Listen – Jellybeans in the City

SB19 and Gloc-9 unite for empowering anthem ‘KALAKAL’

The Filipino music scene is buzzing with excitement as two of its biggest names, SB19 and Gloc-9, have come together for a powerful new single, “KALAKAL.” Released today on all digital platforms, this collaboration between the P-Pop kings and the legendary rapper has fans thrilled and eager to listen.

The Genesis of ‘KALAKAL’

The idea for “KALAKAL” began after SB19 and Gloc-9 shared the stage at SB19’s PAGTATAG! Finale concert at the Araneta Coliseum a few months ago. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and it sparked the idea for a collaboration. SB19 reached out to Gloc-9, and the two acts decided to join forces, bringing their unique styles together for the first time.

The Creative Process

SB19 and Gloc-9 took a hands-on approach to the creation of “KALAKAL.” The five members of SB19 were deeply involved from the very beginning, contributing ideas and helping shape the song’s direction. They worked closely with Gloc-9, who added his own creative touch to the project. The result is a song that reflects the strengths of both artists, with each bringing something special to the table.

Gloc-9, who has been a major force in the Filipino rap scene for years, was impressed by SB19’s dedication and creativity. He appreciated their willingness to experiment and learn, even when trying out new ideas that might be outside their usual style.

The Message Behind ‘KALAKAL’

At its core, “KALAKAL” is a song about empowerment. It’s about believing in your own abilities and staying true to yourself, no matter the challenges you face. SB19 and Gloc-9 wanted to create a song that could inspire people of all ages to stand tall and sing along with pride.

The song also touches on themes of Filipino culture and consumerism, reflecting the artists’ journeys and the hard work it took to get where they are today. Through “KALAKAL,” they share their stories of perseverance, humility, and the pursuit of excellence.

The Impact and Reception

Since its release, “KALAKAL” has been met with excitement from fans of both SB19 and Gloc-9. The song’s powerful message and catchy melody have made it an instant favorite, and it’s quickly gaining traction as a new anthem of empowerment.

The success of “KALAKAL” has left fans wondering if more collaborations between SB19 and Gloc-9 are in the future. Gloc-9 himself has expressed interest in working with the group again, praising their talent and enthusiasm.

“KALAKAL” is a celebration of collaboration, creativity, and the strength that comes from believing in yourself. As SB19 and Gloc-9 continue to push the boundaries of their artistry, “KALAKAL” stands as a testament to what can happen when two musical powerhouses join forces. Don’t miss out on this incredible track—stream “KALAKAL” now via Sony Music Entertainment and experience the magic for yourself.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Worth a Listen: Pinoy music artists that push boundaries in July 2024

The Pinoy music scene is undergoing a remarkable transformation, marked by a wave of innovation and artistic exploration. Recent developments showcase how Filipino artists are redefining their craft and pushing musical boundaries. From experimental sounds to fresh collaborations, these highlights reflect the dynamic evolution of Pinoy music and its rich creative landscape.

SB19’s Groundbreaking Performance on THE FIRST TAKE

SB19, the trailblazing boy band from the Philippines, has captured attention with their recent performance on THE FIRST TAKE. Known for their viral hit “Gento,” which took social media by storm with its catchy phrases and distinctive dance moves, SB19’s appearance on this influential YouTube channel marks a significant moment in their career.

Their rendition of “Gento” in THE FIRST TAKE’s signature one-take format brings a raw and authentic touch to the performance. This milestone is not only a personal achievement for SB19 but also a testament to their innovative approach to music and performance. Their success with “Gento” reflects their ability to blend catchy pop elements with impactful visuals, further enriching the Pinoy music scene.

Barbie Almalbis’s Bold New Single: “Desperate Hours”

Barbie Almalbis, a revered name in Filipino music, is stepping into a new phase with her avant-pop track “Desperate Hours.” This song, the lead single from her upcoming fifth album, represents a bold departure from her previous work. Collaborating with producer Nick Lazaro, Almalbis explores new sonic territories with unconventional guitar riffs and experimental sounds.

