ACT

It All Started In May Is The Newest Brand Ambassador of LYRIC, Launches “Naaalala” Music Video

 

Rising band It All Started In May just dropped their latest single, “Naaalala,” which is all about looking back on an old romance. With lines like “Bakit ganyan? Biglang nawala, dahil sumama ka na sa iba,” it’s the perfect relapse song.

 

Composed of Red (guitarist, lead vocalist), Pau (guitarist, vocalist), Jai (keyboardist), Mikee (drummer), and JP (bassist, vocalist), the band was signed by Universal Records just last February 2025, but they’re already booked and busy with releases, guestings, and gigs.

 

Their latest release, “Naaalala” touches on bigger life memories, tying into the band’s “naaalala” posts online. For example, bassist JP posted, “Naaalala ko pa yung mga araw na mas madalas kwarto ko lang nakakarinig ng mga tinutugtog ko,” reminding us of their earlier days. On the other hand, drummer Mikee posted, “Minsan naaalala ko ‘yung mga sinabi kong ‘last na itopero ayun, may part two, three, at four,” reflecting on the journey of the band.

 

The band has released four singles so far—”O’ Kay Tamis,” “Pasado,” a cover of Hotdog’s “Manila,” and “Naaalala”—and this latest one nicely wraps up their year with that “malayo pa pero malayo na” feeling.

 

Last November 22, It All Started In May officially signed with LYRIC, making them ambassadors of the country’s largest musical instrument retail chain. On the same day, the band also had a launch for the music video of their latest single, “Naaalala,” at Kowloon House Dining Hall in Matalino St., Quezon City. The venue buzzed with energy from electrifying sets by SunKissed Lola, Earl Generao, SHANNi, brei, and, of course, It All Started In May, who delivered an unforgettable performance.

 

It All Started In May is definitely just getting started—and so far, so good. We’re excited for new music and new milestones from this very promising band in 2026!

 

Follow Universal Records on social media!

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@universalrecph

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/universalrecordsph

TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@universalrecph

Instagram – http://instagram.com/universalrecordsph

X – https://x.com/universalrec_ph

 

Follow It All Started In May on social media!

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/itallstartedinmay

TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@itallstartedinmayyy

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/itallstartedinmay

 

“Naaalala”
It All Started In May

 

Naalala mo pa ba nu’ng tayong dalawa pa?

Sumasabay sa agos ng hangin

Kay hirap mo namang ibigin

 

Bakit ganyan?

Kay hirap mo nang Ibigin aking sinta

 

Kay sarap alalahanin ang nakaraan natin

Kay hirap namang limutin

Ang pagmamahal mo sakin

Sumasabay sa agos ng hangin

Kay hirap mo namang ibigin

 

Bakit ganyan?

Kay hirap mo nang ibigin aking sinta

 

Solo

 

Sumasabay sa agos ng hangin

Kay hirap mo namang ibigin

 

Bakit ganyan?

Kay hirap mo nang ibigin aking sinta

 

Bakit ganyan

Kay hirap mo nang hanapin, aking sinta

 

Bakit ganyan

Biglang nawala

Dahil sumama ka na sa iba

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS; OPM BAND

 

Filipino alt hip-hop artist Young Cocoa reclaims his narrative with bold new EP, STILL COCOA

 

In his six-track release, the acclaimed rapper expands his sonic palette and tackles themes of maturity, identity, and creative freedom”

Rising Filipino artist Young Cocoa asserts his place at the forefront of the alternative hip-hop scene with the release of his highly anticipated EP, STILL COCOA, under Sony Music Entertainment. The six-track project is a bold piece of work that embraces new influences while honoring the distinct sound that first put him on the map.

Known for incorporating chill, hypnotic grooves with inescapable rhythms and off-kilter production choices, Young Cocoa sharpens his signature sound with renewed clarity and purpose. Produced by Brido, Jayson Franz, Joseph Gregory, Luke April, and up-and-comer chocolateman, the EP weaves together fan favorites such as “inboxxx,” “Cheap Thrills,” and “Raspberry” alongside surefire bops and rarities designed to push the boundaries of alternative music, rap, hip-hop, and bedroom indie.

The young hip-hop act explains, “Outside of the message I’m trying to share in this era, STILL COCOA is really my way of planting a flag and cementing my lane as a pioneering alt hip-hop artist. This marks an evolution of my previous project, liv, luvv, cocoa, with clearer messaging and topics that hit closer to home. This time, I’m more focused on experimenting and being more intentional with my sonic and production choices.”

Thematically speaking, STILL COCOA serves as a self-reflection piece on holding onto youth while confronting the realities of growing older. Young Cocoa describes the new record as the start of a new chapter in sound, writing, and storytelling.

“The project explores the in-between of youthfulness and maturity, something that people rarely talk about,” shares the multi-talented rapper. “Some people just fall into adulthood, and some people take time. I’m part of the latter. Each song reflects what growing up has taught me.”

The lead single “STILL COCOA (fly)” represents a pivotal personal and artistic shift, ultimately choosing liberation over limitation. The song addresses the expectations and pressures that have shadowed his early success while reinforcing the EP’s central themes of self-belief and reclaiming one’s narrative.

