Inaugural Complex Philippines Council member and 88rising/PARADISE RISING affiliated artist CA Christian Alexander is back with a new release. “Right Back” is a seven track mini R&B album that features a curated selection of both old and new songs from the NYC native and currently Manila-based lyricist/songwriter.
Sonically, “Right Back” showcases CA’s signature songwriting talents and his ear for catchy melodies, caption worthy lyrics, and playback worthy punchlines. Throughout the project, the Filipino-American musician seamlessly switches between rapping and singing, sometimes even on the same track.
“I took most of 2022 off from rapping. To be honest, I attended 88rising’s HITC Festival as an audience member in December 2022 and that experience of being surrounded by my peers is what really sparked a fire in me to make music again. For the next few weeks, I turned to music as my creative outlet again and we packaged some of the new songs that I was excited about with some unreleased songs I had in my vault so that they wouldn’t go to waste.”
“Right Back” also introduces a more vulnerable side to the self-proclaimed “Black Hearts” artist. The 20-minute playlist narrates a theme all too familiar to “relationships” in 2023: on and off situationships, toxicity, trust issues, vice-fueled lust and intimacy, and more.
“I can’t cap in my raps. All of my songs are always inspired by true stories based on real experiences. For me, ‘Right Back’ is the perfect title for this body of work because: I took a year off from music and I got right back to it, the narrative of project from the first song (‘DNS’) to the last song (‘SPF’) is a cycle, and on the five newer songs on the project I talk about a situation that I just kept finding myself getting right back into.”
CA
One of the clear standout records on “Right Back” is “Sides” with Kiana V, the album’s lone guest appearance. The song features the two PARADISE RISING alumni acts collaborating on a track that’s definitely giving classic 2000s R&B vibes. In true Y2K fashion, both artists even share a back and forth segment to end the track.
Another standout record is the title track “Right Back,” CA floats on the wavy beach-inspired production before performing our favorite chorus on the album: “Let me tell you sumn / Girls just wanna have fun / Girls just wanna get drunk / On the weekends, we can 100 on the freeway, yeah / Money on the way, he say, she say, yeah / City where the team stay, everybody eats, yeah yeah.”
In addition to these two tracks, “Right Back” also features a popular South Border sample on the appropriately titled “OPM Freestyle (Interlude).” “South Border’s ‘Rainbow’ was one of my favorite OPM songs growing up and I had the idea to sample the track in 2020 and Gelo was able to bring my vision to life,” CA shared. “This track means a lot to me because it’s important to me as a Filipino-American living in Manila to pay homage to the music and culture here.”
“I’m calling ‘Right Back’ an archive because it’s a capsule collection of both old songs and new songs that I felt fit a specific theme, vibe, and story. I made five of the songs in a six week span from late December to early February after being inspired by new life experiences. One of my goals for my personal growth in 2023 was to not overthink too much and to be more vulnerable and open with my emotions, and what’s a better way to stand by that than by sharing new music with the world?”
CA
“Right Back” also included “No Complications” is a fun song where the smooth songwriter flexes his ‘w rizz,’ while the contrasting “No Title” serves as the perfect canvas for the MC to deliver his hardest hitting rap verses on the tape. The intro (“DNS”) acts as a trippy leadoff track to start off the project sonically and the outro (“SPF”) serves as an upbeat Afrobeats inspired vibe that finds the artist right back in the nightlife looking for company.
ABOUT CA
CA Christian Alexander is one of the most sought out names in the global Filipino music scene. The NYC native and currently Manila-based lyricist/songwriter has earned a reputation for his versatility in the Rap and R&B genres due to his ear for catchy melodies, caption worthy lyrics, and playback producing punchlines.
Since moving to the Philippines, the artist’s talent has been recognized and co-signed by some of the biggest names in the industry. For example, CA has previously been featured in 88rising’s PARADISE RISING “semilucent 2” EP and the inaugural Complex Council class recently launched by Complex Philippines. Christian Alexander is one of the pioneers bridging the gap between the Philippines and the world.
“I almost retired from music in 2022 and throughout that whole experience, all I could think about was all of the unreleased songs that I never dropped. Now that I’m back to making music, one of my goals is to share as much of my art with the world as possible and hopefully I can inspire others to do the same.”
CA Christian Alexander plans to release music all of 2023, starting with “Right Back,” a mini R&B album released March, 16 2023.
