For emerging singer-songwriter Isha Ponti, the launch of her debut album LIKAS was more than a career milestone—it was a deeply personal celebration of growth, healing, and finding her voice.
Held at Viva Café, the intimate launch brought together members of the media, industry friends, supporters, and loved ones for an evening that felt less like a formal album presentation and more like an honest conversation between an artist and the people who have supported her journey.
From the moment guests arrived, there was a sense that the night would be different.
The cozy venue created an atmosphere where every performance felt personal. Conversations flowed easily among attendees while anticipation slowly built for the artist at the center of the event. As Isha prepared backstage and completed her soundcheck, supporters eagerly awaited the first live presentation of the songs that make up her debut record.
The evening began on a lighthearted note, with audience games and interactive activities helping break the ice among guests. Laughter filled the room as participants competed in quick-thinking challenges, creating a relaxed environment that reflected Isha’s approachable personality.
But once the music started, the focus shifted entirely to the stories behind LIKAS.
Rather than introducing the album as a collection of standalone tracks, Isha presented it as an emotional journey divided into five distinct chapters: Longing, Illusion, Kindness, Acceptance, and Self-Love. Together, these themes form the acronym behind the album’s title and serve as the foundation of the project.
Each song revealed a different chapter of her personal experiences.
Some explored uncertainty and heartbreak. Others reflected moments of reflection, forgiveness, and emotional growth. As Isha moved from one performance to the next, listeners were invited into the experiences that inspired the music, making the evening feel more like a narrative unfolding in real time.
What made the launch particularly compelling was the authenticity behind every performance.
Isha’s songwriting shines because it embraces vulnerability. Instead of hiding behind polished production or grand gestures, her music focuses on emotions that many people experience but often struggle to express. That honesty resonated throughout the room, creating an intimate connection between artist and audience.
The crowd responded with quiet attention during the emotional moments and enthusiastic applause after every performance, clearly invested in the stories she was sharing.
A standout moment came when actor and singer Kelvin Miranda made a surprise appearance.
The unexpected collaboration instantly energized the audience as the two artists shared the stage for a special duet. Their performance showcased a natural musical chemistry and provided one of the night’s most memorable highlights, drawing cheers from fans and guests alike.
Yet the evening’s most touching moment arrived away from the spotlight of performance.
In a surprise that visibly caught Isha off guard, her father walked onto the stage carrying flowers and a birthday cake. The launch coincided with another important occasion in the singer’s life—her birthday—making the celebration even more meaningful.
The heartfelt gesture transformed the event into something larger than an album launch.
For a brief moment, the audience witnessed not just an artist celebrating a professional achievement but a daughter being celebrated by her family. The emotional surprise drew warm applause from the crowd and highlighted the support system that has accompanied Isha throughout her journey.
As the evening continued, Isha returned to the stage with renewed energy, delivering the remaining tracks from LIKAS with confidence and gratitude.
By the final song, it was clear that the album represents a defining chapter in her career. More than introducing new music, it establishes her identity as a storyteller willing to share both the beautiful and difficult parts of her journey.
Before ending the program, Isha took time to thank everyone who contributed to the creation of the album—from her collaborators and family members to the supporters who continue to believe in her artistry.
The gratitude in her words mirrored the sincerity found throughout the project itself.
As guests left Viva Café that evening, they carried with them more than melodies and lyrics. They had witnessed an artist fully embrace her story and transform it into something others could connect with.
For Isha Ponti, LIKAS is not simply a debut album. It is a reflection of where she has been, what she has learned, and who she is becoming.
And judging by the reception during its launch, this is only the beginning of a promising new chapter. (with reports from Kirby Morante)
