SB19 Shines on the Global Stage

Filipino boy band SB19 is proving that Asian music extends far beyond the realms of K-pop and J-pop. Since their debut in 2018, these P-pop kings have shattered records, making history as the first Southeast Asian act nominated for the Billboard Music Awards while amassing hundreds of millions of streams with their catchy tunes.

An Electrifying Return to Singapore

After their last performance in Singapore in 2022, SB19 returned with a bang at the Simula At Wakas concert held at the Arena @ Expo on August 24. For an exhilarating two and a half hours, members Josh, Pablo, Stell, Ken, and Justin showcased their individual talents and blended them seamlessly into the phenomenon that is SB19.

Unmatched Talents on Display

Each member stole the show with their unique vocal abilities—Stell’s powerhouse vocals, Pablo’s smooth tones, Josh’s dynamic rapping, Ken’s deep baritone, and Justin’s gentle melodies. Despite executing complex choreography, their vocal performances remained flawless, proving their prowess as both dancers and singers.

A P-Pop Spectacle with Global Flare

While the concert featured some familiar K-pop elements, like fan banners and photocards, it remained unapologetically Pinoy pop. The track selection was expertly curated, with thematic links showcasing the group's versatility from upbeat hits to soul-stirring ballads.

A Visual and Auditory Feast

One standout number, ‘Crimzone,’ transfixed the crowd with its stunning visuals—bright red lightsticks illuminated the arena as fans jumped in unison, creating an electric atmosphere. It was a mesmerizing experience that left the audience vibrating with excitement.

Unity in Diversity: A Multinational Fanbase

While most of SB19's ardent supporters come from the Filipino community, fans of various nationalities attended the concert, including international visitors from Indonesia. The inclusion of English translations for Tagalog lyrics further fostered an inclusive environment.

Southeast Asian Music Shines Bright

SB19's concert not only highlighted their own musical talent but also featured notable collaborations with Singapore's Benjamin Kheng, who delivered a captivating rendition of ‘I Want You,’ and Aruma, who led a delightful Bahasa Indonesia cover of ‘Mapa.’ These performances emphasized the potential for Southeast Asian artists to shine on the world stage.

A Milestone for P-Pop and Southeast Asian Music

SB19’s Simula At Wakas wasn’t merely a concert; it was a celebration of P-pop's evolution and a vision for the future of Southeast Asian music. With their pitch-perfect live vocals and a captivating stage presence, they’re not just elevating Filipino pop but setting the stage for the whole region to flourish.