Get ready, UK. 1MX is headed to London! From Manila, Singapore, Abu Dhabi to Dubai, the record-breaking and sold-out music festival is set to hit the stage at the APPS Court Farm on July 30th! The best and brightest artists are coming together to give you the ultimate music experience.
On the bill for the festival, 1MX is bringing out amazing artists Bamboo, KZ, EZ Mil, Darren Espanto, SAB, Jeremy G, Angela Ken, Jon Guelas, and some UK-based Artists to vibe with all day. The festival will have back-to-back full performances from noon to sundown. Tickets are now available, and there is currently a Promo going on! You can get 50% off general admission tickets until July 5th by purchasing HERE!
British multi-platinum singer-songwriter Calum Scott’s sublime new single “Heaven” has been refreshed with some Southeast Asian flavor. Representing the Philippines is critically acclaimed artist Darren Espanto, who joins Diana Danielle (Malaysia), Hoàng Duyên (Vietnam), & Lyodra (Indonesia) in the remix collaboration series.
Calum Scott: “I am so excited to be working with these incredible artists from Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam! I have always had a special place in my heart for Asia so to sing with local talent from across the region is a real honor. Each of these artists has brought something new to our collaboration of “Heaven” and I can’t wait for everyone to hear them.”
Darren Espanto: “I'm really excited about the collab. I've been listening to Calum since he officially released “Dancing On My Own” after his Britain's Got Talent journey. One of my favorite songs to sing to is “You Are The Reason”. Now, I have the opportunity to collaborate with him on his song and showcase the track with other artists across Southeast Asia. I hope to perform this track with Calum live on stage someday soon!”
It looks like Darren will be getting his wish soon! Calum Scott also announced a tour series in the SEA region. Tickets will be available via Calum’s website on June 15th.
New music is finally here from Darren Espanto as he comes back with his first single of the year with "Pabalik Sa'yo." As the Fil-Canadian artist begins to venture and expand his skills as a musician with producing and songwriting, he's back with a banger that will have you feeling nostalgic for the '90s/'00s R&B vibes. The song talking about heartbreak and second changes are sure to bring the feels out of listeners and reintroduce them to R&B sounds that mixes both past and present styles..
Darren's return possibly marks a new direction and sound in his career. As he talks about "going back to the person who once hurt you" in the track's lyrics, the more mature sound shows his growth as a young artist. For the track, he worked with songwriters Kevin Yadao and Lloyd Oliver Corpuz and producer Tiny Corpuz who also helped in making Darren's holiday single, "I Believe in Christmas."
Cover Photo Credit: Darren Espanto Instagram
If you've been waiting for some new Darren Espanto content, the wait is over because he's back with the music video for Marry Me, Marry You. The OST for the romantic dramedy of the same name is an uptempo pop ballad with great hooks and melodies accompanying Darren's smooth and rich vocals. The music video is set in a beautiful wedding venue, and Darren is dressed like he is ready to meet you at the altar. Check out the video below.
Cover Photo Courtesy of Darren Espanto Instagram
This week's MYX News Hot List:
Watch the "All For One" Canada Multiculturalism Day ft. BGYO, BINI, Darren Espanto, AC Bonifacio & more June 26, Saturday, at 5P PT / 8P EST https://www.facebook.com/TFCCanadaOff
& MYX Watch on June 27, Sunday, on MYX & the MYX website at 10P PT (June 28 1P PHT Manila) www.myx.global/livetv
Zack & Darren finally perform for the first time together for this live version of Zack’s hit “Binibini.”
ICYMI, watch Darren’s recent single, “Tama Na,” co-written, produced and mixed by Zack Tabudlo below:
ABOUT DARREN ESPANTO:
In less than a decade, Filipino-Canadian artist Darren Espanto has made an impressive mark in the Philippine music industry with multiplatinum albums, sold-out concerts, acclaimed performances and No. 1 singles under his belt. Darren is considered as one of the most successful Filipino male pop/R&B artists of the last decade, having amassed more than a hundred million streams on Spotify, and more than a hundred million views on YouTube alone.
Known for his incredible vocal chops, stellar stage presence and fresh-faced appeal, he has achieved success not only as a recording star, but also as one of the country’s most sought-after brand ambassadors. He was recently appointed as the first celebrity Youth Advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and has been actively involved in programs related to climate change, biodiversity conservation, and youth empowerment.
In recent years, Darren Espanto has developed his passion for songwriting and producing, and has been technically hands on in several of his new releases. From one song to another, Darren is relentless in pushing the envelope of pop craftmanship by exploring other music genres, from electronic pop to modern R&B, and everything else in between. He has grown before our eyes from being a youthful crooner with outstanding pipes to finding his own voice and style. In a very competitive pop music landscape, Darren stands out as a refreshing and endearing personality whose music speaks to you on an intimate, personal level.
ABOUT ZACK TABUDLO:
Zack Tabudlo is a singer-songwriter and producer from Manila, Philippines. He joined The Voice Kids in 2014 and went on to establish his solo career, writing and performing his own music. His first single, “Stay Here,” was released in 2018 and was featured on several Spotify playlists, including “Men of OPM,” “Philippines Viral 50,” and “OPM Says Chillax.” His subsequent single, “Mahal O Biro,” was again included in “Men of OPM” and “Pinoy Love Ballads” playlists. Zack premiered his first single of 2020, the chill-pop track “This Is Love,” in February.
He has also collaborated with several OPM artists, undertaking writer and producer roles. He’s most recently been credited in arranging and producing Carlo Aquino’s single “Balisong” and Sharlene San Pedro’s “Everything Will Be Alright” and “Pusong Naliligaw.”
Now on a fresh path in his career, Zack sets his sights to winning the hearts of his audience both locally and internationally as one of the bold new signees to Island Records Philippines.
Celebrated pop icon Darren Espanto has officially released his new single “Tama Na," on MCA Music Inc. Now ready to embark on a new phase in his career, the multi-awarded young artist distills pop, hip-hop, and R&B into a modern bop that radio wouldn’t mind spinning at the top of the hour. His latest track is a rhythmically charged tune that approaches the verses with edginess and the chorus with suave.
On top of a smooth, urban-leaning production and trap beats, Darren sings about giving up on the person that used to occupy a special place in his heart. “Ayokong masaktan ulit / Ayoko nang lumuha pa't maging biktima,” the 20-year-old pop sensation drops the bomb on the chorus, finally making sense of the situation that left him hanging for a long time.
“Tama Na” (Stop) is a song about unrequited love and finally finding the courage to walk away from a tedious, one-way relationship, which has done nothing but hurt your feelings. The song’s pitched-up samples, hard-hitting electronic beats, and hip-hop-informed sensibilities propel Darren’s soulful delivery to exciting new places. This gives Darren an extra push to showcase his versatility in terms of tone and appeal, turning his youthful fervor into something that resonates with the general public.
“Tama Na” is the latest collaboration between Darren Espanto and fellow hitmaker Zack Tabudlo, who wrote, produced, and mixed the track. According Darren, it has always been their plan to work together on a project, as he admits being a fan of Tabudlo’s music style and talent. “Last year, Zack told me how he became part of the MCA family and we thought that finally, this would be our chance to work together. In just a couple days, Zack created ‘Tama Na’ and I really liked the song instantly. It’s a sound that people haven’t heard from me before and it’s also a genre I’ve always wanted to try.”
A few months later, Zack and Darren went on a Zoom call to guide the latter throughout the entire recording process. Darren recalls, “It was honestly such a chill session, mostly because a lot of it was us just talking about random things that aren’t even related to the song.”
The song will be out in music video format really soon, and is slated to be part of Darren’s new album. With its aim to chart Darren’s evolution as both an artist and a performer, the upcoming record will be a major shift toward a more contemporary-leaning sound with dance and R&B music influences. It will also serve as his more artistically involved release so far, harnessing his songwriting skills and more.
At the moment, Darren Espanto is gearing up for his virtual concert on June 19—to be streamed live via KTX, get tickets here.
He also made headlines a few days ago when a new set of photos showing his new hunky physique went viral on Instagram. Darren’s new look sheds his teenybopper persona and taps into a more ‘grown’ vibe, marking the celebration of his 20th birthday with newfound adventurousness in style.
ABOUT DARREN ESPANTO:
In less than a decade, Filipino-Canadian artist Darren Espanto has made an impressive mark in the Philippine music industry with multiplatinum albums, sold-out concerts, acclaimed performances and No. 1 singles under his belt. Darren is considered as one of the most successful Filipino male pop/R&B artists of the last decade, having amassed more than a hundred million streams on Spotify, and more than a hundred million views on YouTube alone.
Known for his incredible vocal chops, stellar stage presence and fresh-faced appeal, he has achieved success not only as a recording star, but also as one of the country’s most sought-after brand ambassadors. He was recently appointed as the first celebrity Youth Advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and has been actively involved in programs related to climate change, biodiversity conservation, and youth empowerment.
In recent years, Darren Espanto has developed his passion for songwriting and producing, and has been technically hands on in several of his new releases. From one song to another, Darren is relentless in pushing the envelope of pop craftmanship by exploring other music genres, from electronic pop to modern R&B, and everything else in between. He has grown before our eyes from being a youthful crooner with outstanding pipes to finding his own voice and style. In a very competitive pop music landscape, Darren stands out as a refreshing and endearing personality whose music speaks to you on an intimate, personal level.
MYX had a fun game of "What Would You Do?" with our headliner of the month, Darren Espanto. Watch his fun answers below:
Darren Espanto also lets us know what's on his summer playlist:
Don't miss Darren's "Homerun" concert coming upon 5/28 on KTX.PH.
