Manila/ Vibe/ Artists

October 16, 2024

How to Maximize ‘Spotify for Artists’ from Spotify Editors Themselves

Photo by Website/Spotify

October 16, 2024

Last Saturday at ASIYA Fest, or the Asian Music Festival & Conference, Spotify held a masterclass on their “Spotify for Artists” platform, led by the Lead Editor for SEA at Spotify, Chesca Tan, Philippines Editor Don Puno, and Artist & Label Partnerships Manager Thea Madrideo.

They shared insightful tips on how to maximize the music streaming platform to attract more attention, gain more listeners, grow your following, and achieve success. The trio also dropped helpful tips for music artists and shed light on how Spotify crafts its playlists.

Spotify Masterclass — Instagram/Asiya Fest

What does an editor at Spotify do?

The Beat Asia asked Chesca Tan who clarified, “The very basic job description is we curate the playlists [for Spotify]. We’re the culture and music experts for the Philippines, so the playlists that you see on Spotify, most of those are created by our team.”

And it’s not as easy as it looks. Their team crafts a diverse pool of playlists based on: mood, moments, genre, eras, artists, and more. How, you ask? By going through hundreds and thousands of songs that are being released each week!

“We listen to [the songs] and see, ‘Is this a very kilig type of song? Or is it very hugot?’ So basically we listen to all [songs] being released and see which songs fit which playlist,” Chesca said.

If it sounds very time-consuming, it is. “We’re basically listening every day, even weekends, 24/7,” she added. “We actively listen to, not just the composition of the song, but also the lyrics, the melody. ‘Is it a very chill type of song?’ or ‘Is it more of a workout song?’”

But it’s not just about going through new releases, they also go through old catalogs. As an example, she pointed out that Sarah Geronimo is trending once again, so they also reprogram older songs back into the editorial ecosystem.

Website/Spotify

That musical ecosystem is just as alive as you would expect. It constantly changes based, not just on what the editors think, but also on consumer feedback. Chesca reveals their marketing team checks out social media frequently to see what people think about their playlists. They also work closely with label partners who also provide comments.

These playlists are just one way for artists to be noticed by the 626 million active Spotify users worldwide – including 246 million subscribers – in 184 markets. To get started, however, you first need to get your music into Spotify and you can’t do that yourself. Musical artists need to work with a partner or distributor, check out Spotify’s directory here.

For more information on how to get started, here’s a quick guide from Spotify. Once you’ve got an account, you can access your “Spotify for Artists” dashboard which is free to use for verified artists. This platform is designed to help artists gain more visibility and they dropped all the tips in their masterclass.

Heads up, musical artists! We’ve gathered all the details for you:

1. Remember the 4Ps

Nope, these aren’t the Marketing 4 Ps that you might be familiar with. They’re Profile, Pitch, Promotion, and Progress. Curate your Profile, Pitch your music to Spotify editors, Promote your music to your followers and listeners, and track your Progress through their dashboard.

2. Maximize Every Feature of Your Profile

“Treat [your profile] as your own business card,” Thea advised. Choose your best images – oh, and make sure to adhere to Spotify’s guidelines on profile photos. Here are some quick tips: images should be crisp, no album art, no closeup shots, not blurred or grainy, and band members should be compressed.

“Please make sure it’s your own face there [in the profile photo]. We’re not aiming to catfish people here,” she added.

Now that you’ve uploaded your photo that’s got mad rizz, you need to work on the rest of your profile, which works much like a social media profile: write a biography and add your social media accounts.

Highlight your chosen songs under “Artist’s Pick” and curate your own artist playlist. You can also use your profile to promote upcoming shows and tour dates, and sell merchandise, but these are under beta as of writing.

Website/Spotify

3. Pitch via the Spotify for Artists Platform

While you can directly send your pitches to Spotify editors, they highly recommend sending in your pitches through their official platform instead. This way, your pitch can reach thousands of Spotify editors around the world. In other words, even if you’re a local artist, your work can be included in playlists in other countries and who wouldn’t want that, right?

Artists should take the time to elaborate on the story behind their music and describe their intent with the song. Tagging your hometown accurately is also important, in addition to choosing the correct genres. Most importantly, there’s no shortcut to this process.

“You can’t buy your way onto a Spotify playlist,” Chesca stressed. “We actively look out for fraudulent streams.” And there are repercussions, they warned.

4. Songs with Canvases Can Get Increased Shares

Canvases are the 8-second video loops that you see in the background while a song is playing. When shared on your social media, these canvas clips make for a more dynamic post, hence an increase in shares of up to 145%!

“It’s not just about background listening; it’s [also] about the foreground experience,” Thea emphasized.

Aside from a Canvas, you can also upload 30-second (or under) video clips which artists often use to showcase Behind the Scene (BTS) videos, music video teasers, or share messages with their fans.

5. Grow Your Following & Use Spotify Codes

Numbers talk, needless to say, so it’s not a surprise that you should prioritize growing your followers on Spotify. But we understand that word-of-mouth growth takes time (and a ton of effort!) so you can also actively share your Spotify Code – a tag you can scan to quickly share a piece of content within Spotify. Access Spotify Codes FAQs here.

Artists use Spotify Codes by sharing them on their social media accounts, putting them on their merchandise, and more – Thea revealed they’ve met an artist who had their Spotify code tattooed, talk about dedication! But remember, these Spotify codes can only be scanned using the Spotify app, unlike QR codes that can be scanned using your Camera or other apps.

6. Engage Your Followers with Countdowns!

Countdown pages allow fans to pre-save your upcoming releases: EPs and albums, as of now, and pre-order merch. They revealed that 70% of the people who have pre-saved an artist’s upcoming release would listen to them within 1 week after its launch!

7. Track Your Progress

Your Spotify for Artists dashboard contains the information you need to find out more about your listeners and fans: their age, location, gender, songs they prefer, etc. This allows you to tailor your playlists and target the right audience.

Thea shared one artist’s experience wherein they realized, through Spotify for Artists, that they have many listeners in South America. Riding this wave, they found a PR agent who helped them leverage this initial attention to gain more visibility in the region.

