Morissette, a1’s Ben Adams on new Christmas anthem
BEN ADAMS, the lead singer of chart-topping boyband a1 and now a producer based in the UK, teams up with Filipina singer Morissette on “This Is Christmas.” Released under Sony Music, the song was originally written for a Dutch artist, but the BRIT awardee and multi-platinum star changed his mind and took the material as part of his own. “I loved it so much I couldn’t give it away,” the British singer-songwriter and producer said in a statement. “So I decided to take it back. Once I recorded the whole thing I was like, it sounds magical but I’m sure I can squeeze some more magic out of it — so I began searching for the best person to collaborate on it with me.” He found Morissette, one of the biggest and best-selling Filipina pop stars of her generation. Roslyn Pineda, Sony Music’s GM Philippines & VP Business Development Asia, referred the “Akin Ka Na Lang” singer to Adams as a potential duet candidate. “I was blown away by her performances. So we started talking, and I sent her the song online. We facetimed to work out who wanted to sing what,” said Adams. “This Is Christmas” is an upbeat tune about “enjoying the holiday season with your loved ones, looking forward to coming home and making the most of the Christmas season.” The Christmas duet is now available on all music streaming and download platforms worldwide.
Syd Hartha releases new single ‘Paruparo’
SINGER-SONGWRITER Syd Hartha recently released her new single “Paruparo” under Sony Music Philippines. With earthy, stripped-down arrangements that soar toward a climatic plane, she sings about how the power of words or even the absence of it can change situations and affect lives. “It got to the point where I realized it’s time for me to step outside my comfort zone and make music with more power, something that speaks to a wider audience and can make an impact,” the 18-year-old folk artist said in a release. The new single is now available on all streaming and download platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, and Deezer.
Warner TV Pop Expo is getting bigger
THE 3rd Warner TV Pop Expo will be taking geek culture to the streets of Eastwood City Open Park and Central Plaza on Nov. 17. Entry is free. From art to music, talks to games and activities, there’s plenty to enjoy. Making a comeback will be the Artist Alley, Maker Center as well as The Heroic Training Grounds where visitors can try their hand at physical games such as the Arrow-inspired “Archery Attack,” Swordplay and Shooting Range. There are The Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon quizzes, a “We Are F.R.I.E.N.D.S.” interactive photo area featuring the iconic couch from Central Perk; and a “Batman-By-Us” interactive graffiti exhibit. There will be photo opps with Scooby-Doo, We Bare Bears, and The Powerpuff Girls. On-stage activities and board games will test visitors’ geekiness. Musical acts are scheduled throughout the day. Warner TV is also bringing the Pop Talks to the main stage. For more information about the event, visit the Warner TV Pop Expo Facebook page.
