RICH BRIAN SHARES NEW SINGLE “OH WELL”

NEW ALBUM WHERE IS MY HEAD? DUE AUGUST 15TH

 WHERE IS MY HEAD?

PRE-SAVE/ORDER: http://richbrian.lnk.to/WHEREISMYHEAD

“Oh Well”

LISTEN: http://richbrian.lnk.to/OhWell

WATCH: http://richbrian.lnk.to/OhWell-VIS

(June 27, 2025) - Rich Brian shares his new single “Oh Well,” the latest offering from his forthcoming album WHERE IS MY HEAD? due August 15th. Paired with a Jared Hogan-directed visualizer, the single follows his first live performance in years at the Head In The Clouds Festival in Los Angeles in front of 40k fans just a few weeks ago. The final single ahead of his album release sees Brian ending the storylines of Maestro and Movie Brian, first introduced in the music videos from previously released singles “Little Ray of Light,” “Butterfly,” and “Jumpy (feat. Ski Mask The Slump God),” all of which have provided glimpses of Rich Brian’s creative evolution.

On “Oh Well,” Brian trades in the heavy-hitting tempo of his previous single “Jumpy” featuring Ski Mask The Slump God for a more bittersweet cadence. The alternative R&B slow-burn sees the rapper and singer reflect on heartbreak through raw storytelling and hazy melodies as he explores the lingering feelings of longing and resentment harbored from a recent heartbreak. Self-produced and arranged by Brian himself, “Oh Well” is yet another example of his creative growth, musical dexterity, and commitment to his craft.

The past six years have been marked by a bold transformation for Rich Brian, one of the brightest-burning stars of the 2010s. On WHERE IS MY HEAD?, Rich Brian’s first full-length album since 2019, the Indonesian-born artist redefines and staggeringly coheres his vision. He asks: “How can I continue to make music that I love more than anything else?” On WHERE IS MY HEAD? Rich Brian answers that question on each and every track, showcasing his hands-on creative control and evolution as both an artist and producer.

Listen to “Oh Well” and pre-save/order WHERE IS MY HEAD? above.

About Rich Brian

With WHERE IS MY HEAD?, Rich Brian’s first full-length album since 2019, the Indonesian-born artist redefines and coheres his vision in a staggering way. He’s making the most vulnerable and authentic music of his life, in turn deepening the connection with his ever growing army of devoted fans. With WHERE IS MY HEAD?, Rich Brian’s definition of success now means something different than ever before. He’s had the hits. Now? He wants something more. Brian decided to handle most of the performances himself, honing in on an analog sound thanks to his intense immersion learning to play synthesizers and keyboards. He sings more than ever before on the new album, showcasing a confident and mature delivery. It was a bold switch-up from Brian, who could have coasted on his success last decade. He became the first Asian artist to reach number one on the iTunes Hip-Hop charts. Who wouldn’t want to coast on that success? The accolades are nice, but Rich Brian wants something more with WHERE IS MY HEAD? Brian has finally discovered himself. His priority is simple: How can he make art that makes him happy? He asks: “How can I continue to make music that I love more than anything else?” On WHERE IS MY HEAD? Rich Brian answers that question on each and every track.

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For all Rich Brian press inquiries please contact Mark Bonifacioat blackstar PH -  mabuhay@blackstar.space

Korean-American Artist eaJ Unveils New Cinematic Alt-Pop EP '1', Lead Single "RED" Out Now

LISTEN HERE

LEAD SINGLE "RED" OUT NOW

Photo Credits: Kalos X

June 27th, 2025 – Philippines – Returning not just to form, but to fire, eaJ lights the fuse on his most visceral project to date with his new EP titled '1', out now via Position Music. A bold and cinematic leap forward, '1' ignites a volatile sonic universe—a body of work that pulses with emotional urgency and fearless creative control.

Following the high-wire intensity of “ruin my life” and the dizzying emotional spiral of “merry go round”, this EP finds eaJ sharper, louder, and more commanding than ever. Headlining the new EP is its lead single, “RED”—a thunderous, genre-bending anthem originally written for Tencent’s breakout video game Arena Breakout: Infinite and co-produced by Jorgen Odegard (Justin Bieber’s “Holy”). “RED” explodes with searing guitars, fever-pitch vocals, and a blistering alt-pop soundscape that refuses to stay still—a track built to live on and off the screen. It's eaJ at his most electrified, capturing the rush of adrenaline and emotion in real time.

Rounding out the EP with a moment of stillness and uplift, “pause” contrasts the chaos with clarity, offering space to breathe amid the emotional storm. Following a banner year that included an Asia tour, a stadium tour with Imagine Dragons, and the release of his introspective EP 'when the rain stopped following me', eaJ now steps fully into his own lane.

'1' Tracklisting
1. ruin my life
2. merry go round
3. pause
4. RED (from Arena Breakout: Infinite)

Stream the EP '1' here: vibe.to/eaj1
 

About eaJ
Capturing listeners and gaining fans with his intimate lyrics and diverse sound, eaJ is an expert at transforming deep-seated feelings through his music. Transitioning from his prominent role in K-pop with the internationally acclaimed group DAY6 as lead guitarist and vocalist, eaJ has since embarked on international tours and performing live for more than half a decade.

At the turn of 2020, eaJ began crafting his own music and set foot into solo territory, discovering and embracing his own identity as he forged a new path in his career. An open book when it comes to his mental health, eaJ’s recent single “ruin my life”, strikes a balance between the optimism and despair that comes with desire and longing as he continues to progress in the scope of his sound in an infectious electro-pop direction without losing the vulnerability that continues to resonate with his listeners. 

eaJ has continued to build a dedicated fanbase across Asia, earning millions of streams and headlined a massively successful Asia tour in 2024 with sold-out shows across Manila, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Bangkok. Though based halfway across the globe, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan continue to dominate eaJ’s Top 10 Streaming Markets worldwide.

