Sam is ready to shine brighter in ‘Pag-ibig’ Na Kaya!

Universal Records, one of the biggest and most-known record labels here in the Philippines just produced its first-ever online mini-series and it’s set to launch this February 2023!

Of course, for a long-time and reputable organization that helped in bringing countless OPM hits for decades, this said show is aptly named after a famous song. This year, everyone is bound to witness a very sweet love story in “Pag-ibig Na Kaya”, led by the now real-life couple Julie Anne San Jose and Rayver Cruz. It is written by JP Lopez and directed by Niq Ablao.

The entire cast will be announced very soon but to spice things up, this show will be graced by a talented Korean actor, Kim Won-Shik, billed to be the second male lead for this show, that is all about love… and its many forms.

According to the celebrity, you can actually call him Sam as well aside from his Korean name. In terms of acting for TV drama, he already has a handful of experience under his belt. He’s notable for his roles in hit K-Drama series True Beauty (2020) plus the famous Netflix fantasy-romance Netflix series, Alchemy Of Souls (Season 1 2022). This project with UR is his absolute first time to work with a Filipino production and of course, his first-ever experience to act with our talented Filipino stars. Being casted in this mini-series also paved the way for Sam for yet another break in his acting career. Won-Shik is now the latest addition to the growing Universal Records Philippines’ managed artists, made possible by Managing Director Kathleen Dy-Go.

One fun fact about Kim Won-Shik; he can really understand and even speak the Filipino language, since he was able to study here in the country for six and a half years. 

According to Sam, he became easily invested in his role in “Pag-ibig Na Kaya” after reading the script and quickly felt that its overall treatment is truly inspired by K-Dramas. Although he admitted that he feels pressured since he needs to speak English and Filipino in most of his scenes, Sam considers filming this entire show a fantastic experience on his part and it greatly contributed to his growth as an actor. 

He’s very professional, warm, and kind all throughout the filming process of the mini-series. He’s always enthusiastic to shoot his scenes, very energetic in being in character, and always ready to bring good vibes on the set. The actor also said that he quickly agreed to take part in this project after finding out that Direk Niq is handling it since he shared that he already saw numerous works from the talented director.

He shares, “It’s a good experience for me. It’s my first time working with Filipino actors. When I first read the script, I felt like it’s like a Korean drama because you know, there are so many similarities. I even asked the writer if he is inspired by some K-Dramas while making this. It was good! And I really wanted this role here in Pag-ibig Na Kaya”

“During our filming, they’re so kind to me, especially our director. I watched the music video that she made which is ‘Paubaya’ (Moira Dela Torre). Yeah, the color she uses and the storylines, it was really good! I really believe in Direk Niq that’s why I’m excited to join this series,” he adds.

Moreover, Since the Hallyu wave is really strong and alive here in the Philippines, Sam is very excited for everyone to see Pag-ibig Na Kaya and it’s coming out sooner than you think! 

Make sure that you’re already subscribed to the Universal Records Philippines’ official YouTube channel and always be updated.

Ice Seguerra Brings Back The Feels in "Walang Hanggang Paalam"

Ice Seguerra is back to tug at our heartstrings with his rendition of the Joey Ayala song "Walang Hanggang Paalam." Ice lends his voice to this haunting song about the uncertainties in taking a risk and falling in love. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fsy89YpL1H0

The studio track was created as a way to bring the original to a new audience, especially after receiving good responses during Seguerra's live shows. With the undeniable hugot proven through any of Seguerra's tracks, he hopes to bring the same emotion and heart in this new track.

Walang Hanggang Paalam is now available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, and Amazon Music.

JKris Seeks Second Chance at Love in New Single "Tsansa"

Universal Records R&B singer JKris marks 2020 return with his latest single "Tsansa."

2019 brought a milestone for the Tawag ng Tanghalan alum, as he celebrated his first million streams with his rendition of the Ogie Alcasid classic "Sa Kanya" (the track now has over 1.5 streams on Spotify). Since his departure from the It's Showtime variety segment, he has gone to collaborate with OPM Rap Icon Gloc on the tracks Norem (which also featured Shanti Dope) and his debut single Pamaypay.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2O1gWsP8CCo

This new song "Tsansa," written by JKris himself and produced by Sly Kane (of Blaze 'N Kane), showcases the vocal range JKris is known for on top of a smooth listening track. Talking more about the song, JKris says he wrote the song based on a personal experience a few years back: "The song is about asking forgiveness from the person you care for, and in hopes that person will give you another chance in the relationship, hence the title." 

<iframe src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/12kF1cqDKdIuKSPVABR2Ur" width="300" height="380" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe>

With his distinct sound and relatable message, Tsansa offers another chance for JKris to take the OPM spotlight.

Tsansa is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and Deezer under Universal Records.

Maine Mendoza has officially signed a record deal with Universal Records

After weeks of anticipation, Maine Mendoza has officially signed a record deal with Universal Records. The contract signing was held at the Universal Records office. Present during the signing were Universal Records General Manager Kathleen Dy-Go, Operations Manager Peter Chan, Business Manager Rams David, and Maine.



