For SB19’s Stell, solo debut is a leap of self-confidence, empowerment

Stell of SB19. Image: Courtesy of 1Z Entertainment and Warner Music Philippines

Before SB19’s Stell Ajero debuted as a soloist with “Room,” developing confidence in himself and his abilities was something that took some time. It wasn’t until his stint in “The Voice Generations” and other solo appearances dawned on him that he could shine on his own.

Ajero was the final SB19 member to make his solo debut after Ken, Pablo, Josh, and Justin. The single “Room” and its accompanying music video, which was released on June 14, is inspired by his love for theater and musicals, as well as the 2010 film “Burlesque.”

“When I started as a member of SB19, I felt that I preferred performing with them. I’m not used to performing alone,” he said at a solo media showcase in Mandaluyong. “But once I had the opportunity to express and expose myself, that’s when I felt their support more. They were the ones who told me to grab the opportunity.”

Touching on his bandmates’ assertiveness to take control in their solo careers, he found himself gaining strength from their self-confidence. “They have different stories and backgrounds, which translated into their own sounds.”

“To be seen as ‘trendy,’ you need to go with the flow,” he continued. “But with them, I witnessed how firm they were to go their own way. That’s when I realized that you have to be firm on who you are. You have to show who you truly are.”

Ajero eventually gained the confidence to make a mark as himself. But while working on his solo debut, his fellow SB19 members assured him that he wasn’t alone.

The lyrics of “Room” were written by the group’s chief songwriter Pablo, and it was produced by Radkidz (a music production duo made up of Pablo and his brother Josue).

On the other hand, Justin was among the creative directors of the music video, while Josh and Ken were open to giving feedback.

READ: What SB19’s Stell learned from working with Ryan Cayabyab

SB19’s Stell Ajero in a promo photo for “Room.” Image: Courtesy of 1Z Entertainment and Warner Music Philippines

Gaining self-confidence

Despite the many opportunities that came his way, Ajero shared that building his confidence was a process. One of the many reminders he gave himself is whenever he receives compliments from others and career opportunities, people truly believe in him.

“I would remind myself that I wouldn’t receive compliments and opportunities if I can’t do it. It was given to me for a reason… when people tell me I have a nice voice, I used to get so shy. But when I receive compliments now, I believe that it’s given to remind you that you’re worth receiving them,” he said.

Before Ajero’s solo debut, he kept himself busy with solo activities including a coaching stint at GMA’s “The Voice Generations” in August 2023, a presenter stint at Billboard Philippines’ Women in Music in March 2024, and a slot at the first day of Ryan Cayabyab’s tribute show in May of the same year.

Four days after his solo debut showcase, he was a scene stealer at David Foster’s “Hitman David Foster and Friends” show where he did a splendid rendition of “All By Myself.”

‘LET’S TALK ABOUT IT IN MY ROOM’ 🎶

WATCH: SB19’s Stell Ajero kicked off his solo debut showcase with a performance of his track “Room.” | @HMallorcaINQ pic.twitter.com/UqAyi0sG87

— Inquirer (@inquirerdotnet) June 14, 2024

“I eventually realized that when you receive compliments, it’s up to you on how you want to perceive them. For me, I eventually became confident because of the people who truly believed in me,” he said.

But Ajero believes that his achievements shouldn’t be credited to himself alone. He pointed out that his accomplishments were possible because of God, his team, his loved ones, and his fans.

“When I achieve something, it is not because of me but because of everyone’s help. Who am I to boast of a milestone that I didn’t achieve on my own?” he added.

On his sound, supporting OPM

Ajero is aware that he was known as the group’s “balladeer” prior to his solo debut. But he shared that he wants to further explore his music and his range, now that he’s forging a career on his own.

“‘Room’ is about me exploring a different sound, but it wouldn’t stray from that. I believe this is the path I’m headed. The theatrical elements will always be part of the music I’ll create,” he said. “I’m also interested in jazz music. I’m not sure if I’ll release something like that anytime soon, but let’s see. I’m very open to doing everything.”

He is set to release his first solo extended play (or EP) in August and is set to embark on a nationwide tour. Touching on his passion for music, he hopes that the support for OPM and P-pop will continue.

SB19’s Stell Ajero in a promo photo for “Room.” Image: Courtesy of 1Z Entertainment and Warner Music Philippines

“A lot of new artists are making their mark and I’m happy that we’re becoming known even in different parts of the world. I hope we will continue to support OPM and P-pop until we reach our goal,” he said.

Like his bandmates, Ajero is also proud of artists who are unapologetic about the stories they want to tell through music.

“We have such a diverse sound now. Many artists are not scared of trying different sounds and tell their weirdest stories through their songs,” he said of them.