“Desperate Hours” delves into deep emotional themes, reflecting Almalbis’s personal experiences of pain and recovery. The track’s experimental nature and poetic lyrics showcase Almalbis’s growth as an artist and her willingness to embrace new creative directions. This new era for Almalbis is marked by her innovative approach to music and her exploration of uncharted artistic realms.

Benj Pangilinan and Angela Ken’s Collaborative Hit: “Nandito Na Ako”

In an exciting new collaboration, Filipino singer-songwriters Benj Pangilinan and Angela Ken have released the feel-good track “Nandito Na Ako.” Co-written with Moira Dela Torre and Over October’s Josh Buizon, the song blends nostalgic Pinoy pop with modern production, creating a refreshing and engaging sound.

Pangilinan’s venture into songwriting in Filipino, paired with Ken’s vocal charm, results in a track that balances vintage melodies with contemporary influences. The collaboration reflects Pangilinan’s growth as an artist and his ability to merge traditional elements with fresh perspectives. “Nandito Na Ako” is a testament to the evolving sound of Pinoy music and the innovative spirit of its artists.

Common Threads and Impact

These recent highlights in the Pinoy music scene share a common thread: a commitment to innovation and artistic exploration. SB19’s groundbreaking performance, Almalbis’s experimental sound, and Pangilinan and Ken’s nostalgic yet modern collaboration all contribute to the rich tapestry of Filipino music.

Each artist’s work exemplifies the dynamic nature of Pinoy music, blending traditional influences with contemporary creativity. These developments not only celebrate individual achievements but also reflect the broader evolution of Filipino music as it continues to innovate and inspire.

The Pinoy music scene is thriving with creativity and innovation. With SB19’s fresh approach to performance, Barbie Almalbis’s bold new sound, and Benj Pangilinan and Angela Ken’s engaging collaboration, the future of Pinoy music is full of promise. These milestones highlight the richness of Filipino artistry and its continuous evolution, making now an exciting time to explore and support the diverse sounds of Pinoy music.

Details provided by recording companies through press releases.

Header photo created by rawpixel.com – www.freepik.com

Rediscover your groove with nubia Music

For us Pinoys, music isn’t just a pastime—it’s a way of life. From family gatherings to street parties, Filipinos share the joy of music in every corner of their community. Nubia Philippines embraces this culturally ingrained love for music with the launch of its newest smartphone, the nubia Music, designed to revolutionize the way music lovers immerse themselves in their favorite tunes.

A Symphony in Your Pocket

Music has the power to bring people together, and with the nubia Music smartphone, every gathering can become an impromptu concert. Imagine turning up the volume by up to 600% and being surrounded by crystal-clear sound, thanks to the DTS-X® Ultra technology. Whether it’s the latest pop hits or timeless classics, every beat and note is delivered with unparalleled clarity.

For those intimate moments, the nubia Music’s Dual 3.5mm earphone jacks let you share your playlist with a friend. It’s perfect for those late-night jam sessions where two people can connect over a shared love for music, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Light Up Your Tunes

Not only does the nubia Music sound great, but it also looks fantastic. The Dual Musical Light Effects with Melody turn your listening experience into a visual spectacle. The RGB lights on the speakers pulse in time with the music, creating a dreamy, immersive ambiance. The screen’s surrounding light effect also dances to the rhythm, making every song a feast for the eyes as well as the ears.

This innovative smartphone pays homage to the elegance of classic vinyl with its sophisticated design. The holographic texture around the camera module and the pop art color options ensure that nubia Music isn’t just a device, but a fashion statement for music aficionados.

Capture Every Beat

Great music moments deserve to be captured, and the nubia Music’s 50MP HD Dual Camera is up to the task. With features like 12 shooting scene recognition options and Face recognition, every photo and video is sharp and vibrant. Whether you’re documenting a concert or a quiet moment with friends, your memories will be preserved in stunning detail.