With plenty more musical releases and collaborations on the horizon, eaJ’s strengths lie in his ever-evolving explorations as an artist, while simultaneously providing comfort in his consistently transparent and vulnerable lyrics.

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Grammy-Winning Artist Laufey Drops The Ultimate Soft-Girl Anthem "Lover Girl", New Album 'A Matter of Time' Due August 22

LISTEN HERE

NEW ALBUM 'A MATTER OF TIME' 
DUE AUGUST 22

Photo Credit: Emma Summerton

“Otherworldly artist”—TIME

“Laufey’s ascendency to major-league pop artist is one of the most heartening musical phenomena of the last couple of years”—Variety

“Each album she crafts serves as a distinct landmark in her story of evolution –– both as an artist and as a woman"  —Billboard Philippines

"She is a musical tour de force" —Los Angeles Times

June 26th, 2025 – Today, GRAMMY®-winning Icelandic-Chinese artist, composer, producer and multi-instrumentalist Laufey drops “Lover Girl”, the latest single from her highly anticipated forthcoming album, 'A Matter of Time', which is coming August 22 via Vingolf Recordings / AWAL.  Fans can listen to the song here and watch the lyric video here. 

With “Lover Girl”, Laufey invites listeners into the quiet heartbreak of missing someone deeply.  Laufey explains, “The hardest part of loving someone is being away from them. This is that story”.
 

Laufey - "Lover Girl" (Official Lyric Video with Chords)

As Laufey began to craft 'A Matter of Time', she felt freer than ever. “Every new album for me is a blank book of stories to write,” she says, and it’s true. An artist who pours her life experiences into her work, she infused 2022’s ‘Everything I Know About Love’ with coming-of-age tales revolving around leaving home, and for 2023’s GRAMMY®-winning ‘Bewitched’ she dove headlong into young love. Brought to life with sweeping orchestral arrangements, interwoven strains of bossa nova and jazz, and Laufey’s honeyed alto, those albums cemented Laufey as a star who can make sounds from bygone eras feel timeless.

Now on 'A Matter of Time', Laufey further crystalizes her singular sound—one still rooted in her beloved influences, but which forgoes any strict standards or rules. “I’m constantly thinking about classical and jazz, how to properly preserve them and pay homage”. For this album she continues to do so while also noting, “I just wanted to let my heart wander”. To that end, she teamed with a pair of co-producers, one comforting and familiar—Spencer Stewart who worked with Laufey on her first two albums —and one new to her but deeply attuned to artists looking to open up: Aaron Dessner (Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran).

Feeling sonically unrestrained gave Laufey the space to share new sides of herself while exploring sometimes heavier themes. “People expect a pretty façade of girly clothes, fantastical stories, and romantic music,” she says. “This time, I was interested in seeing how I could draw out the most flawed parts of myself and look at them directly in the mirror”. 'A Matter of Time' finds Laufey at her most daring—and also playful—as she captures the experience of “real love” in its many forms and what it means to observe as it strips you down to your most vulnerable and anxious.
 

Stream '"Lover Girl" here: https://laufey.ffm.to/lovergirl
Pre-order 'A Matter Of Time' here: https://laufey.ffm.to/amatteroftime

About Laufey

Laufey (pronounced lay-vay) has captivated a generation with virtuosic songs of love and self-discovery by manifesting her vision of jazz-and classical-infused pop music. She has become a bridge for the older music she adores, from Chet Baker to Carole King to Ravel, by offering her bold interpretation to a younger crop of listeners who have become deeply connected over time. This was all by design — Laufey’s self-assigned raison d’être — and it worked, allowing her to bring to life the whimsical universe known as “Laufey Land”.

Raised between Reykjavik and Washington, D.C., she learned piano and cello as a child, later studying at Berklee College of Music. There, she wrote her debut EP, 2021’s 'Typical of Me', whose striking single “Street by Street” debuted at No. 1 on Icelandic Radio—the first of many achievements that have grown to include 5 billion global streams, a social media audience of 25 million, the biggest jazz LP debut in Spotify history and an album in Billboard’s Top 20 (both for 'Bewitched'), a growing pile of Platinum plaques, a Forbes 30 Under 30 designation, and being named one of TIME’s 2025 Women of the Year. She’s sold out the Hollywood Bowl, Radio City Music Hall, and London’s Royal Albert Hall; performed backed by the LA Phil, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the China Philharmonic Orchestra; shared the stage with the likes of Jon Batiste and Raye; and collaborated on records with artists ranging from Beabadoobee to Norah Jones.

This spring, Laufey announced The Laufey Foundation, with the primary mission of supporting young musicians with the resources they need, especially through youth orchestras, to reach their full potential. $1 of each ticket sold on the A Matter of Time Tour will go towards The Laufey Foundation.

Following her sold-out shows across Asia last year—including Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Japan, and Taipei—Laufey continues to make waves in the region, further cementing her status as a global sensation. She continues to see strong streaming numbers in the region, with the 🇵🇭 Philippines at #2 and 🇮🇩 Indonesia at #3 among her top global streaming markets.

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Rising Singer-Songwriter Rol3ert Releases New single “Nerd”

Watch the Official Music Video Here

(Credit: Exciter Records)

For immediate release - 19-year-old Japanese singer-songwriter Rol3ert (pronounced “Robert”) is quickly emerging as a breakout artist in Japan’s music scene. His presence across Asia has been steadily growing since the release of his debut single “meaning” in January, followed by “HOPE” in April. Both tracks have landed on user-generated playlists across major streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music.

His new single “Nerd”, released on 25th June under Exciter Records, arrives as an poignant anthem for those navigating solitude while still holding on to hope. A tribute to the “beautiful nerds” looking toward the future, the track blends emotional vulnerability with melodic clarity. Rol3ert revealed that the melody came to him during a bike ride,  and the song, written primarily in English, features emotionally piercing verse in Japanese that strike a deeper chord:

“I erased my colors

And I was okay with that

But I was still scared of the end.”

