Paolo Sandejas celebrates interconnectedness in debut album, the world is so small

“This album is divided into four thematic arcs, each representing a different phase of a relationship. The first two songs cover excitement of a honeymoon phase. The next two dive into mental health. The third set focuses on the challenges of long-distance relationships, and the final set covers the moving on stage and finding peace. Through these stories, the album paints a picture of interconnectedness—how no matter where we are in life, we are always tethered to one another. It’s funny cause I can always say the songs are about the character’s experiences not mine,” shares the Sway act. “But I’d be lying in some ways because these songs are so closely based on my own life. That extra layer of ‘protection’ though helped me get even more vulnerable in the songs. When I was writing it, I imagined the final scene of a love story, and this song playing as the couple went their separate ways. That visual really influenced the sound. It’s definitely the most unique song on the album, and I’m so proud of it. I didn’t consciously set out to create a particular mood when writing the album. Considering we had the unique challenge of creating this album remotely with me in LA and my co-producer Xergio Ramos back in Manila, I really think we did a great job! It’s always a joy working with him and I’m so glad he did this album with me.” ~Paolo Sandejas, Filipino Singer-Songwriter

Filipino Singer-Songwriter Paolo Sandejas releases his highly anticipated debut album, the world is so small—out now via Sony Music Entertainment.

The eight-track album is a deep dive into love, grief, and self-discovery, showcasing the beauty in life's emotional upheaval, especially during a person's formative twenties.

Sandejas claims that The World Is So Small is an anthology of moments that reflect the complex web of human connections rather than merely an album. Sandejas uses his music to examine how our common experiences bind us together, from short-lived romances to long-lasting heartbreaks and the silent hope that endures through it all.

Sandejas interweaves tidbits of his personal experiences into the songs, which tell the story of a fictional young couple navigating the difficulties of a romantic relationship. In particular, Sandejas' vision of a traditional coming-of-age love story is portrayed in the title track, which leaves the listener with a haunting sense of nostalgia as the couple part ways in a cinematic moment. 

Check out the album track list:

1. your favorite song
2. sirens
3. moonlight
4. roses
5. just a song
6. manila to LA
7. all the time
8. the world is so small

Sandeja will give live performances at two special events in January 2025 to commemorate the release of his first full-length album. The first is scheduled for January 10 at Nook Molito and will include special appearances by Jolianne, Leanne & Naara, and Syd Hartha. The second will feature performances by SOS, Kenaniah, and The Ridleys at 123 Block on January 17. You can purchase tickets at bit.ly/worldsosmalllaunch.

Paolo Sandejas’ ‘the world is so small’ is now streaming worldwide on all digital platforms via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch out for the official music video of the title track on Paolo Sandejas’ official YouTube page at 6 pm.

Follow him on socials:

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Filipino rapper WAIIAN captures the simplicity of everyday life on “Pablo” music video

“It’s about living life and making music out of it and making music to live a life. I want listeners to recognize the energy that I put into these songs. Luckily, I’ve met people along the way who helped translate my vibe into music. Somehow, it adds extra sauce and interesting layers, sonic-wise.” ~Pablo, the Solo Mission Act

The jazzy, laidback tune serves as the focus track off his third studio album, WEYAAT? Filipino hip-hop artist WAIIAN offers a generous heap of slice-of-life goodness on the music video of “Pablo,” his new single under Sony Music Entertainment.

The MV captures a day in the life of Pablo (his real name), where he finds happiness and contentment in the simplest of things. The Joshua Cecario-helmed visuals depict a young man who lives in the present day and enjoys his routine, from spending time in his home studio to navigating familiar and far-flung places with his motorcycle ride—all lovingly filmed to present moments of beauty that surround him every single day.

Written by WAIIAN himself and produced by Tatz Maven, “Pablo” solidifies his reputation as one of the most exciting young bloods in Philippine hip-hop. The laid-back tune serves as the focus track off his third studio album, WEYAAT?, which was released on December 1, 2023.

