ISHA PONTI Launches "LIKAS" Album

Super talented singer songwriter Isha Ponti gave us goosebumps last night at the VIVA CAFE where she celebrated her birthday and launched her new album "LIKAS". 

Isha says "If there's someone who acts like an anchor in my life, I would like to say thanks to my Mom and Dad, happy father's day! I always do this every year but this is special because being 20 means I've already experienced things and applied it to my songs. Some good, some that hurt, but it's okay. I'm good!"

She sang her singles "Darating" (an upbeat hopeful love song),  "Hinga" (a call for pause before loving again), "Proud to Say" (not part of the LIKAS album but she made this song when she was 13), "Raining In Manila" (her cover), "Kabanata" (where she proudly showed her heartwarming music video too), Man I Need & So Easy (both an Olivia Dean original- her cover), and a few more to the delight of the crowd. She also did "Warmth", "Gulong" (about a hurtful relationship), "Halika" (a ballad about asking to admit love), "Bakas" (she cried on this bit), "Kung Di Rin Tayo sa Huli" (her cover of the December Avenue song),  "Numero" (about self worth), "Riversky" (about believing in  yourself), and the finale song the danceable "Mismo" (where everyone stood up!). Isha reminds us that her new album "Likas" is all about loving, learning, and experiencing her truth and I totally agree. 

In the audience, she also had her relatives, friends from school, and press who have been helping her get her music out there. She thanked them all! 

Isha acknowledged a few artists from VIVA, a PPOP girl group and of course, one of GMA's prime actors Kelvin Miranda (who did a duet with her btw!). 

OPM is so blessed to have to someone like you Isha! Here's hoping you get to even more places. Seeing how passionate you are in your craft and how hard you've worked for it, please keep on writing and singing more songs!

38th AWIT AWARDS Gets Powered by VIBE PH at MERALCO Theater

The 38th Awit Awards is very near and this year is going to be a LOT different as it is going to be powered by the folks from VIBE, the awesome OPM lovin online and TV show on TV5, Cignal and their partner platforms. 

I've been watching them almost everyday and the fans of not just the artists actually follow their antics especially on weekends where they obviously prepare a whole lot of performances indie or mainstream fans would enjoy. Doing the Awit Awards would be something really fun as the organization partner up with MQuest Ventures, and poke a little youthful energy in the 38 year old body. 

It's going to be a huge celebration for OPM and PARI (Philippine Association of the Record Industry) which holds this show every year. With the mission to push OPM forward, they'll be preparing to showcase some of the country's hottest acts, including some of the year's awardees and generations of performers the country has produced. 

The show will also be directed by newly joined legendary star maker Johnny Manahan, and Vibe jocks Dylan, Elijah, Joao, Ana, Maxie, Paulo, Kych, Queenay and favorite boy Ryle Santiago. Telling folks about side quests, red carpet and backstage happenings will be the Vibe Gen V guys and gals who have in recent episodes have gotten a huge following too. This will all happen on November 16th at the newly renovated Meralco Theater. It'll be streamed live on Vibe PH, TV5, MQuest Ventures and Awit Awards Facebook pages and their affiliates. This is going to be heck of a lot of fun!

ZELLE Sets Ablaze Her Comeback with New Single MARTIR

After a grueling 13 years in Sweden, OPM artist Zelle is back in the country for new music, a new perspective with empowerment, her truth and the process of healing. Her single "Martir" talks about the trials and tribulations of love and the complexities of relationships.  

This resurgence didn't come easy as it stemmed from her own life experiences which happened recently, a matter that compelled her to go back to the country. 

She admits experiencing depression, but realized how she could use music as an expression. It was something that she knew was important, to use it to heal. Her gift is now being used with intention and fervor, which is why her music feels more genuine than ever. A way to show her truth, and strength which she hopes to also inspire other women. 

Love certainly is still part of her songs creative process, but says she uses a more psychological aspect in writing about it. She shares how one shouldn't lose their identity while experiencing love. That's a pretty strong statement!

She now is doing gigs and tours with a dependable band. With John Abiathar De Leon on drums, Archie Salvador on guitar, Chester Ventura on violin, and Jing Gonzales on bass plus a few more people in charge of production, she's ready to perform in different stages, here or elsewhere. She's also preparing a release for another single "Liberate Me" which she's doing soon. In the meantime, listen download and stream "Martir" on all streaming platforms and take that awesome healing and feisty journey with Zelle.

