When four super queens reunite, you know it’s about to go down with the memes.
Ever seen the Lady Gaga clip where she showers the interviewer with non-stop praises for ten seconds straight? That was our exact reaction when we saw Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam’s latest cover shoot featuring four of the most-celebrated beauty queens in the Philippines.
Lensed by top photographer BJ Pascual, the shoot was mind-blowing and breathtaking in every aspect. The Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam team couldn’t have chosen better cover stars for their anniversary issue other than Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa, Miss World 2013 Megan Young, and Miss Earth 2015 Angelia Ong. A powerhouse all in one frame featuring four different concepts.
Now let’s be real. The Vogue or Pinterest validation is real for any creative individual, but when your work goes viral and has been constantly recreated—especially in the art of memery, that’s when you realize its long-lasting impact. In this case, the Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam cover with the four super queens. Scroll down below for our favorite recreations!
Edgian Florida’s been making waves for his cut-out illustrations of fashion shoots that are juxtaposed under the everyday Filipino setting, including his recreation of the Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam cover.
The Philippines’ largest independent film festival, the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, is set to return for its 17th year this year. Due to the pandemic, this year’s Cinemalaya has moved online with the 13 finalists being streamed on KTX. The thirteen short films will be divided into two bundles, with tickets priced at 150 pesos per bundle. This is the second year in a row that Cinemalaya has pivoted towards a digital platform to adapt to the times. Cinemalaya 2021 will run from August 6 to September 5. But Cinemalaya 2021 isn’t just offering the 13 short film finalists, there will also be a host of events and screenings held outside of the main competition.
First, Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video, the longest-running independent film and video competition in Asia will have another go around this year. There will also be Cinemalaya Retrospectives which will screen past entries from previous Cinemalayas. Visions of Asia will screen award-winning and crucially acclaimed movies from Asia. IndieNation will be a showcase of critically acclaimed full-length and short movies made in the last year.
There will also be a tribute to director Mel Chionglo, the former head of the Cinemalaya Competition and Monitoring Committee. Three of his best films will be screened during the festival. Cinemalaya 2021 will also be host to the book launching of Riding the Waves: 15 Years of Cinemalaya, a complete guide to the history of Cinemalaya. For a full guide of what to expect, check out Cinemalaya’s website.
Also, the independent film festival will be having the Cinemalaya Film Lab. This is a three-month-long film training and mentorship program from September to November 2021. According to Cinemalaya, they are having this because they noticed that recent submissions have been having predictable formulas and recurring themes like “gender, poverty, and social inequalities.” The film lab is meant to hone new talents for a more diverse 2023 edition when full-length films will be screened again in competition.
DRIVE-IN THEATER
Finally, if you’re itching to watch these movies on the big screen instead of your phone or laptop, Cinemalaya has got you covered. Cinemalaya 2021 will be having a hybrid drive-in cinema at Liwasang Ullalim at the CCP complex. The drive-in will be called Cinema Under the Stars, and unlike most drive-ins, you can show up and watch even when you’re not in a car. Bikes, motorcycles, even jogging attire is accepted.
Over 200 short films were submitted for Cinemalaya 2021. The 13 films part of the main competition were all made during the pandemic and lockdown, so some of the movies’ themes reflect that. Here are the 13 short movies competing in Cinemalaya 2021.
One day, Arjan (played by the film’s director), is awoken by a mysterious voice. He finds himself alone on a small planet called Planet I. The movie follows Arjan as he explores the planet for 40 days. The movie is meant as a reflection of how the world felt smaller during the pandemic.
This documentary follows small Ilokano food business owners and entrepreneurs as they navigate and handle the challenges the pandemic brought to the food and service industry.
Lola Mayumi (Ruby Ruiz) is made fun of in her town as an old virgin. Because of this, she decides to hire a young callboy (Julian Roxas). What initially was supposed to be a quick fling turns into something special when the two unexpectedly form a bond. According to the movie’s director, Shiri De Leon, the film will tackle taboo subjects related to women and sex.
Ate O.G. was inspired by the director’s feeling of guilt he had during the lockdown. The movie follows, Ate, an old household helper, who is struggling to cope with the mundane of quarantine during the lockdown. She’s stuck at home with her two teenage employers who take out their negative feelings towards her.
