Feel Like a K-Pop Idol at These Dance Studios in the Metro
Manila/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

Feel Like a K-Pop Idol at These Dance Studios in Metro Manila

Feel Like a K Pop Idol at These Dance Studios in the Metro Photo by Facebook/Kidlat Dance Studio

Ever dreamt of becoming a K-Pop idol trainee? Do you have the moves of Blackpink’s Lisa, SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi, or the groove of SHINee’s Taemin and TWICE’s Momo? Whatever it is, the vibrant city of Metro Manila has a plethora of dance studios where you can unleash your inner K-Pop star!

Whether you’re a youngster who has the talent and passion for dancing or an avid K-Pop fan who aims to dance like your bias, we got you!

In this article, we’re giving you a list of the best dance studios around the Metro where you can learn K-Pop dances from your favorite idols and feel like one. Read on to check it out!

Ace Dance Studio

@acedancestudio8 Kpop cover class 🇰🇷 Every Sunday 1:30pm ~ 3pm (Open level) 🎧 @weareone.exo Kai -Rover 📍 @ace_dancestudio_makati Pre-reg 450php / Walk in 500php #kpop #kpopdance #kpopclass #makatikpop #bgckpop #philippines🇵🇭 #korea #kpopph #danceph #exo #exokai #kairover #badalee #badaleechoreography #acedancestudio #acedance #idoltraining #엑소 #케이팝 #엑소카이 #韓国 #韓国あいどる ♬ 오리지널 사운드 - Ace Dance Studio

Located at the heart of Makati, Ace Dance Studio offers lots of K-Pop dance classes, from NewJeans’ energetic choreographies to Enhypen’s dances that are full of swag. The studio also invites renowned K-pop choreographers and backup dancers to teach classes, including popular Korean dance studio 1MILLION’s Choi Young Jun!

Classes go for as low as P450 for those who pre-register and P500 for walk-ins. Schedules are posted regularly via their Facebook and Instagram pages. You can register through this link to join their classes.

Location: Ace Dance Studio, Room 301 Centrum II, Valero St., Makati City

Contact details: 0945 147 7888 or email [email protected]

Sky Dance Avenue Manila

If you have little ones or teens at home who would love to learn K-Pop choreographies, this is the place to be! With their kind and loving instructors, Sky Dance Studio offers classes for young ones, making sure they’re having fun while learning the dances! Aside from K-Pop, they also have classes for other genres, like hip-hop and ballet.

The studio has multiple branches around Metro Manila: in Makati, Alabang, and BGC. Visit their website to enroll.

Location: Sky Dance Avenue Manila, BGC Arts Center, 26th St., Taguig City

Contact details: [email protected]

Kidlat Dance Studio

If you’re an avid fan of dance, you might have seen their neon-hued lightning logo somewhere on TikTok. This place is none other than Kidlat Dance Studio, a popular spot in San Juan among K-Pop fans who’d love to learn their biases’ dances. Each K-Pop class is priced at P435 (pre-registered) and P450 (walk-ins). To sign up, click here.

Aside from their regular dance classes, the studio is holding a “K-Pop for Adults Idol Camp” from May 20 to July 14, available from beginner to advanced levels! You can join the camp by signing up here.

Location: Kidlat Dance Studio, Unit 203 & 202, Sunrise Condominium I Building, Ortigas Ave., San Juan City

Contact details: [email protected]

Zero Studio PH

@zerostudioph My heart burning! Burning! Burniiing ❤️‍🔥#ZERØStudio #ZEROoffdays #Visualz #KPØPCoverClass #twice ♬ ONE SPARK - TWICE

QC peeps who want to groove to K-Pop can visit this dance studio along Borromeo Street! The studio offers classes for some of the trendiest K-Pop songs, from ILLIT to LE SSERAFIM. For those who’d like to learn various genres, the studio also teaches basic to advanced dance styles.

Zero Studios’ K-Pop classes go for as low as P350. To view their class schedules or book a slot in one of them, go here.

Location: Zero Studio PH, No. 37 Sct., Borromeo St., Brgy. South Triangle, Quezon City

Contact details: [email protected]

The Addlib Dance Studio

Another place to visit in Quezon City for your K-Pop dance classes is The Addlib Dance Studio! Their “K*POP” classes, led by their skilled dance instructors, are taught every Tuesday and Saturday and run for about 90 minutes. You can also learn femme, heels, and hip-hop dances, among many others.