Navigating the device is a breeze with its 6.6″ HD+ display and a smooth 90Hz refresh rate. The innovative Live island feature offers a new, interactive way to control and customize your smartphone experience, ensuring everything is just a tap away.

All-Day Jam Sessions

With the nubia Music, the party never has to stop. Its massive 5000mAh battery lets you enjoy up to 150 hours of music with earphones or 48 hours through the speaker. Whether you’re hosting a weekend-long get-together or simply enjoying your favorite playlists, this smartphone has the endurance to keep the music playing.

Storage won’t be an issue either, as the nubia Music comes with 128GB of internal storage and up to 8GB of dynamic RAM. You’ll have plenty of space for all your tracks, albums, and playlists, ensuring smooth performance and instant access to your music library.

Get Your Groove On

The nubia Music is now available for Filipino music enthusiasts at local nubia Philippines stores for just Php 3,999. Elevate your music experience and immerse yourself in a world where every note resonates with clarity and depth. For more information, visit nubia’s website or follow its Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.

About ZTE

ZTE continues to connect the world with innovative technology and integrated solutions, serving over a quarter of the global population. With a commitment to creating a digital and intelligent ecosystem, ZTE’s portfolio spans wireless, wireline, devices, and professional telecommunications services. ZTE is listed on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges. Learn more at ZTE’s global site.

Experience the future of music today with nubia Music—because every melody deserves to be heard.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Header image by freepik

7 Reasons Pop Fans Will Be Obsessed with Meghan Trainor’s New Album “Timeless”

Get ready to feast your ears on a buffet of musical styles! “Timeless” serves up everything from heartfelt ballads to toe-tapping bops.

On the new album, Meghan shares, “Timeless is finally yours and I still can’t believe it!! This album means so much to me! I got to work with so many incredible people to bring this album to life, and I’m so grateful for all of them and all the fans for showing so much excitement over it. I can’t wait to play these songs for you on the Timeless Tour! I’ll try not to cry every night with happy tears.”

1. A Sonic Smorgasbord

With tracks like the doo-wop inspired “Been Like This” featuring T-Pain and the bass-heavy “To The Moon,” there’s something for every mood and moment while showcasing Meghan’s knack for production and songwriting.

2. Collaborations That Pop

This album isn’t just Meghan going solo—she’s brought along some fabulous friends. Collaborations with T-Pain, Niecy Nash, and Lawrence add a dynamic flair, making each song a fresh experience. These star-studded features are sure to elevate your playlist game.

3. Hook, Line, and Sync-er

Meghan Trainor is back with her signature knack for catchy hooks and unforgettable melodies. Whether you’re singing along to the infectious “I Wanna Thank Me” or getting lost in the rhythm of “Crowded Room,” these tracks will have you humming long after the music stops.

4. Heart on Her Sleeve

Embrace the feels with Meghan’s raw and relatable lyrics. In “Forget How To Love,” she dives deep into themes of empathy and emotional resilience. In the playfully biting track “Whoops” Meghan proves she has the chops to nail a breakup song even though she and husband Daryl Sabara are couple goals. Meanwhile, while title track “Timeless” beautifully wraps up the album with a vow of everlasting love. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions that fans will find deeply moving.

5. Epic Promotions and Performances

Meghan is pulling out all the stops to promote “Timeless.” From electrifying performances on the TODAY Show and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on June 11 to an appearance on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen on June 12, she’s bringing her A-game.

6. Merch Heaven

Along with the new album, Meghan has dropped a must-have crewneck perfect for celebrating the Timeless era in style. Head over to Meghan-Trainor.com to snag select music products and apparel. Collectors, rejoice! You can get your hands on the Timeless Transparent Light Blue Vinyl, plus exclusive variants like the Timeless Sapphire Vinyl on Meghan’s TikTok Shop, the Timeless Amazon Exclusive Vinyl, a Target Exclusive Timeless CD (featuring the bonus track “Bite Me”), and a Walmart Exclusive Timeless CD with an alternate cover. Time to level up your merch game!