The nine-track album is thematically diverse but distinctly shaped by his keen sense of self-awareness. Led by the last track of the same name and new single “Pablo,” "WEYAAT?" is a slang for “WAIIAN, where you at?,” which is his way of reintroducing himself to the world after a three-year sabbatical in music. The groovy but sonically eclectic record also features collaborations with Kashira, a music production company founded by critically acclaimed producers and musicians U-Pistol, Tatz Maven, and Calix.

WAIIAN’s WEYAAT? is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

‘befriending my tears: A Clara Benin concert’

“ena mori and syd hartha are both favorites of mine and I always feel inspired whenever I watch them perform and I think that my fans will really enjoy their performances as well as they open the show. Every time I have a big show, I always make sure to have my dad, Joey Benin, join me on stage to play a few songs. He’s made such a huge impact in my music and being able to play with him on stage is always a fun and humbling experience. I can never thank my fans enough for all the love and support they’ve been giving me, especially after my album release! All I can say is, I can’t wait to meet you guys at the concert and I’m really excited for you to hear us perform all the songs from the album!” ~Clara Benin, Filipino singer-songwriter

Eclectic pop artist ena mori, fast-rising singer-songwriter syd hartha, and multi-awarded musician Joey Benin of Side A will be joining befriending my tears, a Clara Benin concert at the Music Museum on September 22, 2023 (Friday), from 7 pm onwards.

Both ena and syd will be performing as guest acts, while Joey Benin will reunite with his daughter Clara for a special segment. 

Celebrating the release of her sophomore studio album, befriending my tears, with a show made specifically for her fans, the concert chronicles Benin’s journey as an artist coming to terms with self-acceptance and healing while showcasing musical maturity through years of experience and growth. 

‘befriending my tears, a Clara Benin concert’ serves as her second major show after staging a sold-out, two-night residency at Teatrino Greenhills in 2016. This time around, the Parallel Universe artist will be performing all the songs from her newly released album, along with fan favorites from her catalog.

A tribute to an album that honors Benin’s newfound artistry and emotional strength, don’t miss your chance to be part of this show-stopping concert.

‘befriending my tears, a Clara Benin concert’ is presented by CNCA Media Concepts Inc., in partnership with Sony Music Entertainment.

Special thanks to the sponsors and partners: Dunkin’, JBL, Globe, and GNN Entertainment Productions.

Tickets are almost sold out, and are available via SM Ticket online and select outlets nationwide.

 

Follow CLARA BENIN on socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clarabeninmusic

Twitter: https://twitter.com/clarabeninmusic

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarabeninmusic

 

About Clara Benin

Clara Benin is touted as the indie darling of the Philippines. She is one of the first artists under Sony Music’s new regional label OFFMUTE. Her signature angelic voice and melodic acoustic guitar playing bring a kind of serenity that her listeners gravitate towards. She has collaborated with Singaporean artists Charlie Lim for a remake of her hit single “Wine” and Gentle Bones for the pop track “A Day At A Time”.

Widely loved for her warm and quiet demeanor, the acoustic-folk artist has played in notable festivals like Wanderland Arts and Music Festival in the Philippines, Music Matters in Singapore, and Zandari Festa in Korea. She sold out her first solo concert in 2016 for her album “Coming Home” and had a back-to-back concert with fellow artist Ben&Ben in 2018.

Ace Banzuelo teams up with acclaimed filmmaker JP Habac in the music video of “Meron Ba”

“For people who aren’t born into privilege and don’t have enough resources to take risks, decision-making is tough. They don’t have a choice but to ask the universe for a sign or take a leap of faith, thinking that it would give them a sense of clarity. Taking risks is good if you have the privilege, but if not, you have to be realistic. Ace is very hands-on with the material. It’s refreshing to witness how deeply involved he is, from concept development to the post-production phase. You can tell right away how protective he is with the vision of the song and how collaborative he is as an artist.” ~JP Habac, Award-Winning Filmmaker

Filipino Singer-Songwriter and Producer Ace Banzuelo relives the messy and glorious days of high school romance in the music video for his new single “Meron Ba.”

The MV is directed by award-winning filmmaker JP Habac, who is responsible for some of the most iconic romantic dramas in recent years, including 2017’s I’m Drunk, I Love You, 2021’s Dito At Doon and 2023’s Love You Long Time.