For more information, check out their website and download the app on Google Play and App Store. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Formerly Twitter).

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Manila/ Vibe/ Celebs & Influencers

March 15, 2025

The Beat Manila’s Up-And-Coming: P-Pop Group Pix!e

by: Katrina Ricarte

March 15, 2025

by: Katrina Ricarte

Tags:

Up and Coming PPop Music Artists

The Beat Manila’s Up and Coming is a series where we feature rising talented artists from the Philippines, giving them a platform to share what they’re passionate about and to promote the music they (and us too!) would love for the world to hear. Do you want or know someone who wants to be featured? Email us at [email protected] or slide through our DMs on Facebook or Instagram!

Gather ‘round, pop music fans! There’s a new P-Pop group on the block that’s about to sprinkle a little bit of fun, magic, and pixie dust into your playlists!

Introducing Pix!e, the latest girl group sensation dazzling the P-Pop music scene with their irresistible charm, fun energy, and undeniable talent. The six-member group was the so-called “Girl Group Project” by Dream Cloud Productions, headed by singer-songwriter Krissha Viaje. The search for the members began in January 2023 as several female hopefuls went through auditions, rigorous training, and a series of assessments and evaluations under the guidance of Krissha and her panel of mentors including Bilib’s Yukito, singer-songwriter Hazel Faith, and XLR8 alum Caleb Santos.

After six months, the final lineup was revealed, consisting of Mita (leader and lead vocalist), Pearl (main vocalist), Nicole (center), Jane (main rapper), Hana (lead rapper), and Kath (main dancer) — each member bringing their unique flavor and creating a powerful blend of skill, style, and charisma.

“We were looking for progress, stage presence, and that special something that makes a performer unforgettable," Krissha explained in a press release. “And just as important was how they worked together — their rapport and care for one another were key to building a lasting bond.”

Pix!e officially debuted on Oct. 7, 2023, and was signed on to Viva Artists Agency and Viva Records in March 2024, which catapulted the group onto the mainstream scene, charming hundreds of music fans with their fresh concept, charismatic dance routines, and catchy song.

Their debut single, “Iced Coffee” was a fantastic introduction to the group, showcasing not just their talent but also their wholesome chemistry. It proved that Pix!e is more than just your regular sing-and-dance group and was indeed formed with care and thought — a group centered on collaboration and one that genuinely enjoys performing together.

The Beat Manila got to sit down with the shining members to know more about them as a group — from their most memorable training experiences down to their go-to coffee drinks. Pix!e tells all in our latest exclusive and shows us why they’re the next big thing.

Hey Pix!e! Can you tell us about how the group was formed?

Kath: Me and Ate Mita already knew each other since we were both part of the same K-Pop cover group. The rest of the members came from different places and backgrounds. We all auditioned as trainees and participated in monthly evaluations where we were tested and assessed on our skills like singing, stage presence, and most especially group chemistry. We had to pass each stage until, eventually, the group lineup was formed.

We auditioned in January 2023 as trainees. The final evaluation happened in July and from there, we just waited for our debut.

That’s so cool! Did you already have an idea about the concept from the start?

Jane: When I auditioned as a trainee, I was quite “maangas (tough or haughty)," so when we debuted I was surprised. *laughs* Sobrang nahirapan ang tao na ‘to (I had a hard time)!

Mita: As the eldest, I kind of already expected the concept. I also figured I would need to adjust since I never imagined I’d be part of a “cutesy” concept before.

Hana: When Ate Krissha told us our concept would be like this, I was really happy because I never imagined myself doing Hip-Hop. I believe our mentors really thought our concept through, and how our group works.

Mita: I agree! We really have great chemistry.

What does ‘Pix!e’ stand for? Is there a story behind the name?

Mita: Before we became ‘Pix!e’ we actually considered several other group names, but I think Ate Krissha thought Pix!e was the name that resonated with us the most. Sobrang kulit kasi namin (we are so playful) and we have so much energy!

The exclamation point in the name represents the impact of each of our skills that make up the whole of the group. We also want to spread magic through our music — just like Pixie fairies.

Did you always love to sing, dance, and perform?

Mita: Yes! I grew up with my grandmother and my aunt, and she [aunt] was the one who influenced me to pursue music because she was always playing music at home.

Hana: For me, I joined a lot of pageants when I was young. My mother enrolled me in workshops for modeling, dance, and vocals too! I remember I actually cried about the vocal training *laughs* because I really didn’t want to sing and only wanted to model. These girls [members] taught me a lot about singing.

Pearl: Both of my parents were part of marching bands back in the day, and our family always did karaoke whenever we got together so, I suppose that was how I developed a love for music.

Kath: In my case, I’ve always been passionate about dancing. I was always joining competitions, and I’ve wanted to become a K-Pop idol since I was ten! I was never really a singer but with the help of Pix!e and the training, I learned to do it — and love doing it!

Jane: My dad was abroad often, and he always requested me to sing for him. Ms. Bituin Escalante was the first singer I ever idolized. For the dancing, I’ve always loved watching ASAP (All-Star Sunday Afternoon Party) [variety show] and I looked up to Ms. Maja Salvador. At the age of four, kuminang yung mga mata ko (my eyes sparkled). I once showed my mom my dancing back then, but she told me it wasn’t very good. *laughs* But now, with the help of Pix!e, I learned how to dance well!

Do you have any memorable experiences while training?

Mita: I’ve always been very confident about my singing and dancing, and I was also a very competitive person during evaluations. But there was a time when I felt threatened. I was trained to be one of the main vocalists but when Pearl came in, I was like: 'Oh, she’s so good, I cannot!' *laughs* I had to admit, I had my doubts, and I even tried to learn how to rap because of her!

Hana: I think it was the final evaluation for me, because Ate Pearl and I were the last trainees to do it. I was a bit disappointed since I wanted to have a lot of evaluations but for us, we only had the first and the last one! Ate Pearl and I had to catch up quickly within that short time. It was hard but it was fun!