“I’ve held myself back for so long because many people associated me with one song,” he admits. “It kept me from exploring my full potential. Writing this song made me realize it was time to let go of any inhibitions and fully embrace my sound, whether people understand it or not. STILL COCOA is really an invitation to follow me on the rest of my journey as an artist and serves as a reminder to people that although I’ve changed look-wise, sound-wise, and personality-wise, I’m STILL Cocoa.”

The EP also features new tracks such as “WHEN DO I GET OLD?,” a candid confrontation with ageism in the music industry, and “flew2bali4ahug,” a personal musing on growing distant from brothers.

“Both tracks really spoke to deep feelings I had that were only shared with my girlfriend and anyone in my tight-knit group of friends,” he says. “Sharing these feelings with the world is both scary and exciting. Who knows? Someone out there might be able to relate. That’s a thought that comforts me.”

Young Cocoa’s new EP, STILL COCOA, is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Catch him at the STILL COCOA EP and Music Video Launch on December 5, 2025, from 6 pm to 10 pm at Shutterspace Studios in Quezon City. Entrance is FREE!

Register here: https://YoungCocoa.lnk.to/stillcocoalaunch

 

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, and even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS; OPM

Josh Groban Brings ‘Gems World Tour’ To Manila

 

Celebrating His Best And Greatest Recordings

Announcement – Tony, EMMY, and five-time GRAMMY Award-nominated singer-songwriter Josh Groban announces his newest tour, ‘GEMS WORLD TOUR’ with a concert in MANILA on February 18, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live. Tickets go on sale on November 22 at 11 AM via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets nationwide.

 

Josh Groban possesses one of the most outstanding and instantly recognizable voices in music. Moreover, he continues to captivate fans everywhere as both a powerhouse vocalist and dynamic renaissance man. He has sold over 35 million albums worldwide, headlined legendary venues on multiple continents, and has also entertained audiences with acclaimed film and television appearances. His catalog spans a series of chart-topping blockbuster albums, including Josh Groban (5x-platinum), Closer (6x-platinum), Noël (7x-platinum), Awake (2x-platinum), IlluminationsAll That EchoesStages (his first UK #1 album), Bridges, and his most recent release, Harmony. Along the way, he has packed arenas throughout North America, Europe, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Asia.

 

Extending his repertoire, Groban made his Broadway debut in 2016 with a starring role in Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812. He garnered a Tony® Award nomination for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. He has expanded his presence with appearances on Glee, The Simpsons, The Office, CSI: NY, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and The Crazy Ones as well as in the feature films Coffee Town, Muppets Most Wanted, and Crazy, Stupid, Love. In addition, he starred in the Netflix series The Good Cop in 2018. Groban maintains his position as the consummate American showman in 2022 and beyond. In 2022, he returned to the hallowed stage of Radio City Music Hall for his Great Big Radio City Show residency and launched a nationwide live tour. Groban also starred in ABC’s special Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration as none other than the Beast in December 2022.

 

In the spring of 2023, Josh took to Broadway once again, performing in the highly anticipated revival of Sweeney Todd, playing the title role, which earned him Tony and GRAMMY Nominations along with widespread acclaim. Deadline: ‘Groban makes himself over into a full-blown, and fully developed, Broadway star…His Sweeney is by turns sympathetic and monstrous.’ The New York Times: “The ‘gorgeously sung’ part is no surprise with Groban, whose quasi-operatic pop baritone perfectly encompasses the range of the role, and whose technique makes sure every word is bell clear. That some of the songs are thus even prettier than usual is all to the better.”

 

This year, Josh released an 18-track career-spanning collection of songs, titled Gems. He also took to the Las Vegas stage for a sold-out, exclusive five-night run at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace with its hits-focused production of the same name.

 

Josh recently announced Hidden Gems, a special collection that brings together ten of his fans’ most beloved and rare tracks – many of which have never been available on streaming platforms – along with one brand-new song. Over the years, Josh has released a wide array of deluxe editions, fan exclusives, and special international tracks. Now, these fan favorites have been carefully curated into a single collection that showcases the versatility of his musical journey. To herald the announcement, Josh shared his brand new song, “The Constant”, a stunning collaboration written by Josh and the acclaimed songwriting duo Pasek and Paul (The Greatest Showman, La La Land). It’s a beautiful addition to this collection of rare treasures, offering something fresh while honoring the songs fans have cherished for years.

 

He remains an active arts education philanthropist and advocate, and his Find Your Light Foundation helps enrich the lives of young people through arts, education, and cultural awareness.

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS; FOREIGN ACT: CONCERT

Acclaimed author Segundo Matias Jr. to release sequel to Batang Poz

 

Stigma: Batang Poz 2 builds on the success of its first novel and iWant adaptation, delivering a gripping look into the lives of poz teens in ultra-conservative Philippines.”

Manila, Philippines – Palanca Award-winning and best-selling author Segundo Matias Jr. has released his newest work, Stigma: Batang Poz 2, the highly anticipated sequel to his groundbreaking 2018 novel, Mga Batang Poz. His latest release deepens the conversation about HIV awareness and the stigma still faced by young Filipinos living with the virus.