Class fees are priced at P350 for those who book online and P400 for walk-ins. Click here to book a class, or visit their Instagram and Facebook pages for more information.

Location: The Addlib Dance Studio, 2F New Frontier Theatre Arcade, 7 Gen. Malvar Ave. cor Times Square Ave., Araneta City

Contact details: 0947 489 6270 or email [email protected]

GC Studios

If you’re somewhere in Cubao, drop by this dance studio in Brgy. Soccoro! GC Studios teaches K-Pop choreographies every week, from the powerful dances by SEVENTEEN to the fierce steps of Kiss of Life.

Each class is worth P350 for pre-registered students and P400 for walk-ins. You can pre-register here. To stay updated on their classes and discount deals, you can also follow their Facebook and Instagram pages.

Location: GC Studios, 104 13th Ave, Cubao, Quezon City

Contact details: 0977 173 9014 or email [email protected]

G-Force Dance Center

What better dance studio to learn K-Pop than with the home of celebrity choreographers? If you want to dance like NCT’s Taeyong or BTS’ Jungkook, G-Force Dance Center, with locations in Quezon City, BGC, and Alabang, also offers K-Pop dance cover workshops.

Aside from K-Pop workshops, they also have regular open classes for different genres. Their classes are more on the pricier side, but you’re sure to get a bang for your buck! To stay tuned for their upcoming K-Pop workshops, visit G-Force's website or social media pages.

Location: Multiple locations

Contact details: 0917 843 6723 or email [email protected]

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Manila/ Vibe/ Pop Culture
PH Network Giants Collaborate For ‘Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition’
Photo 1 Photo by Facebook/PBBabscbntv

Get ready to return inside the iconic Bahay ni Kuya as the popular reality TV show, “Pinoy Big Brother (PBB)" returns with a historic collaboration!

In celebration of the show’s 20th anniversary, PBB is opening its doors once again for a special season. ABS-CBN Corporation and GMA Network, two of the country's biggest media conglomerates, are collaborating for “Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition Collab.” This means Kuya (Big Brother) will be welcoming both GMA Sparkle artists and Star Magic talents to live and compete in his house.

The exciting collaboration was announced on GMA’s news program “24 Oras” where "Chika Minute" host and entertainment reporter, Iya Villania, dropped the big news with a thrilling headline, “Pinoy Big Brother is coming to GMA!”

The host went inside the house’s confession room and spoke to Kuya who revealed the details of the new season.

“Sa susunod na pagbubukas ng aking bahay, mga bituin ang aking patutuluyin. Ang mga housemates na magsasama sa isang bubong ay mga Kapuso stars mula sa Sparkle at Kapamilya artists mula sa Star Magic (I will be welcoming celebrities into my home. The housemates will be coming from Kapuso stars from Sparkle and Kapamilya stars from Star Magic).

Kuya also revealed that the “PBB Celebrity Edition Collab” will air for the very first time on GMA. The official contract signing between the two networks is scheduled for Jan. 28 and will be broadcast live via the show and networks’ Facebook pages and YouTube channels.

The reality show broadcasted on ABS-CBN in 2005 gathers people from different walks of life to live inside a house for a certain period and compete in various challenges. The show has been loved by Filipino viewers nationwide and has seen many editions through the years. Many of the brightest Kapamilya stars made their start as housemates including Kim Chui, Melai Cantiveros, James Reid, and Maymay Entrata to name a few. There were also a few celebrity edition seasons that featured beloved ABS-CBN stars such as John Prats, Zanjoe Marudo, and Megan Young.

This marks the third time the network giants teamed up for a project, following their partnership with Viu Philippines for “Unbreak My Heart” in 2023 and their contract for the noontime variety show, “It’s Showtime,” in late 2024.

For updates, follow PBB’s official Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram pages and stay tuned on their YouTube channel.

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Manila/ Vibe/ Artists
The Beat Manila’s Up-And-Coming: Singer-Songwriter Matt Wilson
Matt Wilson

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 FacebookorInstagram!

Music has long been a source of comfort, offering solace in difficult times and amplifying moments of happiness. While silence is the absence of sound where loneliness thrives, music is the exact opposite. It’s a thriving presence with the power to evoke powerful emotions, connect people, and bring back cherished or even painful memories through heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies. People find companionship in songs and seek out music to feel understood or comforted.

For singer-songwriter, Matt Wilson, known on TikTok for his heart-rendering covers and singles such as “Alitaptap,” music found him, not the other way around.

“I wasn't really pursuing music before. I had a straight path: I was going to finish college and I was going to find work and that's pretty much it. I landed a job in teaching, and then after three years, I decided to take a different class, but at the same time, music found me,” he shared. “In 2021, I was going through a rough breakup and during that time I decided to put content out there, like short covers on TikTok. I started with a cover of ‘Can't Help Falling in Love' by Elvis Presley.”

The rest as they say is history, and Matt went on to become a rising TikTok cover star with over 149.6K followers and 5.2 million likes as of writing.

Matt Wilson
Photo from Facebook/Wild Dream Records

Matt may not have initially pursued singing as a career, but it had always been his passion, having learned from his mother at an early age. The singer told us how the first song he ever learned to sing was “Ikaw” by Sharon Cuneta, and had even won a singing competition in school when he was in first grade. This was, however, his first and last contest as he focused more on his academics afterward. Despite this, he revealed that he was fond of watching shows like “American Idol” and “The Voice” growing up, which proved that his interest in music remained.

When asked if it was in any way a “secret dream” of his to enter showbiz and pursue music, he replied, “Yeah, actually it's a nice way to put it. An open secret, I would say. People who are close to me know that I want to be an artist someday. But I wasn’t really proactive in being an artist before. It was just a dream. I was just really passionate about music at that time, but I wasn't taking any opportunities to become one at all like joining competitions. I think the fire only started when I was going through something and I needed an outlet. I guess music also helped me to go through that difficult part of my life.”

Matt shared that he was a big fan of OPM (Original Pinoy Music) and often listens to the genre as a consumer, specifically music that goes beyond the mainstream scene.

“I listen to a lot of indie songs. It feels nice to explore music that is less heard,” he said. When asked why he believes indie artists are thriving in the online music world, Matt gave us an introspective thought, “I think it’s because they [listeners] feel more. They feel a lot closer to the artist when they feel like this particular artist has fewer listeners than the others, so somehow they feel a lot closer to them. They feel like this artist understands them more.”

Sonically, Matt describes his music as “slow pop” that basically combines elements from the songs he grew up listening to. You can hear in his original tracks traces of the OPM sound, synth, and mellow pop.

“It tries to evoke emotion or tries to challenge the different facets of your emotions,” he described when asked about what particular characteristic of his music sets him apart. He also expressed how everyone in the music industry is striving to find their unique sound, and that he’s also still figuring it out as he goes.

“I'm still in the process of exploring that area of myself.” He humbly added. “There's still no finality in the sound that I make, but I feel like I’m getting there.”

Matt signed with Wild Dream Records in 2023, a VIVA Records subsidiary label led by singer Marion Aunor. Since then, Matt has released a series of original songs and collaboration tracks, including the hit “Alitaptap,” “Sana Hindi Na Lang” with Kylu, and his 2024 single, “Planeta.”

When asked about his experience as an artist with the label so far, he answered, “They helped me a lot. I improved because of their coaching; their input in my sound, in my branding, and in the lyrics that I write. When we did ‘Alitaptap,’ Ms. Marion really helped me a lot in solidifying that particular sound that I wanted ‘Alitaptap’ to have. They helped a lot in different areas of my artistry.”

Wild Dream Records label media conference
Matt Wilson with Marion and Ashley Aunor | Photo by The Beat Asia

His debut single amassed some impressive numbers in the year of its release, garnering over 2.5 million streams on Spotify and peaking at #19 on Spotify’s Viral 50 PH. The official music video also ranked #24 on YouTube Music. When asked what was the inspiration for the song, Matt told us a very interesting tale.

“I was just scrolling through my phone and I found this post that used fireflies as a metaphor and something sparked in me. When I looked it up, I found out that fireflies only glow when they are finding their mate or their partner.” And thus the single was born, a romantic track about keeping your loved ones close; about lovers finding their way back to each other.

Not only has Matt successfully created tracks that pushed his career forward, but he has also extended his songwriting skills to other artists. He reportedly co-wrote ALAMAT’s latest single, “Hiraya” – a collaboration he did with VIVA artist, Kylu.

“It felt really exciting! When writing a song for another artist, you're not pressured whether it's going to be a hit or not. You were just enjoying yourself,” he told The Beat Asia. “The A&R reached out to us and we spoke directly with Direk Laxamana [Jason Paul Laxamana]. We were only given a short amount of time. I think we only wrote it for two weeks! *laughs*”

Matt described the experience as fun and liberating, considering they had all the freedom to choose a concept and theme for the track. He also mentioned how they really dug deep into ALAMAT’s music, the folklore, and cultural references they usually represented in their music, to truly capture their sound. Matt also told us that this practice is something he applied to his own songwriting as well, having included references in his tracks like “Maria Makiling” in “Alitaptap” or “Florante at Laura” in his 2024 single “Planeta” as metaphors.

“I wanted an avenue for our folklore, and I wanted them to be heard in our modern music as well,” Matt reasoned when asked if he does research for his songs. “I intentionally incorporate them because I want them to be heard in that song and I wanted it to feel more Pinoy.”

Since posting a cover in 2021 and signing with a record label, the last few years have been a whirlwind for the Wild Dream artist, describing his entire music journey so far as “magical.” When asked about the most memorable moment in his career, he told us about one particular show that blew his mind.

“When I did a show and people were singing along with me. I didn't expect it! I usually have this gimmick where I teach my song to them before I start so that they can sing along with me, but at that time, I didn’t teach it and it was crazy! It felt surreal to be honest, knowing that they’ve memorized it; that they know the melody and are taking videos of you and are so happy listening to you.”

Matt also expressed that one of his dream collaborations is with pop princess Sarah Geronimo, and that he hopes to write a song for her. As Matt welcomes a new year filled with possibilities, there are certain milestones he hopes to achieve this year such as composing an English song and releasing his first-ever EP (extended play), which he revealed is already in talks with his management.

But most of all, the talented songwriter only ever hopes for one thing: “I just want my songs to be heard by more people and to hear it on the radio.”

You can follow Matt’s musical journey by keeping updated on his TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook pages.

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Manila/ Vibe/ Pop Culture
Hey, Music Fans! Check Out the First 'Official Philippines Chart' from IFPI
20250124 Dionela IFPI Photo by Dionela/Instagram

The Philippines has its own weekly music chart now!

The IFPI, the voice of the recording industry worldwide, launched The Official Philippines Chart on Jan. 23, 2025, delivering official, industry-backed weekly music charts to the Philippines for the first time!

For the PH’s inaugural chart, the viral hit “Marilag by Filipino R&B artist Dionela became the first official #1 track in the country. Released in November 2024, it is one of the three songs by Dionela included in the Top 10 — with “sining (feat. Jay R)” and “Oksihina” placing 7th and 10th respectively.

The Official Philippines Chart will present the top 20 tracks in the country weekly, showcasing the most popular music from local and international artists across all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music, as well as regional services. The Official Philippine Charts, alongside five other ASEAN markets, will be made available on the Official Southeast Asia Charts website, offering fans the chance to interact with trending tracks and emerging artists all over the region.

The Philippines, as well as the other markets (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam), will host their own launch events in the coming months and feature exclusive artist performances and industry discussions.

For the Philippines, the Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. (PRM) is working with the IFPI to guarantee that the Official Philippines Chart is available for Filipino consumers. The charts will also be made available on their website and all social media platforms.

Here’s the first The Official Philippines Chart Top 10. Check out the full Top 20 list here.

Be part of the first to know which songs made it to the weekly charts by following The Official Southeast Asia Charts on Facebook and Instagram.

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Manila/ Vibe/ Pop Culture
Singer and Record Label Head Marion Aunor On Paving The Way For Dreamers
Marion Aunor

“It all started with a dream” as the saying goes, a popular sentiment among many artists and creatives whose passion for their crafts comes alive through the pursuit of these dreams.

Some people realize these dreams at an early age, using them to build a path toward a goal or a purpose while mastering their skills. This was exactly the case with singer-songwriter, Marion Aunor.

Having come from a musically inclined family, Marion had always been exposed to music. Her aunt, Nora Aunor, is a beloved recording artist, actress, and film producer in the Philippines, while other members of her family were also gifted in the music arts. Safe to say that music is in her blood, but becoming a musician wasn’t something she had actively pursued from the get-go, as the singer told us.

“In terms of actually pursuing it, I think I only figured it out around mid-college,” she shared. “Although in high school, I had a band and we would join ‘Battle of the Bands’ and would place. But towards the end of high school, we had a graduation songwriting competition, and I won! That's kind of where I found out that I had that capability of writing music that people would appreciate because before I would just keep to myself. I’m super introverted and would just write in my journal. It was that competition that made me realize that 'Oh, other people are also into this, not just me.'”

Despite the discovery, Marion didn’t pursue a music program in university either and instead took up business and communication technology, “[My musical pursuits were] just for fun. It was cool that they sang my song for graduation and I won a few Battle of the Bands, but I didn’t know that this is what I would be doing for the rest of my life.”

In the back of her head, however, her music dreams had always been there as she shared how her dream school had always been the prestigious Berklee College of Music where famed musicians such as John Mayer, Charlie Puth, and DJ Khaled were among its notable alumni.

“I was telling my mom around mid-college that I want to go for my dream school, Berklee, but she was like, ‘No, finish this course first because you're already halfway there.’ She told me to at least have a fallback in the management course.”

This proved to be sound advice because years later, Marion found herself leading her own record label. She eventually pursued an online songwriting course at Berklee before finally taking the big leap in her career.

Marion began her journey as a recording artist in 2013 when she placed second runner-up in a popular multimedia songwriting and music video competition by ABS-CBN Corporation called, “Himig Handog,” where her song “If You Ever Change Your Mind” became an instant hit! Marion reminisced on how the song opened a lot of doors for her and even allowed her to perform at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena where the competition’s finale was held.

“I remember one time I was just like, 'I hope I get here someday.' And then, months later, I’m suddenly singing there! So it was like a manifestation.”

Her success in the competition led her to sign with the media giant’s music subsidiary, Star Music, and to release her debut self-titled album in July 2013. She also released her sophomore record, “MARION,” in 2015. Some of the popular tracks from these albums include “Wanna Be Bad” and her cover of “I Love You Always Forever,” which was featured in the 2015 film “Ex With Benefits” starring Derek Ramsay and Coleen Garcia. Marion also extended her songwriting prowess for other artists and wrote the carrier single, “You Don’t Know Me,” for Kathryn Bernardo’s debut album.

Her music embraces a Nora Jones-esque sound, which distinguishes her from existing artists in the OPM scene. Her unique sound, however, was partly the reason why she didn’t pursue a music career at first, reasoning that she never thought she would fit in with the singing styles of most Filipino artists.

“You know how like everyone here in the Philippines, they're super ‘birit’ mode (belting out) and all about ballads. I couldn’t do that before. So, I thought maybe this isn't for me because I can't do that,” she said. “What I was seeing on TV or hearing on the radio a lot was like the Regine Velasquez style of singing.”

“But one day, my mom got me a phone and there was one free song in it, and it was Nora Jones’ ‘Don’t Know Why.’ And I realized you can sound like this and still be a music artist! So that kind of opened my mind. Also, during high school, Jason Mraz was really big with ‘I'm Yours,’ which is kind of in the same vein. Jazzy and chill, which comes through in my music. These unique voices in the music industry, I think that's what I'm drawn to.”

Considering her aunt and mother both pursued music as well, and had alto vocal ranges, Marion was even more encouraged to take her shot at becoming a singer-songwriter.

“There's more to music than just belting out high notes,” she stated. “You can do a different genre and still have a place in the music industry.”

Marion also proved to be a multi-talented artist as she ventured into acting; following in the footsteps of her superstar aunt. She starred in several VIVA Films including “Kaka” (2021) and “Revirginized” (2021), where she starred alongside industry big names such as Sharon Cuneta, Rosanna Roses, and Albert Martinez.

In 2018, she signed with new management and made her home with VIVA Records, releasing more hit singles like “Akala” and “Closer You and I” before finally co-founding her record label, which she was also the first artist to sign.

Wild Dream Records: A Label For Dreamers By Dreamers

After almost a decade of building her music career, Marion found herself faced with a new dream. In 2021, she co-founded Wild Dream Records — a record label she co-founded with its mother company, VIVA Records, and which she co-manages with her sister, Ashely.

It felt like a natural next step for me, because after just focusing on my singing and songwriting, I eventually ventured into writing songs for other artists like Sharon Cuneta, Jaya, and Kathryn Bernardo, and also produced songs for them. After that, I also created the Aunorable Productions with my sister, Ashley, so it felt like the next step would be to manage artists and help them out.”

Marion had been lucky enough to be surrounded by people who helped shape her into the artist she is today, which was where her desire to establish a label was rooted.