Pearl: My first day. I came in and everyone was so quiet, and I found out it was because some trainees were just sent home. I realized then how intense and competitive this whole thing was.

Hana: Yes, first day niya po, first training din po (Her first day was her first day of training too)!

Pearl: True, I still had my bags and everything! *laughs*

Kath: Most memorable for me was the training itself because I really enjoyed it. I always liked learning something new. I love it when I feel my muscles ache at the end of the day.

Mita: She has so much energy after training. Sometimes you’d see her practicing afterward or still doing TikTok videos!

Kath: Also, I can sing now! It was only in Pix!e that I learned how to sing.

Any important learnings during this time?

Jane: I think throughout training, my true investment is my nerve. You’ve got to have the nerve to be in this industry. In every evaluation, I have to believe that I’m going to pass — that I’m going to get in. You have to be confident!

Have you always wanted to be part of a P-Pop group?

Jane: I wasn’t familiar at first and only knew about BTS and Blackpink when it came to groups, but since becoming a member of Pix!e, I learned so much. Ang dami ko pong nakilala na groups and nakaka-inspire po sila (I discovered so many other groups and they’re so inspiring)! I also started to understand the genre more, and I’m really happy about it!

Mita: I think I’ve always seen myself in another field, but after getting into K-Pop, I realized how fun it was to perform in front of people and as part of a group.

Hana: For me, I was looking forward to having sisters and now I have them!

Pearl: We were always asked: 'How do we see ourselves five years from now?' And my answer had always been I really wanted to be an idol.

Kath: If I wasn’t in a P-Pop group, I would most likely be part of a dance troupe competing internationally.

Congratulations on your new single “Iced Coffee!” Did you have a hand in the making of the song?

Pearl: Hana, Jane, and I contributed to the melody and lyrics. Then it was Sir Daniel (Daniel Taberna) for the arrangement. For the concept, it’s our creative director, Ms. Krissha. She’s the one who approves all of our concepts. Our music is produced by Viva Records.

Can you tell me a bit about what the song is about?

Hana: There’s kilig (fluttering feeling) when you see your crush and it resonates with how you want coffee. Nagpa-palpitate 'pag nandyan si crush (Palpitating when your crush is around). Iced Coffee can also be sweet like caramel or bitter like an Americano. Refreshing because it’s iced, hot because it’s intense.

Mita: It basically describes the feelings you have when you like someone and the similarities of those feelings to when you’re having coffee.

Very clever! Now that you’ve released a single, how’s the journey so far with your fans?

Mita: We’re so thankful for the fans because they’ve supported us even before we debuted. We had a one-time pre-debut video, which was where it all started. We never expected the amount of support we got during our first performance as a group. We’re so thankful to them. Some fans would even travel far to come see us! They’re taking the time to see us perform even if we keep singing “Iced Coffee” over and over again *laughs*. Shout out to Pixels, we love you!

Okay, fast talk. Can you each describe Pix!e in one word?

Mita: Chaotic.

Hana: Magical.

Pear: Refreshing

Kath: Dedicated

Jane: Passionate.

And in honor of your debut song, what is your go-to coffee beverage?

Mita: Matcha latte!

Hana: I love caramel so, any coffee drink with caramel.

Pearl: 3 in 1. *laughs*

Kath: If I want something strong to wake me up, Spanish latte or Iced Americano. If I don’t want to palpitate, Matcha Latte.

Jane: I don’t really drink coffee, but I love chocolate drinks!

You’ve truly gotten far since your auditions. What’s your dream for the group?

Mita: For now, it’s to create more music that will leave an impact on the community. Music that will last and will often be listened to by people. Other than that, our goal is to perform on bigger stages and to collaborate with Filipino artists.

Kath: We really want to be known in the Philippines!

Speaking of collaborations, do you have any local or international artists in mind?

Jane: Number one, BINI! I really idolize them!

Mita: SB19 and Katseye!

Hana: Bruno Mars.

Pearl: BINI and KZ Tandingan.

Kath: SB19 for me!

Can you tell us what we can look forward to from Pix!e this year?

Hana: We’re working on new music and dance routines so we’re looking forward to sharing another magical song with everybody. More events, too, and I hope we get some awards and be recognized for our crafts.

Pearl: We’re also looking forward to meeting our fans nationwide.

Do you have a message for your lovely and supportive fans?

Mita: We’re really glad we’ve met them. We appreciate all their support and we treat them as family. Everyone we meet at events, we already know them. Lahat ng effort niyo guys, susuklian naming yan nag madaming-madami (We’ll be sure to give back tenfold for all your efforts)! So, just wait; we’ll be giving you more music!

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Don’t miss out on all the magical music and performances by Pix!e this year! Stay tuned on their Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram pages for updates.

Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Up-and-Coming articles here.

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Manila/ The List/ What's On

March 12, 2025

Ultimate Guide to Fusion: The Philippine Music Festival 2025

by: The Beat Asia

March 12, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Manila’s music scene thrives on diversity, and where is this more evident than at Fusion: The Philippine Music Festival?

Prepare to be dazzled at this star-studded celebration, which brings together the best of OPM (Original Pinoy Music) onto one electrifying stage. Fusion 2025 features the theme, “Musika Natin ‘To,” — a call to embrace and uplift OPM with pride as it marks its 10th anniversary. This milestone event will bring together the brightest Filipino music artists in an immersive experience that goes beyond performances, featuring interactive art, cultural exhibits, and a showcase of local flavors. More than a festival, it is a declaration that OPM is not just music — it is our identity, our pride, and our story as a nation.

Whether you’re an avid festival-goer or a first-timer, this guide will take you through everything you need to know — from the lineup of artists and festival highlights to tips on making the most of your concert experience.

Without further ado, here’s your guide to Manila’s hottest and boldest music festival!

Fusion Manila 2025: What, When, & Where?

Launched in 2015, Fusion is the first Philippine music festival uniting artists across different genres and managements into a massive concert extravaganza that aims to celebrate OPM. The year’s Fusion music festival is set to take place on Mar. 15, 2025 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Open Grounds.