Set in Pampanga in the 1940s, Beauty Queen follows Remedios Gomez, the holder of the town’s beauty pageant crown. When the Japanese invade the Philippines and her father is tortured and killed for refusing to follow them, Remedios and her brother Oscar escape to the mountains where they join the Hukbalahap. But she soon discovers that not only is she still struggling with grief, she also has limited opportunities in the resistance because she is a woman.
Gabriel is a security guard down on his luck. Desperate to get out of his situation, he decides to rob a bus. But before he can do it, two actual robbers board the bus. He now must decide whether to fight back or be a victim himself. Crossing is meant to tackle the idea that morality isn’t just simply black or white.
The film follows Santi (Kyle Kaizer Almenanza), a young and misbehaved boy who steals a dinosaur toy. When he runs away from his home, he accidentally drowns in a river. He then wakes up on a mysterious island where he has the opportunity to redeem himself from his past deeds with the help of an old woman.
J.C. is a prepubescent boy part of a religious group preparing for the end of times. As he prepares to play his part, he struggles between his divine calling and his emerging sexuality. The movie actually premiered at the 25th Busan International Film Festival and the 47th Film Fest Gent.
This fantasy drama is set in a community that thinks that the tikbalang is to blame for the recent spate of killings in the forest. Gubat, a tikbalang, decides to transform into a teenager to discover the truth. He soon meets an American botanist looking for rafflesias and he soon starts developing feelings for him. Director James Fajardo sees this movie as a way for him to dissect how folklore is used to bring down the less fortunate and introduce queer mythology into Philippines folklore.
Maski Papano (Directed by Che Tagyamon And Glenn Barit)
This comedy is about a discarded face mask that comes alive and tries to find its previous owner. After seeing that its old owner already has a better face mask, it wanders around Manila trying to find meaning in life. This movie comes from Glenn Barit, the director of the universally acclaimed Cleaners, and Che Tagyamon, an alumna of the Berlinale Talents 2019, SGIFF Southeast Asian Film Lab 2018, and Busan Film Commission’s FLY Film Lab 2019.
This documentary follows Lolang Keyag who lives in isolation with her baby grandson Eli. The movie follows both of them during lockdown as Keyag tries to be hopeful about the future. The movie stands out from the rest because it was shot entirely on a mobile phone.
The film centers on Elle, a young model new to the industry. One day, she arrives on set of her first commercial job but learns that what was initially planned has now been changed. She discovers that it’s been turned into a mysterious and weird concept that hides something darker. Out Of Body is based on director Enrico Po’s own experience of forgetting to tell a young actress that a scene they were going to shoot involved BDSM elements.
One day, a comic strip illustrator sees an awkward fight between her writer and his girlfriend. The two then decide to talk and their conversation soon tackles a variety of topics. This then makes them realize that their careers and friendship are on the line.
Bakunawa-inspired bracelets? Agimats? Look no further from these 7 local jewelry brands.
Early on in our SIBIKA books, we’ve been taught about how Filipinos loved their palamuti and alahas, which traces back to the pre-colonial period ’til the present age. Conversely, we talk about our ternos and barongs all the time, but we often forget to talk about how beautiful and rich in history our jewelry is. Thanks to these seven proudly local brands who work closely with our artisans, we finally get to know more about our culture and its impact on the modern times. Read up on this curated list of cool Filipino jewelry brands you should know more about.
Sustainably made in the islands, Angkan highlights how important it is to honor our tribes and connect with our identity. Case in point, their agimat necklaces, which is also known as the anting anting that’s believed to hold magical powers. They also have embroidered backpacks, tops and jackets made by different indigenous communities around the Philippines.
Nawa is a local brand that constantly collaborates with the T’Boli tribes of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. They ensure that the tradition of making brass jewelry is never forgotten, resulting to beautiful bangles, rings, and chokers. Nawa was even worn by Vice President Leni Robredo!
Pranca, a brand rooted in the Filipino word, “prangka,” meaning honesty, is known for their sophisticated and minimal take on pearls. Just take a look at their intriguing pieces like the stick earring, ear cuffs and anklets.
Made for the free-spirited soul, Stone River is one of the few local brands known for their bohemian, delicate yet edgy pieces. One look at their portfolio and you’ll see body chains, semi-precious stones, brass feather charms all handmade with love. A crowd favorite is their bakunawa-inspired cuffs that double as a necklace, or an anklet. They were also worn by Nadine Lustre for her Wildest Dreams visual album last year.
