Cover art by Franchesca Gustilo
Debates over AI’s role in our participatory culture and digital world have been pervasive. From schools to workplaces, everyday life to entertainment, AI’s influence is increasingly visible. Fans even flagged the current season of Pinoy Big Brother after AI-generated photos of celebrity housemates with their younger selves were used in a specific episode, which was a trend reminiscent of earlier online fads.
blatant use of ai on national tv??? we are so doomed https://t.co/OwQmmeKGd4
— marie ✩ (@fleaeag) November 18, 2025
Yet this week, the conversation reached a new intensity in the OPM community: an AI “artist” has officially entered Spotify Philippines’ Daily Top Artists chart.
It’s a known fact that artists have pushed through sleepless nights, dead ends, notebook pages filled and torn, and countless rejected drafts, all to write a song from scratch. But now, that labor is being measured against an algorithm that can spit out a “new” track in minutes using someone else’s voice, style, or discography as raw material. The question many artists are asking isn’t whether AI should exist. It’s whether the industry is ready, or in fact even willing, to protect the people who make music possible.
This tension did not appear overnight. Months ago, Cup of Joe’s Gian Bernardino already felt the ground shifting underneath OPM’s feet. When an AI-generated rock cover of “Pahina” circulated online, he expressed his discomfort. Are we really letting the cold embrace of AI overtake the warmth of real songs? When a machine can replicate voices, what becomes of the soul behind the music? If creativity can be coded, what’s left for artists to claim as their own? AI had become a force capable of cloning voices, mimicking styles, and reimagining entire bodies of work without an ounce of lived experience behind it.
This week’s revelation only deepened the unease. Charts account AllChartsPH on X (formerly Twitter) reported that Lofi Town had debuted at number 144 on Spotify Philippines’ Top Artists list. An AI act earning real estate on a chart meant for musicians who spent years honing their craft.
I already told u :’(( but u keep on using opm ai generated songs on the clock app https://t.co/cH6eH8RXQ5
— Maki *ੈ✩‧₊˚ (@clfrnia_maki) November 16, 2025
“Dilaw” hitmaker Maki, in a post on X, reiterated a warning he had given long before this incident. AI, he noted, may be helpful “for assistance and learning BUT it should not replace humans.” He called on listeners to respect the artists who “nagsulat, nagrecord, at nagpromote sa mga kanta na yan from SCRATCH :((.”
Adie said it with, “Grabe naman kawawa ang sining.”
ubos braincells, lahat ng pagpupuyat, at wala ng page sa notebook na sinusulatan ng kanta para lang matalo ng isang robot na iniiba lang ang genre ng mismong kanta 😂 patawa kayo guys https://t.co/aR8JotmDrG
— mrld (@thisismrld) November 16, 2025
Meanwhile, “Ligaya” singer Mrld delivered perhaps the clearest, most evocative condemnation. “Ubos brain cells, lahat ng pagpupuyat, at wala ng page sa notebook na sinusulatan ng kanta, para lang matalo ng isang robot na iniiba lang ang genre ng mismong kanta. Patawa kayo guys.”
Other artists echoed the sentiment as TJ Monterde responded with an angry emoji, Janine Teñoso punctuated her disbelief with question and exclamation marks, and Angela Ken summed up the collective sentiment in a single word, “Sad.”
— Angela Ken (@anqelaken) November 16, 2025
Are we now heading toward a world of AI creating images that mimic human emotion but feel hollow at their core? AI singers topping charts with voices cloned from the very people who spent years perfecting their craft? AI sportscasters calling the games we once watched with excitement? The question isn’t just what AI can do but it’s what it should do, and what it might take away from the human stories, struggles, and sweat that give art its meaning.
AI is not going away. Not here, not anywhere. But if Filipino artists are expected to compete with robots trained on their own art, then the industry must decide what kind of future it is building. A future that rewards the cheapest, fastest sound? Or one that still champions the human beings who give meaning into melodies?
Because if a robot can top the charts today, the real fear is not that AI will evolve, but that our respect for human creativity might slowly disappear. And that is a loss no algorithm can ever repair.