7. A Star-Studded Tour Line-Up

And let’s not forget the highly anticipated Timeless Tour kicking off this fall! Produced by Live Nation, the tour kicks off on September 4 at Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati, OH. With 24 shows, she’ll be lighting up iconic venues like Madison Square Garden in New York, the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, and Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, CO. Joining her are pop sensation Natasha Bedingfield for the NYC, Denver, and LA dates, and “Lil Boo Thing” crooner Paul Russell for the whole tour. Plus, bestie Chris Olsen and her brother Ryan Trainor will bring their signature charisma and humor to the stage as special guests. Expect to hear fresh tracks from “Timeless” alongside her classic hits. Grab your tickets now at Meghan-Trainor.com!

Bonus: Meghan’s Everlasting Evolution

Meghan Trainor continues to evolve, and “Timeless” is proof of her artistic growth. From her early hits to this latest release, she’s consistently delivered music that resonates. The title track perfectly encapsulates her journey, promising fans that while life may not last forever, her music and love are indeed timeless.

So, pop fans, get ready to fall in love all over again with Meghan Trainor’s “Timeless.” It’s an album that promises to be as unforgettable as its name.

Listen to Timeless here.

Follow Meghan Trainor on TikTok / Twitter / Instagram / Facebook.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Ben&Ben Lights Up Fans’ Hearts with the Launch of Liwanag House and New Single ‘COMETS’

Ben&Ben, the beloved Filipino folk-pop band, once again captured the hearts of their fans with a series of exciting events. Known for their soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics, the band recently launched the Liwanag House, a creative and communal hub that promised to be a beacon of inspiration and connection for fans and artists alike.

Liwanag House: A Beacon of Creativity and Connection

The Liwanag House, located in the heart of Metro Manila, was more than just a physical space; it embodied the band’s mission to foster a sense of community and shared creativity. This new concept store was designed to serve as a home base for exclusive releases, limited-edition merch, and community-driven gatherings. The band wanted to create a place where everyone felt heard, valued, and welcomed.

On May 18, 2024, Ben&Ben performed at the atrium of Robinsons Galleria to mark the official launch of the Liwanag House. The nine-piece band played some of their biggest and most acclaimed hits, including the viral smash “Sa Susunod Na Habang Buhay” and their new single “COMETS.” The event drew a large crowd of enthusiastic fans who had the chance to score exclusive passes through a series of engaging activities at Robinsons Galleria.

The grand opening at Level 4, ADB Wing of Robinsons Galleria, offered fans an up-close and personal experience with the band. They could purchase exclusive merchandise, take selfies with the band’s memorabilia, and even catch a glimpse of the band rehearsing and manning the store right before the concert.

The Launch of ‘COMETS’: A Celestial New Single

Coinciding with the opening of Liwanag House, Ben&Ben released their latest single, “COMETS.” This emotionally captivating track, penned by Paolo Benjamin and Miguel Benjamin and co-produced by Indonesia’s Petra Sihombing, explored the ephemeral nature of relationship fallouts and disconnections. The song, which had gone through several iterations since 2021, conveyed mixed feelings of loss and hope, ending with a message of gratitude and acceptance.

“Though mostly dwelling on that feeling of loss, the song ends with the hopeful realization of gratitude—being thankful for ever having experienced any of it at all,” Ben&Ben explained. The single resonated deeply with fans, who praised its hauntingly beautiful melody and emotional depth. “COMETS” aimed to help listeners navigate through the realities of life’s fleeting moments, offering a sense of understanding and hope.

A Heartwarming Video Campaign with Robinsons Malls

In addition to these exciting announcements, Ben&Ben partnered with Robinsons Malls for a heartwarming video campaign set to their hit song “Araw-Araw.” The video followed the band members as they explored the various corners of the mall, experiencing love, joy, and happiness. The campaign highlighted the diverse offerings of Robinsons Malls, making it the perfect place to create memorable everyday moments.