Artist Lounge Multimedia Inc. Welcomes New COO JEFFREY HUNG

Artist Lounge Multimedia Inc. recently welcomed their new COO Jeffrey Hung. The agency involved in talent management, networking, social media management, events, advertising and marketing held a welcome dinner for him, his wife, their employees, clients, talents, celebrities and the media at the posh Hydro bar in Quezon City.

He is also part owner of the firm, and will be involved in projects this 2025 and beyond. As of this writing, CEO Kyle Sarmiento pronounced how they've got over 20 projects in the pipeline including several movies and online series which will be released later on this year. 

 

They also have other opportunities they're offering for their huge talent pool including live selling which they've been doing for a while now. They obliged us with an interview after socials, and their COO Jeffrey Hung was keen in taking roles in the films they are making including his super gorgeous wife Nikki Hung who's also an actress from China.

Miss Universe Quezon City ladies with the COO Jeffrey Hung and his wife Nikki.

Their COO Jeffrey Hung says "I am so proud to be part of Artist Lounge Multimedia Inc. and I hope you continue to support us in our projects. I've been in the production industry in different platforms like TikTok Live, something I've been doing in the past. Now I'm with my business partners, I believe in Kyle's leadership and I trust him."

Artist Lounge Multimedia Inc. CEO Kyle adds "Artist Lounge Multimedia Inc. now has 3 owners. Atty. is just in Japan for a vacation which is why he's not here. This dinner was just spontaneous. We are working on several projects including live selling, digital ad support, a few festivals, provincial shows, mall shows, production of vlogs mostly for celebrities of Artist Lounge. We also have up and coming talents that we hope will be part of the PH entertainment industry. Our goal is to finish our first film which we hope to finish this month that I'll write and direct. Artist Lounge is multifaceted and not just focused in one industry."

Here's our interview with them later on in the evening. 

For those who would like to do business with them, send your inquiries through their social channels by messaging Artist Lounge Multimedia Inc. on Facebook. 

Welcome to Artist Lounge Multimedia Inc. Sir Jeffrey Hung! It was a pleasure meeting you!

Globe Wants You to Celebrate GDay Every Day!

When we arrived at the GDay Mediacon this evening, we were asked if we were ready to make GDay everyday. Sure, we are absolutely sure.

What's to come on GDay? According to Globe, they will be giving customers a whole lot more this 2024 and why not, everything is possible when GDay becomes everyday!

917 GDay Lead Peter Ramirez says "We have more ways to earn points, have more games and AI, even music with all new rewards. Opening the Globe One app and clicking join, prepaid customers can buy promos, and post paid customers can pay their bills. You will get additional points in doing several challenges. You can say Oh My G when you win raffles real time. You can also rally on several challenges for community goals and yes, you earn points from it. GFair, G activities, G Raffle Rush and more to encourage you to help and win some raffle prizes. One point is equal to 5 raffle entries, when you redeem you can instantly validate on forms weekly on Globe's channels. You might win phones, wearables, scooters, Avida Condo or trip to El Nido. Customers with multiple accounts like Globe Home and prepaid lines, you get more points too. This goes the same with Globe Business partners, at the hub you'll see more solutions. This is just the start!"

He adds "Our postpaid, platinum subscribers will have exclusive perks for top brands nationwide. There will be massive discounts, flash deals via Living it Large! Living it Live! and more!"

GFest is sold out where BINI is performing, it's a celebration to blend music, only for 25 points for tickets. Other performers like Sunkissed Lola, Jason Dhakal, with partner schools too. G Gantic Goals is where you can team up for causes where you can send points for goals to support 917 families. As of today, the cause is 61 percent and it only takes one point to help Filipinos. They want to thank all those who contributed, they want to help you give back to communities you care for. There will be more!

Crisela Magpayo Cervante of Globe's Marketing arm says "We are embracing change, we are evolving. Family is who you choose to live for. The time we spend with them is important. We want to support the needs of every home, in mobile or broadband services. We want to serve every version of the Filipino family. We can go forward together."

The year is certainly short for the things that Globe is planning especially with the way they connect with their loyal customers, and from the things we've seen at the event... being with Globe seems worth it.

For those who want to see and note of the nitty gritty details of what GDay every day means, make sure you follow their social channels because they'll be posting more of the events and mechanics for rewards on it. Make it a G Day Every Day!

PS: Events like the G Fair and Living It! will be at the BGC Amphitheater on September 20 to 21. G Fest will happen at the SMX Convention Center, but yes the BINI gig is already sold out. G Fest will be happening in the Visayas at Iloilo City's Convention Center, so make sure you make time to be a part of it!

