SB19 on new single ‘Moonlight,’ expanding horizons with Ian Asher, Terry Zhong

(From top left) Ken Suson, Ian Asher, Terry Zhong, Josh Cullen Santos; (From bottom left) Pablo Nase, Justin de Dios and Stell Ajero. Image: Sony Music Philippines

Having the chance to take on a new genre with “Moonlight” is what SB19 picked up from music producers Ian Asher and Terry Zhong, as it allowed them to explore new possibilities to widen their creativity.

The quintet dropped their new single “Moonlight” on Friday, May 3, a collaboration done with the US-based Asher and Chinese electronic producer Terry Zhong.

“We’ve met Ian Asher during our tour in the US, and we were surprised at how talented and prolific he is at such a young age,” SB19 said in a release.

The dance-pop track is said to display “sensual pining” and “romantic desires,” while its fast-paced melody inspired the group to open their doors to “exciting new possibilities” in the industry.

“This kind of music is new to us. The production is very current yet experimental, but it also gives us room to explore and expand our horizons as artists,” SB19 said. “The collaboration really brought out the best of all worlds, and being part of the process really opened our creative realm to exciting new possibilities.”

The music video for “Moonlight” will be released at 7 p.m. on the same day. Justin de Dios, who made his solo debut in March, served as the creative director for the video.

For de Dios, the “euphoric undertones” of the song’s lyrics allowed him to get creative with its concept which included him adding a touch of craziness to bring it to life.

“The song has euphoric undertones lyrics-wise, so I wanted to play around with that concept and inject a little bit of craziness and out-of-this-world treatment,” he said.

Without delving into the details, concept photos of the single showed Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken and Justin donning crisp polo shirts and gray trousers, complete with wide-rimmed spectacles of their own.

“It’s a very simple but minimalist take, but the dance choreography really elevates the visuals to a different level,” said de Dios. “I can’t really explain the concept without revealing too much. I’m just excited that this MV is in a totally different lane from anything that we’ve done in the past.”

SB19 was recently awarded at the 14th and 15th editions of the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Music and will receive their plums at the upcoming Box Office Entertainment Awards.

The quintet recently wrapped their Dubai and Japan legs of their “PAGTATAG!” concert and will hold its finale show at the Araneta Coliseum on May 18 and 19.

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