The visuals relive the formidable years of high school romance: its thrill, messiness, and everything in between.

According to Habac, the concept behind the visual narrative is all about taking risks. 

Ace Banzuelo stars as the dreamy student navigating the most painful and endearing parts of adolescence while getting entangled in a relationship mishap.

“I'm happy to express myself freely, not only as a musician but also as an actor in my music videos. I enjoyed collaborating with direk JP as the experience gave me more ways to execute this video authentically.” ~Ace Banzuelo, Filipino Singer-Songwriter and Producer

As for Habac, he appreciates the Muli performer for his valuable inputs on the project. 

The MV also stars young actors Pauline Quijano, Jack Burgos, and Nour Hooshmand, who also played an important role in the music video of his previously released single, “Tadhana.”

Ace Banzuelo’s “Meron Ba” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

Shoti makes Cebu proud with viral smash “LDR” topping streaming charts in Southeast Asia

“The Sony Music Entertainment family treats me not like a business partner but as a member of the family. They’ve been guiding me in terms of putting my music out there and reaching as many people as I could. If we have problems, they make sure to work on them ASAP. I told our music director that I wanted something candid, just me and my friends laughing. It was super easy working with them because they are my family friends.” ~Shoti, Filipino Singer/Producer a 16-year-old bedroom Pop Sensation Cebu-based artist

Filipino Singer/Producer Shoti is making waves with his crossover hit “LDR” topping various streaming charts in Southeast Asia. The sped-up version of “LDR” alone has been holding its ground in key markets within the region, peaking at Spotify Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia at No. 13, 49, 61, and 147, respectively.

The laid-back tune recently went viral thanks to its sped-up version, which inspired countless dance covers on TikTok and provided a soundtrack to a new generation of listeners who are caught up with the relatability of the lyrics.

With the song delivered in English and Cebuano lyrics, Shoti continues the tradition of asserting cultural and geographical identity to mainstream music, while remaining current and true to his vision as an artist. This prompted Sony Music Entertainment to sign him as one of their new artists on their esteemed roster, and eventually co-release what could be one of the biggest local pop/hip-hop songs in recent memory.

Shoti’s latest single, “LDR” is accompanied by a music video helmed by Anthony Hejie Suralta. Released yesterday on YouTube, the visuals showed the young artist and his friends in a happy, carefree state, giving out roses to random girls as a form of appreciation. Shoti reveals that the concept behind it was impromptu and casual, with his friends cherishing a cheerful moment together.

In just one day after release, the music video for “LDR” debuted inside the top 20 of YouTube’s Trending For Music chart and is currently gaining traction at a rapid pace.

 

Shoti’s “LDR” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

Filipino singer-songwriter Benj Pangilinan drops music video for “Love, That’s Rare”

“We wanted to try our best to tell a story that made people see a different side of Love and all that it brings. Working with Direk Gilb was super fun. His energy is infectious. I learned so much from him on the process of what it takes to create a short film. I'm not trying to impress anyone. I guess I just try to focus on being as authentic as possible to shine His light on others.” ~Benj Pangilinan, Filipino Singer-songwriter 

Filipino singer-songwriter Benj Pangilinan drops music video for “Love, That’s Rare”

Filipino Singer-songwriter Benj Pangilinan is the newest recording artist this year to be launched under Sony Music Entertainment—home to some of the biggest acts in the country, including P-Pop royalty SB19 and multi-awarded band Ben&Ben.

Serving charismatic flair with undeniable vocal chops, the promising star has shown immense promise with the release of “LOVE, THAT’S RARE.” The track serves as his official single under the international record label, and is co-produced by Grammy-nominated Xerxes Bakker (Imagine Dragons, Snoop Dogg).

 

The release of the electro-pop ballad is accompanied by a music video directed by Filipino filmmaker Gilb Baldoza, who has done important work for fellow recording artists such as Julie Anne San Jose and Rico Blanco. The main idea behind its visuals was conceived by Benj and his sister Hannah.

Despite coming from a lineage of well-respected entertainers, Benj Pangilinan wants to be known for bringing his personal stamp to his own art. Not worried about what other people think, the multi-hyphenate artist is keen on redirecting his focus on making music that represents his own vision.