Ed Sheeran is set to release his new album ‘-‘ (Subtract) – the last in his decade-spanning mathematical album era – on 5 May 2023 through Asylum/Atlantic. An album that revisits Ed’s singer/songwriter roots, and one that was written against a backdrop of personal grief and hope, ‘-’ (Subtract) presents one of the biggest stars on the planet at his most vulnerable and honest.
“I had been working on Subtract for a decade, trying to sculpt the perfect acoustic album, writing and recording hundreds of songs with a clear vision of what I thought it should be. Then at the start of 2022, a series of events changed my life, my mental health, and ultimately the way I viewed music and art.“
ED SHEERAN
Ed shares that writing songs is his form of therapy, “It helps me make sense of my feelings. I wrote without thought of what the songs would be, I just wrote whatever tumbled out. And in just over a week, I replaced a decade’s worth of work with my deepest darkest thoughts.”
Life had other plans for the award-winning singer-songwriter. He was dealing with a lot personally as within the space of a month, his pregnant wife was diagnosed with a tumour, with no route to treatment until after the birth. His best friend Jamal, a brother to me, died suddenly and I found myself standing in court defending my integrity and career as a songwriter. He felt the emotions of fear, depression and anxiety.
Since he first learnt ‘Layla’ by Eric Clapton on guitar at the age of 12-years-old, Sheeran’s love of the singer/songwriter began. Growing up with the likes of Damian Rice, Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan playing on repeat in his parents’ house – artists that his dad, John, introduced him to – ‘-‘was always on Ed’s horizon. Yet as the songs and writing process took on a whole new meaning and direction after a series of hard-hitting events impacted Ed’s world in 2022, one thing that remained untouched was his strong desire to make a record anchored in his love of singer/songwriter compositions. And now, as he gears-up for the release of his most soul-baring work to date, ‘-‘ serves as a timely reminder for why Sheeran remains one of the most gifted lyricists of his generation; an artist who breaks down his own experiences for fans to seek comfort and belonging.
“I felt like I was drowning, head below the surface, looking up but not being able to break through for air. As an artist I didn’t feel like I could credibly put a body of work into the world that didn’t accurately represent where I am and how I need to express myself at this point in my life. This album is purely that. It’s opening the trapdoor into my soul. For the first time I’m not trying to craft an album people will like, I’m merely putting something out that’s honest and true to where I am in my adult life.This is last February’s diary entry and my way of making sense of it. This is Subtract.”
‘-‘ is the result of Sheeran pushing the boundaries of his songcraft, as he delivers the most profound songwriting of his career. Teaming-up with Aaron Dessner (The National) on writing and production after the pair joined forces following an introduction from mutual friend Taylor Swift, Ed and Aaron began crafting the album in February last year. Writing over 30 songs during their month-long studio stint, the album’s fourteen tracks are seamlessly tied together by exquisite production from paired back, folk-leaning textures to bolder, full-band/orchestral arrangements.
Ed Sheeran burst onto the UK music scene in 2011 with his debut album ‘+’. Rapidly establishing himself as a history-making artist, he followed with ‘x’, ‘÷’, ‘No.6 Collaborations Project’ and ‘=’ – a catalogue that has seen Sheeran become one of the world’s biggest musical success stories of the 21st century.
‘-‘ (Subtract) Tracklisting:
Cover Photo Credit: Warner Music
The latest music video from Ez Mil, “Up Down (Step and Walk)” is a collaboration between the rapper himself and Creative Director & TRYBE founder Phil Tayag. The song first premiered at the NBA LA Clippers vs. Utah Jazz halftime performance and was well received with millions watching the performance live or online.
The visual art focused on dance and he was excited to work with the award winning choreographer who’s also worked with Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, and Paul McCartney. Growing up Ez was a big fan of hip hop and dance, he would spend countless hours studying dance and music videos any chance he could whether at school or in Internet cafes in the Philippines.
Ez watched countless videos of America’s Best Dance Crew, where he first discovered Founding Member and Former CEO/Director of the Jabbawockeez, Phil Tayag, in their memorable performances and interviews that he would go on to teach to his high school classmates.
