SB19, a Filipino boy band formed in 2018, has rapidly risen in the Philippine music industry, becoming pioneers in the Pinoy pop (P-pop) genre. Their latest EP, “Pagtatag!” released on June 9, 2023, marks a significant milestone in their career, showcasing their artistic growth and further solidifying their influence in both local and international music arenas.
“Pagtatag!” is the second installment in a trilogy that began with their 2021 EP, “Pagsibol.” This EP signifies the group’s commitment to strengthening their identity and exploring diverse musical styles, including pop, EDM, hip hop, soul, and R&B. The EP’s themes encompass empowerment, commitment, love, mental health, and liberation, reflecting the band’s personal experiences and growth.
About ‘Pagtatag!’
Released on June 9, 2023, SB19’s EP “Pagtatag!” has been met with widespread acclaim for its musical diversity and lyrical depth. Critics have praised the group’s exploration of various genres, including pop, EDM, hip hop, soul, and R&B, noting the EP’s reflection of the band’s artistic growth and versatility.
The EP comprises six tracks, each showcasing a unique facet of SB19’s musical prowess:
- Gento: An empowerment anthem blending pop and hip hop elements, using gold mining metaphors to narrate the group’s journey to success.
- I Want You: A sensual R&B track reminiscent of 1990s music, expressing deep desire and showcasing the band’s vocal versatility.
- Crimzone: A reggaeton-influenced EDM pop song with hard-hitting beats, advocating perseverance and hard work to achieve dreams.
- Ilaw: An emotional ballad driven by acoustic guitar, discussing vulnerability and the need for self-care through metaphors of blinding lights.
- Liham: A power ballad love song led by strings and piano, akin to a wedding vow, expressing love, devotion, and gratitude.
- Freedom: An upbeat pop song dedicated to their fans, celebrating liberation from struggles and the joy of achievements. Wikipedia
Each track contributes to the EP’s overarching themes of empowerment, commitment, love, mental health, and liberation, resonating deeply with listeners and solidifying SB19’s position as trailblazers in the P-pop industry.
You can listen to “Pagtatag!” on various platforms, including Apple Music and Spotify.
Key Tracks and Their Impact
Gento
“Gento,” a standout track from SB19’s “Pagtatag!” EP, has achieved significant popularity and cultural influence. The song debuted at No. 8 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart, marking a notable entry for the group.
Its catchy rhythm and empowering lyrics have resonated with a wide audience, leading to its use in over 600,000 TikTok videos, further amplifying its reach.
The track’s modern sound, infused with distinctly Filipino elements, positions SB19 as cultural ambassadors, bridging the gap between their local roots and aspirations for global recognition.
I Want You
“I Want You” showcases SB19’s versatility, blending R&B influences with their signature P-pop style. The track has been well-received for its smooth vocals and engaging melody. Notably, SB19 delivered an exclusive live performance of “I Want You” for Vevo, highlighting their vocal prowess and stage presence.
Additionally, the group performed the song during their “Pagtatag!” World Tour, including a memorable rendition in Washington D.C., which was met with enthusiasm from international audiences.
Freedom
“Freedom” is an upbeat pop song dedicated to SB19’s fans, celebrating liberation from struggles and the joy of achievements. The music video for “Freedom” was released on October 28, 2023, and has garnered positive reactions for its vibrant visuals and uplifting message. Fans and critics have praised the group’s energetic performance and the video’s production quality, further solidifying SB19’s reputation for delivering impactful and engaging content.
These tracks exemplify SB19’s growth as artists and their ability to connect with audiences through diverse musical styles and meaningful themes.
Global Recognition
SB19’s international presence has been marked by dynamic performances and a rapidly expanding global fanbase.
In July 2023, during their “Pagtatag!” World Tour, SB19 delivered a surprise performance on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. This impromptu event drew a substantial crowd, effectively halting traffic and showcasing the group’s ability to captivate audiences beyond their home country.
Following this, in August 2023, SB19 took to the streets of New York City’s Times Square. Their energetic performance of hits like “Gento” and “Crimzone” attracted a diverse audience of both locals and tourists, further amplifying their international visibility.
These high-profile appearances have significantly contributed to SB19’s growing international fanbase. Their performances have garnered millions of views online, and their music has trended across various global platforms. The group’s engagement with international media outlets and participation in global events have further solidified their status as ambassadors of Filipino music on the world stage.
Read next: P-Pop: The New Face of OPM
SB19’s Contribution to Pinoy Pop (P-Pop)
SB19 has played a pivotal role in shaping and redefining Pinoy Pop (P-Pop), elevating it to unprecedented heights both domestically and internationally. Their success has not only brought Filipino music to the global stage but has also paved the way for other Filipino artists to gain recognition internationally.
Their influence extends beyond their music, as they have inspired a new generation of Filipino artists to pursue careers in P-Pop. Groups like BGYO and BINI have followed in SB19’s footsteps, adopting similar marketing strategies, choreography, and fashion styles, contributing to the genre’s growth and diversity.
SB19’s dedication to their craft and their commitment to promoting Filipino culture have set new standards in the music industry, inspiring fellow artists to strive for excellence and authenticity. Their journey from aspiring artists to the “P-pop Kings” is a story of talent, hard work, and a deep connection to their roots and their fans.
Through their innovative approach and unwavering passion, SB19 has not only redefined P-Pop but has also laid a solid foundation for its future, ensuring that Filipino music continues to thrive and resonate with audiences worldwide.
Conclusion
SB19’s “Pagtatag!” EP signifies a pivotal moment in their career, highlighting their artistic evolution and solidifying their status as trailblazers in the P-Pop genre. The EP’s diverse musical styles and profound themes have garnered critical acclaim and expanded their global fanbase.
Looking ahead, SB19‘s commitment to innovation and cultural representation positions them to make a significant impact on the global music scene. Their dedication to promoting Filipino music and culture resonates with audiences worldwide, suggesting a promising trajectory for both the group and the broader recognition of P-Pop on the international stage.
