Stop sleeping on SB19!

"Yeah, yeah, we gonna go up."

This line from the song that skyrocketed SB19's career in 2019 resonates vibrantly to where they've been heading since then. The five-piece group, composed of Pablo, Stell, Ken, Josh, and Justin, isn't at the pinnacle of their career now for nothing. Just recently, SB19 became the longest charting act in Billboard's Hot Trending Songs with their song "Bazinga". The song has stayed at No. 1 on the digital chart powered by Twitter for seven weeks, even surpassing the six-week reign of modern-day massive K-pop sensation BTS with their song "Butter". SB19's "Bazinga", a clapback to those who didn't and still don't believe what they're capable of, definitely 'turned the world upside down' as it continues its domination through the stronghold of their fanbase, the A'TINs.

What sets SB19 apart is the fact that they're both outstanding as a group and as individual performers. I've known them since 2019, and I must admit that they keep on improving in every performance. Settling for mediocrity isn't in their vocabulary; they keep on showcasing the best versions of themselves in every opportunity given to them.

The song that first struck me and transformed me into a fan was SB19's debut single, "Tilaluha". I can vividly recall how they were sitting comfortably while belting notes and harmonizing perfectly during their performance on the Wish Bus. After witnessing such a class act, I told myself they'll be a force to reckon with not only in the Philippine music scene, but also on a global scale.

And so, they did. SB19 being nominated by different award-giving bodies, gaining more supporters worldwide, being invited to perform in music festivals, promoting brands, and doing their own concert while also honing their craft is a tough act to follow. It is also noteworthy that their leader Pablo, who just released his solo debut single "La Luna", is another testament of how immensely talented and passionate this group is. I would love to dig deeper on the individual talents of each member, but let's save that for later. Let me highlight first the musical prowess of Pablo.

Fondly called by A'TINs as "pinuno" (leader), Pablo has undeniably established his role in the team. He's in-charge with majority of their songwriting and gets hands-on with the entire music production as well. Pablo weaves words magnificently, as if he's just breathing them to life. His lyricism is topnotch as he's one of the few songwriters I know who doesn't break the proper syntax in writing with English and Filipino in it. While it's generally accepted to construct sentences or lines in songs using "Taglish" (Tagalog and English), Pablo doesn't veer away with the technicalities as he maintains the consistency of language in each sentence, before switching codes, which I really admire. Also, I love that he's able to write with depth but it's still relatable. Aside from his creative side, Pablo has strong vocals. Imagine someone who can sing heartwarmingly and rap amazingly at the same time? That's Pablo for you. Wait, there's more. He's a belter too! What a feat, right?

I can actually do this all day, but before anything else, please listen and stream Pablo's "La Luna" MV. I hope the song haunts you in a good way while it bares your soul. Also, even if the road to self-acceptance is frightening, I sincerely wish you'll make it through. "Mahalima, mahal ka ng lima!"

#SB19 #SB19_PABLO #PABLO #PABLOLaLuna #LaLuna #SB19_STELL #SB19_KEN #SB19_JOSH #SB19_JUSTIN #Bazinga_SB19 #OPM #PinoyPride #ATIN

Photos grabbed from SB19's official Twitter account @SB19Official