Written by: Helen Mary Labao / Photos by: Harvey Tobias
Philippine talent is globally recognized especially in the music industry. But the lifeblood of the industry lies in the youth, the up and coming artists who are set to rise and continue to shape the industry in the future. This is why Sony Music Philippines recently signed on five spectacular rising artists in the Philippine scene under their helm: Ben&Ben, Nathan & Mercury, Alex Bruce, Syd Hartha, and the vowels they orbit.
They made the announcement in the launch held at 12 Monkey Pub in El Pueblo, Ortigas with members of the press, the Sony executives, and the artists who graciously gave a sampling of their talent. Manila Millennial witnessed this as Sony warmly welcomed these talented artists in their growing family in their formal launch.
Folk pop and 9-man band Ben&Ben led the roster of artists. The success of their Limasawa Street launch album was highlighted even more as they rendered the carrier single Pagtingin and Araw-Araw in the stage. The mesmerizing combination of vocal and instrument talent continues to make them a household staple in people’s playlists.
Another memorable and potentially viral tune came from the set performed by the vowels they orbit. Their song Selos is nostalgia of young love and jealousy captured in a song. A local Youtube favorite, the song recently made its debut officially in Myx music channel shortly after they were introduced as a Sony talent.
A refreshing and young voice also pierced the stage and held her own. Alex Bruce, the 12-year-old rapping legend from Batangas, is a sweet teenager with a power house voice. This genuine rap talent has a long way to go. She graciously and softly answered interview questions but was fierce and full of spunk when she rendered her single “Pull it Off.” She recalls that she derived inspirations from Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, Bone Thugs, Eminem, and 2Pac.
Age is also not an issue for the high school senior but sultry and socially relevant singer Syd Hartha. With memorable lyrics like “Di lahat ng gusto dapat masunod, Di lahat ng hiling dapat matupad mo” from her song Ayaw, she is thrilled that people have been inspired by her music. A Joey Ayala fan who also admitted to having a “One Directioner” phase, Syd Hartha serves as a female voice for the disempowered women with songs tackling issues like rape and consent. Her original songs speak of her deeply held beliefs and strength as a young woman.
With the premium label of Sony Music signing these artists on, much goodness can be expected as these artists continue to flourish and make their dent in the Philippine and even global music industry.
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