#SANAOIL Event Mounted: Artistic Fight for Sovereignty

We've been on our toes (even more recently) as Filipinos when it comes to the obvious bullying and tyrannical try of other countries to own what properly belongs to us at the West Philippine sea. No surprise, a non-profit org called Pinoy Aksyon (Pilipino Aksyon for Governance and the Environment) together with KM64 (a writers collective) just recently came out with #SanaOil  (a performance event) to better inform us about what's happening out there through songs, dance, spoken poetry showcasing their different talents while giving focus to the cause. 

One of the activities include Spoken Word Slam Competition which talks about how we have sole proprietorship of not just the body of water, but the riches of the sea and everything underneath it #TubigatLangis. It was a time to hone speech for showcasing patriotism and a sensible call for action. KM64 artists also did "sabayang bigkas" with groups like Kalipaya Theater Group, YT famous Jong Madaliday, Fifty Per Hour, the Tanghalang Bagong Sibol (theater and dance company), Chiang Lion and Dragon Dancers, Hype, Justine Taller and the one and only Dalaygon Queen Lady Morgana of RPDRPH.

PinoyAksyon wants #SanaOil to become just the start in order to make Filipinos become part of more efforts through innate freedom of expression, environmental care, and the importance of the country's sovereignty. 

We need to have active participation now because we can't just stand around and do nothing while they continue to bully us. 

KATRINA VELARDE Readies For "The Z-CON: The Gen Z Icons Concert"

 

The world class power belter Katrina Velarde is going to make your April days even more awesome as she does "KATRINA The Z-CON: The Gen Z Icons Concert" to be held on April 13, 8pm at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati.

For those asking why it's ZCon, it's because they want to cater to Gen Z's who's supporting her today. She's been very hands on, using her own team to do arrangements, covers, even on YouTube. Although they cater to any music genre, everyone will certainly relate to the music of the 90's and 2000's. She's going to do it with her own spin on things. 

Talking to her a few days ago, Katrina feels the pressure (mounting this concert) because it's been 4 years since she last had one. Though she admits, she likes this pressure and anxiety. She asserts these are challenges that could further improve her skills. 

 Katrina says "I'm so happy that we're doing this to promote my concert, I've had the chance to do this in ASAP and Showtime, and it's been a while since I've had one. It's like my body is looking for it, this is a big production and I'm happy to work with JM Yosures, Reiven Umali, Khimo Gumatay and Sam Mangubat. My reach has always been with Gen Z's and I've prepared a lot for this one."

She adds "It's not just going to be with Gen Z's though because I want people to relate with music from the 90's and 2000's, but we're doing it with a different flavor. I'm eager to do this all, coming from the pandemic days, we wanted to have more mediums of entertainment. I realized when the pandemic happened people still wanted to see us for entertainment, and now that we're back, I'm happy."

Imagine if she wasn't around during the pandemic, we all would have been in a rut. A lot of people listened to her songs during her live streams. Truly, it was a place to be thankful during those times because as singers, they rose to the occasion and gave us the needed entertainment we craved for at home.

Like so many singers, she's inspired by the one and only Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez. When they performed in previous shows, she froze and just looks at her. It's so nice to see that her dreams did come true. To be able to work with her inspiration, she must have been ecstatic. Here's more of what happened at the press conference for the "KATRINA The Z-CON: The Gen Z Icons Concert"

 On this part 2, she had our jaws drop with a few songs she sang a capella

 

She's very down to earth, and has already impressed a lot of people with her covers, original songs and this concert would definitely be a nice avenue to see how she's come a long way. Tickets are sold via Ticketworld so secure them now. This is produced by AQUEOUS ENTERTAINMENT and ABBA Productions.

 

Avida Land South Park District Unveils Interactive 3D Street Art

Visited this place a couple weeks ago and the good news is that they never stopped putting art in this 6.6 hectare property. This community is just so vibrant, quite promising and the developments are just amazing because just as soon as we saw murals in January, there's new 3D paintings unveiled this month.

Who knew that it was possible to see art in a residential area, together with nature too. The artwork was made by John Mark Saycon, Neil Defeo and Melanio Bulauitan III of Guhit Sudlungan, a group of visual artists who joined Avida's 3D Street Painting competition back in 2011. They got the help of co-artists Brian Defeo, Emil Aldrine Alarcon, Didier Marc Alarcon, Jefferson Malong and Jervin Ferrer to finish this new project this year.