Pung To Lumad is a local brand that empowers the Lumad students from the Bakwit schools by selling their handcrafted accessories. Even after the community was forcibly shut down and destroyed, Pung To Lumad stands with them in solidarity. 100% of their proceeds go to their school supplies, food, water, and essentials.
Aside from highlighting the Filipino craftsmanship, Amami also puts a spotlight on the artisans they work with and tidbits of Philippine jewelry’s history in their platform. They have a range of accessories from necklaces, rings, and cuffs inspired by our heritage jewelry—pretty much like the heirloom pieces that were once worn by your mom or lola.
Sesotunawa is a T’Boli-owned local brand that amplifies the voices and art of the communities in Lake Sebu. The name is a combination of two T’Boli words “sesotu,” which means “to make one” and “nawa” or spirit. They sell rings, cuffs and home decor. Sesotunawa also shares their price transparency on their site, along with stories of their artisans
Going into the 2020 Olympics, Margielyn Didal was tipped as one of Team Philippine’s athletes to watch out for. At just 22 years old, she is a decorated skateboarder, ranked 17th in the world, and has been recognized by international publications. Competing in the inaugural women’s skateboarding event, hopes were high that Margielyn would impress. And impress she did. She placed 7th at the end of all four heats to enter the top 8 and the final round. But sadly, she fell short of a medal as she finished seventh among the eight competitors. The gold ultimately went to 13-year-old Japanese skateboarder Momiji Nishiya with Rayassa Leal of Brazil and Funa Nakayama of Japan getting silver and bronze respectively.
Despite not winning a medal, Margielyn made her country proud, as did her other fellow Filipino athletes who weren’t able to get a medal. At the very least, she is leaving the Olympics with renewed attention and shedding a spotlight on skateboarding and how it’s a viable sport, not just something that people assume delinquent teens do in their free time. The 22-year-old skateboarder projects this aura of chillness in the things she does. It’s not to say though that Margielyn doesn’t take her craft seriously, far from it. But when you watch her perform, it’s so much fun to watch. She left an undeniable mark at the Olympics, was loved by social media, and placed Philippine skateboarding on the map. Here are 9 times Margielyn was a whole mood at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
During the competition, Margie was actually injured but that didn’t stop her from performing the best she can. When it was her turn, she landed her trick which caused her to celebrate in glee. She looked genuinely happy with what she did and we were too.
WHEN SHE DID A LITTLE DANCE WHILE WAITING IN THE SIDE
If there’s one thing to know about Margielyn Didal, it’s that she knows how to have fun. She doesn’t take herself too seriously and lets loose once in a while. This is what happened when the camera caught her doing a dance while she was watching from the side. We love to see athletes have a good time.
WHEN SHE TOOK A PICTURE WITH TONY HAWK
Skating legend Tony Hawk was present at the 2020 Olympics so Margielyn rightfully took the opportunity to take a picture with him. The fact that the picture had an epic caption to go with it that references Tony Hawk’s famous meme shows that Margielyn is such a fun person. Tony then returned the favor by featuring her on his Instagram stories.
WHEN SHE WAS FEATURED ON THE OLYMPICS OFFICIAL INSTAGRAM PAGE
Even though Margielyn didn’t take home a medal, her time at the Olympics was undeniably memorable. So much so that the Olympics’ official Instagram account featured her in one of their posts. The carousel features three photos of Margie, one where she’s flexing and showing off her Olympic rings tattoo, one where she’s fist-bumping another skater and one where she’s holding her hands up as if she’s praying to show her gratefulness after the finals. The fun Margielyn had at the Olympics is the kind of fun we want to have in any activity we do.
WHEN SHE DID A DANCE WHILE WAITING TO SEE HER SCORE
Once again, never underestimate the high energy of Margielyn Didal. After she did her second of four runs to determine who the top eight will be, Margie did a little groovy dance while waiting for her score to be revealed.
Despite not winning a medal, she was in high spirits the entire time and that was something the Tokyo Olympics organizing committee recognized. On their official Twitter account, they tweeted a cute photo of Marigielyn Didal sitting on the floor giving a thumbs up. They called it the Margielyn Didal seal approval and we agree.