The song eventually unfolds into a quiet, affirming message that reads like a conversation with his younger self:

“Don’t die

Don’t throw it away

Believe in the feelings inside you

Live honestly

Trust in your emotions.”

These lyrics resonate not only as a personal reflection but also as comfort for a generation coming of age in uncertain times.

“Nerd” is co-produced by MONJOE (known for his work with yahyel, DATS, Number_i), who brings a dreamlike groove to Rol3ert’s sparkling yet shadowy indie pop/rock sound. The track was mixed and mastered by Masahito Komori, whose credits include Fujii Kaze, Kenshi Yonezu, and Official HIGE DANDism, adding polish and depth to an already immersive production.

The accompanying music video portrays the story of a “nerdy” boy, lost in his own world, who unexpectedly forms a quiet connection with a girl he meets. Their awkward yet sincere “not-quite-dancing” choreography contrasts poignantly with the emotional intensity of the song. Actress Aika Sonoda (known for her work in Japanese film and television) plays the female lead, lending the story a soft, mysterious presence.

In his self-written liner notes, Rol3ert reflects:
“Even though I’ve lived for 19 years - seeing, feeling, absorbing so much - there are still moments when I wonder what the right answer in life really is. That feeling of being totally alone, like you're the only person in the world... I think everyone experiences it at some point. The more you chase answers, the more you can lose sight of yourself. That’s why I believe in facing the ‘nerdy’ parts of yourself, the awkward, overly sensitive, insecure sides that make you feel different. I don’t know if that’s the right answer, but I hope it is. I’ve put that hope and that version of myself into this song.”

Download single cover artwork here

STREAM “NERD” HERE

WATCH “NERD” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO HERE

Rol3ert’s first solo show, “3mpty”, will take place on 4th July at Daikanyama SPACEODD in Tokyo. It will be a special night where the narratives behind “meaning”, “HOPE” and “Nerd” come together. Ticket details are available here.

On 27th July, Rol3ert will appear at FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL performing on the Pyramid Garden stage with a three-piece live setup featuring Colombian bassist/manipulator Alex and guitarist Kenshin Sugimura. The set is highly anticipated as Rol3ert’s music meets the natural atmosphere of Fuji Rock’s iconic festival grounds.

Follow Rol3ert

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For more information, contact mabuhay@blackstar.space

Why The Night Is So Lovely: Understanding Seniors Around Me

Why The Night Is So Lovely: The Joys of Being a Senior by Victor Martinez Arguelles, PhD is an enjoyable read. I appreciate the straightforward language used by the author in order to describe his journey as a senior citizen. It has also helped me understand the seniors in my life through his anecdotes.

This book is an inspiration for senior citizens everywhere. The author shows concrete examples of how to cope with the everyday life of a retiree. He has found purpose in the simple joys of his existence, such as in music, in lasting friendships, and in acceptance. He has also become real with disappointments, boredom, and loneliness. His essays are a balance of the positive and the negative aspects of growing old, and even if I am not yet a senior, I can relate to his writing.

I am a PWD and I do face discrimination from senior citizens whenever I queue with them in priority lanes in public transport and to avail discounted groceries and medicines. My disability is non-apparent, so usually, seniors raise their voices at me and ask me to leave their queue. I used to be very aggressive towards them, but after reading this book, I resolved to be more patient in explaining to them that I have every right to be in their queue because I am a PWD. Given their setbacks and challenges, I will keep the author’s book in mind whenever I encounter an irate senior citizen who thinks fighting with a PWD is okay. I will also try to reframe my mindset towards senior citizens. They are struggling with their identity, and maybe those who pick fights with me think that life should be fairer towards them. Life is unfair, even more brutal to those who are part of marginalized sectors. 

Why The Night Is So Lovely: The Joys of Being a Senior by Victor Martinez Arguelles, PhD is now available!

My Life is a Slice of Pie: An Invitation to Heal

My Life is a Slice of Pie by Coach Arms is one heck of a book. It is different from the usual self-help books because it is a short read, and it does not have preachy language in it. From its first page up to its last, I felt like I was conversing with a friend. I felt like that friend knew and understood me, and that made my reading experience extra special.

As someone who has been called ugly and belittled for my lack of resources, I could relate to the author’s struggles. Reading about a Filipina who was called ugly and poor was refreshing. I felt seen and heard. It inspired me to keep going on. After all, being ugly has only taught me to discern who to trust and respect. As for being poor, it has taught me to be creative and innovative, just like the author.

The author’s struggles have given me an insight into her problem solving mindset. I felt like the friend that I was conversing with in her book was oversharing but not overstepping. I knew that through her struggles and growth I could also apply the same strategies into my own life. Right now, I am facing some personal challenges with people who refuse to accept me for my limitations. Despite this reality, I choose to carry on without shame because the author has shown me that there is a way through these struggles, and it is through believing in myself.

Coach Arms has shown me that being unwanted, humiliated, and ridiculed is only the beginning. It is up to me to make this slice of pie worth savoring, even if I am allergic to some of its ingredients.

My Life is a Slice of Pie by Coach Arms is now available!

Dandelions against a Frozen Clock: A Story of Change

Dandelions against a Frozen Clock by Junwoo William Park is a story of change. This collection of poetry is about the changes experienced by the author, who is Korean by birth. His formative years in Southeast Asia has given him the resiliency to survive anywhere. This does not mean that he does not have questions about his life, identity, and culture. In fact, his poems explore these questions and he answers them through his experiences in nature. After all, nature has the power to heal, restore, and inspire positivity.

We all have different responses to change. Some people go with the flow. Others, like the author, bask in each day and observe how they feel amidst their surroundings. I admire the author’s writing style because he uses his observations to write original poems. His words come from his heart. I can see that he does not write to impress, but rather, he writes for himself. His journey has taken him across different countries and cultures, yet through this book, he was able to redefine what home is and what his story continues to be.

