A new wave of all-female energy has joined the ever-expanding P-pop scene, as VVINK—the five-member girl group formed by FlipMusic Records—officially debuted with their single ‘Tulala’ and a media showcase that introduced not just their sound, but their stories of resilience and passion.
Composed of Angelika (leader), Jean (main vocalist), Ayaka (main rapper), Odri (main dancer), and Mariel (all-rounder), VVINK comes into the spotlight with more than synchronized choreography and catchy tunes—they bring with them experiences of rejection, perseverance, and a shared dream to inspire.
Before becoming VVINK, all five members faced setbacks in their artistic journeys. Angelika, who once joined a P-pop search on TV5, later wrote ‘Pantropiko’ for BINI. Jean and Mariel competed in the same season of ‘The Voice Kids’ before going their separate ways and reuniting years later in VVINK. Jean also joined ‘Idol Philippines’, while Mariel pursued dance competitions and acting.
Ayaka, originally from Japan, moved to the Philippines to follow her dream of performing. “Performing is really my passion,” she said. Odri, who had no professional singing background, was already a dancer and choreographer before discovering her voice through training. “They just discovered that I could sing, and so they gave it a try,” she shared.
These setbacks became stepping stones to what their group name now represents. Read as “WINK,” the double V signifies “second chances” and “double victory.”
Before debuting as a group, each member had solo pre-release tracks that reflected their individuality. Jean took on ‘Kalawakan’ and ‘Extra Time’, while Mariel sang ‘Hiraya’ and ‘Silakbo’. Angelika showcased her vocals in ‘Ningning’ and ‘Alon’, and Odri in ‘Sa Iyo Talaga’ and ‘Palagi’. Ayaka took the spotlight with ‘Kindat’ and ‘Ichigo Girl’.
This approach, they said, allowed them to understand themselves better as artists. “Of course, we have our own individuality, but our main goal is to sound as one,” said Odri, acknowledging the years of training required to harmonize their voices.
Despite debuting during a time when many P-pop groups are rising, VVINK emphasized that their mission isn’t to compete but to inspire.
“We’re all just here to share our music,” the group shared, citing the likes of BINI, KAIA, Calista, G22, SB19, and Alamat as their inspirations—alongside OPM legends Sarah Geronimo, KZ Tandingan, and Cup of Joe.
Their debut single ‘Tulala’ is an upbeat, danceable track that tells a story of first love—relatable, bright, and brimming with the charm of youthful discovery. The group’s fanbase, affectionately called WINKIES, can expect more releases soon, with ‘Tulala’ serving as a sonic preview of VVINK’s playful but heartfelt direction.
“Marketing-wise, we may be new,” said FlipMusic, “but creatively, VVINK is ready to take the stage.” (with reports from Loyd Pino)
