For singer-songwriter Marion Aunor and her sister, Ashley Aunor, a producer, launching a record label wasn’t just about providing a platform for music—it was about reshaping the essence of OPM (Original Pilipino Music) culture.
Before the year 2024 ended, the duo officially launched Wild Dream Records, an affiliate of Viva, with a lineup of artists as diverse as their visions for the label’s future.
“We don’t want Wild Dream Records to just be a record label. We want it to be part of OPM pop culture. Imagine a Wild Dream Records festival—something like a Coachella or Wanderland vibe here in the Philippines. A festival with not just music, but also art on the side, supporting local painters and collaborating with artists in other industries,” said Ashley.
The label boasts a promising roster, each artist carving a niche in the industry. Matt Wilson, also known as The Beat Whisperer, brings rhythmic innovation, while Minimal Days is the Master of Mood, crafting atmospheric soundscapes. Pecado channels his charisma as The Dark Charmer, Preza ignites with fiery passion as The Firestarter, Bianca Denise mesmerizes as The Soulful Poet, and Midnight Talking energizes with their Groovy Basslines.
For Marion, the weight of artists entrusting their dreams to Wild Dream Records is both thrilling and daunting.
“For sure, it’s scary. We’re asking them to believe in us, to sign with us. But we always remind them that being signed isn’t the end-all-be-all. It’s a collaborative effort. It’s not just the label doing all the work—it’s a partnership,” Marion told Manila Standard Entertainment.
She then emphasized the importance of artists being proactive, especially in today’s social media-driven landscape.
“It’s hard to book artists who aren’t active online. Fans usually follow the artists’ pages, not the label, so they need to make efforts too—even with behind-the-scenes stuff,” she added.
When it comes to the songwriting process of their artists, Marion explained that songwriting is deeply personal, but she strives to maintain an artist’s authenticity.
“It depends on the songs they submit. Sometimes, I see a song and know it can soar even more, so I’ll add melodic hooks or the one million layers. But the bigger chunk is up to the artist—I don’t want to take away their voice. But it’s Ashley who handles all the production, bringing everything together,” continued Marion.
Wild Dream Records is not just about music—it’s a bold step toward creating a multi-dimensional platform for young Filipino talents. By bridging music, art, and culture, Marion and Ashley aim to inspire a new wave of creativity in OPM.
“It’s scary. But things that are worth it are scary. Definitely,” said Marion.