SB19 and Gloc-9 have joined forces for a powerful new single.

On August 9, the P-pop kings and the hip-hop icon officially released their collaborative effort: the anthemic “KALAKAL” (“TRADE”). Initially debuting the track live at last weekend’s Acer Day 2024 concert, “KALAKAL” sees them take their “creative direction to previously uncharted places” alongside being able to harness “their gifts with a balance of star power and dynamism.”

In a press statement, SB19 revealed that the collaboration stemmed from them reaching out to Gloc-9 first following the latter’s special appearance at P-pop icons’ PAGTATAG! world tour finale last May. “What sets this collaboration apart from anything that we’ve done before is that we took it upon ourselves to be as involved as possible from the beginning of the creative process,” the quintet shares, noting how, aside from them “brainstorming from scratch,” they became very hands-on when it came to sharing their “melodic and lyrical ideas.” “Sir Gloc-9 also approached the material with his own creative stamp and further solidified the storytelling aspects of our final output. The result is something that we’re excited to share with our music fans: a rousing chant that brings out the best of both worlds in uniquely inspiring ways.”

Furthermore, both the members of SB19 and Gloc-9 helped craft their own parts and verses on the track while working closely to bring the chorus and hooks to life. “We’ve always wanted to make a song that resonates with people of varying generations, a material that will encourage them to beat their chests out and sing along in their full emotional glory,” SB19 shares, noting how the hip-hop veteran’s presence greatly helped motivate them “to write from a place of vulnerability and truth,” alongside “taking into consideration the anthemic aspects of the production.” “KALAKAL, with its impactful instrumentation and earworm appeal, was made in pursuit of authentic human connection.”

Beyond serving to shine “a light on unique Filipino consumerism,” “KALAKAL” is described as “a powerful track” that serves as a display of SB19 and Gloc-9’s “journey of empowerment and longevity” while also illustrating “their story of building their legacy as artists through years of hard work, perseverance, humility, and pure talent.”

“This song is all about believing in your own craft,” explains Gloc-9, sharing how “despite being years ahead” of the P-pop frontrunners, he became greatly “inspired by SB19’s level of dedication and confidence.” “I also admire their willingness to learn and explore ideas that may not necessarily reflect the way they work. I would love to collaborate with them again, if given a chance.”

Hand-in-hand with their campaign to promote the track on “a grassroots level,” SB19 have teamed with some local businesses to engage their followers when it comes to “exploring the deeper meaning behind the song through the member’s individual preferences.” Check out the official pages of SB19 and Sony Music Philippines for more information as well as how to get a chance to win a “special prize.”

Alongside serving as SB19’s latest comeback, “KALAKAL” is also the third collaboration single the quintet has done so far this year, following “Moonlight” with Ian Asher and Terry Zhong, as well as “READY” with Apl.de.Ap. Meanwhile, Gloc-9 released his latest album Sari-Sari Story in June, and a single — “Debu,” featuring Arvy T — last month.

Listen to SB19 and Gloc-9’s “KALAKAL” below: