Exciting New Band It All Started In May Is The One To Watch After Release Of Debut Single “O’ Kay Tamis”

Published on May 27, 2025

It All Started In May (IASIM) is truly the one to watch after the release of their debut single “O’ Kay Tamis” under Universal Records last May 23, 2025. The track made it to not just the New Music Friday playlist of Spotify Philippines, but also to the Fresh Finds Philippines playlist — even being featured on the cover! 

This is definitely a rare achievement for a new band — a new band that just launched their Spotify account the same day they released their first-ever single, a new band that was formed exactly just a year ago, a new band that was just scouted and signed by the record label early this year.

This milestone reflects the unwavering support of their quickly-growing fanbase, the band’s distinctive sound and style, and, most importantly, the exceptional quality of the song itself. 

It All Started In May gained significant attention in January 2025 when their covers of classic Filipino songs, including the iconic “Manila” by Hotdog and “Your Song” by Parokya ni Edgar, went viral on TikTok. This led to some offers from different record labels and management companies, with the band ultimately choosing Universal Records as their label and GLXY as their talent management company. 

The band quickly went to work, hitting the studio to record their original songs and create new ones. And now they have finally released their debut single “O’ Kay Tamis,” much to the delight of fans and those who discovered them on TikTok, as they had been clamoring for this fan-favorite’s release on Spotify.  

Composed of Red (guitar and lead vocals), Jai (keyboard), JP (bass and vocals), Pau (guitar and vocals), and Mikee (drums), IASIM is a talented group hailing from Cavite. While Red, Jai, JP, and Mikee are students at National University Dasmariñas, Pau is a professor from the same school, bringing a unique dynamic to the band. Formed in May 2024 (which explains the band name), IASIM draws heavy inspiration from the ‘70s when it comes to both sound and style, apparent in their first single and everyday wear.

With a fast-growing fanbase, distinctive sound and style, an amazing debut single, and electrifying stage presence, this is definitely just the start for It All Started In May, and we are excited to see what else they have to offer.

“O’ Kay Tamis”, is available by request on V81 Radio Mobile App.

From iTunes PH to PBB to TikTok, David Licauco’s “I Think I Love You” Makes an Impression

Published on May 21, 2025

There is no stopping David Licauco. Apart from being a popular actor, in-demand endorser, and successful entrepreneur, he is now also a recording artist signed under Universal Records, who just released the song “I Think I Love You.”

Written by Luke April Isnani and Ivo Impreso, “I Think I Love You” is a catchy and upbeat song about realizing that you’re developing strong emotions for someone — something that a lot of people can relate to. 

Last May 15, a few minutes before the drop of his single, David went live on his TikTok account for a single salubong while he was in Lujo Bar in Poblacion. At the strike of midnight, he celebrated with his fans online and was surprised when the DJ at Lujo suddenly played “I Think I Love You.”

Before the song was even released, it was actually featured in Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition. David entered Bahay ni Kuya as a Houseguest and after sharing with Kuya what his song is about, David was told that the Housemates would be divided into two groups — Team Kapamilya and Team Kapuso — and tasked to come up with a dance choreography for “I Think I Love You.”

Talented Will Ashley led Team Kapuso, crafting choreography and formations for his group. Esnyr, on the other hand, led Team Kapamilya; he recognized that their group didn’t have high-level dancers, so they focused on delivering a fun and creative number inspired by high school performances and Christmas party presentations.

In the end, David chose Team Kapamilya as the winner, praising their synchronized and well-thought-out routine. David rewarded them with lollipops, something that the Housemates appreciated and enjoyed. 

“I Think I Love You” is currently getting a lot of love online. On the day of its release, it was number five on the Top Songs list of iTunes Philippines, making it the only OPM song to make it to the top 5.

On TikTok, several supporters are using the audio for fan-made edits of David and his onscreen partner Barbie Forteza. A lot of people have also been dancing to it and making their own choreography for it, including TikToker Miko Yanson, who is famous for coming up with dance choreos for a lot of trending songs online.

David releasing “I Think I Love You” was something a lot of people didn’t expect, but it is definitely a pleasant surprise especially for his fans. During his PBB guesting, David shared: “I really just wanted to try everything — sa showbiz, sa buhay. One of those is releasing a song; yun na nga po yung ‘I Think I Love You’ — para po sa mga taong may gusto pero di pa niya masabi.”

With the good reception to “I Think I Love You,” we won’t be surprised if and when David releases another song.

“I Think I Love You,” is also available by request on V81 Radio Mobile App.

