Fast-rising Kapamilya recording artist Maki welcomes 2024 after a breakout 2023 with a brand new alternative city pop single called “HBD.”
The track instantaneously hit the pinnacle and top spot of Spotify Philippines’ New Music Friday playlist while Maki got featured as the playlist’s cover artist.
“HBD” is a track about remembering the birthday of one’s former lover while musing on whether to reach out or let go ("Hindi naman sa nanghihinayang ako / May konti lang kirot / 'Di ko pa kasi limot ang birthday mo / Ilang araw na nangangati mga daliri / 'Di na mapakali baka batiin kita / Wala namang mawawala, 'di ba?"). Written by Maki with Nhiko Sabiniano of Nameless Kids, it also speaks of acceptance of a lost love in the process. The track now has over 276,000 streams on Spotify in less than three weeks.
Maki introduced “HBD” through an intimate launch party held last January 7 at Magdamag Market Café in Quezon City where he and his most diehard fans shared their HBD stories or experiences of longing for loved ones on their birthday.
His latest music follows the successful Tanong EP he dropped late last year under Tarsier Records, featuring equally heartbreaking songs “Kailan?,” (approaching 9 million Spotify streams) “Bakit?,” (5.5 million streams) and “Saan?,” which is his biggest hit to date with almost 52 million streams on Spotify alone.
Indeed, Maki captured the uncertainties and confusions of lost love in his debut EP Tanong last 2023.
“Last year, I went through so much pain mentally and emotionally. I had no one to talk to about my questions back then except for my best friends, but I didn't wanna bother them so I just started writing my questions on paper. Sinulat ko lahat ng Tanong ko sa mga taong wala na sa buhay ko, missed opportunities, as well as yung mga tanong ko sa sarili ko,” Maki said.
The R&B-pop-city pop artist also added that the songs started out as journal entries until it ended up being a collection of songs that reflect his personal journey.
“No’ng una akala ko magiging journaling journey ko lang siya at araw-araw akong iiyak, but it turned out to be the best project I did so far sa career ko. I never thought that my greatest pain could turn into something I can look at now as a possession that I'll treasure forever,” he shared.
What makes the rising music artist's songs special is how he writes heartbreaking lyrics over heartwarming and happy melodies, which is in line with his intent to release music that makes people experience nostalgia, peace, and calm.
The fast-rising up-and-coming singer has captured the hearts of listeners through his relatable and catchy songs that show his child-like view on life. Maki has released several singles including “Halaga,” “Para Sa Buwan,” and his hit R&B rendition of “Gusto Ka Nang Bumitaw.”
Currently, Maki is in demand in the gig circuit and already has a few brand ambassadorship deals tucked under his name. He's also announced as a co-headliner for Make It Live Asia's MakeItPop OPM Rising event happening at Samsung Hall, SM Aura March 17 featuring some of the Philippines' emerging new blood.
Maki’s quirky personality and unique outlook on life makes him stand out amongst the clutter - and this is only the beginning.