Robinsons Galleria, the home base of Liwanag House, became a hub of special activities and personalized experiences for the band’s fanbase. The video campaign celebrated the opening of Liwanag House and reinforced the band’s message of connection and community.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Ben&Ben and Their Fans

With the launch of Liwanag House, the release of “COMETS,” and their inspiring partnership with Robinsons Malls, Ben&Ben continued to lead with their hearts and creativity. These initiatives highlighted the band’s musical prowess and their unwavering commitment to their community.

As fans eagerly embraced these new developments, it was clear that Ben&Ben’s journey was far from over. With every new song, project, and collaboration, the band reaffirmed their place as one of the most cherished and influential acts in the Filipino music scene.

For those who had followed Ben&Ben from the beginning, the recent flurry of activity was a reminder of why they fell in love with the band in the first place. For new fans, it was an invitation to join a community where music, art, and heartfelt connection thrived.

In the words of Ben&Ben, “Liwanag sa Liwanag”—light to light. This was just the beginning of a brighter, more connected future for everyone who shared in their musical journey.

Details provided in recent press releases.

Grab your limited edition green Nokia E3110 TWS priced under P500 this 5.5 on Techroom!

A month after its successful release at Techroom, Nokia Personal Audio stays current with the trend and adds a new color option for the Nokia E3110!

Nokia Personal Audio rides the Green Wave alongside leading tech brands by releasing new and refreshing green-colored gadgets in the market. Encased in a cool monochromatic green chassis, the new color way of the Nokia E3110 wireless earphones make a great music accessory and fashion companion this hot summer.

In celebration of 5.5, the Nokia E3110 will be more affordable since its release last month! All of the first exciting hues white, pink, purple, and the newest green color way will be offered at P499 (62% OFF from its SRP P1,299) on April 28 to May 9, 2023 at Techroom.

“Last 4.4, the Nokia E3110 was already competitive at P599, and we’ve seen great turnouts with that price point. However, we want to incentivize our fans even more during the 5.5 season with an additional P100 discount!” says Igue Bonifacio, Nokia Personal Audio Philippines – Lead. “We challenge ourselves to provide quality and affordable products in the TWS category, and edge out the competition with a 1-year warranty guarantee. There may be other TWS alternatives found online that are priced so low, but then the quality and customer service are being sacrificed. With our retail partner Techroom, aftersales and fast delivery can be assured by our customers.” he added.

Be sure to get these wireless earbuds #OnlyAtTechroom. Discount is only available at Techroom’s Lazada (https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/techroomph/) and Shopee (https://shopee.ph/techroomph) official stores.

Visit Techroom’s social media pages (@TechroomPH on Facebook and Instagram) to know more about the promotion.

Nokia Personal Audio

Lazada: https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/nokia-personal-audio/
Shopee: https://shopee.ph/nokiapersonalaudio
Facebook: https://facebook.com/holospaceph/

Techroom

Lazada: https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/techroomph/
Shopee: https://shopee.ph/techroomph
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TechroomPH
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/techroomph/

HOLO Space is an authorized Philippine sales and marketing agency by Signeo Design-Richgo Singapore Pte Ltd.

Signeo Design-Richgo Singapore Pte Ltd is an authorized Marketing Agency and Distributor for Nokia Personal Audio Products in Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines.

Techroom is a Filipino MSME and online lifestyle shop that offers authentic gadgets for all Filipinos, nationwide.

Nokia Personal Audio keeps the music flowing with new earphones this summer

Nokia Personal Audio is back with two new wireless earphones, and partners with growing online store Techroom to offer the newest Nokia TWS during the 4.4 big sale.

With the success of the Nokia Personal Audio E-series last year, HOLO Space prepares for the upcoming 4.4 sale and adds the Nokia E3110 and Nokia E3100 plus to its growing portfolio, which carefully hand-picked based on customers’ feedback.