ABOUT Darren Espanto:
Darren Espanto (born May 24, 2001) is a Filipino-Canadian singer and actor well-known for his cover songs such as Chandelier, originally sung by Sia. He first joined a competition at the age of ten, where he won the Masters Finals of the Pinoy Singing Sensation competition in Edmonton. He made his first television appearance at the same age when he joined YTV's reality television The Next Star in 2012; he became the youngest finalist in the history of the show to be included in the Top 6. However, he rose to prominence after joining the first season of The Voice Kids Philippines.
Just in time for his 20th birthday, Kapamilya singer Darren Espanto is gearing up for a concert next month. LIVE at 5A PST on 5/30 (5/31 8P PDT) with a replay at 7P PST or 5/31 at 10A Manila. You can get your tickets at KTX.PH.
This was announced by Espanto in an Instagram post on April 14 as he uploaded a teaser for his upcoming show on May 30 via KTX, which also shared the teaser video.
Aside from the concert, Espanto is also set to release a new single on May 28.
On Friday, Espanto's fans showed their love and support for their idol as the hashtag #WelcomeHomeDarren trended on microblogging site Twitter.
Last year, Espanto celebrated his 19th birthday with a benefit concert. He is turning 20 on May 24.
One of the best singers of his generation, Espanto rose to fame after joining the first season of "The Voice Kids Philippines."
Prior to joining "The Voice Kids," Espanto won a 2011 contest for young Filipinos dubbed "Pinoy Singing Sensation" in Calgary. He went on to compete in the grand finals of "The Next Star," a reality talent search which concluded in December 2012.
He had his first major concert and released his self-titled debut album in 2014.
Darren Espanto has been sharing his talent not only in the Philippines but globally. We’ve seen him grow up in front of our eyes and his career continues to get larger! Dannie catches up with him during this Christmas season and talk his latest single, Believe in Christmas, what it’s like being back in Canada, and he answers questions from myxers.
1. Darren shares tips on keeping your voice in shape
He starts with knowing your voice and finding arrangements you’re comfortable with. Darren can sing his contact list in any kind of placement and still be a banger. Other tips he had for us include getting enough sleep, eating, and drinking the right foods before and after a performance.
2. He enjoys being back home in Canada
Growing up in Canada, Darren says he grew up in a very Filipino household. He watched TFC and knew a lot of the traditions. He learned Tagalog from his parents because “my parents wouldn’t speak to me [at home] unless I spoke Tagalog.” That’s an awesome way to learn the language!
3. No special treatment at home
Darren still gets surprised when he’s recognized when he’s out and about. The interactions and reactions he receives from supporters “drives me to keep going. I get to share positivity and joy to others.” However, he tells Dannie he still has to vacuum his room, wash the dishes, and fold laundry. His family keep him grounded and he’s just your average teen.
4. It took time to adjust to staying connected during the pandemic
It seemed like everything move to social during the pandemic. Darren admits that he was clueless at first when it came to at-home performances. He jokes “I get lazy just turning on the light switch for interviews.” We can all relate to just being lazy sometimes, it’s fine. He gives major props to production crews and has even more appreciation for them now.
5. His platform allows him to help others
He highlights that not everyone has the same opportunity he has to help people. “I want to use my platform to bring more awareness about things happening in the world and help out other people too.” Currently, he spotlights charities that are helping typhoon victims and encourages that everyone can help. As simple as sharing posts can go a long way.
6. There’s still tons of skills he wants to learn
Immediately, Darren says he’d like to do more acting. He’s been in one film and it’s a blockbuster, Kathniel’s The Hows of Us. He looks to do more workshops and take on more acting projects in the future. Another skill he’d like to master is cooking. It’s safe to say we’ve all ventured in trying to make that sourdough bread. Can we suggest an Espanto sibling cooking show on his channel?
7. Believe in hope, love, joy, and still keep the faith
Everyone has had unique experiences in 2020 and Darren reminds us that it’s okay to still celebrate this season. “Christmas isn’t about the materials things, but celebrating life and another year…because there’s a pandemic we should still stay strong and celebrate.”
8. Darren conceptualized the music video for Believe in Christmas
Because he’s in Canada, Darren directed and came up with the idea for the song’s music video. Although the project wasn’t planned, Darren’s team was supportive in having him direct his own video. He shared references, framing options, and locations he had in mind to his team. “I wanted it to be relevant and timely so I added a few things that reflected the current times with the pandemic.”
Since Believe in Christmas has been out, the music video has racked up thousands of views and it keeps growing! It even reached #1 on the iTunes charts in the Philippines 2 hours after its release. This is a song you’ll definitely want to add to your Christmas playlist and help get you in the holiday spirit.
TAYO HOTLIST:
Are you ready to get into the holiday spirit? Who are we kidding, Filipinos are in the Christmas spirit since September. Darren Espanto first released a Christmas album, D's Christmas in 2017 and now he's back with a new Christmas song, "Believe in Christmas" for your holiday playlist!
Darren hopes to spread Christmas cheer all the way from Canada. Here's what his thoughts behind the song.
Download / stream here