Vilmark Honors His Mom In Latest Single “Sa Piling Mo Lang”

Published on May 19, 2025

“This is more than just a song. It’s a love letter for the most important woman in my life.” 

In celebration of mothers this month, Vilmark expresses his love and gratefulness for his mom through a new single titled Sa Piling Mo Lang.”  

Released last May 16 on all digital streaming platforms, “Sa Piling Mo Lang” is a song written by Vilmark, as he savors the little moments and special connection he shares with his mom. 

I wrote this during a moment of reflection, thinking about how much my mom has been there for me through every high and low. It’s 100% based on my personal experience. Every word came from the heart, from real moments we’ve shared. I just wanted to put into music what I sometimes find hard to say out loud,” according to him.

The singer-songwriter highlights that “Sa Piling Mo Lang” is his way of showing gratitude to his mother, “I want to thank her for everything she’s done for me, for the love she’s given, and the way just being around her brings me peace. It’s about those simple moments—her smile, her voice, and our conversations that stay with me forever.”

Given the heartfelt essence of his song, “Sa Piling Mo Lang” is sure to create a powerful emotional connection with the listeners. According to Vilmark, “I want them to feel the love I have for my mom and hopefully, it reminds them of someone in their own life who makes them feel safe, heard, and loved. Whether it’s their mother or someone who’s been like one to them, I hope the song brings warmth and a sense of gratitude. For me, this is more than just a song, it’s a love letter for the most important woman in my life.”

“Sa Piling Mo Lang” is now available on all digital streaming platforms. This marks the first-ever song of Vilmark for his mom. “It’s a very personal and emotional project for me because it allowed me to express my love and gratitude to her through music. I also explored a softer, more heartfelt sound to match the sincerity of the message. It’s a new side of me that I’m excited to share with everyone.”

“Sa Piling Mo Lang” is also available by request on V81 Radio Mobile App.

Silent Sanctuary Releases Comeback Single “Sagad”

Published on April 29, 2025

Have you ever experienced love so deeply that it resonates within every part of you? Whether you’ve felt it before, are currently immersed in it, or simply dream of such an emotion, “Sagad” by Silent Sanctuary is the perfect song for you. 

After a two-year wait, the beloved Filipino “Rockestra” is back with new material: the catchy and feels-filled “Sagad,” released under Universal Records.

Inspired by the popular Netflix series You, the song explores the theme of obsessive love, mirroring the intense emotions of the show’s protagonist. As you listen to it, you’re drawn into a love that feels overwhelmingly consuming yet painfully out of reach: “Sagad sa buto at laman. ‘Di ba mapagbigyan, lahat ng nais ko. Sana’y ako na lang sa ‘yo.” 

The lyrics also articulate the heart-wrenching experience of seeing the person you yearn for in the arms of someone else, wishing that your love would choose you instead: “Sagad sa lungkot at kaba, sa tuwing nakikita kang kapiling mo na siya, masaya.” 

While “Sagad” was released on April 25, lucky fans of the band were able to already listen to it last April 5, when Silent Sanctuary performed it at Cozy Cove in Baguio. And while that performance is not yet on the YouTube channel of the official Nine Degrees North, the band’s live performance of their hit song “Ikaw Lamang” is already up there.

Silent Sanctuary’s return with “Sagad” marks a significant moment for the band, as they reconnect with their fans after a hiatus. Known for their emotive lyrics and captivating rock orchestra melodies, the band continues to evolve while staying true to their roots, delivering a sound that is both fresh and familiar.

“Sagad” is available by request on V81 Radio Mobile App.

Angeline Quinto Goes Live on TikTok to Welcome “Being With You”

Published on April 28, 2025

Angeline Quinto, who is now under Universal Records, just released a brand new song entitled “Being With You.” It is the quintessential Angeline Quinto song: beautifully sung, full of emotions, and boasts of impressively high notes. 

Fun fact: before it became the beautiful track we now know as “Being With You,” the song was originally penned in Korean. The song was composed, produced, mixed, and mastered in Korea, as well.

The track is a romantic ballad made up of beautiful orchestral elements, from the hypnotically soft keys, to the emotional strings, supported by story-telling through percussive instruments, constantly building up to a powerful climax.

The Power Diva went live on TikTok minutes before the drop of her newest song, and excitedly waited for the release together with her fans and supporters. After listening to it together with those who joined her livestream, Angeline couldn’t help but feel grateful for all the words of support from the comments section. Some used compliments like “ganda” and “sarap pakinggan,” while others said that they would definitely get LSS or last song syndrome after hearing the song, which fans and curious listeners alike can now stream on all major music streaming platforms.