Avida Land Marketing Head Ms. Tess Tatco says "I'm excited about these new attractions we have in the South Park District so people would see how talented our young local Filipino artists are. I hope people would come and see this in person and feel how much joy this brings. This says a lot about how we want to have the part city, part nature, pure south dream a reality in this location."  

If you want to see this new piece and other art installations in the property, just visit the Avida Towers Ardane Showroom and ask for it. Take lots of photos and make sure to show your friends and family. Might as well try to live in this district, because the south is definitely a livable area. A change of ambiance would be fun!

Visit their official website at AvidaLand.com or their social channels @AvidaLandPH

4th IMPACT Welcomes Fresh Start: Releases New Album

 

When I heard Mylene, Almira, Irene and Celina was out to release an album, my 4th IMPACT fan heart was so happy! After their successful stint in X FACTOR UK Season 12 which catapulted them to worldwide fame, they're still looking for that spark to start off their own, original music, and a journey made of the same dreams they started with years back. Th launch happened at SM North Edsa Skydome in Quezon City, The Philippines.

The album only has 5 songs, but well worth every minute it plays when you stream online or spin on CD where available. Singles include "Distorted", "All at Once", "Round and Round", "February", and "Hate That Girl".

In 2023, announcement of their departure from their previous management shocked a few, but instead of drowning in the past, the girls went down hard as independent artists and did all the legwork needed to make this happen. They spent time working with the best of the best in the industry, same people who made music for Jennifer Lopez, and popular KPOP artists. 

Although there were a lot of sad anecdotes and realizations mentioned in the press conference (where they all kept it real), they had each other, their Mom and Dad to make sure they wouldn't give up the dream to represent the country in the international music scene - and still get to where they want to be. Since the debut single has been released in the US last year, they want to test the waters with these songs and see what resonates more with their audience. This also personifies their deep perseverance, something they're mighty proud came naturally as sisters. Even their management of tasks felt like everyone was volunteering and fit their skills like a glove.

Here's our video coverage of the press conference this evening

They rightfully dedicated this new album to the DREAMERS (their fan group) as they made them realize how they made 4th IMPACT inspired all these years (instead of them being the inspiration). Their faith in the 4 ladies made them hold on to that dream no matter what hardships they encounter.

I liked that in the end, Irene told the press how they knew that this isn't a continuation of what they've been doing in the past, but a true start because as far as artists are concerned, they definitely deserve to have that opportunity. They're hard working, still think about folks, and each other. They've been in so many roads, taken lots of detours, but is still hungry to be where they deserve to be. 

Up there, with the stars!

MERLION ENTERTAINMENT Showcases Premium Talents at Trade Launch

 

Spent a few hours at the grand Merlion Entertainment Trade Launch held at The Podium Hall in Ortigas, Pasig City. For those in the entertainment industry, they've been quite known for churning out and managing talents which they source across the country.  

The event was graced by Carren Eistrup the Dabarkads host and Bida Next winner, Nicole Borromeo the Binibining Pilipinas International 2022, the Spirited Singer TERA, Luna the Sing E.A.T. Finalist, PPOP (international) girl group CALISTA (comprised of Olive, Anne, Elle, Dain and Denise), plus a throng of new talents with the likes of Caitlyn Stave (which we interviewed a few months ago), Sparkle artists Nicole De Guzman, Monique Vazquez, Kayelah Gomez, good looking Chef Miguel David, model and singer Jimsen Jison, power belter Jean Drilon, the pretty ladies Dana Alexa, Angelgrace America, Laiza Comia and popular KUMU influencer Jessica Dungo. 

Here's our video coverage of the short program

Merlion Entertainment CEO Gener Dungo welcomed us at the event and said "Our friends from the media, thank you for coming here. The advertising and marketing community, and the various brands who came here tonight, thank you. Our vision is to develop and manage new talents, we went all around the country and brought them here. We are game changers which is why we produce shows, digital content, even do music production. When we did that our vision has expanded, and now we are working with the best in the industry. We are excited to work with you, thank you for your support, we hope all our creative pursuits become part of your campaigns. Thank you to all our artists, their parents who entrusted us with their career. Thank you and welcome to Merlion Entertainment!"

 For those looking for requirements for their commercials, TV castings, Movies or Events, you may send them an email via inquiry@merlionmanagement.com.ph or call them through mobile at 0917-156-7485.