Gates open at 3:30 PM with pre-show performances starting at 5:30 PM. The main show begins at 7:30 PM, and it’s one act after another from there, with the last performance ending at 2 AM. There will also be games and raffle sessions, as well as booth activities before the pre-show, so it’s worth coming in earlier!

The event is directed by Paul Basinillo, the award-winning creative force behind some of the biggest productions in OPM history, such as Sarah Geronimo’s legendary 24/SG, and is powered by Nestea, Nescafé, Bear Brand Sterilized, Hapee Toothpaste, Dazz Dishwashing, and Fudgee Barr.

Getting There

You can go by either private or public transportation. We would highly recommend point-to-point options such as ride-hailing apps like Grab, InDrive, or Angkas, or taxis where you can simply pin the exact location or tell the driver to drop you off at the CCP complex.

If you’ll be commuting, the nearest train station is LRT1-Vito Cruz. From there, you can ride a jeepney along Pablo Ocampo Sr. (Vito Cruz) that is going to CCP or the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).

And look! Fusion just gave us a sneak peek of the venue. Looks like the stage is rising... and so is our excitement!

Address: CCP Open Grounds, CCP Complex Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, 1003

Ticket and Merchandise Information

Tickets are currently on sale via Ticketmelon with three sections priced at P3,000 (Gold), P2,000 (Silver), and P1,000 (Bronze).

All tiers are standing, and there is no limit to the number of tickets you can purchase. Gold ticket holders get access to special perks such as a chance to win Artist Merch, Photo Albums, or participate in pre-show games on stage. They will also be able to go through the Express Lane for the VIP Entrance, get 20% off on Fusion Merch, bring home an Instaphoto souvenir by one of the event’s roving photographers, and enjoy a Fusion kit packed with sponsor loots, sticker packs, a LED wristband, tote bag, complimentary drinks courtesy of Tanduay, and more!

Ticketmelon accepts several modes of payment, such as Credit and Debit Cards, Cash, G-Cash, and GrabPay. For online purchases, an e-ticket will be sent to your registered email address, which you can show at the entrance on the day of the event.

For merchandise, there will be official event t-shirts (P499) and tote bags (P199) available at the Praxis booth. Fusion also encourages you to show up in your best colors to the event by wearing your most colorful #OOTD (Outfit of the Day)! Winners get fusion gift packs and 1-level ticket tier upgrade!

Artist Lineup and Schedule

A star-studded lineup awaits you at this explosive milestone event, featuring both veteran and rising local artists beloved by music fans not only in the Philippines but across the globe!

This year’s headliners include Ben&Ben, December Avenue, and Zack Tabudlo, who will be performing alongside powerhouse acts like The Itchyworms, Maki, Barbie Almalbis, ALAMAT, KAIA, Jan Francis, and ALLMO$T.

The concert will also feature a lineup of DJs and rising acts, such as singer-songwriter Amiel Sol, Jan Francis, Pauline Anne, and up-and-coming P-Pop groups GAT and RAYA. See below for the complete schedule of performances:

Schedule — Photo from Fusion Philippine Music Festival/Facebook

Festival Reminders: Things to Bring and Prohibited Items

As the festival will be taking place outdoors and will last approximately ten hours, make sure to weatherproof your belongings. An extra shirt, comfortable footwear, and handheld fans are just some of the things you can bring to better your festival experience.

Other essential things you might need are:

Phones (for making memories and showing your e-tickets, of course!)
Chargers and power banks
Towels
Hats
Sunglasses
Sun protection
Raincoats (because Manila rain does come down out of nowhere)
Hygiene kit (sanitizers, wet and dry tissues, band-aids, etc.)

For everyone’s safety, Fusion encourages everyone to pack light and smart, and to keep in mind things that are not allowed within the venue premises such as outside food and drinks, pets, water bottles/jugs/flasks, bags bigger than 12x12 inches, digital and professional cameras, and all types of pointed umbrellas. For a complete list of prohibited items, click here.

Are you ready for a night of electrifying stages? See you on Mar. 15, OPM fans, and let’s make it a night to remember!

For more information and updates, stay tuned on Fusion: The Philippine Music Festival’s official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages.

Location: CCP Open Grounds, CCP Complex Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, 1003

When: Mar. 15, 2025

Admission Fee: P1,000 (Bronze), P2,000 (Silver), and P3,000 (Gold). Buy here.

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Manila/ Vibe/ Happenings

March 12, 2025

Jo Koy is Back in Manila with His 'Just Being Koy' Tour

by: The Beat Asia

March 12, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Tags:

Comedy Jo Koy Shows Stand Up Comedy

Comedian Jo Koy is back — and the great news is, he’s bringing the laughs with him to Manila!

LiveNation just announced his All-New "Jo Koy: Just Being Koy" Tour on their Instagram, with a highly anticipated stop at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena in Pasay City on June 21. Fans can expect a night clutching their bellies as Koy delivers his signature storytelling and sharp-witted humor.

Koy’s show has been much awaited, after last performing in the Philippines nearly two years ago. His last show was in August 2022 as part of his Funny Is Funny World Tour. The comedian, whose sets often revolve around his family, specifically his son and mother, has sold out arenas and theaters globally.

That same year, he celebrated a major milestone with the Hollywood film, “Easter Sunday,” which had a red-carpet premiere in Manila — further cementing his deep ties to his Filipino heritage.

With a career packed with accolades, Jo Koy is a powerhouse in comedy. He has four top-rated stand-up specials, including his latest Netflix hit, “Live From The Los Angeles Forum,” which premiered globally in September 2022. His 2019 stand-up album Live From Seattle topped the Billboard Comedy Charts, and in 2018, he was crowned “Stand-Up Comedian of the Year” at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal.

Tickets go on sale on Mar. 14, 2025 via SM Tickets, with prices ranging from P1,500 to P7,500. If you want to secure your seats early, Mastercard cardholders get exclusive presale access in the Philippines from Mar. 12 at 12 PM to Mar. 13 at 12 PM. Meanwhile, World & World Elite Mastercard holders can grab preferred ticket access starting Mar. 14 at 12 PM.