MaineTwitter.png




Hints of Maine’s signing first hit the web after Universal Records posted a teaser photo of a ‘mystery girl’ wearing a leather jacket bearing the word Universal on it. Fans were quick to catch on, as #MaineForUniversalRecords became the #1 Trending Topic on Twitter in the Philippines and Worldwide not long after the teaser was posted.



The mystery girl was finally shown to be non-other than Maine herself on June 22, as posted through a Big Reveal video, further exciting her fans.

Signing with Universal Records is just the latest accolade for the 23 year-old star, as she celebrates her third anniversary in show business. Rising to stardom after being introduced as Yaya Dub on the hit noontime show Eat Bulaga, Maine has amassed a number of endorsements, TV shows, box-office hits, and a best-selling book. Now, Maine is more than ready to trade in her dubsmash skills to pursue a recording career, adding to her many talents.

               Maine with Universal Records General Manager Kathleen Dy-Go



Talking about Maine’s signing, Kathleen Dy-Go, General Manager of Universal Records says “We’re very happy to welcome Maine into the Universal Records family, and very excited to be working with her for her upcoming projects.”



Maine now joins Gary Valenciano, Christian Bautista, Noel Cabangon, The CompanY, Parokya ni Edgar, Gloc-9, Sponge Cola, Ice Seguerra, Shanti Dope, Christian Bautista, and Elmo Magalona in the elite roster of Universal Records’ prime artists.



Stay tuned for Maine's debut single under Universal Records this 2018.


For more updates, follow Universal Records on Instagram @universalrecordsph and Twitter @universalrecph, on Facebook at http://facebook.com/universalrecordsph and YouTube.

Pinoy Boyband Superstar finalist Mark Oblea release debut single 'Langit Pag Nandiyan'

23-year-old singer-songwriter Mark Oblea was first discovered in the hit reality singing competition Pinoy Band Superstar (the show originally aired in 2016), in which he made it as one of the Top 7 finalists.



Though he did not win the competition, Mark, with his penchant for writing his own songs and playing guitar, still decided to pursue his music career.



Having signed a recording deal with Universal Records in December 2017, Mark is now set to release his first single entitled 'Langit Pag Nandiyan.' The song was written by Gracenote lead vocalist Eunice Jorge, and produced by hit-making producer Ito Rapadas. Talking about the meaning behind the song, Mark says "The song is about honoring someone [special in your life]. It can be a song for a friend, a loved one, a relative, or [anyone who's always there to support you despite different setbacks and challenges.] At the same time, it is also a personal anthem for all the people who've been a part of my journey to pursue my dreams"



With his rugged good looks, charm, and musical talent, Mark is bound to win the hearts of many fans worldwide.

Mark is also slated to sing the theme song ‘Fiona’ for an upcoming indie film “Bakwit Boys,” produced by T-Rex Productions. Next on his list is his debut EP, which feature songs written by Mark himself.


Langit Pag Nandiyan is now available on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer, and Amazon under Universal Records.

PHILPOP LAUNCHES STAR-STUDDED 2014 ALBUM

A stellar cast of interpreters have taken part in the much awaitedPhilpop 2014 album, produced by Universal Records.

As the premier songwriting competition in the country, Philpop has been regarded as the breeding ground and ultimate recognitionfor brilliant, excellently madesongs.  With top quality singers breathing life to the finalists’ entries, thisyear’s campaignpromises to be even more exciting.
Last year’s competition saw 12 diverse and exceptional compositions from both the amateur and professional ranks, featuring different genres and styles.  These top 12 songs have accumulated around 43 million hits on YouTube.  A few months ago, the winning song, “Dati”, written by Thyro Alfaro and YumiLacsamana, performed by Sam Concepcion, Tippy dos Santos and Quest, has trumped 25 million hits – a testament to its overwhelming achievement.  This year, they are looking forward to new milestones in their campaign to elevate Filipino music, even on a global platform.



Since revealing the top 12 compositions during the OPM Summit last March, this year’s songwriters have been hard at work to produce their songs with Philpop and its partner Universal Records.  And now the Philpop 2014 album has been released and will first be exclusively available on SPINNR the country’s leading music portal.

SPINNR is the Philippines' FIRST music streaming service that serves up the total music experience.  Powered by Smart Music, it offers unlimited music streaming for as low as P49 a month, or P2.50 per day without additional data charges. Available to all Smart, Talk ‘N Text and Sun Cellular subscribers nationwide, SPINNR can be accessed via the Web through spinnr.ph, and through mobile apps for Android and iOS devices.

Listeners are in for a musical treat with an amazing lineup of songs, created by remarkable songwriters, interpreted by superb artists.

NGSB (No Girlfriend Since Break)
by Davey Langit, interpreted by LUIGI D’AVOLA
This 18 year old half-Italian, half-Filipino singer has an exciting career ahead of him, as a singer-songwriter, and now even a VJ.  His voice, musical style, vibrant personality, humility and charm are what makes fans go crazy over him.

