BY now, every Filipino boy band coming out with layered and hook-laden pop songs wants a slice of the pie laid hot by the success of SB19. Why not, the group has become the yardstick of what a Tagalog-singing-and-dancing bunch should be, especially in a Southeast Asian country bewitched by South Korean pop.
For a quick illustration, SB19 is the first Filipino and Southeast Asian artist to have earned a nomination at the Billboard Music Awards (for Top Social Artist), and entered the top 10 of Billboard Social 50 weekly and year-end charts.
New act BILIB, which came out with their debut “Kabanata” early this month, certainly believes they still have a space in the hearts of Pinoy pop fans. Again, why not. They took a strong first step towards public recognition with a catchy song. The song’s opening verse introduces them rightfully so, with a hint of what the members have gone through before reaching this crucial period in their lives.
“Bagong simula/ Naranasan ang bawat hirap at ginhawa/ Ako’y namamangha/ Nalagpasan ang lahat at pilit na kinaya,” BILIB sings.
Each of the members is said to have something interesting to tell as far as their background is concerned, all contributing to their ensemble’s dynamics. Meet Clyde, JMac, Carlo, Yukito, RC, Zio, and Rafael, described by observers as “all passionate performers with diverse talents and experiences.”
Every good boy band would more or less do fine if backed by a producer with the business know-how and, more importantly, full trust in the capacity of the act. Enter AQ Prime Music which has played a significant role in honing BILIB and “ensuring they are ready to take on the industry,” that’s according to their press release.
“From extensive training to addressing their personal needs, the support provided by AQ Prime Music has allowed BILIB to focus on their growth and deliver exceptional performances for their loyal supporters,” it added.
BILIB participated in the highly anticipated Ppop Convention last July 14 to 16, a three-day event held in Quezon City featuring both established and rising artists showcasing such a genre, and their engagement with fans. Mall tours and other types of gigs are set for them to further connect with supporters and expand their reach.
The song “Kabanata,” credited to AQ Prime, takes pride in its lyrics that delve, according to a musical expert, “into themes of love, self-discovery, and personal growth.”
The chorus seems to inform listeners that BILIB has prepared well enough for their breakout and how they will sustain their momentum. The boys sing: “Di sasayangin ang panahon/ Upang matapos ang lahat ng aking gagawin/ Mahuli man ngunit darating pa rin/ Dahil walang atrasan/ Patungo na sa laban.”
As for the music, there’s no doubt the genuine excitement that can be heard from the first to the last note does not cease. No boring passage whatsoever.
I recall a few years back, I was present as a music journalist when the then relatively unknown SB19 was being formally presented to the public. At that time few may have thought they’re going to be as big as they are now.
So, what’s the fitting message for this new boy group? Well, they just have to (pun intended) BILIB.