The origins of Carwajee members Richter Kent “RK” Velasco and Kenlei Serwelas are as compelling as their sound. Launching their debut single “Asawa” under Imperium Entertainment, the duo brings a raw, busker-honed energy to the OPM scene, discovered by award-winning filmmaker Daniel Palacio.
Both members of Carwajee hail from Lipa, Batangas, and their musicality draws immediate comparisons to the melodic warmth of Cup of Joe. In a blind listening session conducted by Imperium Entertainment, 8 out of 11 music critics specifically noted the sonic similarities between the two groups. Much like the Baguio-based hitmakers, the new duo leans into a blend of soulful acoustic arrangements and heartfelt storytelling. However, where Cup of Joe offers a breezy, retro-pop nostalgia, Carwajee introduces a cinematic folk-pop edge—a reflection of Palacio’s influence as their sole songwriter.
“We aren’t even on the same planet as Cup of Joe yet, so getting compared to them right out of the gate feels surreal,” Velasco said. “It just shows how powerful music is. Our focus now is just the work—honing our sound until our records and our live sets are nothing short of elite.”
For Serwelas, the comparison is a massive ego boost. He shared, “Getting a nod alongside Cup of Joe is huge. Their catalog is so solid, so it’s an honor to even be in that conversation. The goal now is to let our music do the talking.”
“Asawa” serves as Carwajee’s introduction to the national stage, blending high-stakes relatability with the gritty, evocative atmosphere of Palacio’s songwriting. The story of the duo is equally cinematic: two buskers who performed in the same city but never crossed paths until Palacio’s keen eye for talent brought them together.
Now, under the banner of Imperium Entertainment, Velasco and Serwelas transition from the sidewalks of Lipa to a professional studio production. Beyond the music, they are set to showcase their range as performers in the upcoming “Asawa” music video to be directed by Palacio.
In a seamless move from lens to lyric, Palacio is positioning Carwajee to lead a new wave of OPM that is as visually evocative as it is musically profound. His dual role as producer and creative architect ensures that every track is a deliberate extension of the duo’s raw, authentic identity.
Executive produced by Oliver Sy, “Asawa” was officially released by Imperium Entertainment on May 7, 2026. The song is now available on all major streaming platforms.