“I always say I wouldn't be where I am now if there weren't people to help me. So I want to do the same thing for aspiring singer-songwriters now.”

Wild Dream Records is setting up the stage for aspiring Filipino artists who all have their own unique stories to tell. When asked about the label’s unique selling point, Marion answered, “So, imagine a record label that creates a safe space for artists to be their authentic selves, that allows them to tell their stories and inspire the world through their music, and that openly provides its team and community with the support and opportunities they need to reach their creative goals. That’s the vibe we want to give off.”

Marion Aunor
Marion Aunor | Photo by The Beat Asia

Marion also explained that the label is a highly collaborative endeavor and told us about being open to not just working together with their artists but also eventually with other creative people on things like merchandise or album cover art. They have already begun doing this with how Matt Wilson’s single cover art was designed by one of his talented fans, and how they supported AU (Alternative Universe or Fanfiction) writers on TikTok who used one of Matt’s songs as a theme song for their stories, which increased the track and story’s popularity.

“The label also encourages dreamers to push past their fears and pursue their wildest dreams,” she added, explaining how she understands the reality of pursuing a music career; how it’s not easy and would often take the back seat as there are other things in life that people need to prioritize. As Wild Dream Records aims to tell and express its artists’ truths, we asked Marion what their label’s main message is for their listeners.

You can pursue your wildest dreams wherever you are in life or find time for it,” she replied. “I know everyone's focused on making a living or providing for their family. I mean, most of the artists here actually still have their day jobs, but like on the weekends, they'll be in mall shows with lots of people singing along to their songs. So I wanted it to be inspirational, but also realistic — that yes, we have to do our day-to-day, we have to survive, but can also find time for our passions.”

Wild Dream Records is in the business of shaping next-generation indie artists and is eyeing musicians who really find time to express themselves musically. The management supports and helps them with their branding and marketing, as well as guides them through the production process. All of their artists compose their own music and are balancing jobs outside of their career, too, which Marion believes are the type of artists that she’s looking for: people who are brave enough to chase after their “wildest dreams” amidst life itself.

“You can only prepare so much, and I really hate that because I'm such a perfectionist,” she admitted as we talked about the challenges of being a record label head. “I don't know everything until I'm actually doing it, but that's the whole thing about starting any business, you don't really know until you're there.”

She also added that she knows the responsibility she has for her artists; to take care of them and give them a clear understanding of what it means to be signed to their label. “I always remind them and myself that it's a collaborative thing. It's not all on me. It's not all on them. It’s teamwork.”

Wild Dream Records
Wild Dream Records Artists | Photo by The Beat Asia

When asked what she loved most about her job, Marion instantly replied, “I like seeing the success of the artists. It’s super chaotic [her work] because you feel like, 'Oh no, what if it doesn't work out? Is this too big of an idea?' But then that's the whole point about having a dream: you jump into it even if there are doubts or fears.”

“I like seeing their numbers go up because that’s good for business, but at the same time, they're reaching a lot of people and their stories are resonating with them, which also means their fan bases are growing.”

Increasing their artists’ fan numbers is one of their main goals, considering Marion’s dream for the company is to build a Wild Dream Records community where they can support the creative endeavors of their artists and supporters through both intimate and grand events. In Marion’s words, “For Wild Dream to become not just a record label but to be able to create a whole culture around it.”

To learn more about Marion Aunor and her music, you can follow her on Facebook and Instagram. Also stay tuned to Wild Dream Records on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates on their latest music releases and events.

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Manila/ Vibe/ Pop Culture
Finally! TBA Studios Kicks Off Production for Historical Film 'Quezon'
20250120 TBA Photo by TBA Studios/Website

7 years after the release of “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral,” TBA Studios is officially starting production for its next sequel, “Quezon.”

TBA Studios, a film production and distribution company known for distributing internationally acclaimed films “Everything Everywhere All At Once,” “Past Lives,” and “Triangle of Sadness” in the Philippines, announced that its much-anticipated biographical historical movie, “Quezon,” begins production this year.

Quezon” is the continuation of the film production company’s cinematic “Bayaniverse” — a series of films based on Philippine history, including box office hits “Heneral Luna” and “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral.”

Filming will begin in March 2025, with a planned theatrical release the same year.