WHEN SHE POSED AFTER SHE WAS INTRODUCED
Never expect a dull moment when you’re watching Margielyn Didal, both on and off the skate park. When she was introduced during heat 2 of the skateboarding competition, she did a creative pose that for sure made for a memorable moment for people who saw that live and in person.
WHEN SHE POSTED A TIKTOK WITH BRAZIL’S RAYASSA LEAL
The competition at the Olympics can get heated and tense. But this video proves that there was no love lost, at least when it comes to the female skaters competing at the Olympics. Margie posted a TikTok of her and Brazil’s Rayassa Leal, who won the silver medal, that showed the both of them dancing and generally having fun. She even included a sweet caption congratulating Rayassa on winning the silver.
WHEN SHE SHOWED OLYMPIC SPIRIT
During the women’s skateboarding finals, Margielyn was on her fifth go when she fell, resulting in her falling out of competition for a medal. Rather than let it get to her, she got up, smiled, and bowed, showing how professional she was about it. It would have been understandable if she got upset, but she looked like she accepted what happened to her and took it in stride as a real Olympian would.
Learn from established entrepreneurs, businessmen, social media influencers, and more about starting and maintaining a career in this day and age.
Knowing what you want to do in life is never easy. For some, it’s a choice that they have known of since they were young. For others, it’s something that they are still trying to figure out even when they are in their 30s and 40s. There are so many things that you can possibly do in your life and you also have to take into account a laundry list worth of considerations.
This is something a lot of fresh graduates, students, and Gen Z can relate to all too well, the feeling that you are lost in your life or have that gut feeling that what you are doing now is not what you are meant for. In regular times, finding your career isn’t a walk in the park, but when you include a world-changing pandemic, that choice has become even harder.
If you think you’re stuck in your life, don’t know what to do with your career, or just feel lost and confused in a time like this, NYLON Manila has got you covered. As the voice of the youth, we know you guys don’t have the easiest time when it comes to starting and establishing a career (we here at NYLON also went through that, too). This is why we are introducing the NYLON Manila Career Fair, a one-day virtual event held via Zoom on August 6, 2021, filled with talks and workshops to give you the lowdown on how to find a career, knowing what’s right for you, and more. And the best part is that the event is free to register and enter for all who want to, no payments required. Here is a rundown of the career fair’s events.
CAREER FAIR TALKS
1:00 PM – PAANO BA MALALAMAN ANG CAREER PATH KO SA GITNA NG PANDEMYA?
SPEAKER: BIANCA GONZALEZ
Host Bianca Gonzalez will be the first speaker at the career fair. She knows a thing or two when it comes to finding a career path. As the author of the book Paano Ba ‘To, Bianca has firsthand knowledge of what’s it’s like to not be sure of what you want to do. But she also has tips and advice for those who are going through the same struggles, especially amidst the pandemic.
1:45 PM – CAREERS IN PUBLISHING IN THE WORLD OF DIGITAL
SPEAKER: SUKI SALVADOR
Suki Salvador is the president of One Mega Group, one of the country’s largest publishers. As someone who has had decades in the industry, Suki has a lot of stories and advice to give for those looking to do well in their career, especially if it’s a career in publishing. After all, Suki started his career just like many of us, at the entry-level, before making his way up to president. So, he knows what it’s like to work from the ground up.
2:15 PM – CAREER IN DIGITAL MARKETING
SPEAKER: RAMBO NUNEZ ORTEGA
The pandemic has changed a lot of things about society, and no more so is this true when it comes to marketing. As people move online, the field of marketing has changed to a more digital-centric one. If you are interested in succeeding and taking advantage of this emerging trend, Rambo Nuñez Ortega is giving a talk at the career fair on how to do digital marketing in the pandemic and also how to have a career in digital marketing in general. As the president of Pop Up Digital, a digital marketing and communications company, Rambo has the expertise on what it takes to succeed in digital marketing.
2:45 PM – HOW TO GROW ON TIKTOK THROUGH COMPELLING SHORT-FORM VIDEOS
SPEAKER: AYN BERNOS
No social media platform has blown up exponentially in the last few years as TikTok has. The app has seen regular people go from casual users to social media stars and influencers in a blink of an eye. Want to know how to make it big on TikTok? Content creator Ayn Bernos is here to give you all the info you to make the most out of the app and build your presence on TikTok. With nearly a million followers on TikTok, Ayn Bernos knows a thing or two on how to succeed as a content creator.
