The pandemic really affected not just the Philippines, but the whole world. It impacted businesses and people’s lives. But with COVID-19 still posing a threat, is the music industry thriving more than ever?
Apparently, it is. PolyEast Records’ A & R Director, Chito Ilagan admitted that the pandemic is an opportune time for the music industry. With concerts being unavailable, Ilagan noted that anyone can be given the chance to shine.
“I personally noticed na nag-level yung playing field now. Walang advantage kahit na sino. Anybody can do a hit song now, with what’s happening this pandemic. For me, that’s very good,” he said during Benedict Chua’s virtual contract renewal with the record label.
Ilagan stressed that unlike with pre-pandemic, where someone has an edge over other artists, this mid-pandemic situation leveled the playing field where everyone can be given equal opportunities, which is also good for the industry.
“Kasi everybody can do a great song. And everybody will notice it. Not like before na may edge yung iba. But now, no one has an edge. Everybody has the same chance so it’s good for the industry.”
PolyEast Records’ General Manager, Jesmon Chua agrees with Ilagan. With digital platforms taking a huge boost due to the pandemic, it likewise resulted in an increase in viewership.
“Surprisingly, during the pandemic last year, of course, medyo nag-slow down yung digital. Actually, it increased yung viewership during the pandemic, which is good,” said Chua.
That is why Chua shared that PolyEast is upping its game in terms of creating music. The record label will be making more than one song per year for their talents. And with the ongoing pandemic, Chua is certain that the company can achieve such a feat.
“I’m always telling Chito we should do more than one song per year. The more the better. I think we can achieve that this year. Because we have a lot of good songs already ready for you to collaborate with.”
Kapuso actor Benedict Cua made his singing debut on June 18, 2020, through his single, ”Di Namamalayan”.10 months after its release, he is back at it again with PolyEast Records, dropping his second single, “Something Beautiful”. Although Benedict continues to wow the public with his beautiful songs, unfortunately, there will be no albums under his name, yet.
But there is nothing to worry about. In fact, Ilagan explained that the record label stopped making albums for their artists. Instead, the company creates songs continuously for their talents.
“Hindi na uso yung album eh. It’s just doing a lot of songs that we’re constantly creating on. We don’t think of doing albums anymore. But we do songs continuously and create material for all our artists,” said Ilagan.
Also, fans of Benedict will get to see him perform more songs as PolyEast assured the actor’s fans that there will be more songs lined up for him.
“Expect more songs from Ben. We will be more adventurous with the coming songs. He has proven his talent in singing, so we will explore it ’til the end,” Ilagan said.