 

In Stigma: Batang Poz 2, fifteen-year-old Melody joins a group chat called “Pete’s Corner,” a digital refuge for young people like her, teenagers living with HIV. As her pregnancy becomes more visible, she must face the weight of stigma while finding strength in the stories of other poz youth, including the familiar characters from the first book. The follow-up explores survival, solidarity, connection, and the search for hope in the midst of the HIV-AIDS crisis in the Philippines.

 

Matias adds, “Melody, the new character, is especially important to me. If her story reaches video, there is so much within her journey that viewers can learn from. Through Melody’s experiences, the novel discusses both teenage pregnancy and living with HIV.”

 

A sequel that challenges as it confronts

 

As the first young adult novel about HIV-AIDS in the Philippines, Stigma: Batang Poz 2 has been hailed as a landmark contribution to both literature and public health, one that challenges prejudice and calls for compassion in the age of social media and digital connection. The first Batang Poz novel received critical acclaim for its courageous and truthful portrayal of living with HIV, later inspiring a powerful 2019 iWant miniseries starring Paolo Gumabao, Mark Neumann, and Awra Briguela. The sequel seeks not only to shed light on the lived experiences of People Living with HIV-AIDS (PLHIV) but also to remind us of the importance of empathy, understanding, and solidarity in combating discrimination.

 

Stigma: Batang Poz 2 also delivers engaging and practical information on sexual health and empowerment. “The discussions in this book are deeper and more technical,” shares Matias. “In Stigma, I made it a point to provide clear guidance on staying safe. I want to highlight the importance of PrEP and consistently advocating condom use for protection. While the first book conveyed the horrors surrounding HIV, the second installment focuses on empowerment and dismantling stigma.”

 

Early praise for Stigma: Batang Poz 2

 

The novel has garnered advanced praise from notable critics, writers, and advocates in the Philippines.

 

Internationally acclaimed essayist and winner of the Curt Johnson Prose Award for Nonfiction, Wifredo Pascual commends Matias’ masterful craftsmanship, noting his skill in crafting “solid and meaningful” scenes. “His sharp eye in choosing the most telling detail is critical in bringing this to light. It’s urgent. And it’s a question worth asking ourselves as readers. How far are we willing to go to get to the source of our discomfort and denial? ”

 

Multi-awarded poet, scholar, and teacher Charlie Samuya-Veric celebrates Matias’ commitment to making “courageous writing contagious.” He explains, “With Stigma: Batang Poz 2, Segundo Matias, Jr. departs completely from the fantastical concerns of Moymoy Lulumboy and takes his readers close to what they would otherwise deny: their deepest fears and most unacknowledged prejudices. Matias’s courage is enabling. He provides his audience with a different experience and creates a new horizon for YA writers who may not yet have the will, or wherewithal, to explode social taboos.”

 

Mark Angeles, award-winning author of Gagambeks, also praises the book for widening the conversations around subjects often deemed controversial and taboo. “Binuksan sa atin ng Mga Batang Poz ang makulay na mundo ng mga alter—isang produkto ng immersion ng awtor sa internet subculture na ito.”

 

Matias hopes the sequel will empower readers, especially young adults, to face the world’s challenges with courage and clarity. “Health hubs have told me that more people are getting tested because they read Mga Batang Poz,” shares Matias. “That alone makes me happy. For a writer like me, being able to convey a meaningful message through one’s work is already a victory.”

 

Segundo Matias, Jr.’s Stigma: Batang Poz will be available soon.

 

About the Author

 

Segundo Matias, Jr., is an award-winning writer, storyteller, and publisher. He holds a master’s degree in creative writing from the University of the Philippines and has received multiple literary awards, including three honors from the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature: Paper Dolls (2016, Third Prize – Essay), Alamat ng Duhat (2011, First Prize – Short Story for Children), and Loida: Taxi Driver (1991, Honorable Mention – Teleplay).

 

He is a writing fellow of the UP Institute of Creative Writing and a member of Ricky Lee’s Writers Studio. Segundo has written more than fifty children’s stories. Among his most notable works are Moymoy Lulumboy: Ang Batang Aswang (Best Young Adult Book, The Severino Reyes Medal 2024; Top 10 Books of 2014 by the Philippine Daily Inquirer), Moñito, Ang Mabait na Demonyo (Shortlist, 6th National Children’s Book Awards), Angelica, Ang Multo sa Balete Drive (Shortlist, 6th National Children’s Book Awards), Uncle Sam (Finalist, 4th National Children’s Book Awards; Kids’ Choice Awards Winner), Ang Papag ni Tatang (Honorable Mention, PBBY Salanga 2012), Kuwentong Nanay (a series of books about mothers, also translated into Spanish), and Mga Batang Poz (a novel about four adolescents living with HIV, later adapted into an iWant miniseries).

 

His work in children’s literature eventually led him to become a storyteller for the Knowledge Channel’s television program, Kuwento ni Kuya Jun. Before entering the world of book writing and publishing, Segundo was already recognized for his contributions as a writer for both television and film.

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS; ENTERTAINMENT & ARTS