Manila, get ready — it’s going to be a night of unfiltered, unmissable comedy. Registration for presale access and other ticket releases can be found here. For more updates, check out Jo Koy’s official website, Instagram, Facebook, and X (Formerly Twitter).

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Manila/ Vibe/ Artists

March 10, 2025

The Beat Manila’s Up-And-Coming: P-Pop Group GAT

by: Katrina Ricarte

March 10, 2025

by: Katrina Ricarte

It’s a known fact that Viva Artist Agency (VAA) is in the business of showcasing the brightest young talents of this generation. From musicians to actors, Viva is continuously searching for the next big thing, fostering talent that inspires, entertains, and promotes Filipino music and artistry.

This March, the company launched a new boy group set to conquer the P-Pop scene. Introducing GAT, our featured up-and-coming artists gearing up to shape the OPM (Original Pinoy Music) landscape one explosive performance at a time. Under the collaboration of Ivory Music and VAA, the quintet consists of Ethan David, Charles Law, Michael Keith, Derick Ong, and Hans Paronda. The name “GAT” is derived from the Tagalog honorific “Gat,” which means nobleman, symbolizing excellence and respect.

The boys made their first impression among P-Pop fans with the release of their pre-debut cover of James Reid’s “Huwag Ka Nang Humirit,” which showcased their talent and charisma. They gained momentum with another cover single entitled “Daleng Dale,” which recently ranked #3 in the Viral Songs PH Chart. The single was the official opening track of Viva One’s hit series “Ang Mutya ng Section E,” in which some of the members are currently participating as supporting actors.

In our latest exclusive, we got the whole gang together for a fun chat about their music, their most memorable training stories, and what we can expect from the group this year. Read on to get to know P-Pop’s newest eye candies and discover what makes them a fresh sound you should keep on your radar.

Hi GAT! Can you tell us a bit about yourselves and your roles in the group?

Ethan: We don’t have any positions right now because we value our craft, and we don’t want to confine ourselves to a particular role. We want to be able to explore other things. I’m a singer myself, but I also want to be able to rap and dance. Ayaw naming ma-stuck dun sa roles (we don’t want to be stuck in just one role).

Michael: Same as what Ethan said, but I guess for my role, I’m more of the singer and producer for the group. But wherever I can help, I like to pitch in.

Hans: I’m more of dancing and singing.

Charles: I’m the youngest of the group and do more rapping.

Derick: I like singing the most, although dancing has been a favorite of mine ever since I joined the group. Seeing how good and talented my teammates are made me want to step up!

Is there a story behind the group name?

Michael: GAT stands for “Gawang Atin ‘To” and we look up to our kuya (big brother) groups like ALAMAT, and the idea is that it’s purely Filipino. Everything we make is made in the Philippines by Filipinos.

How was the group formed? Did you know each other beforehand?

Michael: Yeah, it started with me, Ethan, and Hans being called into a meeting. Boss Vic [Vic Del Rosario] told us how we were talented artists on our own and that they had this idea of forming a boy group with us in it and just combining our talents. He got us three first, and then Charles and Derick got added.

We all kind of knew each other from previous projects and from being with Viva. Derek is the one who's pretty fresh to us. But we all clicked right away and so it all worked out that way!

Ethan: Michael and I were friends, and I met Hans casually at the events from Viva. As for Charles, I met him when he was just a baby — he was just thirteen! He was quite shy and quiet then, but I think we’ve influenced him to be more makulit (playful). Derick is pretty new. He only started training with Viva for about eight months.

We all have different personalities, but when we’re together, we’re solid. We’re playful and clingy with each other. We’re definitely like brothers!

Cool! Given your individual training before GAT, how was the experience transitioning into becoming a P-Pop group? Did you always want to be part of a group?

Charles: Back then, I went into Viva thinking I would just do acting. But when I got to meet some P-Pop group members, I got inspired. Two years before my audition, I told myself that I wanted to be in a boy group because the idea of being part of one amazes me. I thought it would be really fun!

Can you tell us about the kind of training that you do as a group?

Ethan: Right now, we've been a little bit busy because we've been doing taping for the series 'Ang Mutya ng Section E,' but we try to train in between.

I’m sure after this project, we’ll be focusing more on training as a group. Before, we did training three to four times a week. An interesting thing about our vocal training is that we only did a couple of weeks of vocal sessions before heading into the studio for recordings! It’s so amazing to see our commitment and how our passion is for this craft. So, I felt like, 'Wow, this is going to work!'

Do you have any memorable experiences while training?

Michael: There are so many! Actually, there’s one recently, but I’m not sure if I can talk about it. We were at 7-Eleven and decided to joke around. I won’t tell exactly what happened, but we got a good laugh out of it. *laughs*

I feel like with the way our group is because of our ages, we have so many moments when we kind of forget that we're working because everything's just so fun. We know when to lock in, but we know how to have fun as well.

Hans: Usually after training, we always eat out together. We always go on 'food trips.'

Charles: Learning choreography together was memorable. It’s super simple, but we learn it together. If I’m having trouble, they always try to help me. They’re all my kuyas (big brothers), and I look up to all of them. It just makes me very happy — that bond between us.

Speaking of training, did some of you have to learn a skill from the start? What was the experience like?

Ethan: I’ve been singing since I was three, and I grew up with a family of singers. But with dancing, I only learned to do it through training. I’ve been with boy groups before, and that’s where I mostly learned how to dance. I don’t think I’m a natural dancer though. *laughs*

Hans: For me, it’s the same with Ethan, I’ve been singing and dancing since I was a kid. But dancing was where my true interest was. Meanwhile, my older brother was good at singing. But then somewhere along the way, we kind of exchanged talents, and he became the dancer while I became a singer in a group. When I started with P-Pop, I could do both, so it was an easier transition for me.

Ethan: *jokes* Sobrang Latina na (“Sobrang Latina” is a viral phrase used when one is feeling themselves).