Getting to work with Phil in his hometown of Sacramento, Ca was an honor to longtime fan Ez Mil. He created a unique “Up Down (Step & Walk)” movement that was showcased in the “one shot take” video that will soon go viral on Tik Tok and Instagram alongside some of the best dancers & choreographers in Sacramento and Northern California, followed by thousands on social media, including Wren Crisologo, Heatgottem, Chonkie (The Smeeze Creator), Koncept and of course SACBxY himself, choreographer, music director and producer Phil Tayag of TRYBE.
Cover Photo Credit: 1587 Marketing
The Tarsier family is growing with their newest addition and signed artist, Viñas Deluxe. The RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines alumni gained popularity on the show for her comedic punchlines, gags and big smile, which earned her the title of Pambansang Bunganga. Now, she’s venturing out to music with her upcoming single, “I’m Feeling Sexy Tonight” out January 27th,
Her social presence earned herself a loyal following with her campy looks and entertaining content. It makes her a standout in the industry with her fun personality, fabulous looks, and talent.
“I found this track very empowering dahil kahit ano man ang aking shape at itsura, if you feel sexy, magiging sexy ka (because no matter how I look, if I feel sexy, I will BE sexy.) It’s all about confidence. Gusto kong impart sa mga nakakarining na may lalim yung song na ito (I want people listening to this song to know that it has depth.)”
Viñas Deluxe
The track is fun, sexy, flirty, and remake of the 80’s hit. She adds her own flavor with a modern twist, making it more edgy and sexy. She wants her listeners to know that you could feel sexy no matter what.
The goal is to help everyone feel empowered because she believes the more empowered you feel, the sexier you become. It’s all about inspiring people to feel the best they are. Save the track and listen this Friday!
Cover Photo Credit: Tarsier Records
Fil-British singer and artist, beabadoobee is about to have a huge year as she gets ready go on tour with Taylor Swift. However, she’s been hitting the festivals in 2022 and right before the year ended, she made an appearance at the popular BBC 1 Radio Live Lounge. Many artists have come through the live lounge to perform their hits and cover some of their favorite songs.
beabadoobee performs two songs, “The Perfect Pair” off of her album, Beatopia and she also sings a cover of Vanessa Carlton’s “Thousand Miles.” Check them both out below!
Cover Photo Credit: beabadoobee Instagram
Do you have your favorite Filipino food? There may be a Latino food that’s similar to it and may even have the same name. Jo Koy visits mitú, a digital media company that brings a Latino POV to mainstream entertainment to try Filipino dishes with host, Alejandro Perez. They swap dishes and try each other’s version. Alejandro gives his feedback on Filipino dishes and Jo Koy with Latino dishes.
The two talk about the similarities and where the dishes are usually seen. They kick off with champorado which are very similar, while the polvoron and polvorones differ in texture and shape. Lastly, they try each culture’s version of leche flan. The Filipino version of the flan didn’t quite look like its usual, but more of a brûlée. The crossover between the two cultures just shows how connected we are. Check out the full video below!
Cover Photo Credit: we are mitú
The Fil-Am executive, Faith Santilla was previously the Director of Field Operations for the Directors Guild but was promoted as Assistant Executive Director of the organization. The Hollywood Reporter shared the news and in her new role she working on behalf of the organization’s assistant directors and unit production managers members, using her experience in union and specialized labor to work.
National executive director, Russell Hollander shared how Faith’s experience will be an asset for the team, “Since joining the DGA in 2015, Faith has helped to grow our field representative operations to address the unique needs of our members working in all categories.” The article says, Santilla will focus on assistant directors (ADs) and unit production managers (UPMs) in the DGA’s western region and will represent guild staff on the Western AD/UPM Council.
Santilla started at the DGA as a field representative in 2015 then moved up in the ranks as a special assignments executive then to the director of field operations supervising the Western Field Representative Department. Before her career at the DGA, Santilla worked as an organizer for an immigrant workers center in Los Angeles’ Filipinotown and various other union organizer positions.
Cover Photo Credit: Faith Santilla Instagram
This summer everyone’s obsessed with the lavender or lilac color scheme and so is Olivia Rodrigo. She teams up with Glossier for their latest eyeliner release, the No.1 Pencil in muse. Recreate the same look with the set, “Olivia’s Favorite” which includes boy brow + ultralip + pro tip. Check out the details below!