Quezon” is anticipated to follow the life of former President Manuel L. Quezon, a Filipino lawyer, soldier, and politician who was elected President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines from 1935 to 1944. The highlight of the film is said to be his presidential campaign against Emilio Aguinaldo, which was teased during the mid-credits in “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral.”

The film will be released locally and worldwide, according to TBA Studios President and COO Daphne Chiu. She later added that the film will be produced as a stand-alone, although existing within the same cinematic continuity as “Heneral Luna” and “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral.

In 2021, director Jerrold Tarog teased that the film already had a finished script and was awaiting approval. In 2024, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) pledged support for the project as part of its CreatePHFilms Funding Program. “Quezon” will also be supported by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCAA).

This marks a milestone and a shared goal between TBA Studios, NCAA, and FDCP to strengthen the Philippine film industry through the delivery and promotion of world-class films.

Casting for the major and supporting roles for “Quezon” is ongoing, with the announcement coming soon. TBA Studios’ COO Daphne Chiu teased that the cast will have names that will “surprise and excite fans audiences and hardcore fans of the Bayaniverse alike.”

Actors Benjamin Alves and TJ Trinidad are set to reprise their roles as the younger and older versions of Manuel L. Quezon in the third film, announced back in 2018 with the release of “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral.”

Benjamin Alves (left) and TJ Trinidad (right) are set to reprise their roles as the younger and older versions of Manuel L. Quezon
Benjamin Alves (left) and TJ Trinidad (right) as Manuel Quezon | TBA Studios

In 2020, Jerrold Tarog revealed in an interview that the film will span decades of historical events involving Quezon, presented as “four short films.” He also described the movie as a “comedy,” with a satirical take on historical events.

Heneral Luna” and “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral” are available to stream on TBA Studios’ YouTube channel.

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Manila/ The List/ Nightlife
Cup of Joe to Take Fans on an Emotional Journey with ‘Silakbo’ Album
Cup of Joe Photo by CupOfJoeRecords/Facebook

Filipino alternative pop sensation, Cup of Joe, is serving up a new album and is ready to take the OPM Scene by storm!

The band introduced their sophomore album in an intimate media conference last Jan. 13 at The Astbury in Makati City. Gian Bernardino (vocalist), Raphael Ridao (vocalist), Gabriel Fernandez (guitarist), CJ Fernandez (guitarist), and Xen Gareza (keyboardist) unveiled “Silakbo,” their forthcoming studio album slated for release on Jan. 17. This is the band’s first full album and explores a different sound from their 2023 EP, “Patutunguhan.”

'Silakbo': A Poignant Look into Human Experiences

Silakbo” features 10 tracks, all of which are emotionally charged and embody the group’s raw honesty and personal experiences. The Filipino word describes a sudden burst of intense emotions which perfectly encapsulates the content of the record for it explores the five stages of grief — with two tracks representing each stage from denial, anger, bargaining, and depression to acceptance.

“We poured our hearts and souls in ‘Silakbo,’ and it’s a reflection of not just the emotions we’ve been through but also those of our listeners,” shared Rapha, one of the band’s vocalists.

The album opens with denial tracks “Bagyo” and “Wine” which the group described as tempestuous and filled with longing and vulnerability. The quintet also talked about how the album showcases a different side of their musicality and how sonically wise, it’s familiar but also different as they explored new sounds and grew as artists while creating the album.

“We’re very excited about this track because there’s something in that track that we’ve never done before. So, watch out!” teased Gian.

Kanelang Mata” and “Bubog” were written by the band’s vocalists and were explained as the stage where one is trying to blame their pain on the situation, others, or oneself. Rapha shared how “Kanelang Mata,” which in English means Cinnamon Eyes, was written at a time when he felt lost and had “solid anger” towards himself. Meanwhile, track four talks about finding it difficult to look at yourself in the mirror.

The group also offers a more intimate sound with “Siping” and “Pahina” as it talks about the bargaining stage where one starts to question their situation — even the hypothetical ones, such as "What if?" and "If only." Meanwhile, the depression tracks “Multo” and “'Di Maari” provide a haunting retrospection before closing off with “Hinga” and the title track “Silakbo” where the record finds peace in acceptance, offering a powerful resolution.

“This track [Hinga] is about allowing yourself to breathe in the middle of the darkness, and to accept your reality,” Gian explained.