CAREER FAIR WORKSHOPS
3:30 PM – HOW TO GET STARTED IN LIVE-STREAMING
SPEAKER: BLESSY ANN VILLAFUERTE
Over the past year, live streaming has become a popular medium for both stars, creators, influencers, and even regular people. Platforms like kumu and Twitch have grown in popularity as more people flock to live streaming. If you want to know how to begin a possible career in live-streaming, join kumu’s community campaigns manager Blessy Ann Villafuerte in this workshop.
4:30 pm – HOW TO START A BRAND ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM
SPEAKER: SOFIA QUIOGUE
With the rise and prevalence of social media comes the age-old question, how do I do well on social media? How do I build myself and my brand on social media? If you’re thinking about these questions, Sofia Quiogue, a social media coach and strategist, is here to answer all of that and more in her workshop.
The Career Fair isn’t just filled with talks and workshops though. There will also be a CV glow-up consultation where you and an HR expert have a one-on-one consultation to turn your CV and Resume into a winning one. If you’re interested in joining the career fair, register below.
Tenement 66 features some strong performances in Francis Magundayo, Francine Diaz, and Noel Comia Jr., as well of some tense action, but may not necessarily reinvent the genre in any meaningful way.
Crime-thrillers are a dime a dozen in Philippine cinema, so when one comes along, it’s worth at least a look. With Tenement 66 and the talent behind it, this movie was worth more than just a peek. On paper, the film had the makings to be a memorable film. This drama crime thriller was directed by promising up-and-coming director Rae Red. It had a talented cast that included the likes of Francis Magundayo, Francine Diaz, and Noel Comia Jr. It also had a plot that had the makings for a compelling thrill ride and even premiered in an international film festival.
Tenement 66 is now finally out and the results are quite good. The movie has a strong leading cast and there are moments where it really ratchets up the tension, but the film’s biggest downfall is that the movie could have been way better than what it is, potential that wasn’t fully tapped.
TEEN DELINQUENTS MEET CRIME THRILLER
Tenement 66 follows Teban (Francis Magundayo) a young man who just got bailed out of prison. He, along with his older brother Tony and cousin Ron-ron (Noel Comia Jr.) move into the titular residential building. Teban isn’t looking to get back to a life of crime. He wants to help his older brother make some money and pay off their debt by getting a job. One day, Tony gets involved in an accident which leaves Teban with expensive medical bills.
He then meets a young woman named Lea (Francine Diaz), his neighbor who asks him to help her rob their neighbor, Old Man Nando (Lou Veloso). She tells him that she saw him steal a large sum of money and that they should steal it back and split it amongst themselves. At first, Teban refuses, but with mounting debt and bills to pay, he agrees and Ron-ron reluctantly comes along. But their heist soon becomes their biggest nightmare when they get caught, are held hostage, and realize that their neighbors are holding some dark and twisted secrets.
A STRONG LEADING CAST
Tenement 66 wouldn’t be as enjoyable if it weren’t for an overall strong cast, especially with the three leads. Francis Magundayo plays Teban as the reluctant hero. The first thing we see is him leaving prison and it’s established early on that Teban wants a better life for himself outside of doing crimes. His actions in the movie are done not because he wants to, but because he needs to. Teban is a conflicted character and Francis Magundayo is able to bring that out.
This is the first time we’ve ever seen Francine Diaz play a role this dark, but she pulls it off. Lea is not dark or brooding just because, she has a justifiable back story. She has an abusive father and wants to escape from him and the building. She’s jaded because, like Teban, she wants better things for her life, but can’t make it. You don’t see the sweet little girl type that Francine usually goes for in Lea. She’s street smart, slightly cynical, and even somewhat broken. Ron-ron, meanwhile, is the innocent one between the three and has the least baggage. Because he isn’t bogged down by past actions, Ron-ron comes off as the voice of reason for the group somewhat and Noel Comia Jr. is able to hit that feeling with his acting.
SUSPENSEFUL MOMENTS
As a crime-thriller, Tenement 66 is good, for the genre’s standards. It doesn’t shake the formula in any meaningful way, but what it does it does well. Rae Red is able to bring out the tension with her direction, especially in some of the more pivotal scenes. Since most of the movie is set in a residential building, the film uses its space well. It turns a dilapidated old building and makes it stylized thanks to Pao Orendian’s cinematography. Meanwhile, the production design by Mikey Red gives the space almost like an organized or calculated mess. The crew used what space they had well and turned it into a distressing place that helps build the atmosphere. There will be moments where you will hold your breath in anticipation of what’s going to happen.