The author does not seem to find himself establishing in one place so to speak, and he seems to have the capacity to learn and grow even if it is already beyond his own comfort zone. I admire people like him who create art from uncomfortable experiences. It is definitely something that inspires me as an author myself. 

I look forward to reading more works from the author in the future. I am also curious where his journey will take him. His unique perspective will definitely be fun to read. For sure, his stories will be just as interesting as the one in this book.

Dandelions against a Frozen Clock by Junwoo William Park is now available!

Don’t Keep Love Around: A Tale of Awkward Love

Don’t Keep Love Around by @latteowl_ has reminded me of novels which I have read on platforms like Wattpad in the 2010s. It has a memorable meet-cute, an awkward beginning, and an addictive storyline. It pretty much reminded me of my younger years when going to school meant seeing my friends and being with my crush. @latteowl_ has managed to give me a trip down memory lane in the form of this poignant tale.

The best kind of love has awkward moments. I think it is because we are still unsure of ourselves when we are young. Elara and Aven’s story is about being uncertain of themselves, and that makes it difficult for them to navigate through their own emotions. It was frustrating at times to read their encounters especially with the secondary characters because sometimes, all it takes is a face to face confrontation in order to deal with their feelings for each other. Yet, the author manages to divert my frustration into kilig because somehow, the characters remind me of my own love stories back in the day.

Outside forces have challenged their love story, and yet Elara and Aven transform into strong characters as the novel progresses. I feel that they can teach readers, especially those who are still figuring out who they are, that love is fleeting and that it takes work in order to make it last. This novel has made this thirty-something swoon, even if at times I wish I could shake the characters into action.

I wish that this novel has a sequel. I am not okay with how the special chapter ended, and I want to know what is next. I think that the author can turn this into a series, and it definitely has potential to hook readers with its relatable text.

Don’t Keep Love Around by @latteowl_ is now available!

The Manila Sound Machine: A Love Letter to the 70s

The Manila Sound Machine by Danna Rose has reacquainted me with Filipino music from the 1970s. The author has ingeniously included a Spotify playlist containing the songs that she featured at the beginning of each chapter. It was such a mood, I must say. The songs alone have given me enough feels to power through her latest novel amidst rainy weather.

The novel’s protagonist, Annee, is a curious and loveable character. I saw myself in her because I also love music, vintage objects, and adventure. She is also an old soul. 

The novel has her recounting events before and after the dream, which takes the reader from 2012 to 1977 Manila. I personally found the two timelines charming because 2012 was the height of my corporate career, and 1977 was when my parents were prominent in their respective jobs. Reading the novel felt like eavesdropping on my own family’s adventures, and the 2012 bit was like being back in my office uniform. The author has the ability to make different timelines relatable and sentimental without being suffocating.

It was quite a trip.

From requesting songs on the radio to having a Miguel in your life, this book felt like it was written for someone like me. I used to request songs on the radio too, and yes, I have a penchant for guys named Miguel. Maybe I am a little too similar to Annee for comfort.

The Manila that the author took me to in 1977 did seem simpler, even if there was Martial Law. It was a welcome reprieve from my own stressful reality, and I would like to commend her for writing this vacation novel. I have a feeling she will enjoy listening to contemporary Manila Sound singer, Shanne Dandan.

The Manila Sound Machine by Danna Rose is now available!

Working Abroad: A Helping Hand for OFWs

Working Abroad: A Guide Based on My Experience Volume 1: Preparing to Work Abroad by Franz David Lim is a helping hand for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). There are several movies and books available about being an OFW, but most of them tackle the horror stories of being an expatriate worker. In the 90s for instance, there were movies about Filipina helpers who were unjustly sentenced to death. In the 2000s, there were movies about long distance relationships between Filipino workers. This is why this book is such a breath of fresh air. The focus is on having the best possible chance of thriving in another country. And as someone who does not have any plan to work overseas, I still found this book to be informative and entertaining. 

I would like to commend the author for his easy to understand text and relatable stories. He does not write with a condescending, know it all tone. I like how he emphasized the importance of learning the language of the country where you plan to work. While English is the universal language, speaking the native language will give you more chances of succeeding in your chosen field and city. It will also help you befriend people and have an active social life.

Another emphasis in this book which I found valuable was culture. Understanding the cultural nuances of the place where you will work is key to having a smooth transition. It will also enable you to appreciate local customs and traditions.

At the end of the day, being an OFW is a choice. The author helps the reader choose wisely, from his education to his foreign language lessons, in order to succeed in his career in a different country. This book is an easy read for those who would like to begin again outside of their comfort zones.

Working Abroad: A Guide Based on My Experience Volume 1: Preparing to Work Abroad by Franz David Lim is now available!

It Ain’t Winning If Without You: A Focused Love Discussion

It Ain’t Winning If Without You by Michelle Ayon Navajas is a reminder that love is everywhere. Since I frequently join focused group discussions, this book has reminded me of the FGDs that I have previously been part of. The focus of this book is love, whether it is told through the lens of pain, or of longing, or of celebration. The poems written by the author have always moved me, and the ones in this book were no exception. This book made me feel that winning is a shared experience with the one who inspires you the most.

I appreciate that the author has also tackled grief in this book, which is uncommon as most authors choose to tread along conventional topics. I also appreciate how the author presented time and location as mere actors in her theater of love. Certain settings remind her of the person who means the most to her, and her poems show that moving along this love means moving alongside this person.

I remember in the author’s previous book Locker how she used flash fiction to encapsulate big feelings into bite-sized stories. This book does the same, albeit in a different format. Poems have the power to capture deep emotions in one page. The author may have used fewer words this time, yet she has managed to show a multitude of feelings in this collection of poems. I appreciate her gift, and it has moved me just the same.

This book is recommended for those who are starting to appreciate poetry, as the author’s works are relatable and pleasant to read. It is also perfect for those who are going through challenges, because it reminds the reader that life happens in phases, and better days will eventually come.