A heartwarming moment was when her son Sylvio joined the livestream. But what’s cuter than her son joining the live? Angeline having a hard time ending the livestream! She didn’t know how to, so she had to ask help from her fans, who then sent instructions in the comment section just so she could end the livestream.

One good thing about “Being With You” is that while it doesn’t stray away from the typical Angeline Quinto sound, it still sounds very current and relevant, something that anyone and everyone can appreciate and enjoy now. 

What’s next? The “Being With You” music video, which promises to be just as emotion-filled as the song. While waiting for its release, the “Being With You” official lyric video is something that fans can already watch on the Universal Records YouTube account. The song is also now available on all major streaming platforms:  Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and Deezer.

“Being With You” is available by request on V81 Radio Mobile App.

David Licauco To Release Debut Single “I Think I Love You”

Published on April 14, 2025

Kapuso actor David Licauco is ready to take his artistic journey to new heights with the release of his debut single “I Think I Love You.” The track is set to drop on May 16, 2025, under Universal Records Philippines, marking an exciting new chapter in David’s colorful career.

Apart from being a TV and movie actor (his movie Samahan ng Mga Makasalanan is showing in cinemas nationwide starting April 19), David is also an in-demand brand endorser and model, who set the stage on fire at the recent Bench Body of Work show. Maintaining an active lifestyle that includes playing basketball and traveling with family and friends, he is also a successful entrepreneur who owns businesses like Sobra Cafe and Kuya Korea. His ability to juggle multiple passions is truly a testament to his exceptional time management skills and dedication to living life to the fullest.

Fans of David may already know that he sings, since he sang “Kailangan Kita” for the OST of his popular hit series Maria Clara at Ibarra. With “I Think I Love You,” the Pambansang Ginoo is set to showcase his growth as a singer.

“I Think I Love You” combines David’s romantic heart with music. The track promises to be an upbeat, synth-pop, danceable song that will get the TikTok audience grooving. While fans know David as a cool, calm, and collected individual, this song offers a glimpse into a more thrilling, energetic side of him. While the track has yet to be released, anticipation is already building it.

As David embarks on this new artistic venture, fans can expect to hear and see a new side of the beloved artist. His captivating personality and stunning visuals are just the beginning—prepare yourselves for a showcase of his vocal talent through “I Think I Love You.”


Get ready for “I Think I Love You” dropping this May on V81 Radio Mobile App.

“Harana-Pop Heartthrob” Dylan Menor Releases Debut Single “Maghapon”

Published on April 8, 2025

Most people know Dylan Menor as an actor, having appeared in series such as Ang Himala ni Niño, and Almost Paradise, plus the MMFF entry The Kingdom. And now he is showing everyone just how multi-talented he is, with the release of “Maghapon,” his debut single under Universal Records.

The catchy “Maghapon,” which was written by Alvin Serito of the band SunKissed Lola, is a serenade track with a slow and soothing progression, capturing the quiet beauty of companionship. Through the magic of unspoken connection, the song tells the story of someone drawn to another’s presence—enchanted by their eyes and longing to stay close. With a gentle melody and intimate lyrics, it expresses the subtle thrill of admiration and the warmth of simply being together: “Kahit saan mo gusto, ‘di mo kailangang magsalita. Kahit saan mo gusto, ang mahalaga ay nariyan ka.”

Dylan—who is managed by Stages Talents and an endorser for the MVP Group of Companies, Penshoppe, and Blackwater—has been teasing his fans by performing parts of the song in events like his “A Date with the Dreamers” fan meet last February 16, and more recently on an episode of Wil to Win

His fans can finally rejoice now that “Maghapon” is already available on all major streaming platforms. “I’m very excited now that my first-ever single is out,” Dylan says. “I’m very proud of this song, and I hope a lot of people will be able to relate to it kasi nakakakilig and nakaka-in love talaga siya, from the melody to the lyrics.”

This is definitely just the start for the “Harana Pop Heartthrob” of Universal Records. There will be a lot of YouTube videos and short-form content on socials to support the single, TV and radio guestings, plus on-ground activities scheduled for the press and his fans to get to know him more as a singer and recording artist.

“Maghapon” is available by request on V81 Radio Mobile App.

Carish Comes Through with His Third Single This Year, “Tanong PT 2”

Published on April 3, 2025

Rising rap star Carish just released his third single this year, “Tanong PT 2,” which is a collection of questions left unanswered, clinging to the hope of rekindling a broken relationship. Dropped under Universal Records, it further solidifies his presence in the Filipino Kalye hip-hop music scene.

