Fresh from the success of their ‘Simula at Wakas’ World Tour and ahead of their much-anticipated performance at Lollapalooza this year, P-pop powerhouse SB19 is set to release a new album titled ‘Wakas at Simula’ on Friday, March 27, across all digital platforms under Sony Music Entertainment.
The group recently held a media launch attended by LionhearTV, where they assured fans that more surprises are in store.
“Wakas at Simula closes the chapter of proving ourselves,” SB19 said.
“In the beginning, we were focused on finding our place, building our identity, and earning people’s trust. This album honors that journey while also guiding us into a more grounded and intentional version of SB19,” they added.
Marking a milestone in their eight-year career, the album serves both as a culmination of their past work and a new creative direction for the group.
@lionheartv “Ever since we started our career as artists, parang ’yun na po ’yung pinaghahandaan namin.” Sa ginanap na Wakas at Simula Presscon, ibinahagi ni SB19 Pablo na ang yugtong ito ay hindi lamang basta bagong album—ito ay bunga ng maraming taon ng pagsisikap at paghahanda mula pa noong simula. Mula sa pangarap hanggang sa pagbuo ng kasaysayan, patunay ang SB19 na ang bawat hakbang ay may layunin. Handa na ba kayo para sa bagong simula? | Via Cassiopeia Janelle Calamaya @SB19 Official #WakasAtSimula #SB19 #SB19WakasAtSimula #SB19WaS #LionhearTV https://www.lionheartv.net/news
“Basically, it’s a compilation of everything that we have released. Gusto namin siyang maging celebration ng milestone namin,” said group leader Pablo. “At the same time, gusto namin sabihin kung ano yung direction na pupunta ng SB19.”
According to the group, their growth over the years has given them more confidence in their artistry.
“Our years of experience have given us the confidence to create and share what feels true to us, even if we are still growing. At the same time, this marks a new beginning. We hope to express ourselves more openly, explore deeper and more relatable themes, and move forward with clarity, care, and creative freedom, ready to face new challenges together,” they said.
Member Justin also highlighted the album’s musical diversity.
“Every time we release a new song for this trilogy, we try to introduce a new genre na hindi pa namin natatry before,” he said, describing the album as “very versatile” and “dynamic.”
The project features six new tracks, including the previously released ‘Visa,’ alongside re-recorded versions of some of their earlier hits with updated arrangements.
@lionheartv Our P-Pop Kings SB19 are serving absolute FACE CARDS at the Wakas at Simula Presscon today! Beyond the talent and the trailblazing music, the aura is just on another level. #WakasAtSimula #SB19 #SB19WakasAtSimula #SB19WaS #LionhearTV https://www.lionheartv.net/news
SB19 is also expanding its global reach through international collaborations. The album includes ‘Emoji’ with C-pop star Jolin and ‘Toyfriend,’- a dance-pop track featuring Japanese group BE:FIRST.
For member Stell, working with international artists proved to be a valuable learning experience.
“Since SB19 built its own system from the ground up, one that is pro-artist and pro-team, these collaborations helped us see how we can refine and evolve that approach,” he shared.
“The impact goes beyond music, as it opens opportunities for 1Z to grow and adapt to global practices. At the end of the day, it highlights how a young team can build meaningful connections and continue learning while expanding on a global stage,” he added.
Beyond new material, the group also revisits songs from their ‘Pagsibol’ EP, offering deeper emotional interpretations.
@lionheartv Ibinahagi ni SB19 Josh ang kanilang paghahanda para sa nalalapit na performance sa Lollapalooza. Ayon kay Josh, excited silang ipakita ang bagsik at galing ng P-Pop sa harap ng international audience. Isang malaking karangalan para sa bansa na makita ang SB19 na nagdadala ng ating musika sa mga pinakamalalaking festival sa mundo! @SB19 Official @1Z Entertainment @Sony Music PH #WakasAtSimula #SB19 #SB19WakasAtSimula #SB19WaS #LionhearTV https://www.lionheartv.net/news
“When we first recorded them, we were coming from a place of hunger and hope, performing based on how we initially understood and absorbed the lyrics,” SB19 said.
“Now, with more experience and perspective, the emotions naturally run deeper, and the lyrics carry greater meaning. It was not about changing the songs completely but allowing them to grow with us,” they added.
The 24-track album includes ‘VISA,’ ‘Memories,’ ‘Toyfriend,’ ‘Everblack,’ ‘Emoji,’ ‘Wakas,’ ‘What?,’ ‘MAPA,’ ‘Mana,’ ‘Bazinga,’ ‘Ikako,’ ‘SLMT,’ ‘GENTO,’ ‘I WANT YOU,’ ‘CRIMZONE,’ ‘ILAW,’ ‘LIHAM,’ ‘FREEDOM,’ ‘DAM,’ ‘Time,’ ‘8TonBall,’ ‘Quit,’ ‘Shooting for the Stars,’ and ‘DUNGKA!’
Sonically, fans can expect a wide range—from the smooth R&B feel of ‘Memories’ to the edgy, experimental sound of ‘Everblack.’
To cap off the era, SB19 will stage the ‘Wakas at Simula’ concert on April 18 at the SMDC Festival Grounds, serving as the grand finale of their tour.
While a full world tour is not currently planned, the group confirmed ongoing international shows across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, including their appearance at Lollapalooza Chicago.
As they continue to grow as artists and entrepreneurs under 1Z Entertainment, SB19 also emphasized the importance of understanding the business side of music.
“If you’re afraid of doing it, still do it. Kasi you’ll learn along the way,” said Josh Cullen.
Pablo added, “If you want to fund the art that you’ve been releasing, kailangan nag-e-earn ka from that… mahalaga na alam nila yung publishing, yung trademark nila.”
Looking ahead, the group believes they are part of a movement shaping the future of Filipino music on the global stage.
“In the next three to five years, everything will change and we’re very glad that we’re part of it or we are the ones driving it,” Josh said.
“P-pop is a way to showcase what the Philippines has… it’s also a business strategy to promote our music worldwide,” Pablo added.