The music video of “LOVE, THAT’S RARE” is out on July 7, 2023 (Friday) at 7pm on YouTube via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch it here.

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

Miley Cyrus releases new single “Flowers” a powerful visual expression of self-empowerment

"Started to cry / But then I remembered / I can buy myself flowers / Write my name in the sand. I can love me better than you can."

Miley Cyrus, a recording artist, songwriter, and pioneer, has released "Flowers," the first single from her upcoming eighth studio album Endless Summer Vacation, which will be available worldwide on March 10. Miley expresses her thoughts on courage and self-love in the song.

Fans have declared that 2023 will be Miley's year because of the song's themes and buzz.

Miley has unveiled a fashion-forward video for her song "Flowers," which is not surprising. Miley created the video, Jacob Bixenman directed it, and Stephen Galloway was the creative movement director.

Endless Summer Vacation has seen numerous visuals; A powerful trailer served as the album's first public announcement. The album cover, which Miley completely executed without the use of any special effects and was taken by Brianna Capozzi, was also shown. Miley calls the album "her love letter to LA," and it was recorded in Los Angeles and produced by Kid Harpoon, Greg Kurstin, Mike WiLL Made-It, and Tyler Johnson.

Endless Summer Vacation will be available worldwide on digital platforms as well as in physical stores. On shop.mileycyrus.com, fans can pre-order multiple physical configurations. A special white vinyl is also available only at Target. On streaming services, fans can also pre-save the album here.

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.

Ben&Ben captures fearlessness in pursuing romance with 2022 single “Paninindigan Kita”

Ben&Ben captures fearlessness in pursuing romance with 2022 single “Paninindigan Kita” 

Ben&Ben captures fearlessness in pursuing romance with 2022 single “Paninindigan Kita”. The song marks another chapter in the band’s career with its incredibly effortless songwriting and anthemic pop sound. Filipino folk-pop collective Ben&Ben marks a new era in music with the release of their 2022 single “Paninindigan Kita.” Written by Paolo and Miguel Benjamin, the upbeat pop song captures the fearlessness of fighting for someone you love despite the disapproval from the people around.

“It is also an ode to a lover that might be hesitant to take a step forward in the relationship. It's a heartfelt song that gives a balance between understanding where the lover is coming from, and a gentle reassurance that the one singing the song is ready and sure, after learning a lot so far about life and love.”

Expressing persistence in pursuing romantic love, “Paninindigan Kita” hits the emotions even more majestically with layers of melodic guitar lines, dazed harmonies, and deft arrangements. With the help of their long time producers and friends, Jean-Paul Verona and Sam Marquez, the track soars in mythic spectacle while maintaining a pop-leaning sound.

“We really wanted to be unapologetically ourselves and let our natural tastes flow deep into the core of the song arrangement.”

“Paninindigan Kita” holds a special place in the band’s catalog, with it being the first song that they recorded in an actual studio since the pandemic started. Ben&Ben made the entire song at Spryrta, the same place where they recorded their multiplatinum full-length album, Limasawa Street.  

“A definitely memorable part of the whole recording was doing the whole song in the excess of a day, working from 10am to 6am and rushing to the airport to catch a flight to Cebu only a few hours later.”

It’s worth noting that “Paninindigan Kita” sounds incredibly effortless as far as songwriting and creating melodies are concerned. This time, Ben&Ben takes pride in bringing to life their emotions though a song, and celebrating how universal some stories are, regardless of its specifity in details.

“We were able to block out the noise and focus on simply speaking to our Liwanag. As compared to before, we're a bit more open in the way we speak, and we're a bit more bold and confident with our attitude towards the subject of love, especially because the writer has matured and gained a deeper understanding of how love works.”  

This year, the nine-piece ensemble hopes to share their music more to a global audience. With “Paninindigan Kita” marking an entirely different phase in creative and goal-setting terms, Ben&Ben is all set for bigger things in their career moving forward. 

