The new year is just beginning. And yet, the 15-year-old Esang de Torres is already teasing what’s about to come. Without a doubt, the young star ended last year with a bang. Having a successful 2022 debut with the release of her three singles, Esang has her way to making things bigger for 2023 as she signs a co-management contract with her label, PolyEast Records.
Most of us started to know Esang when she jumpstarted her music career by joining The Voice Kids Season 2. Strongly ending the competition as a finalist, she went on to showcase herself in the world of theater, where she plays the role of Little Cosette in the 2016 Manila run of the musical “Les Misérables.” Afterward, she acted as Matilda – her first lead role – in the 2017 Manila run of “Matilda the Musical.”
Being previously dubbed as Lea Salonga’s “mini me,” Esang proved that she has an identity of her own. Showcasing her vocal prowess and her skills in songwriting, she made her debut under PolyEast Records with an original song of hers titled “Praising Hours.” With her love for poetry, the lyrics she wrote are not just profound but also subjective.
For some people, the song will seem like a look into the mirror—it may be about themselves. Still, Esang explains that “Praising Hours” is about getting to know someone thoroughly. A person may come off as “narcissistic” when they’re just confident. As the lyrics go, “beneath the praise, I see the dreams.” Deep inside, we’re all just individuals with emotions.
Esang admits that submitting an original song that she wrote herself is nerve-wracking. “Sometimes, the ideas are overwhelming, and it can be hard to decide on what you want because there are a lot of possibilities,” the young artist shares. Many what-ifs came to mind as she questioned whether it was good enough or something people would like. And yet, with the song now released on digital music platforms, “Praising Hours” is receiving much praise from fans and new listeners.
After her debut single in 2022, Esang de Torres now releases “Heartbeat,” a funky pop song that will leave you wanting to dance. In this, she sings about young love and happy crushes, fitting for the young artist starting to establish a name for herself with her music.
“The song speaks and relates to me by the simple fact that this commonly happens during the stage of being a teenager,” Esang says. Singing about youthful times, the song reminds her of the common euphoric experience or feeling of having a certain admiration or “crush” towards someone. Nonetheless, no matter the listener’s age, it’s relatable and something you will groove along to.
She also adds that the lyrics speak for themselves. “When you are with the person you admire, it feels like the most wonderful, feathery-light feeling. It feels like you’re in this ethereal dream, floating in the sky; everything seems magical,” she explains.
With the guidance of composers Kiko Salazar and Nhiko Sabiniano, Esang recorded “Heartbeat” with a singing style quite different from how she usually does it. To deliver the song’s message effectively, Esang took on a gentler, softer approach that matched the upbeat and light sound of “Heartbeat.”
On the topic of admiration, there’s another surprise that the young singer has prepared. Interestingly, it almost has the same message as “Heartbeat,” albeit on a more mature side. Bringing her to take Coach Lea Salonga’s song, Esang released “Mula Noon Hanggang Ngayon,” a rendition of the early 90’s single. Asked if she felt any pressure, Esang shared that it was challenging, but she was honored to be allowed to bring her own touch to it.
The song was her last release for 2022, and Esang couldn’t be more grateful. She adds that even though sometimes she’s inactive because of school, her fans don’t tire of showing her support. Moreover, she wants to give back with a special surprise as 2023 begins.
Esang excitedly shares with us she will drop her EP soon! There’s no exact release date yet, and we still don’t know what to expect from her upcoming music. Still, we know that the young talented artist will not disappoint. So be sure to stay tuned for more updates and announcements!
Follow PolyEast Records’ social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tiktok on @polyeastrecords to get more updates on Esang and other artists under PolyEast Records.