It Ain’t Winning If Without You by Michelle Ayon Navajas is now available!

Wayward to Wayfinder: A Workbook for Success

Wayward to Wayfinder: My Leadership Journey through Mental Models by Richard S. Javier is an effective workbook for success. I have answered the worksheets in his book, and I learned how to fix a broken system. This broken system was fixed through regrouping and transforming my fears into opportunities for growth.

We all have different definitions of success. The author has expertly shared his personal and career trajectories in his book without sounding like he was bragging. While he does not preach about his own methods, he encourages his readers to also define success in their own terms through the worksheets that he includes in this book. He was able to illustrate that fear is not the end of one’s journey, but rather something that can be worked with. He also included many worksheets on calculating risks and analyzing threats in order to properly balance them with resources and opportunities. While I still have yet to apply what I have learned in this book, I can say that the results of my worksheets look promising. I was able to map out some paths which I should take and which opportunities I should continue to pursue. I was also inspired by his years in leadership, because he was not only able to mold people. He was also able to shape his own growth mindset.

I can see this book being useful to students, mentors, jobseekers, employees, freelancers like myself, and even stay-at-home parents. Everyone has their own paths to take and their own fears to conquer. What matters most is how these paths are pursued and how those fears are analyzed and reframed. The worksheets have a universal appeal, and everyone can benefit from them.

Wayward to Wayfinder: My Leadership Journey through Mental Models by Richard S. Javier is now available!

The Designated Route: The True Path: A Conversation with Oneself

The Designated Route: The True Path by Angeles Quimson Feliciano has initially prodded me to judge it by its cover. It featured a headless man who is staring into the sea. The horror movie fan in me was initially fascinated by the prospect of a scary plot, but its title invited me to look beyond its cover. Once I read its introduction, I realized that I was holding a spiritual journey in the form of a readable book.

You see, not all spiritual books are readable. Some are stiflingly boring. Others are painfully deep, that they are already unrelatable. This one, however, does the job of both entertaining its reader and engaging them with its simple prose. Before I knew it, I was on an introspective trip into my own inner world. I was reading the book while unknowingly facing my own uncomfortable truths.

The author expertly tackles difficult topics such as disillusionment and purpose without sounding preachy. Indeed, her many years of experience in running a formation center has given her the skills to move the unmoveable. My favorite part of the book was about courage. As someone who loves hiking, I like that the author has written her book as if it were a journey. The destination may not be a summit or a waterfall, but rather the knowledge that the route in itself is the most important part of the path. This lesson has given me a sense of peace which I have been yearning for. I am definitely exploring this and I will be reflecting more on it moving forward. And following the author’s advice, I will no longer dwell on my failures. Instead, I will continue working on myself and accept that many things are beyond my own control.

The Designated Route: The True Path by Angeles Quimson Feliciano is now available!

The Kingdom I Came to Love: A Celebration of the Mundane

It is easy to dismiss The Kingdom I Came to Love by Fernando G. Ting as the average boring memoir. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying this book even if I do not have any connection whatsoever to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I have come to appreciate the author’s simple writing in plain English. His straightforward style has given me an in-depth look into his years in Saudi, making his life a momentary source of entertainment and wisdom for yours truly.

As someone who does not have any close ties with Overseas Filipino Workers or OFWs, it was fascinating to learn about life as an expat. For example, recording your voice on blank cassette tapes sounds so nostalgic yet efficient in communicating before the age of emails and voice messages. Coincidentally, one of my most treasured heirlooms from my late grandfather is a Rado watch, and the author mentioned haggling and purchasing one. These mundane details gave me a personal connection to the author, even if his industry is worlds apart from my own. 

Additionally, I appreciated the author’s mention of celebrating holidays overseas, dealing with natural disasters, surviving multicultural work environments, and the photos of documents during his working years. These stories and photographs paint a colorful picture of a life well-lived, and a career that has supported his family. 

There are many intriguing parts about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, yet this book demystifies work in that country through human connections and memories. I am sure that this book will resonate with readers who have family members who work abroad, as well as to those who plan to become OFWs as well. It can also become a valuable resource for students who are still discerning about their career options.

The Kingdom I Came to Love by Fernando G. Ting is now available!

Under One Umbrella: A Shared Vision

Under One Umbrella by Alvin B. Cruz is a shared vision in the form of poetry. I have been a fan of the author for many years now, and his works have always been approachable and direct to the point. He does not disappoint in his latest collection of one hundred haiku, senryu, and tanka. I found myself reading his new book on a rainy day, and the sound of the raindrops provided the perfect scoring for my afternoon read.

Alvin has always been an expert in weaving nature in his poems. He has artfully formulated a method of writing poetry which combines common themes that bind us all, and most of them can be found in the world around us. In this book, I could sense a yearning for companionship. Loneliness is a repeated theme, and they are tackled with calculated measure. He effortlessly balances his solitude with poems on his exploits with nature.

The photographs taken by the author have given his poems a moody feel. While poetry is not for everyone, nature has its own universal appeal which the author has successfully anchored on in this book. The photos invite the reader to ponder on their own forays in the mountains and by the sea, while delving deep into the author’s words.

I look forward to reading more of the author’s works in the future. His works have given me hope during dark times.For now, his poems on solitude and longing accompany me in my own quest to find my place in this chaotic and ever-changing world.

In a sense, nature has always been comforting and present. Yet, human connections define our best memories, and Under One Umbrella highlights the need for shared experiences amidst life’s unexpected downpours.

Under One Umbrella by Alvin B. Cruz is now available!

Rock Opong finds beauty in goodbye with new single “We Tried”

The Filipino recording artist opens up about regret, growth, and the silent strength in letting go

Filipino singer-songwriter Rock Opong drops his latest single, “We Tried”—out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

“We Tried” captures the bittersweet journey of letting go, growing, and finding peace after love is lost. The tender, piano-led ballad tells the story of two people who gave their best to love each other, but in the end, had to walk away. There’s no drama and no betrayal, just the silent heartbreak of trying, failing, and remembering.