UNDERDEVELOPED THEMES
Aside from the suspense of the movie, Tenement 66 also deals with or tries to talk about the theme of finding yourself and free will, the feeling that you are in control of your life and can be and do more than where you initially come from. While it’s commendable for a movie like this to tackle this theme, the execution leaves much to be desired. While it is hinted at in some parts of the movie and talked about more near the end, the theme is not really pushed through fully. Especially, in the end, Tenement 66 tries to make a big point about finding yourself, but it feels a bit rushed and not as hard-hitting as it should be.
A BIT MORE OF A PUSH
The biggest problem with the movie is that it has the potential to be great, but doesn’t fully commit to it. For example, in the more suspenseful and heart-pounding scenes, the movie hints or teases at some truly horrifying and disturbing things, but it doesn’t expound on them more. The worst part is that the film sometimes rushes or just pads over them to move on to the next scene. The villain in this movie is so compelling and what he does could make for some uncomfortable visuals, but we don’t get to see more of it.
Overall, Tenement 66 may not be the jaw-dropping shocker that some people may have thought it would be, but it’s still a good movie. Francis Magundayo, Francine Diaz, and Noel Comia Jr. all turn in great performances with their mix of street smarts and vulnerability as troubled teens. The technical aspect of the movie is great too as Rae Red and her team are able to deliver on the tension and suspense in the scenes. The film just falls flat though when it tries to give more than just good. Watching the movie, you can tell that Tenement 66 could have done more and the potential was there. You might not end this movie as impacted as some others in the genre, but it may leave you satisfied with what it has to offer.
V’s cameo in the music video is made even better by the fact that he’s joined by his best friends, aka the Wooga Squad.
If you ever wanted to know what #squadgoals looks like, look no further than the Wooga Squad. For those who aren’t in the know, the Wooga Squad is the name of the friend group of BTS’s V, actor Park Seo-joon, actor, singer, and dancer Park Hyung-sik, actor Choi Woo-shik, and musician Peakboy. The friend group started in earnest when Park Seo-joon, V, and Park Hyung-sik got close while filming the K-Drama Hwarang. Choi Woo-shik and Peakboy soon joined and the squad was formed.
The name Wooga comes from the Korean phrase “Woori-gagajok-inga?” which literally translates to: “Are we family?” As the name suggests, the five have been close ever since, hanging out together, going on group vacations, proudly supporting each other’s endeavors and successes, and just generally doing things any friend group would consider goals. So when it was time for Peakboy to release the music video for his newest song, GYPO HAIRSTYLE, the rest of the Wooga Squad were more than willing to be part of the video.
In the music video, Peakboy is first seen getting a haircut. This new haircut then unleashes newfound energy in Peakboy and sees him in different sets as he shows off his new cut and general excitement. The rest of the Wooga Squad make cameos in the video, each playing different parts. Wooshik is first seen as he plays a photographer who isn’t too happy photographing Peakboy. It then transitions to Hyungsik, who plays a customer in a restaurant. Seojoon plays the director of The Neuron Tonight Show scene while V plays a waiter who gives Peakboy a drink.
Each one had fun cameos but V was quite memorable for a few reasons. First, he’s wearing a purple suit, which is a special color for both V, BTS, and ARMY. He also looks quite dashing in the look with few fans even comparing him to Leonardo DiCaprio’s character in The Great Gatsby. We also like how he manages to capture that disgruntled smile servers give when waiting on a rude customer after Peakboy spills his drink.
Cameos aside, the song itself is quite good. The track has an infectious beat that, like the characters in the music video, will get you dancing once the chorus drop. GYPO HAIRSTYLE is generally about having a good time and feeling yourself when you think and feel you look good. That feeling was perfectly translated in the video.
From SB19 to Coldplay, Lil Nas X, and more, here are some of the new music releases of the past week that we think should go on your playlist.
What a busy week it has been for music. Stray Kids, THE BOYZ, and Red Velvet released teasers for their upcoming comebacks. Lisa’s solo is finally almost here. Kanye West held an epic listening party for his new album DONDA (though it’s not officially released yet). Travis Scott premiered a new song during his Rolling Loud set (though that too is also not officially released yet). Meanwhile, it’s all but confirmed that BTS is going to be in Coldplay’s next album when the tracklist was released. Bu the past week also some highly anticipated releases and a few surprises, too. Here are some of the new music drops of the past week.