“We actually wrote this in the middle of production,” added Rapha, saying how the idea for the song was unexpected and fit into the concept right away, allowing them to compose and produce it quickly. They also told us how the last two tracks focus more on self-growth rather than the concept of moving on from the pain. We believed it was a beautifully conceptualized album, urging listeners to grow with the highs and lows of life instead of trying to avoid or hold back these intense emotions.

Cup of Joe
Photo by The Beat Asia

“Hayaang sumigaw ang pusong nabilango” is a lyric shared by Gian from their title track, making us even more excited for its release. The band also performed an acoustic version of the album’s lead single, “Multo” which was released last Sept. 14.

A perfect blend of heartfelt lyrics and musical innovation, Cup of Joe continues to prove that with them, it’s more than just music, but also about the shared experience of being beautifully — and heartbreakingly — human.

The 'Silakbo’ Concert Series

Since forming the band in 2018, Cup of Joe has released a series of singles and collaborations that put them on the map. In 2024, they performed their first solo concert — a two-day sold-out show at the New Frontier Theatre.

This time around, the band is shattering expectations as they announced their upcoming two-day concert series set next door at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, a testament to their ever-growing fan base and their knack for delivering electrifying performances. Happening on Feb. 8 and 9, the event will also serve as the grand unveiling of “Silakbo,” bringing its poignant tracks to life in a night of unforgettable music.

“Having the opportunity to connect with our fans through this album and these concerts feels like a dream come true,” Gian expressed, having manifested their dream of playing at a huge venue from a previous interview.

Silakbo Concert Tour
Silakbo Concert Tour Dates | Photo from Facebook/CupOfJoeRecords

But that’s not all. Cup of Joe is also taking “Silakbo” on the road with an exciting regional tour. They’ll be back in their hometown Baguio for a two-day concert at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center on Mar. 6 and 7 before moving to Davao to play at the SMX Convention Center on Mar. 22. The tour wraps up in Cebu on Mar. 29 at the IC3 Convention Center.

Tickets are already on sale and by the looks of it, the Araneta show is already sold-out! However, Cup of Joe invites everyone to listen to their new album and join them on this incredible journey of music, emotion, and connection. Whether you’re grieving, healing, or somewhere in between, the band emphasizes that your feelings are validated and hopes that their new album will make their listeners feel more seen and heard.

Cup of Joe
Photo by The Beat Asia

You can pre-save “Silakbohere. Follow Cup of Joe on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates, teasers, and behind-the-scenes peeks on their most ambitious project yet.

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Manila/ The List/ What's On
SEVENTEEN and Spotify’s Bringing the 'Carat Station' to Manila
20250113 SVT Carat Station Photo by Spotify Philippines/Facebook

Every Carat is bound to have the best weekend this week, all thanks to SEVENTEEN.

As if the opening of SEVENTEEN’s Artist-Made Collection Season 1 Pop-Up isn’t enough, SEVENTEEN and Spotify are bringing the “Spotify Carat Station” to Manila, too!

From Jan. 17 to 19, 2025, the Spotify Carat Station is aimed to be the “ultimate starting point” for every Carat attending the upcoming “Right Here World Tour” at the Philippine Sports Stadium this weekend.

The pop-up coincides with the concert weekend, and fans (whether they’re attending the concert or not) will be able to enjoy a playground filled with SEVENTEEN’s colors and creative vision.

The event will also feature metro-themed photo spots and interactive activities carefully curated by SEVENTEEN and Spotify to give fans a thrill of what’s to happen at the “Right Here World Tour.” Fans will also get to listen to SEVENTEEN’s songs all throughout the pop-up to get the vibes up and running before the concert. Exclusive giveaways and concert essentials are also up for grabs at the Carat Station, while stocks last, of course!

The Spotify Carat Station in Manila will be open at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City from Jan. 17 to 19, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 10 PM.

This is the fourth installment of the Spotify Carat Station, following Seoul in September 2024, New York in October 2024, and Tokyo in December 2024.

Looking for the SEVENTEEN playlist to prep for the concert? Tune in to the “SEVENTEEN WORLD TOUR [RIGHT HERE] Live Set” playlist on Spotify!

For more information and updates, follow Spotify Philippines on their Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram pages!

When and Opening Hours: Jan. 17 to 19, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 10 PM

Location: Glorietta Activity Center, Ayala Ave, Ayala Center, Ayala Avenue cor. Pasay Road, Makati Avenue and EDSA, Makati City

Admission Fee: FREE

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