“It came from a very real and honest place,” the promising newcomer shares. “There was no big fallout—just two people trying so hard to make something work, and it still wasn’t enough. That kind of heartbreak can be the hardest to understand, and I wanted to give it a voice.”

The song’s emotional weight is matched by its minimalist production. Built around intimate piano lines, fingerpicked acoustic guitar, and hushed harmonies, “We Tried” lets each lyric breathe. Nothing is overproduced. Every sound is intentional and organic, echoing the raw honesty of the story.

“I didn’t want to hide behind metaphors,” says Opong. “I wanted it to feel like the conversation you wish you had before it ended. It represents closure that you carry in your own head, even if you never get to say it out loud.”

The song began almost by accident. During a casual Instagram Live, Opong offhandedly said, ‘We tried’—a phrase that lingered in his mind for weeks. When he finally sat down with his guitar, the words and melody came quickly and effortlessly. It was one of those rare songwriting moments when clarity and emotion align.

“So many people carry the weight of what-ifs in love,” Opong reflects. “This song is for them: for those who loved deeply, lost gently, and are still finding peace in the remembering. I hope it reminds them that it’s okay to mourn something that didn’t break, just faded.”

Rock Opong’s “We Tried” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the official music video of “We Tried” on Rock Opong's YouTube channel premiering at 6PM.

Source: Nyou

TECNO POVA 7 Series Lands in PH!

June 22nd, 2025 – TECNO, an AI-driven innovative technology brand, unveils the POVA 7 Series today with the most significant performance and design leap in its record in Philippines. Designed for the next generation of users, the new series combines futuristic, minimalist, and premium aesthetics with next-level AI capabilities and high-performance hardware tailored for immersive gaming and all-day entertainment. In a major announcement, TECNO Philippines revealed the POVA 7 series as the official smartphone partner for the PUBG MOBILE Challenges League Southeast Asia (PMCL SEA) and PUBG MOBILE Super League Southeast Asia (PMSL SEA). This strategic partnership underscores the series' elite gaming credentials and positions it at the heart of Southeast Asia's premier mobile esports battlegrounds.

The POVA 7 Series debuts with three groundbreaking devices in Philippines: the flagship POVA 7 Ultra 5G, the style-forward POVA Curve 5G, and the performance-packed POVA 7. The POVA 7, launching on June 22, redefines value with its colossal 7000mAh Mega Battery, lightning-fast 45W Flash Charge, striking Interstellar Spaceship Design, and the potent MediaTek Helio G100 Ultimate Processor. Available in two configurations – 16GB RAM+256GB ROM & 16GB RAM+128GB ROM (with 8GB extended RAM) – the POVA 7 opens for sale on June 26th. Topping the lineup, the interstellar-inspired POVA 7 Ultra 5G brings flagship power with a durable 6000mAh battery, 70W Ultra Charge, and 30W Wireless Fast Charge, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Ultimate AI Processor for top-tier gaming and multi-tasking. The POVA Curve 5G marks the POVA Series’ debut curved screen, merging a futuristic edge-to-edge display with bold performance and elevated style, expanding the family’s appeal to gamers and trendsetters.

“With the POVA 7 Series, we’re delivering not just raw power, but intelligent power that adapts to our users' real-world needs—from seamless gaming experience to immersive entertainment and AI-enhanced creativity,” said Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO. “It definitively establishes new benchmarks not just in performance, but in trend-tech aesthetics - redefining what a smartphone can achieve through the fusion of advanced technology and contemporary style."

A Futuristic Statement of Style, Built for the Bold

Introducing an all-new design language for the POVA lineup — bold yet refined, futuristic yet elegantly minimalist — the POVA 7 Series makes a confident visual statement for the next generation.Inspired by “Interstellar Spaceship Design,” the POVA 7 Series stands out with bold, sleek lines and a minimalist, pure style designed to capture the imagination of a new generation of users. Its signature triangular geometry emblem punctuates purity with personality.

The technological progress also seamlessly converges with software revolutions in HiOS 15 Special for POVA 7 Series - marking the most significant OS evolution in POVA's history. For the first time, TECNO introduces system-wide customization with user-defined icons, fonts, and dynamic wallpapers, alongside a clean, bloat-free experience. This major update delivers a uniquely expressive and distraction-free interface, brought to life by neumorphism-inspired design and POVA’s exclusive typeface, setting a new standard for personalization and purity across the TECNO ecosystem.

Power Without Limits: Next-Level Gaming and Off-Grid Connectivity

The POVA 7 Series is engineered to effortlessly power through demanding days and thrilling gaming sessions. POVA 7 empowers users to dominate games, stream content, and stay connected from sunrise to well beyond sunset, eliminating everyday compromises. At its core, the MediaTek Dimensity G100 Ultimate processor (Antutu Score: 446,335) ensures buttery-smooth performance for both daily tasks and intense gaming. Banish low-battery anxiety: the massive 7000mAh Mega Battery delivers an astounding 36.76 hours of daily use (DOU), supported by 45W Flash Charge (Smart Charge Mode) that juices up 50% in just 30 minutes and achieves a full charge in 70 minutes. Engineered for longevity, the battery withstands over 1800 cycles, promising safe and durable performance for up to four years.

Gamers gain the edge with the HyperEngine Game Engine for optimized smoothness and battery life, the advanced Hyper Cooling System, ultra-precise multi-touch controls, WiFi low-latency tuning with horizontal grip signal optimization, and immersive Dolby Atmos®-powered dual speakers. For adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, the groundbreaking FreeLink feature enables peer-to-peer calls and messages over distances up to 1km without any cellular signal, keeping you connected even off-grid during hikes or emergencies. This is seamless power, perfected for real life.