SB19 blessed us with new music as they just released their highly anticipated album Pasgisbol and it’s filled with bops from start to finish. We like all the songs on this interconnected album, but we have a soft spot for Bazinga.
INDUSTRY BABY – Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow
Lil Nas X continues unapologetic romp through the music industry with his latest song and music video, INDUSTRY BABY. The Kanye West-produced track pokes fun at his haters who come at in for his sexuality while also referencing recent events such as him being sued by Nike for his Satan shoes. It’s a banging song with an epic and imaginative video that features a great rap feature from Jack Harlow. The best part is that it’s all done to raise funds for The Bail Project.
Stoned at the Nail Salon – Lorde
As we patiently wait for Lorde to finally release her 3rd studio album, she released new music to keep us waiting. Stoned at the Nail Salon sees Lorde get melancholic as she reflects on a summer gone, one that may not have been her best.
New Normal – Khalid
As the name suggests, Khalid’s new song is a moving track and a reflection of pandemic life. The song takes inspiration from Khalid’s own experiences, both the good and the bad, during quarantine.
Coloratura – Coldplay
In anticipation of the release of their upcoming studio album, Music Of The Spheres on October 22, Coldplay released a new song called Coloratura. The atmospheric vibe of the song fits the space theme quite well.
Permission To Dance (R&B Remix) – BTS
As a thank you to their fans for getting Permission To Dance to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, BTS surprised released an R&B remixed version of the unparalleled hit track.
Hula Hoops – DPR LIVE, Beenzino, Hwa Sa
South Korean musician DPR LIVE released has new music out with the release of his latest EP ITTE COOL. To celebrate he released a music video for Hula Hoops, a bouncy and fun dance track that’s a collaboration between rapper Beenzino and MAMAMOO member Hwasa (who serves some impressive vocals).
Don’t Go Yet – Camila Cabello
Camila Cabello is out with her first new single since 2019 with Don’t Go Yet. The Latin-inspired track is filled with infectious harmonies and tropical rhythms that show off her Mexican and Cuban roots.
Ako Naman Muna (English Version) – Angela Ken
Up and coming Pinoy artist Angela Ken had a viral hit earlier this year with her single, Ako Naman Muna. She recently just released the English version of the song and it’s just as good as the original.
Motion – Luke Hemmings
5 Seconds of Summer member Luke Hemmings is out with another single called Motion. If Starting Line was more of a reflective track, Motion is the kind of song you want to jam out to.
Lifetime – Swedish House Mafia, Ty Dolla $ign, and 070 Shake
After releasing their first new song in nine years with It Gets Better, Swedish House Mafia is out with more new music with the release of Lifetime.
Oh! – The Linda Lindas
The Linda Lindas went viral earlier this year with their in-your-face and unapologetically female rock music. The group is out with a new single, Oh!, that’s gotten us rocking along.
We’re All Alone – Dave
British rapper Dave is out with new music with the release of his sophomore studio album We’re All Alone In This Together. The album tackles themes such as migration, love, and the intricate relationship between mother and son and gets its name from a conversation Dave had with Hans Zimmer during lockdown.
Liquor Store – Remi Wolf
Remi Wolf has a new song out called Liquor Store. The vibrant and feel-good song serves as the lead single for her debut album that’s coming later in the year.
bitter baby – Charlene Su
Pop and R&B singer Charlene Su has new music out with the release of her debut EP, onlyfriends. The EP references the online platform OnlyFans and was born out of collaborations between Charlene and her friends, hence the title. The album includes two new songs like bitter baby which features laid-back beats and a tropical-sounding production
Spiral – Pau Lina
Filipino singer-songwriter Pau Lina just released her debut single called Spiral. The track is an ode to those feeling lost, isolated, and fearful during these unprecedented times.
Now that we have masks covering half our faces most times, let them brows do the talking.