What it is: A longwearing pencil eyeliner that glides on smoothly with rich, buildable, blendable color, giving you endless options for creative expression—as subtle or as bold as you like. It’s No. 1 for a reason!
Cover Photo Credit: Glossier Instagram
The Garado family thought it would be a normal day while shopping at Target during the holiday season. Little did they know that their small act of kindness would brighten everyone’s day. Tiktoker Isaiah Garza tested the family’s kindness by asking them to buy his lunch. The family decided to share more and give Isaiah $20 extra for his needs later on.
Isaiah surprised them by buying their Target haul and give them $500 for their kindness. According to a Yahoo article, “The Garado family has been struggling the last few years. Their daughter was born with a rare brain condition and cerebral palsy.” Even though the family was struggling they still offered to help any way they could. Many people pointed out how it’s in Filipinos’ nature to be kind and help others.
So many people were touched by the Garados that a GoFundMe page has been set up for their daughter Sophia, “Believe in the Impossible! Sophia’s Journey.” “We are hoping that you will be able to help us for Sophia’s lifetime medication. This support will truly help her fulfill her needs and provide all the necessary procedures that she needs to take in the future.”
Cover Photo Credit: Yahoo News
Super Typhoon Rai, known as Odette, left parts of the Philippines to pieces, leaving people in desperate need of basic necessities like power, food, and water. The devastation caused by the typhoon hit some of the most vulnerable areas of the Philippines like Bohol, Siargao, and Cebu.
Actress and artist, Nadine Lustre returned to the island of Siargao to help set up solar panels for locals to charge gadgets like phones, LED lights, and other appliances. Currently, there’s still no power on the island and locals have been helping each other rebuild their community.
Nadine recently has been splitting her time between Manila and Siargao and although she was in Manila during the typhoon, she made her way back to help in providing relief. With no timeline yet when electricity will be available for the island, every little bit helps.
MYX has set up a Twitch DJ charity fundraiser on 12/28 and 12/29 to raise funds for ABS-CBN Foundation International to support the victims in the Philippines, you can donate directly here on Tiltify for “Operation Odette” to their efforts in providing food, shelter, health items and more. Stay tuned for more info on the fundraiser along with an announcement for the line up.
Upcoming for Nadine is a new film under Viva Max, Greed. She shows off her acting depth with this darker role in this thriller film with Diego Loyzaga. Check out the teaser below!
Cover Photo Credit: Greenpeace Philippines Twitter
Yes, Survivor is still on and they’re on Season 41. The winner of the latest season is Fil-Canadian Erika Casupanan who also is the first female winner since Sarah Lacina of Season 34.
After being crowned the Sole Survivor and winning 1 million dollars, she joked on Twitter that she may be a witch because she broke the curse. It’s been a long time since a female took the title. Erika is a communications manager from Toronto who leaned on her master manipulation skills during the season. However, going into the show she wanted to represent her roots as a Canadian and Filipina.
Erika told ET Canada, “I had always dreamed of being on ‘Survivor’ and I think that being able to represent Canadian, being able to represent women of colour — and I was born in the Philippines and I know there are a lot of Filipino fans of ‘Survivor’ — it’s something that I think weighed on me…But before going up to the show, I kind of changed my mindset. I just need to go out and be me.”
Survivor is a reality competition that has been on air since 2000, and hosted by Jeff Probst. The contestants or “castaways” (yes, like Tom Hanks in Castaway) are sent to a secluded area and need to complete different challenges to complete. It’s both a mental and physical game. Castaways have to not only survive and fend for themselves, but also strategize against others.
Cover Photo Credit: Erika Casupanan Twitter
FERN. released his Dreamwalker EP early this month that features 12 tracks including his latest single, “Lotus.” The music video for the new track just dropped and we can’t stop thinking about it. It features fellow artist Cavill and is the 5th video FERN. released for the EP.
Dreamwalker has been 2 years in the making and is his most personal project yet. He previously released the singles, “Baby Rye,” “Kagandahan,” and “LOOPING” before the release of the EP. If you’re looking for something to chill out to then this is the EP for you. You can’t go wrong with FERN.’s soothing voice and vivid lyrics that makes you visualize his songs. Get a glimpse of the artist he’s become as he pours his emotions into each track on the EP.
Can’t go wrong with this ensemble of music, as FERN. said, “it’s art for consumption.”
Cover Photo Credit: FERN. Facebook