Filipino hitmaker Maki just leveled up. After teasing us with a trilogy of bangers — “Dilaw,” “Namumula,” and “Bughaw” — the breakout alt-pop star has officially unveiled his debut full-length album KOLORCOASTER, a 10-track project that proves love really does come in every shade. And he’s not stopping at the album — he’s taking fans on the ride with him worldwide.
The Soundtrack of Every Kind of Love
KOLORCOASTER isn’t just an album; it’s an emotional theme park. Each track paints love in a different hue — from self-love (“Dilaw”), to messy heartbreak (“Namumula”), to platonic bonds that feel infinite (“Bughaw”). He even gives us tender tributes like “itim na ulap,” a song about the deep comfort of home (pets included 🐾), and “ROYGBIV,” a euphoric free-fall into the feeling of falling in love.
The album loops through highs, lows, and unexpected turns — reminding us that love, in all its forms, is both chaotic and magical.
Why This Drop Matters
Maki isn’t just that new kid on the OPM block anymore — he’s officially carving out his lane as one of the generation’s biggest names. With over 1 billion Spotify streams, multiple viral chart entries, and a two-day sold-out solo concert at New Frontier Theater, he’s proven he’s got the numbers and the narrative. KOLORCOASTER is his biggest statement yet: playful, heartfelt, and sonically versatile.
The Kolorcoaster Tour is Here
Maki is taking the Kolorcoaster from the studio to the stage:
Get ready — the ride is just beginning, and Maki’s making sure fans everywhere are strapped in.
Get on the Ride
KOLORCOASTER is streaming everywhere now. So buckle up, press play, and let Maki take you on a technicolor journey of love in all its shades.
“This one is for all the people who are challenged to be alone.”
That’s what Maki said when he talked about “Kahel na Langit” during his music video launch hosted by MYX VJ Eya on June 14 at the Mall of Asia Sky Amphitheater.
During the launch, Maki recalled how sunsets are so stunning, yet they also symbolize the ending of a day. “Endings can be beautiful and warm like kahel (orange),” the musician shared.
The "Dilaw" hitmaker also shared how “Kahel na Langit” is different from the other colors he’s released so far. This new single is a story of different people handling their own problems and challenges in life. Yet when the day ends, they find themselves alone.
“Kahel na Langit” is for those who always try to be warm for others, but sometimes also want someone to run to when they’re feeling exhausted and frustrated. It’s for the people who have lost the one who gave them warmth, and have learned to live with it.
It’s an ode to the ones we remember when the sun goes down, painting the sky in the color of warmth.
Delving deeper into the MV’s production, Maki stated that he does not want to reveal the metaphors in the music video, as he wants to give listeners the freedom to give their own message.
However, he revealed that one of the shirts he wears in the MV was handmade by him and the production team. “[Para siyang] bagay na luma at sira na pero (It’s like an old and worn item, yet) it still gives you warmth.”
Maki also shared how he chose to include the "zushi boys" because they’re the ones who give him warmth, especially during tours.
“Kahel na Langit” is the fourth color and single in Maki’s upcoming album, “Kolorcoaster.” He revealed that the album will have 10 songs with 10 colors, each representing different forms of love.
Maki’s MV launched featured his first performance of “Kahel na Langit” after its release, as well as “Namumula,” “Bughaw,” ‘Dilaw,” “Kailan?” and “Saan?”. The event also featured guest performances from muninn, Jarea, Janine Teñoso, and Angela Ken.
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Written by Ana Rufa Padua, a fourth-year Communication student from the Ateneo de Manila University. With a passion for storytelling, she hopes to shed light on the various realities, lives, and phenomena surrounding the communities she covers. In her free time, she indulges herself in watching movies and listening to K-Pop.
Photos by Christian Gonzalo
Fresh off of his hit record "Dilaw" reaching over 100M streams, Maki blesses fans with a new single! The new song also comes with a music video co-starring Jannah Chua. According to the music video's description: ""Namumula" is a song for those irresistibly drawn to red flags, like Maki chasing Jannah despite all the warnings. It highlights the drama of being torn between what the brain tells us and what the heart desires." Watch the "Namumula" music video below!