Hans: Yes, sobrang Latina! *laughs*

Michael: As for me, I’ve been singing since I was four. I was inspired by my older sister who used to do a lot of stuff for Disney, and so I got involved with that. And then, it got to the point where I was just doing it on my own, and my parents noticed and asked if I wanted to do lessons. From a young age, I’ve been doing classical training just to get a good base and tried to figure it out on my own and find the singing style that’s comfortable for me. Singing is my strongest point, while dancing is where I struggled. Even now, I have really bad hand-eye coordination.

Charles: I’m not really a born singer or dancer, but I’ve been rapping since I was a kid. It was during our training that I learned these skills, and I’m thankful to my teammates for helping me out along the way.

Any important takeaways from your journey so far?

Michael: I think it's safe to say that despite all of our experiences, we learn all these things on our own. And right now, one thing that our coach, Kevin Antiquera, reminds us of the most is that when we join the boy group, we start from ground zero again — we're starting at the bottom, and so we're all collectively learning everything together and learning something new together so that we can be on the same level and be aligned with everything.

Derick: We recently performed onstage, and it feels so different compared to our training. Our coach has been teaching us a lot about how to perform; for example, when you train, even if it's already 100%, on stage, it has to be 200%. The other members have experience with performing, and they’ve helped and uplifted me through it all. We help each other.

Michael: He's [coach] literally like our dad, and so we thank him so much for everything he's done for us and for just keeping our group together and helping us strengthen our bond.

What makes GAT unique from other P-Pop groups?

Michael: I think we bring such a unique sound and flavor to the P-Pop world. When you listen to our music and the music that we have planned on releasing, it's nothing that you've heard before from other P-Pop groups. And I love that because we all have such influences as individual artists. We're able to come together and collaborate and create such a unique sound and take inspiration from this or that to create something new.

And because we are a proudly Filipino group and we include Filipino history in our work, we are going to be able to make music that will help enhance the meaning of P-Pop.

We’ve yet to hear GAT’s first original song. How would you describe your forthcoming debut single?

Ethan: We already have songs lined up and are preparing for it. We just want to choose the best song to release, so we can’t say anything yet.

Michael: But the song that we will put out will express all of the members' individuality and also our collective efforts.

What’s your dream for Gat? What do you want to achieve for the group?

Ethan: I would like to release songs that will stick to people’s hearts. We want to release music that would not change OPM, but be part of the OPM and the P-Pop [industry] that we know right now. We also want to keep inspiring people.

Michael: I think it’s safe to say that we’re heavily inspired by other groups right now, and I think for me, I want us to be the group that another group of boys or girls will look at and they're going to be like, oh, I want to be just like them. I want to be able to make music that impacts people whenever they hear it. If you think of P-Pop, you think of us.

What can we look forward to from GAT this year?

Ethan: We could promise them we will release some music this year. We've actually had a pre-debut performance already in Zambales recently, and that was really fun! We would like to promise the fans that we will have more events lined up.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Don’t miss GAT’s upcoming music and performances by following them on Instagram, X (Formerly Twitter), and TikTok pages.

Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Up-and-Coming articles here.

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Manila/ Vibe/ Artists

March 09, 2025

The Beat Manila’s Up-And-Coming: Singer-Songwriter Amiel Sol

by: Katrina Ricarte

March 09, 2025

by: Katrina Ricarte

Although it’s always fantastic to see our favorite artists on the music charts, we have to admit seeing a new name pop up now and then makes us lean over in our seats, eager to hit that play button and listen to something new. Our Up-and-Coming series is all about shining the spotlight on talented young artists who are changing the game, bringing in new sound and concepts, and are set to become the next big thing. And in our latest exclusive, we sat down with an indie singer-songwriter currently dominating the Philippine music charts.

Introducing Amiel Sol, fresh blood on the roster of Filipino hitmakers caught out attention when his latest single, “Sa Bawat Sandali,” peaked at #1 on Spotify’s Viral 50 Philippines list. Amiel is known for his alt-pop love songs, having released several singles like “Di Na Akin” and “Ikaw Lang Patutunguhan,” which have racked up an impressive number of streams — 13 million to be exact for the latter track, just on Spotify alone. The talented singer easily became Ivory Music’s top act and is gearing up to release more music that will undoubtedly make him a household name among the OPM (Original Pinoy Music) hit lists soon enough!

Read on to get to know Amiel and his burgeoning music career, the inspiration behind his latest single, and the dreams he hopes to fulfill this 2025.

Amiel’s Musical Journey

A Mathematics graduate from the University of the Philippines, Amiel is a passionate musician who blends romantic lyricism with ambient folk sound. He told The Beat Asia how his relationship with music began early in his life — in elementary school when he learned to play guitar from his neighbor.

“I was eight then,” he said, “And when I got into high school, my friends and I joined Battle of The Bands. It became a yearly tradition for us until we graduated. I still wanted to continue music then, even just as a hobby, but since we ended up in different schools for college, I decided to do it on my own.”

The singer expressed how he never thought about pursuing music as a career and that it was just something he genuinely enjoyed doing, which was why he continued to play, performing song covers at food parks and open mics in 2018. However, it wasn’t until the following year when the global pandemic hit that Amiel was able to explore a new side of his musical talent.

“I remember it was the first week of the pandemic, and classes were suspended. So when it happened for three days, I just tried to write, and I bought a budget-friendly mic to be able to record songs at home.”

With no classes during lockdowns, Amiel focused on songwriting and began composing music and releasing them online. He was independent for a couple of years, apart from a short partnership with music distributor Ditto Music, where he signed on for a three-song contract. It wasn’t until 2022 that he officially became part of the Viva Records family. From there, Amiel performed in a series of gigs while juggling employment on the side.

When asked if he intends to do it full-time, Amiel answered, “When I graduated college in mid-2023, it became a deciding factor for me whether to focus on music or get a job. At the moment, I still have a day job, but I am hoping to pursue music full-time very soon.”