Unlock Practical TECNO AI — Smarter Features, Accessible to All

For the first time, AI is fully integrated across the entire POVA 7 Series, strategically aligning with the brand's AI-driven intelligent ecosystem. Outshining same-tier brands, POVA 7 Series combines comprehensive AI integration with best-in-class multilingual processing capabilities, setting new intelligent performance standards for its category.

At the heart of it is the AI Anywhere Portal, a one-stop command center offering seamless access to all core AI tools and daily shortcuts. One tap opens a world of productivity and creativity.

● Ask Ella: A dynamic smart assistant designed to help you schedule tasks, summarize content, or rewrite text. Whether it’s for work, study, or daily life, Ella adapts to your needs with natural precision. For instance, if the user is exploring a new city and encounters an unfamiliar landmark, simply snap a photo and ask Ella for instant information, bridging the gap between curiosity and knowledge effortlessly.

● AI Full-Link Call Assistant: Including AI Call Translation, Noise Cancellation, Auto Answer, and Call Summary — for clearer, multilingual conversations, even on the go.

● AI Writing: Built-in tools for generating text, proofreading emails, and summarizing articles, triggered right from your selection. Perfect for content creators, students, and multitaskers.

● Circle to Search: Just draw a circle around any visual element — a landmark, outfit, or product — and get instant, relevant results. Travel smarter, shop faster, and explore deeper.

● AI Studio for image AI creation and editing: Create social-ready visuals using AIGC Portrait 2.0, AI Eraser, and AI Image Extender — allowing users to transform, retouch, or expand photos in seconds using touch or voice.

The TECNO POVA 7 Series officially rolls out across the Philippines starting June 2025. Marking its debut, the POVA 7 (16GB RAM + 128GB ROM & 16GB RAM + 256GB ROM, 8GB Extended RAM) goes on sale June 26th during the Online Back to School Sale Campaign. It will be available in Geek Black, Magic Silver, and Hyper Titanium at the following Suggested Retail Prices (SRP):

• 16GB+128GB: PHP 6,999

• 16GB+256GB: PHP 7,999

Special Launch Offers:

• TikTok First Sale (June 26): Grab the POVA 7 (16GB+128GB) at an exclusive launch price of PHP 5,999.

• Shopee First Sale (June 26): Snag the POVA 7 (16GB+256GB) at a special introductory price of PHP 6,749.

The flagship POVA 7 Ultra 5G and the stylish POVA Curve 5G will launch in the Philippines in Q3 2025.

                                                                               -END-

About TECNO

TECNO is an AI-driven innovative technology brand with a presence in over 70 markets across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in global emerging markets, TECNO relentlessly pursues the perfect integration of contemporary aesthetic design with the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive ecosystem of AI-powered products, including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, smart gaming devices, the HiOSoperating system, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing,” TECNO continues to pioneer the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and AI-driven experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and brightest futures. For more information, please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com. ​​

 Source: TECNO Philippines

RISING STAR AUDREY HOBERT UNVEILS NEW SONG “BOWLING ALLEY” + VIDEO

SELLS OUT LIVE DEBUTS IN NEW YORK AND LOS ANGELES

“Bowling alley” single art, credit Kyle Berger

June 20, 2025—Breakout star Audrey Hobert unveils a new song, “Bowling alley,” today via RCA Records. Entirely written by Audrey, the track arrives alongside a self-directed video. Watch here and listen here.

“‘Bowling alley’ is about thinking nobody wants you to go to their party even though you were cordially invited (self-involved feeling), and also about people who you’ve known for years only acknowledging you when you do something exciting artistically and in the public eye,” says Audrey. “I’ve experienced both things, and I thought, ‘Heck, put it to music girl.’ ‘Bowling alley’ is one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written. If Audrey Hobert were a song, it would probably be this one.”

Furthermore, Audrey played her first ever live shows at The Slipper Room in New York last week with two sold out sets and will make her L.A. debut on June 24 at The Elysian Theater with another sold out night.

Audrey’s debut single, “Sue me,” also delivered with a self-directed video, has been streamed more than 8 million times and seen explosive viral success in the few weeks since release. The track continues to receive critical acclaim:

“With ‘Sue me,’ Hobert hits a home run right out the gate, a fearless, capital-P pop song that will be stuck in your head all summer. And she’s just getting started…It’s not Audrey Hobert Summer. It’s Audrey Hobert’s World…she, even one song in, has already established what will soon become known as the Audrey Hobert touch: straightforward, arresting lyrics (a throwback to her anti-poetry days) that don’t take themselves too seriously.”—NYLON

“While stans across the internet are scavenging for this year’s song of the summer, Audrey makes a stellar case with ‘Sue me’ and its self-directed music video. The buzzing indie sleaze-influenced production bridged with Audrey’s careless confessionals are giving pop the fresh take it’s been craving.”—Cosmopolitan

A lifelong singer, musical theatre devotee and dancer, Audrey got her first taste of songwriting when childhood best friend and then-roommate Gracie Abrams pulled Audrey into the making of her album The Secret of Us. Together, they wrote some of Gracie’s standouts like “I Love You, I’m Sorry” and “Risk”—for which Audrey directed the music videos—as well as current global hit “That’s So True.”

Working a job in T.V. writing at the time, Audrey had no intention of becoming a songwriter, let alone an artist. But she enjoyed the experience immensely, and when she went back to writing songs after Gracie’s album, thinking she was writing for other artists, she realized she was writing them for herself.

Audrey is a one woman show—writing songs, directing and editing videos, fully realizing all aspects of her music from start to finish. “Bowling alley” is just another taste of what’s to come.

Press photo, credit Kyle Berger

For more information, please contact
Reid Kutrow or Carla Sacks at Sacks & Co., 212.741.1000,
reid.kutrow@sacksco.com or carla@sacksco.com.