P.E.A. – new consideration in offering new earphones

The fans have spoken! Aside from the features – Pocketability, Ergonomics, and Affordability are the new essential considerations for people to purchase a new pair of wireless earphones.

“There are so many wireless earbuds in the market right now that basically have the same features and designs.” says Igue Bonifacio, Lead – Nokia Personal Audio Philippines. “Through social listening, our team learned that the market would want a comfortable, lightweight, and fashionable piece of tech. For the past months, we’ve been proactively asking for feedback about our products, and through our customers’ inputs we were able to handpick new Nokia Personal Audio devices that the market would love. Even though there are only few new models to be launched, our team is really excited to focus in offering these two aesthetic yet functional wireless earbuds to our fans.” he added.

It’s a pastel summer with Nokia Personal Audio

Aside from having compact battery cases (which makes it a joy to have these earbuds inside pockets), both the Nokia E3110 and Nokia E3100 plus comes in trendy purple that is very in-demand right now!

Don’t worry! For those who like the classics, other colors are also available that will fit every kind of style and personality.

The Nokia E3110 looks classy in crisp White, and funky in pastel-y Pink, while the Nokia E3100 plus is available in the sharp-looking triple black color way.

Even if these models are focused on aesthetics, they are still equipped with balanced and useful features that make it perfect daily drivers. Don’t be intimidated though, these new gems are incredibly affordable!

New Year, new partnerships with MSMEs

The brand partnered with lifestyle store and rising Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Techroom, known for its affordable gadget finds. Even if they’re a relatively new player in the market, their online stores will be the first to offer the new Nokia Personal Audio earbuds this 4.4 season. Starting March 31, HUGE DISCOUNTS will be offered to its customers until April 8, 2023.

“We’ve teamed up with the growing online store Techroom, as we’ve seen that they have organically created a community that’s really passionate about gadgets. We believe in the capabilities of hardworking MSMEs like Techroom.” said Igue Bonifacio, Lead – Nokia Personal Audio Philippines. “What’s also nice to note is that, even if there are new product launches, Techroom still finds a way to assure their customers that they have competitive offers – which makes them the go-to store of their loyal “Techroomies”. Through their reach and personal approach on customer service, we’re confident that we will be able to tap the authentic market of tech lovers that would really appreciate our products. Techroom is just the start of the many stores as we’re here to support more MSMEs and be their partners for growth.” he added.

From March 31 until April 8, the Nokia E3110 and Nokia E3100 plus will be available at Techroom Online Stores with an introductory offer as low as P599!

Model	SRP	Techroom Price	4.4 Discount	Product Benefit
Nokia E3110	P1,299	P599	P700	With ENC at this price point
Nokia E3100 plus	P1,799	P799	P1,000	Up to 24 Hours Battery Life at this price point *depending on actual usage.

Be sure to get these new earbuds #OnlyAtTechroom starting March 31. Discount is only available at Techroom’s Lazada (https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/techroomph/) and Shopee (https://shopee.ph/techroomph) official stores.

Visit Techroom’s social media pages (@TechroomPH on Facebook and Instagram) to know more about the promotion.

The Nokia E3110 and Nokia E3100 plus will also be available at Nokia Personal Audio’s official Lazada and Shopee stores with its suggested retail price.

Nokia Personal Audio

Lazada: https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/nokia-personal-audio/
Shopee: https://shopee.ph/nokiapersonalaudio
Facebook: https://facebook.com/holospaceph/

Techroom

Lazada: https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/techroomph/
Shopee: https://shopee.ph/techroomph
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TechroomPH
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/techroomph/

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

Ben&Ben, Zack Tabudlo, Ebe Dancel and more to headline Zark’s Fest 2023

After a hugely successful debut in 2019, Zark’s Fest returns this summer with their biggest offering in live music and comfort grub.

Presented and produced by Zark’s Burgers, a popular burger joint in the Philippines, and organized by GNN Entertainment Productions, the hybrid festival promises to treat its patrons with an exciting music lineup, more inclusive programming, a dedicated space for lifestyle, crafts, and arts merchants, and most especially, a hearty serving of American comfort food, the Zark’s way.