 

Get Ready for CHRISTI

We met a very bubbly and confident Christi Fider a few days ago in Music Box Timog Avenue, Quezon City. She's not new in the industry, having released several singles like Teka, Teka, Teka!, Heto Na Naman in 2021, plus a Most Promising Singer Award at the PMPC Star Awards for Music in the same year.

She is currently under Manic Media, and has released a few tracks signifying her raring urge to go back to the grind. And currently, her EP album called "Sorry Not Sorry, I took my Time" became her call and the songs include "Breakthrough", "3rd Street", "Fake" and "Reyna" (which she also has a music video of). Honestly, her vibe reminds me of Lizzo, who carries herself confident and unapologetic-ally is just being her.

She also sang a few songs and kept us entertained about what she's been doing in the past few months. Including staying away from fake friends, loving herself more and wanting to embrace her curves. She also told us about her bout with PCOS and its effects on her weight loss, and glad she found inspiration from it and create music that she loves. It was where her music was based on.

Aside from that, she's been blessed with several acting projects, including one that will involve Superstar Nora Aunor. She was so nervous about it, but this was an opportunity that she couldn't just allow to pass. Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo will also be part of it, which in hindsight adds even more pressure. For those who are fond of Netflix, she's also doing a series under Chris Pablo (who's done several romance, queer films). Stay tuned for that!

Meanwhile, here's a bit of our interview with Christi

She's just starting, and as she starts doing what she loves as an artist and singer, to become that powerful independent woman, she's going to love herself... and hope you get in the groove of her music and artistry. You can stream her EP album on Spotify and other streaming platforms today. Get ready for Christi!

Your Next Gen Leading Lady YUKII TAKAHASHI

After being a TikTok superstar, she's now a full pledged actress appearing in different TV shows,  including hit series FPJ's Batang Quiapo (opposite McCoy De Leon) and  Puregold Series "Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile" (where she's paired with Wilbert Ross). She's Yukii Takahashi, and there's a ton of projects now lined up for her.

Honestly, I first saw her in person during the massive Puregold TNAP Event in World Trade Center. She's absolutely gorgeous to say the least, and this time, we're getting to see her much closer. You can see why people are just at awe.

She deserves the spotlight (sorry I just had to say that!)

Indeed, so much has happened to her career since she did that stint on TV as part of Sunday Noontime Live on TV5. She regularly appears on "Ano'ng Meron Kay Abok?" which is a sitcom show on Net 25 (with funny man Empoy), plus from what we heard, there will be several huge projects in the pipeline. She's certainly been taken cared of by her management Cornerstone. This is on top of several commercials, endorsements that she's getting involved with recently, and from what we're seeing, she's definitely getting her shine on. Beyond the glam of the entertainment industry, she's a very friendly and smart woman who hails from Tondo, Manila.

Here's our conversation with the gorgeous gal:

By the way, she's also part of an upcoming HBO limited series called "Call My Manager!" together with Queen of Soap Judy Ann Santos and heavily awarded Director Erik Matti. There's also one under MavX Productiosn called "Pangarap Kong Oskars" which you should watch out for. Congratulations Yukii, I'm sure Cornerstone Entertainment will take good care of you. Thank you for the hearty meal prepared by The CLIFF Restobar at Timog Avenue where our press conference was held (Check out Google Maps for new food photos I uploaded there!).

Can't wait to see your star shine even brighter! She's the next big thing.

VILMARK VIRAY Releases 2nd Heartbreaking Single "LISAN"

How did you spend your Christmas last year? Was it a happy one? For most, it should have been but not for singer and artist Vilmark Viray. The young promising singer just got his heart broken as his Dad met an accident in the shower on Christmas day. It was supposed to be a day of celebration, but unfortunately, he succumbed to aneurysm two days after. Vilmark was hurt, like anyone who would experience something like this, and didn't know how to process it. He took to writing this song called "LISAN" on the first day of the wake, and took off from that. Just like the way he sings songs, he poured emotions, things that he wanted to say, and now he was taking his heart out to dedicate this for his Dad. 

Here's a part of our interview with him this morning:

Vilmark knows, his Dad will be happy that he's continuing his dreams. Aside from being an Electrical Engineer, his passion has always been singing. Vilmark hopes that everyone who gets to hear his song would be able to relate and feel what he's going through. His Mom and Dad was always there to support him during times he was competing in The Clash. Dedicating this song to one of the most important people in his life is just proper, and he hopes when his Dad sees him today, that he would be proud of him just like the rest of his family.

Go stream his song LISAN on all streaming platforms or just search his name Vilmark Viray. He's very talented and he deserves to have his own concert which I certainly hope would come true soon!