“Paninindigan Kita” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

The award-winning Filipino girl group 4th Impact joins SB19 and KAIA as part of Sony Music and ShowBT family

“It’s an answered prayer for us. We once prayed for a management who will really take care of us and believe in what we can do. We feel ShowBT and Sony Music are the right companies to help us reach more of our dreams. And it is such a great honor to be part of their roster and be lined up with the P-Pop Kings: SB19. We wanted it to be a new anthem. It’s an empowering song that aims to celebrate Filipinas all around the world, and how they’ve shown grace and excellence amidst troubling times. We wanted to empower everyone, especially Filipino women, to believe in themselves and hold on to their dreams. Everything is possible if we just work together as one.” ~4th Impact

It’s official: 4th Impact is the newest addition to Sony Music Philippines and ShowBT Philippines’ roster of music talents, which include P-Pop kings SB19 and five-member girl group KAIA.

No stranger to conquering the international music scene, 4th Impact made waves in the UK after finishing fifth on the British singing contest, The X Factor and peaking at No. 10 on iTunes Brazil with their 2020 single “K(NO)W MORE.” Late last year, the award-winning girl group co-headlined the crossover orchestra concert, Forte with SB19, which received glowing reviews for its exemplary fusion of classical and Pinoy pop music on a live stage format. 

After being officially welcomed by Sony Music Philippines and ShowBT Philippines as part of the family, 4th Impact expressed gratitude for the interesting developments in their career. 

To mark the beginning of this eventful partnership, 4th Impact has released their new single “Here We Go,” which was produced by Choi YoungHo (Handsome People) and Zrademusic (Adrian K, Methuselah K.). With a masterful blend of R&B diva chops, hip-hop sass, and stadium-sized energy, the upbeat track positions 4th Impact as a vocal powerhouse deserving of global acclaim.

4th Impact revealed that it’s their first time writing a song, and that their own life story is the main inspiration behind the lyrics. 

The pop-R&B jam is accompanied by a music video which finds the Cercado sisters Almira, Irene, Mylene, and Celina looking all sassy and confident in a star-making performance. It’s also part of 4th Impact’s first single album, which contains the following tracks:

1. Here We Go
2. K(no)w More
3. Here We Go (Instrumental)
4. K(no)w More (Instrumental)

4th Impact’s “Here We Go” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines. Watch the music video here.

Mezzaluna drops Bond-inspired song “I Beg”

"I wrote this song based on a personal experience that I went through back in high school. I was really in my feelings and made this song in about 10 minutes. The song was initially really short, but the bridge came along later, and I'm really proud of how it turned out. I told you I'm the one who stood there by your side, that's why I beg. I had the intention to create an arrangement worthy of a James Bond theme song.So my biggest inspiration for this track was Adele's 'Skyfall' and Sam Smith's 'Writing's on the Wall'. I think this theme matches my image and vocal range the most. I worked with Deby Sucha again for the music video and this time, I surrendered everything to her because I trusted her work on my previous video. She came up with the brilliant idea of giving the music video the karaoke treatment and it was amazing. Although it’s not my usual aesthetic, it was great to step out of my comfort zone and try something new." ~Mezzaluna, Sony Music's OFFMUTE Artist

Mezzaluna drops Bond-inspired song “I Beg”

Sony Music's OFFMUTE artist, Mezzaluna, is back with her second single, “I Beg.”

Following the success of her debut single, “In Situ,” the 20-year-old Indonesian singer-songwriter offers us another peek into her personal life with her signature storytelling style. 

The ballad dives quickly into Mezzaluna's sultry vocal delivery of disappointment and hopelessness. The dark piano melody builds through the chorus as she turns to desperation for answers, and as the second verse drops, a sense of strength rings true. 

The strings come in as the piano arpeggios intensify and Mezzaluna longs for the truth she knows deserves. The bridge follows in a freefall of acceptance of the unknown and the uncontrolled as she transforms the darkness into hope. 

“I Beg” marks Mezzaluna's second collaboration with Indonesian industry veterans, producer Gio Wibowo and creative director Deby Sucha. Wibowo, who had previously worked with her on 'In Situ', gathered a team to work on 'I Beg' this time round. The accompanying music video was left in Sucha's capable hands, having previously directed Mezzaluna's first music video. 

“I Beg” is available on all digital streaming platforms from 25th February 2022 via OFFMUTE.

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