P-Pop group WRIVE proves the long wait was worth the spotlight
For P-Pop boy group WRIVE, getting to the stage took hard work and patience. Asi Gatdula, Russu Laurente, Mathew Cruz, Ishiro Incapas, and Drei Amahan went through rejections, failed auditions, and years of waiting. But their determination kept them going until they finally made their debut, proving that not giving up can lead to success.
The five-member act recently guested on Spotlight, Star Magic’s talent showcase hosted by Ai Dela Cruz. There, the boys offered fans a more personal glimpse into the sacrifices and second chances that shaped their journey from hopefuls to headliners.
“I auditioned for so many shows when I was younger, and I always thought maybe this isn’t for me,” Mathew recalled, admitting that rejection after rejection left him questioning his path.
“I was about to give up, but then I got that callback for Dream Maker, and suddenly, everything changed.”
For Ishiro, it was less about rejection and more about breaking free from his shell. Naturally shy, he admitted that being in front of people initially felt overwhelming.
“I’m an introvert, but when I perform, it’s like I become someone else,” he said. “On stage, it feels like a battle, and that’s when I can give my all.”
Asi revealed that his pursuit of music meant taking a risk that many wouldn’t dare. At the time, juggling college and a BPO job, he quit the moment he received an audition invite for Dream Maker.
“I didn’t even think twice. I knew this was the sign I was waiting for. I told my boss I was resigning,” he shared, laughing at the memory but also proud of the decision that changed his life.
Russu, meanwhile, pointed out the long wait between training and debut. For him, patience was the greatest test of all.
“We’re just appreciative that we’re finally here. After two years of waiting, everything feels worth it,” he said.
Those years of uncertainty and persistence culminated last July when WRIVE officially debuted under ABS-CBN’s Polaris and Star Magic.
Their double-title tracks, “Ooh La La” and “Señorita,” set the tone for their identity: bold, playful, and ready to sweep fans into new experiences.
What once felt like missed chances has now turned into a big breakthrough for WRIVE. Their journey is proof that, in showbiz, the toughest roads often lead to the brightest stages.