CRAVITY Second Full-Length Album Dare to Crave Out Now Lead Track “SET NET G0?!” Unveils a Dreamy Summer Vibe

Watch Here 

(Credit: Starship Entertainment)

For immediate release - K-pop group CRAVITY, comprised of SERIM, ALLEN, JUNGMO, WOOBIN, WONJIN, MINHEE, HYEONGJUN, TAEYOUNG, and SEONGMIN, is back with their second full-length album, Dare to Crave, available on all major streaming platforms now. This release marks a bold new chapter in their ongoing exploration of youth and longing, as they dive deeper into the concept of yearning.

Dare to Crave symbolises the audacity of embracing one’s desires and instincts. Building on the narrative they’ve crafted since debuting in 2020, CRAVITY now turns their focus to “craving” - revealing raw emotions and further expanding their artistic universe. Nearly three years after their first full-length release, this album captures the group’s authentic voice and creative growth.

The 12-track album, led by the electrifying single “SET NET G0?!”, also introduces unit tracks for the first time - three songs that each explore personal aspects of their shared identity. WOOBIN produced “Rendez-vous”, a track about encounters that awaken blurred emotions. SERIM makes his composing debut with “Marionette”, which delves into the complex feelings within intense relationships. WONJIN composed “Wish Upon a Star”, a soft, reflective piece about promises kept after a long wait. Each track has its own distinct tone, yet together they form a cohesive whole, marking a meaningful leap for CRAVITY as individuals and as a group.

“SET NET G0?!” is more than a call to action—it’s a declaration of unwavering determination. Backed by dreamy pluck synths, a driving bassline, and addictive vocal chops, the track encapsulates youthful energy and freedom, inviting listeners to surge forward through life’s uncertainties with refreshing vocals and exhilarating performances.

As they celebrate their fifth debut anniversary this year, CRAVITY also unveiled a major rebranding: a new logo inspired by grapes and grapevines, and a refined group name blending “CRAVE” and “GRAVITY” to convey the powerful message, “Our craving is as strong as gravity.” Now, with Dare to Crave, they bring that craving into vivid form.

STREAM DARE TO CRAVE HERE

WATCH “SET NET G0?!” MUSIC VIDEO HERE

Dare to Crave album cover artwork (download here)

Tracklisting

1. On My Way

2. SWISH

3. SET NET G0?!

4. Rendez-vous

5. PARANOIA

6. Straight Up To Heaven (performed by JUNGMO, WOOBIN, SEONGMIN)

7. Stadium (performed by ALLEN, WONJIN, HYEONGJUN)

8. Marionette (performed by SERIM, MINHEE, TAEYOUNG)

9. Underdog

10. Click, Flash, Pow

11 Love Me Again

12. Wish Upon A Star

About CRAVITY

Since debuting in 2020, CRAVITY has maintained relentless momentum, sweeping Rookie of the Year awards at various music ceremonies in Korea. Their debut album hit No. 1 on the U.S. iTunes Top K-Pop Albums chart, making them the first 2020 rookie group to achieve this feat. Shortly after, they made a splash with a No.12 debut on Billboard's Social 50, becoming the fifth-fastest South Korean group to enter the rankings. Since then, their profile has risen, Variety named them an “Up-and-Coming Group to Know” in 2022, Forbes spotlighted them as “Ones to Watch”, and in 2024 they triumphed on Mnet’s Road to Kingdom: ACE OF ACE.

FOLLOW CRAVITY

INSTAGRAM | FB | X | YOUTUBE | TIKTOK

For more information contact mabuhay@blackstar.space

December Avenue's "Saksi Ang Langit" Charts After Zeinab Harake and Ray Parks' Wedding

Photo Credit: Bram Asuncion

June 23, 2025 – Manila, Philippines - Initially released in November 2022, December Avenue’s ‘Saksi Ang Langit’ recently gained attention after they performed it at Zeinab Harake and Bobby Ray Parks Jr.’s wedding on June 1, 2025. In a message published online, the band expressed their appreciation to the couple, stating, “Thank you for the trust, for the warmth, and for reminding us all what it means to love. May your bond be a testament to faith—to a love that always chooses to stay, even against all odds.”

A week after the wedding, Zeinab also uploaded a wedding film on YouTube featuring their song, which quickly garnered over ten million views. At the 30-minute mark of the video, ‘Saksi Ang Langit’ played as fireworks lit up the sky, featuring heartwarming wedding highlights. Touching moments such as the couple exchanging vows and dancing to the band’s live performance brought warmth to the newlyweds’ idyllic milestone. Furthermore, this resonated with viewers, driving the viral moment that boosted the song’s streams.

Following its resurgence, it earned a spot on two Spotify charts—peaking at #2 on Viral 50 Philippines and #2 on Top 50 Philippines. The band also placed #3 on Spotify Top Artists Philippines and peaked at #31 on the Viral Top 50 Global chart, marking a major milestone for the group.

Unlike most December Avenue songs that mainly tackle heartbreak, ‘Saksi Ang Langit’ depicts a promising and unwavering love, with the band’s signature cinematic and melodious sound. The official music video originally portrayed it as a heartrending story of a father’s love for his daughter, inspired by drummer Jet Danao’s daughter when he and frontman Zel Bautista wrote the piece. Moreover, after the wedding, the song took on a fresher and more hopeful meaning, reflecting the couple’s commitment to one another.

Not long after the wedding video was posted, Tower of Doom posted a Tower Sessions live performance of ‘Saksi Ang Langit’ on their YouTube channel and is now trending for music at #13 on the streaming platform.

Zeinab Harake and the December Avenue members have further solidified their friendship with this opportunity. Previously, Zeinab attended the exclusive listening party for December Avenue and Morissette’s collaborative track, ‘Ahon’, held on April 22, 2025, at Teatrino Promenade Greenhills.

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Follow December Avenue:

Website | Instagram | X | Facebook | TikTok

For media opportunities, please contact:

Janine Fenequito

jfpmusicmarketing@gmail.com | +63 9209 488410