In additional Maki news, the Tarsier Records hitmaker also announced a two-day concert series at the New Frontier Theater. You can find ticketing information here.
Maki just dropped a new music video with BINI's Maloi as his co-star! On “Dilaw,” Maki and Maloi participate in a high school romance, with each adventure slowly adding color to their lives as time passes by. According to the music video's description, "Dilaw," which translates to yellow in Tagalog, is a metaphor for a person who brings joy and optimism into your life. The song also symbolizes the happiness and positivity someone brings into your life. Watch the music video below!
"Sikulo" is a new collaboration from Tarsier Records that connects rising OPM artists Maki, Angela Ken, and Nameless Kids’ frontman Nhiko Sabiniano. The melancholic song is an alternative-pop single that narrates the exhausting journey of two lovers who inevitably have to run in circles. Maki, Angela, and Nhiko wrote the heartbreaking song to illustrate the reality of a relationship that is bound to end.
"Sikulo" follows Maki’s previous release “HBD,” which now has over one million Spotify streams. Additionally, his “Tanong” EP has generated almost 90 million streams on Spotify alone.
“Sikulo” is Angela’s latest music release after dropping “Alas Diyes,” a song co-produced by Nhiko. The indie-pop alternative band Nameless Kids dropped a new single last January entitled “Still So In Love,” a song Nhiko also penned. Before “Sikulo,” Maki and Nhiko previously worked together for Maki’s biggest hit to date “Saan?,” which now has over 65 million Spotify streams.
Check out "Sikulo" below!
Maki was one of the biggest OPM acts of 2023 and the Filipino singer has continued his momentum into the new year by dropping a new song. On January 5, the Tarsier Records artist released "HBD," an emotional roller-coaster of a ballad. While the song title may give a first impression of a birthday celebration, the track draws inspiration from the feeling of wanting to greet your ex a happy birthday, but feeling unsure if you should push forward with the gesture. The lyric video also will get you in your feels because it narrates a story of celebrating your own birthday alone now that you're missing your former significant other. Listen to Maki's "HBD" below!
Josh Cullen
juan karlos
Lola Amour
Felip
SB19
Felip
SB19
Dilaw
Zack Tabudlo feat. Al James
Cean Jr.
Alamat
Josh Cullen
BGYO
Alamat
Alamat
Shanti Dope
SB19
Alamat
Maki
After a string of viral singles, Maki has just dropped his first EP! "Tanong" is a five-track project that features new songs consisting of “Sigurado?”, “Kailan?”, “Siguro…?” and his viral hits “Saan?” and “Bakit?”. On the body of work, the Filipino singer signed to Tarsier Records follows themes of uncertainty and dealing with confusion from love lost.
“Last year, I went through so much pain mentally and emotionally. I had no one to talk to about my questions back then except for my best friends, but I didn't wanna bother them so I just started writing my questions on a paper. Sinulat ko lahat ng tanong ko sa mga taong wala na sa buhay ko, missed opportunities, as well as yung mga tanong ko sa sarili ko,” Maki said.
"Tanong" introduces Maki at his most vulnerable, as the R&B artist also revealed that the songs started off as journal entries reflecting on his personal journey.
“No’ng una akala ko magiging journaling journey ko lang siya at araw-araw akong iiyak, but it turned out to be the best project I did so far sa career ko. I never thought that my greatest pain could turn into something I can look at now as a possession that I'll treasure forever,” he shared.
You can stream Maki's "Tanong" EP here.
Maki has dropped two songs so far this year and recently both of the releases have started to gain major traction on Spotify. “Saan?” debuted on Spotify Viral 50 and “Bakit?” appeared in the top 100 viral songs in the Philippines. Both songs showcase the Tarsier Records artist’s ability to combine heartbreaking lyrics over heartwarming and happy melodies.
The Music Videos for both "Saan?" and " Bakit?" feature the story of two lovers on their journey of love and loss through moving pictures, symbolisms, and reminiscing. It’s a love story that perfectly captures the bittersweet essence of a lost love. Both videos star Maki and Karina Bautista, with overlapping storylines and themes. You can watch them both below!