Zark’s Fest 2023 is happening on May 13, 2023, at Circuit Makati Event Grounds. Headlining the festival are the award-winning and best-selling Filipino band Ben&Ben and 2021/2022’s most-streamed solo artist Zack Tabudlo. The Manila-based food and music festival are also set to feature some of the most prominent names in the local music industry, including Ebe Dancel, Urbandub, Sandwich, The Itchyworms, BINI, Kiyo, SOS, Autotelic, Any Name’s Okay, Lola Amour, Hey June!, and Eli & Six The Northstar.

“We’re coming out stronger this year with a more diverse lineup and activities,” says Zark’s Burgers CEO ZarkVarona. “Make sure to pack your sunscreen as Zark’s Fest brings a festive experience in the best possible way. We’re scaling up our game with headline-worthy music representing various genres and demos, and we’re also holding the event in a bigger, outdoor venue that allows people to move freely around the site and celebrate food, arts, and crafts with their family and friends. What we have is something game-changing and special, and I hope more people will get to experience that.”

This year’s edition ups the ante of the festival format by doubling down on the experience with fair-themed booths and a more family-friendly vibe. “Our goal is to create a safe space where everyone is welcomed and included,” Varona explains. “Hopefully with Zark’s Fest, we’ll be able to deliver a music-filled destination for people from all walks of life.”

Tickets to Zark’s Fest will go on sale, starting Monday, March 13 at 12 noon at this site with tickets priced at:

VIP (P2,500): Express lane, dedicated restroom, 1 free drink, exclusive VIP area near the stage, Zarkada kit
Regular: P1,500): General admission
Early Entry (P800): Entrance is strictly until 2pm only

Details provided in a recent press release.

Sony Music and Hazel Faith give back this holiday season to charity Rise Against Hunger with ‘Season of Giving’ Campaign

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and singer-songwriter Hazel Faith have partnered with charity, Rise Against Hunger, to support vulnerable communities locally impacted by food insecurity, whose situations have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This comes as part of Sony Music Group’s global ‘Season of Giving’ campaign, where the company and its artists are giving back to every local community in which Sony Music Group (SMG) operates. Across the world, SMG is supporting global organizations dedicated to providing aid for those facing food insecurity, homelessness and refugee support, as well as music industry relief and educational programs for communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hazel Faith x Sony Music x RISE Against Hunger

This also follows the support provided through Sony Music Group’s Global Social Justice Fund, to move the needle in broadening opportunities for underserved communities worldwide. In October, the company partnered with SPARK! Philippines to champion young women’s rights through music and film.

Beginning in the month of November, the Season of Giving program saw SMG committing sizeable amounts in each territory where the Company conducts business: Africa, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Continental Europe, Latin America, United Kingdom, and the United States.

Since its beginnings in 2014, Rise Against Hunger Philippines has packaged over 543 million meals for vulnerable individuals across 78 countries, including over 7 million meals for people in the Philippines. With the funding from Sony Music Group, the organization will be able to reach 1.5 million people in communities most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, through the distribution of donated food items and relief packs to hungry households.

Jose Mariano Fleras, Executive Director, Rise Against Hunger Philippines, said, “COVID-19 has only worsened the hunger situation in the Philippines by costing people their livelihoods and making it more difficult for resources to reach those who really need them. We have unfortunately seen an additional four million households in the Philippines impacted because of the pandemic.”

“Through this partnership with Sony Music Group, we are in a stronger position to provide aid to vulnerable communities and double down on our outreach operations to address food and nutrition insecurity nationwide.”

As part of efforts to reach these communities, singer-songwriter Hazel Faith also partnered with the organization through a day of volunteering and performances for its beneficiaries. Hazel Faith is part of Sony Music Philippines’ Christian label WATERWALK RECORDS, which brings fresh Christian music infused with pop influences from faith-based artists to the new, streaming generation.