On Composing and Musicality

Like most singers, Amiel is an avid music consumer, which has influenced the current sound he’s developing through his songwriting. He also shared that his musical influences when it comes to his songwriting are Filipino musicians Johnoy Danao and Ebe Dancel, while he takes inspiration from Bruno Major and Lizzie McAlpine in terms of musicality.

“I really like indie folk music. That’s where I gravitate towards and the sound I aim for with my music,” he said. “I like ambient sounds, strings, cello, a little trumpets, while also heavy on acoustic guitars with folk-style drums.”

The singer explained that this was the sound he liked when recording songs in the studio, but he would gravitate towards a more pop sound when performing them live with a band.

“I think that’s what also clicks when you perform live, and I really like it as well,” he added, pertaining to how he started with this kind of sound back in his school days, performing pop-rock covers from popular bands like All Time Low and Eraserheads. The singer-songwriter also admitted to being a multi-instrumentalist but still considers the guitar as the instrument he’s most confident to play.

“I don’t have a specific process,” he told The Beat Asia when asked about his songwriting process. “For example, with ‘Sa Bawat Sandali,’ I first got the chord progression, which was inspired from the chorus of ‘Scott Street’ by Phoebe Bridgers, then I just transposed it. The second thing I got was the main hook of the song: ‘Kapag magulo na ang mundo, ikaw ang payapang hinahanap-hanap ko (Whenever the world is chaotic, you are the peace I keep searching for),' which just popped up in my head while I was playing the chord progression.”

As for the lyrics, Amiel shared that he already had a theme in mind from the start and wanted to express the type of love that comes after the “kilig” stage, when a couple feels settled in a relationship and is each other’s peace of mind. “A constant type of love,” the singer beautifully described.

We also got to discuss the anatomy of his songs as we noticed many of his tracks are over five minutes long, which is longer than a regular mainstream track. Amiel explained that he goes by feeling and instinct when composing, and as most of his songs have a slower progression, the track time always extends longer than intended, which he believed still fits his vision for the songs he’s writing.

With a chart-topping hit on his belt, Amiel is a rising OPM artist who’s on everyone’s radar. But the singer shared that for him, it’s not about success or recognition, but more about the experience and the journey.

“Actually, sobrang nakakagulat siya (it’s really surprising). In the six or seven years that I’ve been doing this, I admit that it’s also my dream to have a chart-topping song, but it’s not something I expected. I always want my mindset to be as long as I’m doing what I love; that’s enough. While writing, I never thought of a song as this is it, this is the hit. It just so happened that many people resonated with the song. And that’s what I like the most about it, not because it became a hit but because many people liked it. I suppose that’s the better part of it.”

Amiel has also been receiving offers for his songs to feature on other forms of media, like how “Sa Bawat Sandali” was included in the soundtrack of the popular VIVA miniseries, “Mutya ng Section E.” He also opened for popular alt-pop act Cup of Joe at their concerts.

“They’re one of my favorite bands! So it’s a very full-circle moment for me. They often get me as an opening act, so I’m so grateful to them for always giving me the opportunity to be seen and heard more.”

As for his music plans this year, Amiel hopes to do as many gigs as possible and to be able to do a solo concert where he could showcase his discography and invite some of his artist friends to collaborate with him. The singer-songwriter shared that his dream collab is with Johnoy Danao and Ebe Dancel, as well as with some of his artist friends whose music he admires, such as Earl Augustin, Keanna Mag, and Janine.

But if there’s one thing we can expect from him this year…

“Consistency,” he stated. “I really want to release more songs. I have a lot of songs that I want to share. I also want to play more gigs. Sana magtuloy-tuloy lang siya para makatugtog din ako sa iba’t-ibang lugar at marinig din ako ng iba’t-ibang mga tao (Hopefully the music events keep coming so I can play at different places and have more people hear my songs)."

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Catch Amiel at his upcoming events by staying tuned on his Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages. You can also stream his latest track here.

Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Up-and-Coming articles here.

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Manila/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

March 08, 2025

DAY6’s 'Forever Young' Concert in Manila Was a Love Letter To Our Youth

by: Gelene Peñalosa

March 08, 2025

by: Gelene Peñalosa

“You’re the day that I choose as my every day.”

DAY6 and MyDays truly did wait a long time to see each other again — and their most recent concert in the Philippines proved to be worth the wait.

Shades of teal blue, green, and white filled the Araneta Coliseum last Feb. 22, 2025, as “K-Pop’s Representative Band” DAY6 performed in front of their Filipino fans once again after five years and three months for their “Forever Young” tour.

DAY6, a South Korean pop-rock band consisting of lead/rhythm guitarist Sungjin, bassist YoungK, keyboardist/synthesist Wonpil, and drummer Dowoon, performed a three-hour show that particularly touched on growth, love, happiness, healing, and youth.

The concert was significant for many — for those that missed their “Gravity” tour in 2019, the ones that became fans during the pandemic, and for those that grew up with DAY6 through the years.

The Beat Manila got to witness a night filled with exceptional music and vibes, and we’re highlighting all the best parts to this show worth waiting for.

Who is DAY6?

DAY6 is a four-piece band that debuted in 2015 under JYP Entertainment. Originally having six members when they first debuted, and had five members before 2021, they now consist of Sungjin, YoungK, Wonpil, and Dowoon. All members have been heavily involved in the writing, composing, and production of their music, with YoungK serving as their main lyricist.

DAY6 was at their busiest in 2017, when they released two songs every month for their Every Day6 project. Their most popular song, “You Were Beautiful” came from that project. The band released their “Youth” and “The Book of Us” series, comprising of seven Eps, from 2018 to 2021, and debuted a sub-unit named Day6 (Even of Day) in 2020.

DAY6’s most recent releases, “Fourever” and “Band Aid” (2024), have brought the band mainstream success, leading the band to win their first Daesang since their debut for the “Grand Performer Award” at the Korea Grand Music Awards last December 2024.

“Forever Young” Concert Highlights

The name “Forever Young” is a nod to all the emotions that both DAY6 and their fans have experienced throughout the years – the show is a testament to one’s youth, and everything with it.