The bushy kilay look will never go out of style, thanks to OG beauty icon Brooke Shields, as well as of young personalities such as Cara Delevingne, Blythe, Lily Collins, and Janine Gutierrez who are best known for their natural brows. It’s no secret that our brows have been through a lot, especially for the 90s and 00s babies who once plucked their brows ala early aughts Christina Aguilera. But whether you’re blessed with thick brow arches or just not convinced to do microblading yet, the best alternative is to use a brow gel/pomade. Not only does it add dimension and shape to your brows, but it leaves a feathered texture that makes the kilay look more natural, lifted and yes, we couldn’t help but say “on fleek.” Scroll down below for 8 brow gels and pomades that you should try now.
For a local brand that isn’t older than three years, The Good Brow has created quite a stir on social media. Their brow soap has grown to be one of their best-selling products, and comes with options in either clear or their colored pomades. While you’re at it, cop their brow + lash growth serum, too!
Aside from the stellar, scratch-proof packaging, The Brow Bizz takes pride in the Browbar. It’s long-wearing, the colors are not overwhelming, and they don’t leave a gooey feeling on your brows.
Don’t you just love beauty brands who try to be as inclusive as possible? The Sunbeam Factory created a few more shade ranges for their brow soap line especially for those brows with gray or red tints.
Strokes Beauty Lab has always been known for being ahead of the brow game in the Philippines ever since their beginnings. They continuously innovate their products which is probably the reason why most makeup artists have lauded their brow kit. Their Brow Colorist is for those who want more tint, while the Brow Fixer is for the instant gel.
One of the go-to products in the brow biz, Benefit’s Gimme Brow+ is water-resistant and comes in 10 stunning shades. They also have their brow micro-filling pen that’s designed to mimic hair-like strokes.
For when you feel like lightening or adding a bit of warmth to your brows, Teviant’s got you covered. Their brow gel comes in three shades from light to dark gray.
A brow product list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the queen of kilay, Anastasia Beverly Hills. If you loved their brow dip, then you’ll love the Brow Freeze, too. With a bougee packaging like that, the Brow Freeze made sure that the product is long-wearing.
After her heartfelt and stunning cover of Slow Dancing In A Burning Room, Rosé received the only stamp of approval she will need from that—a gift from John Mayer.
To this day, Slow Dancing In A Burning Room stands to be one of John Mayer’s enduring hits. A master class of pop rock, what with its guitar riffs that hark to the solos of the great Jimi Hendrix, the now timeless track off his acclaimed album, Continuum, has expanded itself into a study of poetry in its aching lyrics and pervasive irony of the cinematic metaphor. For these reasons, and many heartfelt attachments thereafter, this particular John Mayer has endeared itself to many, particularly to Rosé of Blackpink.
During her appearance on the South Korean variety TV series, Sea Of Hope, she performed a handful of songs, including River Flows In You, The Only Exception, and of course, Slow Dancing In A Burning Room. Backed up by SHINee’s Onew and AKMU’s Lee Su-hyun, the rendition of Rosé not only wowed viewers all over the world, with the clip on YouTube racking up 6.5 million views in just three weeks since, but it also has earned the most important approval with John Mayer himself, who tweeted a simple yet resonant: “This is gorgeous.”
While some perhaps expected a cute take on the song, what with the signature sweet vocals and distinct sparkling tone of Rosé, we were instead treated to an assured rendition that was powerful in its graceful restraint, packing even more pain into the written paradox of John Mayer. Clearly, she is a formidable singer, especially with the recent success of her solo effort, R. As if the record-breaking release wasn’t a gleaming feat in itself, Rosé recently celebrated 200 million views for her music video, On The Ground, a first for a female K-pop star.
Everything has come up roses indeed.
Pink Perfect
“Life is complete,” Rosé wrote on her Instagram Stories recently, showing a brand new PRS Silver Sky John Mayer electric guitar in Roxy Pink, of course. The new finish, which was debuted by Mayer himself on the Jimmy Kimmel Live where he sang Last Train Home, is the perfect continuation to the connection between the two artists. “Rose – I should be thank you! (So thank you.) — John,” the accompanying note read, which the main vocalist of Blackpink gave proper gratitude to. Talk about a validation.
Following another Instagram Story of the back details of the gifted guitar from John Mayer, Rosé posted a video dump of her practicing on what seemed to be a similar model, which she wrote would “hopefully make perfect.” The piece of choice? Purple Haze by Jimi Hendrix.
Imagine a version of the haunting solo at the beginning of Slow Dancing In A Burning Room on the now famous pink guitar next? Rosé, hear us out, play this next, please.
