Symphonic Distribution, a leading music technology and services company for independent labels, managers, and artists, has signed EchoesInDream (EID), a South Korean label celebrated for its genre-bending artists, to a global distribution deal that will bring the label’s music beyond Korea’s borders to an international audience.
The deal includes the global distribution of releases from EID, including an upcoming high-profile collaboration between Filipino R&B legend Jay R and EID rising artists PAAK and AVN titled “Swimmin’,” which is slated for release on January 3, 2025. Known as the “King of R&B” in the Philippines, Jay R is a singer, songwriter, and producer averaging over 6 million monthly listens on Spotify. His June 2024 collaboration with Filipino artist Dionela on the track “sining” has surpassed 178 million streams, and his November 2024 collaboration with Filipino artist Denise Julia has surpassed 1 million streams, further cementing his influence across Asia and beyond.
In addition, EID is preparing to release new music from PAAK, Korea’s only Afrobeats artist, in January 2025. With a signature style that fuses Afrobeats with Korean musical elements, PAAK is set to bring a fresh sound to the global stage. Currently, PAAK is making waves on the KBS World television show 더 딴따라 THE DDANDDARA, which premiered on November 3, 2024.
“Working with EchoesInDream to take their music worldwide enables us to champion Asia’s diverse music scene on a whole new level,” said Guji Lorenzana, Asia Territory Manager at Symphonic. “Their upcoming collaboration with Jay R exemplifies our mission to create meaningful musical connections and elevate Asian talent globally.”
“Joining forces with a Korean artist who shares my passion for music has always been a dream. Big love to PAAK and AVN for having me on this track, and a huge thanks to boss Guji for making the connection!” said Jay R.
“As a label expanding globally from South Korea, we firmly believe that our partnership with Symphonic will lead to diverse and exciting results,” said Choi Jun Myung, CEO of EID. “Collaborating with a major artist like Jay R aligns perfectly with our mission. The chance to create a track alongside such a legend and release it through Symphonic is an incredible opportunity for us.”
V1BE Manila 2024 delivered an unforgettable experience, energizing the crowd from start to finish. The event was a true celebration of local and international talent, seamlessly blending hip-hop, reggae, and pop culture.
The fan experience kicked off even before the performances began. Pablo, Ez Mil, and Lucas greeted their fans at a meet-and-greet session at the Creator’s Studio, setting the stage for an electric day ahead. Live indie band performances followed, keeping the adrenaline high and the crowd hyped for the main event.
The stage show started with DJ Kate, who set the tone with her energetic remixes. Following her set, local reggae act Chocolate Factory brought a laid-back yet vibrant reggae vibe that kept the crowd moving. The legendary duo Legit Misfitz then took the stage, thrilling fans with their iconic “Jabongga” hit, and further building the anticipation for the headlining acts.
Before the main performances, JAG held a fashion show, showcasing their latest designs and adding a touch of glamour to the event.
As the crowd’s excitement reached a fever pitch, PABLO of SB19 opened the main show with his signature sounds. His dynamic performance had everyone on their feet, proving once again why he is one of the kings of the local music scene today. PABLO’s energy and charisma left no one bored, as he connected with fans through every beat.
Next, Lucas took the stage, opening with “Renegade,” the powerful dance track from his debut mini-album. His set included hits like “Dip It Low” and “Crushing On You,” as well as a few anecdotes about his time in the Philippines, including his love for local food like “Mang Inasal.” Lucas, who was performing in the Philippines for the second time this year, expressed how easy it was to adapt to the local culture, making for a more intimate and authentic performance.
Ez Mil, the Filipino hip-hop sensation who caught Eminem’s attention and became the first Filipino artist to sign with Shady Records, was next. The crowd was electrified as Ez Mil showcased his exceptional talent, including a cover of Eminem’s hits “The Real Slim Shady” and “Lose Yourself.” Just when fans thought the night couldn’t get any better, Ez Mil invited PABLO on stage for an unforgettable performance of SB19’s smash hit “Gento” and Ez Mil’s own anthem “Panalo,” putting an exclamation point on his powerful set.
Local hip-hop artist Flow-G took over next, delivering his signature brand of hip-hop and keeping the crowd hyped with his biggest hits. The members of Ex Battalion were seen in the crowd, supporting their brother on such a significant stage.
Then, rap icon GLOC9 entered with his timeless classic “Simpleng Tao.” His performance was a journey through his greatest hits, with the audience singing along to every word. Before wrapping up his set, GLOC9 invited PABLO, Ez Mil, and Flow-G on stage for a powerful performance of the late Francis Magalona’s iconic anthem “Kaleidoscope World.” The collaboration was a powerful representation of the past, present, and future of the Filipino music scene—perfectly encapsulating what V1BE Manila 2024 was all about.
The event’s grand finale was the highly anticipated AKON Superfan Tour, which did not disappoint. AKON delivered an explosive set, performing every one of his chart-topping hits, including “Don’t Matter,” “Smack That,” “Lonely,” and “Right Now (Na Na Na).” The crowd sang, danced, and vibed with every track, making it clear that AKON’s performance was the highlight of the night. As the show came to a close, V1BE Manila 2024 left everyone with lasting memories of a truly extraordinary experience.
V1BE Manila 2024 will undoubtedly go down as the Grandest Hip-Pop Experience the Philippines has ever seen.
Presented by L-Squared Productions Inc.