The Only One 
by Venelyn San Pedro THOR
Thor has made his mark in the industry as a unique artist, singer, songwriter and vocal coach and was one of the semi-finalists of “The Voice of the Philippines.” He gives an R&B power vocal rendition of the song “The Only One” and draws the listener with his full, supple voice.

Awit Mo'yNandito Pa
by Ronaldo Sorioso,  Aldrich and James
Aldrich LoydTalonding is the 14-year-old YouTube sensation from General Santos City whose powerful and passionate voice has taken him from their B’laan tribal community, to the Ellen DeGeneres show.   His rendition of "Dance with my Father", with his cousin James Bucong on the guitar, was what launched their career which has now taken their music abroad.

Torpe
by Daryl Ong, Kris Lawrence
Interpreting a song for Philpop is one of the many great milestones in Kris Lawrence’s career which started off when he won the “Star in a Million” years ago.  The singer, songwriter, musician, producer and now theater actor is a regular fixture on GMA’s Sunday All Stars where he continues to make his mark, amongst the best singers in the country.

Babalikan Mo RinAko
by Soc Villanueva Nikki Gil
Nikki Gil has a stellar career as a singer, actress, host, model and a VJ.  She once again over achieves with her marvelous and moving rendition of a song that is all about empowerment.

Song On A Broken String
by Jude Gitamondoc and Therese Marie Villarante Nicole Asensio
The former vocalist of the all-female rock band General Luna is making strides as a solo artist taking ondifferent genres such as rock,classical, lounge and even broadway.  She was once with Repertory Philippines and also played the role of “Mimi” in the hit musical “Rent”.

Salbabida
by Jungee Marcelo Kyla
Kyla has a long list of achievements, and even the distinction of having the most wins for a female artist at the Awit Awards. She has also been honored by the Philippines Society of Composers, Singers and Publishers for her contributions to music as one of the first pioneers of R&B music in the Philippines, hence the title "The Philippines' R&B and Soul Princess”.

Dear Heart
by  Mike Villegas Kiana Valenciano
The only daughter of Gary and AngeliValenciano is going down her own path as a singer, dancer, actress, host, and commercial model.  She lends her beautiful voice and youthful vibrance to a song that will make her grand debut in the scene a hit.

Hangout Lang
by Allan Feliciano and Isaac Joseph Garcia Duncan Ramos and Young JV
The former South Border frontman Duncan Ramos has been established as one of the country’s most notable R&B singers.  Young JV is a rapper, singer, dancer, host, and producer and actor.  The two collaborate for one of the more upbeat entries for Philpop this year and bring in the funky feel that makes the song fun and unique.

Qrush On You
by QYork’s James Palma aka FlavaMatikz and Cedric Bonjoc aka Knowa Lazarus Elmo Magalona and JayR
From Best Teen Performer, to top youth Icon of the year, to Male Teen star of the year, Elmo Magalona has achieved much as a very versatile artist – on screen and in the music industry.  He partners with the Philippines’ King of R&B JayR who has platinum records under his belt and also a stellar acting and modeling career
.
Kung Akin Ang Langit
by Cecilia Bocobo and Isaac Joseph Garcia Clara Benin and McoyFundales
For this special song, a very unique duet was put together.  Clara, the daughter of former Side A member Joey Benin, is gifted with such mesmerizing, wistful vocals.  McoyFundaleshasone of the more familiar voices with the song “PinoyAko” by his former band Orange and Lemons still echoing in the hearts of Filipinos everywhere.  Put them together and they create a beautiful tandem for a song with such a wonderful message.

Langit Umaawit
by Ronaldo Sorioso, Tom Rodriguez
Many know him for his lead role in a controversial television drama on GMA, “My Husband’s Lover,” and his other stints on reality TV shows, telenovelas and even the silver screen.  But Tom Rodriguez can trace his roots in musical theater as well, having played the title role in the Asian premiere of Disney's Aladdin.


One of the top 12 contenders will emerge as the 1-million peso grand prize winner which will be determined on July 26 at the Meralco Theater.  The foundation’s Executive Director Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, Board of Directors Noel Cabangon and Ogie Alcasid are all praises for this year’s crop of finalists and are elated to share thesePhilpop hits with the world.

“This year's finalists constitute a heady brew of the most varied of genres: dance, rock, R&B, a couple of ballades, some pop and a genre-defying song in multi meter. I am also happy and excited to hear established singers shoulder to shoulder with new, up and coming performers. Only time will tell which songs will generate the most audience interest. Listen to the top 12 finalist of thePhilpop 2014 and be the judge,” shared the foundation’s executive director Maestro Ryan Cayabyab.

Philpop is presented by Smart and SPINNR, co-presented by PLDT Home Telpad, and sponsored by Maynilad, Meralco and Sun Cellular. Philpop is supported by the First Pacific Leadership Academy, Metro Pacific Investments, MNTC Philex, and TV5.  Special thanks to Sony,Business World, Radio Republic, Rx93.1, Yahoo, and Myx.