DAY6 is known for curating their setlists by emotion, and they did just that for this concert.

The first set was titled “Excitement,” with the band opening the show with four of their most upbeat tracks: “Best Part,” – which is the song they always open their concerts with – “Better Better,” “Healer,” and “Time of Our Life.” This set was followed by their introductions and greetings, where they greeted their fans in Filipino, and even noted that it’s been too long since they were last here, and that their energy was something they’ve never felt in a long time.

Their next set was titled “Happiness,” with each of their songs expressing a kind of happiness that one feels when you’re in love and everything about love. Starting with “She Smiled,” then with “How to Love,” “Pouring,” and ending the set with “Say Wow.”

The next set, titled “Farewell, Chaos” could be described as the much awaited one of the night, with the band playing (arguably) the best songs in their discography. There was a rush of nostalgia and tears in the audience after hearing all four songs in succession – “You Were Beautiful,” “I Loved You,” “Letting Go,” and “Congratulations” – no more words need to be said.

DAY6 members YoungK (left), Sungjin (center), Dowoon (center, back), and Wonpil (right) — Photo by JYP Entertainment and Live Nation PH

The next part of the same set had a change of mood and genre; with sadness turning to anger. The songs chosen for this part were perfect, from “How Can I Say,” to “I Wait,” to “Love Me or Leave Me,” and ending appropriately with “Shoot Me” and a showcase of each of the DAY6 members’ solos.

The mood slowed as the band transitioned to their next set, aptly titled “Growth.” There was also a shift in the crowd’s emotions during this part of the concert, a contemplation about life’s troubles and worries. Starting with “Monster,” and then ending with “Zombie,” which was released during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, was the song that carried everyone’s (including DAY6’s) heavy burdens and had the message to “continue living, even when it’s hard.”

DAY6’s next set was titled, “Healing,” with every song feeling like a warm hug and a pat on the back saying “even when things are hard, everything will be okay.” The mood lightened with DAY6’s most recent lead single, “Melt Down,” followed by fan-favorite “HAPPY,” and then “Wish.”

With a short interlude, DAY6 checked their fans’ energy by asking fans from every tier to scream and shout, and even made a song from the household chant in every PH-held concert, “Walang Uuwi.”

DAY6 held a sold-out show at the Araneta Coliseum last Feb. 22, 2025. — Photo by JYP Entertainment and Live Nation PH

The next set, with the songs “Help Me Rock&Roll,” “Shxtty Game,” “DANCE DANCE,” and “Freely,” encapsulated what being young and youthful in life is like — stumbling, starting over again, and enjoying whatever life hits us with. Everyone from every tier was dancing, stomping, and moving around freely to the music, with the members DAY6 looking over the crowd with awe and proud smiles.

During the show’s short intermission, Filipino MyDays went into karaoke mode and sang some of DAY6’s songs as some fans appeared on screen. Much to everyone’s surprise, some of the members of Filipino folk band Ben&Ben were present for the concert.

Their next set was DAY6’s initial farewell to their Filipino fans, playing their fan-dedicated songs “My Day” and “First Time.”

Before DAY6’s encore stage, the fans thanked the band for being there in the moments they needed comfort with a video and extended their hand for them to hold on when times get tough again.

To this, DAY6 replied with immense gratitude, with Sungjin saying, “You said our music has saved you. But you are the ones who can actually make DAY6 exist. You guys make us exist. We will do our best to let you guys love us. So, let’s be together until the end of the line.”

To end a concert with a song called “Welcome To The Show” may sound weird to others, but to DAY6, it was the perfect way to end it. With a shower of confetti and a sudden blooper that led to them restarting the song, DAY6 and MyDays’ energies matched and was over the roof.

The fans’ energy was outstanding and infectious, to the point that DAY6 came back on stage to perform one last song for their encore – “Best Part.”

“There is not a single moment that is meaningless to me. Not knowing when the end is, this moment is the best part,” they sang.

DAY6 taking a photo with the fans present during their "Forever Young" tour in Manila — Photo by JYP Entertainment and Live Nation PH

Truly, the “Forever Young” concert was like a love letter to our youth. There will always be moments of hurt, anxiety, and anger, but with those feelings come happiness, and healing. DAY6 perfectly encapsulated all those feelings, curating their concert setlist in a way that gives their fans the opportunity to feel and relive all those emotions with them.

Follow DAY6 on their Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram pages to stay updated with them!

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Manila/ The List/ Nightlife

March 05, 2025

The Drag Race Reunion 'Global Phenomena' Is Coming to Manila

by: The Beat Asia

March 05, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Manila, brace yourselves! The queens are coming, and they’re bringing the house down. Filipina drag superstar Marina Summers is set to reunite with her fierce RuPaul’s "Drag Race UK vs. The World" Season 2 co-finalists, Hannah Conda and La Grande Dame, for a night of pure drag magic.

Dubbed Global Phenomena, this highly anticipated event will take place at The Music Museum on Mar. 21 at 8 PM.

Marking one year since UKvTW2 took the drag world by storm, this reunion promises a full-blown celebration of drag, creativity, and the unbreakable bond these queens formed on the show.

Marina Summers, the Philippines’ very own drag queen who slayed the international stage, took to Instagram to hype up the event, saying, “Bring back my global phenomena!” She added, “It’s the one-year anniversary of UKvTW2, and we’re giving Manila a reunion show for the ages.”

Prepare to be stunned by performances that will leave you speechless, hilarious audience Q&A sessions, and non-stop entertainment.

Tickets are already on sale here, with prices ranging from P1,200 for balcony seats to P4,100 for Tier 1. For those who want to take their experience to the next level, meet-and-greet passes are available for P2,700.

Summers has also teased that the full lineup of performers will be announced soon, so expect even more surprises as the event draws closer.

For more information, visit Camp Summers on their website, or follow them on Instagram.

Location: Shoppesville Arcade, Greenhills Shopping Center, Ortigas Avenue 1502 San Juan

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