Loonie, Apekz, Young Blood Neet, DENȲ & More Take Over Apple Music’s “The New Manila” Playlist

Apple Music gives the spotlight to the exciting new wave of storytellers in the Filipino hip-hop and rap scene — amplifying the artists who are currently shaping the sound of Manila today — from Loonie and Apekz to Alisson Shore and DENȲ.

With “The New Manila” playlist, curated by the streaming platform itself, dedicated fans and listeners have an all-access pass to their favorites. For those who are looking to expand their music library, they can explore the exciting and emerging sounds from the genre.

Not only acting as a space and a way to connect the stories of what Manila is today, but this latest initiative also goes beyond the handpicked and curated playlist of songs. Through video interviews, description boxes, and editorial features across the platform, these artists have various avenues to connect with their fans and listeners, while also telling their stories and individual journeys.

The experience also highlights the evolution of the genre, led by the viral hitmakers, gamechangers, and music curators who continue to bring the intensity, raw energy, captivating hooks, and unfiltered storytelling from the Manila underground to a much wider audience.

For the week of April 17 to 23, the theme “Soundscape of Modern Manila” features the viral music forces that include the likes of Young Blood Neet, Juan Caoile, JRLDM, Alisson Shore, and Kiyo. Meanwhile, for the week of April 24 to 30 comes the “Next Wave & Legacy,” featuring artists like DENY, Apekz, Mac Mafia, Loonie, and Guddhist Gunatita.

Shaping the narrative with the current landscape of Filipino hip-hop, the city of Manila can be expressed and represented through the music and storytelling from the mix of rising artists and veterans who continue to bring the genre forward in the local music scene.

Check out Apple Music’s “The New Manila” playlist here.

Ralph Regis

Lifestyle and Culture Writer

Ralph Regis is a Lifestyle and Culture Writer at Billboard Philippines, where he bridges the worlds of film, television, fashion, art, food, and cultural trends with both the local and international music scene.

He has written extensively about artist collaborations, brand partnerships, and pop culture moments that connect back to music. He also brings stories to life through in-depth interviews with musicians and personalities, drawing on their diverse perspectives, opinions, and reflections on the human condition.

In addition, Ralph also writes about music releases across a wide range of genres, including pop, hip-hop, P-pop, and rock, highlighting both rising and established artists. With a passion for storytelling that goes beyond trends, he explores how music is part of our daily lives in one form or another, connecting culture, experiences, and everything in between.

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