Photo Courtesy of Maki's Instagram
Following the success of his hit single "Saan?", Maki is back with another heartbreak anthem as he asks the question "Bakit?". With poignant lyrics and melody full of emotion, "Bakit?" delves into the complexities of heartbreak and the lingering questions left unanswered that come with it. Maki's emotive vocals capture the turmoil of a broken heart, asking why love changed and if it was ever real. Maki's "Bakit?" resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of heartbreak.
“This song actually came first, I wrote this song a couple days before writing "Saan?"
Bakit is a song that expresses our "marupok" selves after ending a confusing relationship. Para sa'kin, "Bakit" is actually the hardest question to answer. We usually ask ourselves "Bakit kaya nagawa niya sakin yun? Bakit kaya niya ko iniwanan ng ilang beses? after the break up. BUT ang pinaka mabigat at confusing na "Bakit" ay, kahit ginawa niya yung lahat ng mga bagay na hindi mo inaasahan sa kanya, bakit mahal mo parin siya? Bakit nandito ka parin? Most of the time, when relationships end, people are bound to ask questions within themselves. "Bakit niya kaya ako iniwan?" leading them to blame themselves for everything before even realizing that it's not their fault.
This song is actually one of the most heartbreaking songs I've ever written, cause I know that a lot of people are also dealing with questions (why) that they themselves are unable to figure out.
With this song, I want people to know that asking questions (why) within yourselves is okay. but, blaming yourself for everything is not. You have to realize na kaya ka marupok is because genuine yung love mo sa kanya and you did your best for them.
About Maki
Maki is the freshest face of OPM. The R&B singer is here and ready to share his music with the world through his child-like view on life. The R&B singer wants to write songs that will make people feel understood with melodies that bring good memories, peace, and calmness.
His debut single, Halaga under Tarsier Records has since gained over 70,000 streams across different platforms. His rendition of the viral hit Gusto Ko Nang Bumitaw - R&B Version is making waves on its own, quickly gaining over 100,000 streams within 3 weeks, debuting at #53 of Spotify’s Viral Songs Philippines, and landing Maki the cover of Spotify’s Pinoy Covers playlist. As of writing, the track has over 900,000 streams.
Maki's latest single, Saan? has gained over 50,000 streams in under 5 days and currently has over 2 MILLION streams on Spotify alone. On the week of its release, "Saan?" was featured on 5 editorial playlists — #1 on pov: u, #1 on issa vibe, #1 on OPM Says Chillax, #37 on Tatak Pinoy and, #36 on New Music Friday Philippines. Maki has landed the cover of Pinoy Indie Mix, and was featured in .ORG, a regional Spotify playlist showcasing up and coming talents in Asia. The track also debuted at #46 on Spotify's Viral 50 Philippines playlist. It was also featured on curated playlists like, Pinoy Super Soundtrip, Bagong Pinoy Sounds and Tambay Tuesday.
Maki has been performing in various shows and events around the metro such as, BGYO Album Showcase, PLUUS Showcase, Pawchella, mall shows, and more!
Maki’s quirky personality and unique outlook on life makes him stand out amongst the clutter - and this is only the beginning.
Cover Photo Credit: Tarsier Records
Maki starts off the year with an upbeat yet nostalgic track that’s bound to make you want to reconnect or reminisce about a lost love. “Saan?” by R&B singer/songwriter, Maki, is the perfect anthem for any young heartbroken soul out there. The track takes you on a journey of heartbreak and longing about a love that slipped away. The lyrics express the desire to reconnect with a lost love and hoping to cross paths again in familiar places. The upbeat production, combined with Maki's heartfelt vocals, creates a sound that is fresh and current, yet nostalgic and melancholic at the same time.
Maki is the freshest face of OPM. The R&B singer has proved he’s here and ready with his unique child-like view on life. His debut single, “Halaga” under Tarsier Records and has since gained over 45,000 streams across different platforms. The R&B singer wants to write songs that will make people feel understood with melodies that bring good memories, peace and calmness. His quirky personality and unique outlook on life will help Maki standout in the clutter - and this is only the beginning.
Cover Photo Credit: Tarsier Records