“Tanong PT 2” takes you on a bumpy ride, navigating through a loveless road after a tough breakup. Carish deeply expresses the emotions of regret and yearning, telling the story of a man reflecting on the choices that led to the end of a cherished relationship. With every lyric he pours out his desperation to regain her trust, all while missing the light that her smile once brought into his life. “Pwede bang ako pa rin ang iyong mamahalin? Hindi ko kayang mawala ka pa sa akin, at ibalik ang tiwala na aking nasira. Miss ko na ngiti mo pang bihira.”

Backtracking to his first ever release, “Nakaw Tingin”, Carish has reunited with the rapper Raft-Elo, who lent his talent to Carish’s very first song. Raft-Elo’s rap feature adds another layer of texture to the song, contrasting Carish’s melodic vocals.

Carish has been on fire creatively, consistently delivering music that is both emotional and catchy. Following up on his previous tracks, “Room 69” and “Permiso,” “Tanong PT 2” is a testament to his evolution as an artist and his dedication to creating authentic, relatable music that fans can connect with. 

“Tanong PT 2” is available by request on V81 Radio Mobile App.

Arra San Agustin’s “Balang Araw” Brings Comfort and Hope for Better Days 

Published on March 31, 2025

Sparkle artist Arra San Agustin has released her new single, Balang Araw, last March 28, and it’s the perfect song for anyone going through tough times. 

With its powerful message, Balang Araw reminds listeners that better days are ahead. It gives the much-needed assurance that even when things feel uncertain or overwhelming, things will eventually fall into place. 

“I love the line ‘di mo man maaninag, dadating din yung liwanag,” says Arra. “Kasi minsan clueless naman talaga tayo sa pwedeng mangyari pero darating din yung brighter days na hindi mo ine-expect and yun yung masarap na feeling kasi mare-realize mo na lang na wow, everything worked out.”

As an artist, Arra finds deep meaning in the song’s message. “There are times when I feel challenged, like taking on a new or tough role. In those moments, I remind myself to give my best, as if it’s my last chance,” she says.

The song’s vibe is something Arra is excited about, as it reminds her of her favorite OPM artist, Kitchie Nadal. “Sa OPM artists, fan ako ni Kitchie Nadal so parang may ganong vibe kasi siya kaya na-attract ako agad sa kanya and maganda kasi yung message ng song,” she shares.

With Balang Araw, Arra hopes to inspire listeners to stay positive and motivated, no matter what life throws at them. “I want everyone who listens to this song to feel that sense of hope and energy. This song is for those who are struggling and need a little reminder that things will work out in the end,” she says.

Arra San Agustin’s debut single, Balang Araw, under GMA Playlist is now available on digital platforms worldwide!

For more information on your favorite Kapuso singers, visit www.gmanetwork.com.

“Balang Araw” is also available by request on V81 Radio Mobile App.

OPM band Nior takes listeners on a rollercoaster ride of emotions with its newest single titled “Ethanol.”

Published on March 11, 2025

OPM band Nior takes listeners on a rollercoaster ride of emotions with its newest single under AltG Records titled “Ethanol.

Available on all digital streaming platforms starting March 11, “Ethanol” is about falling in love and accepting one’s imperfections. 

The vocalist and songwriter Gabrielle Van Polanen Petel shares, “I wrote it last year after a gig I went to with my boyfriend. It was a local gig with different local artists, and I was there to witness their original compositions. After that, I was highly influenced and inspired to make one.”

Gabrielle assures that listeners can relate to their latest love song, “It is highly based on experience. Every time I make a song, I want it to always relate with other people. This song specifically encapsulates my experiences in the past as well as in the present. The idea is that when you enter a relationship, it’s quite a rollercoaster ride. You learn to adjust and to accept the flaws and imperfections the other person has.”

If there’s one thing Nior wants to impart to their listeners is that love involves compromise, especially during trials and uncertainties. Gabrielle says, “I want them to know that it’s normal to feel unsure in a relationship because as time passes by and you get comfortable with them, you gradually learn how to accept and voice out your opinions. It’s just a matter of patience and understanding.”

Formed in April 2023, the name Nior reflects the band’s dynamic mix of juniors and seniors, while also symbolizing camaraderie, as it also means “bro.” Featuring Gabrielle Van Polanen Petel (Vocals), Brian Nucup (Rhythm Guitar/Vocals), Jessie Ocampo (Drums), Paul Tanchiatco (Lead Guitar), and Christian Cervera Mallari (Bass), the band specializes in Indie, OPM, and Alternative music but welcomes other genres.

Listen to Nior’s unique and captivating single “Ethanol” on all digital streaming platforms starting March 11. 

Catch Nior’s newest song “Ethanol” available by request on V81 Radio Mobile App.