Hazel Faith said, “Food insecurity continues to plague many across the Philippines, and it is inspiring to see what organizations like Rise Against Hunger are doing to alleviate this problem. I’m grateful for the opportunity to perform for the beneficiaries of the program today, and proud to be part of a label that continues to give back to those in need this holiday season.”

In speaking of the seasonal initiative, Towalame Austin, Executive Vice President, Philanthropy and Social Impact, Sony Music Group, said, “Globally, SMG is committed to supporting local communities throughout the year. For the holiday season, we wanted to bring extra support and relief aid to those in need and dedicate our efforts to more than three million people worldwide. We’re grateful to our artists and international partner organizations who work on-the-ground to provide direct assistance to their neighbors.”

In addition to Hazel Faith, notable artists and songwriters who volunteered with partner organizations in their communities during a series of in-person events include India Shawn (Epic Records), Tyler Shaw (SME Canada), NOBITA (SME Philippines), Kobie Dee (SMP Australia), Tom Wilson (SMP Canada).

This campaign represents the Company’s ongoing philanthropic commitment to forge partnerships and support communities that need it most, inside and outside the music industry. For ‘Season of Giving’, every global organization selected to receive funding was determined by a group of global stakeholders including our internal task forces, legal and public policy teams. Learn more about SMG’s giving approach here.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines gives back this holiday season with ‘season of giving’ campaign

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and popular band NOBITA have partnered with Reach Out and Feed Philippines to support local communities impacted by hunger this holiday season.

This also follows the support provided through the Sony Music Group’s Global Social Justice Fund, to move the needle in broadening opportunities for underserved communities worldwide. In October, the company partnered with SPARK! Philippines to champion young women’s rights through music and film.

Beginning in the month of November, the Season of Giving program saw SMG committing sizeable amounts in each geography where the Company conducts business: Africa, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Continental Europe, Latin America, United Kingdom, and the United States.

In the Philippines, non-profit organization Reach Out and Feed Philippines Inc., which provides food aid to children who have little or no access to nutritious food, had its outreach efforts hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic and the typhoons that struck the Philippines over the past two years. With this funding, Reach Out and Feed Philippines Inc. will be acquiring mobile kitchens that can provide meals to vulnerable communities where needed, reaching more children and their families through the organization’s ongoing feeding and nourishment programs.

Anna Pauline Castro, Executive Director of Reach Out and Feed Philippines Inc., said, “The funding from Sony Music Group will be a great help in pushing forward with our school and community outreach programs. We expect these mobile kitchens to reach 1,000 children and their households on ongoing feeding programs, as well as families affected by the pandemic and recent typhoons, to provide them with nutritious meals.”

“Ultimately, we hope that this will bring us closer to realizing our vision of seeing every Filipino child healthy, nourished, and empowered to reach their maximum potential for growth and learning.”

As a band that actively gives back to society, NOBITA also partnered with Reach Out and Feed Philippines Inc. to support outreach efforts and put on an intimate concert for some of the children who are beneficiaries of the organization.

NOBITA said, “It means a lot to be part of a label that strives to make a positive impact on society by reaching out to underserved communities. We are truly glad to have had the chance to spend time volunteering with Reach Out and Feed Philippines – seeing smiles from children and families whilst connecting with them through music was an unforgettable experience for us.”

In addition to NOBITA, notable artists and songwriters who volunteered with partner organizations in their communities during a series of in-person events include India Shawn (Epic Records), Tyler Shaw (SME Canada), Kobie Dee (SMP Australia), Tom Wilson (SMP Canada) – who volunteered with partner organizations in their own communities during a series of in-person events.

This campaign represents the Company’s ongoing philanthropic commitment to forge partnerships and support communities that need it most, inside and outside the music industry. For ‘Season of Giving’, every global organization selected to receive funding was determined by a group of global stakeholders including the Company’s internal task forces, legal and public policy teams. Learn more about SMG’s giving approach here.