After years of dedication and hard work, singer-songwriter Jace Roque has finally released a debut album as a mainstream artist. Called “Paradiso,” the album is released under ABS-CBN Star Music.
Reflecting on his journey from an independent artist to a signed recording talent, Jace expressed gratitude towards key figures who believed in his talent, citing Roxy Liquigan, Jonathan Manalo, Mela Ballano, and ABS-CBN Music for their support and guidance.
“Going mainstream has always been a dream of mine. The journey I had to go through to get to where I am today was tough. I’m very grateful that I’m now seeing and reaping the fruits of my labor,” he noted.
“Becoming a part of the ABS-CBN Music Christmas Station ID soundtrack was also a dream come true,” Jace added referring to his initial project with the label.
The carrier single of the album, titled “Casual,” blends Dancepop with Latin and Reggaeton influences.
“It tackles themes of love and intimacy,” Jace said.
Released on Sept. 15, 2023, “Casual” soared to no. 11 on iTunes Philippines Top Songs Chart and no. 10 on iTunes Philippines Pop Chart, marking a promising start for the album’s promotional journey.
In 2023, his single “Back To The Beginning” was nominated for Best Dance/Electronic Recording and Jace was once again nominated for People’s Voice Favorite Male Artist in the 36th Awit Awards.
He was also nominated for Philippine Pop Male Soloist of the Year and took home the award for Philippine Pop Male Star of the Night at the 8th Philippine Pop – PPOP Awards. Early this year, Jace started the year with a bang by receiving a nomination from the 15th PMPC Star Awards for Music as Male R&B Artist of the Year for his single “Trust.”
Jace comes from a showbiz clan. He said he inherited his artistic abilities from OPM stars Gino Padilla and Luke Mejares, and iconic action villain Boy Roque. He also studied acting and went on to do commercials, films, and TV shows. In 2017, Jace was cast in the multi-award-winning movie Across the Crescent Moon, and he has since earned a string of hit singles and millions of views.
Paradiso, a Pop-EDM album seven years in the making, features Jace’s international hits along with newer tracks from his previous EP, Inferno.
Inspired by Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy, the album narrates Jace’s journey from and back to paradise, visually depicted in the album art by photographer Raymond Cauilan.
Paradiso debuted on May 24 on all digital platforms under ABS-CBN Star Music, reaching No. 3 on iTunes Philippines Top Albums and No. 2 on the Pop Albums chart.