Six months of 2025 have come and gone, and with them came a wave of new songs that have sparked trends and soundtracked our days. From explosive hits that propelled itself atop music charts to viral sleepers that quietly took over social feeds, so much good music has premiered in the first half of the year.
So far, 2025 has served a wide selection of new jams that we can’t get enough of, whether they’re P-pop anthems you can’t help but play on repeat, hip-hop bangers that light up every party, or heartfelt ballads that have you in your feels.
As we look back on the first half of the year and look forward to what else 2025 has in store, we’ve listed all the songs that have stood out — from breakout hits to unforgettable collaborations, from fan favorites to unexpected gems. In no particular order, here are our picks for the best songs of 2025 (so far).
“Gnarly” – KATSEYE
KATSEYE make an explosive return for their first-ever comeback with “Gnarly” — a track that’s as chaotic as it sounds. It may be a far cry from the softer sounds of “Touch,” but this brash, hyper-pop earworm makes a strong statement about the six-piece girl group’s willingness to evolve their sound. Easily, it could very well be a contender for the title of 2025’s song of the summer, given just how much it has resonated with EYEKONs and newfound listeners alike. But above all, there’s arguably no other track this year so far that has managed to sink its teeth as deeply as this one has done. — Gabriel Saulog, Lead Writer
“Silakbo” – Cup Of Joe
As Cup of Joe walk us through the stages of grief through their debut album, Silakbo, the final song of the eight-track record concludes the journey with a resolution of inner strength. Rooted in vulnerability and quiet strength, the song speaks to anyone who’s ever been paralyzed by doubt, heartbreak, or fear.
With a slowly building energy that erupts into a frenzy in the final chorus, Cup of Joe encourages their listeners to release their burdens in the album’s title track. “’Wag na tatalikuran ang bigat ng unos / ‘Pag nasugat, ‘wag pigilan ang silakbo.” When the pain bubbles up, there’s no point in keeping it bottled in — there’s no fighting the outburst of emotions that follows grief. — Rome Saenz, Regional Music Writer
“Silver Lining“ – Laufey
Laufey always delivers, serenading us with tracks that effortlessly blend jazz influences with a touch of indie-folk. While much has been said about her soothing vocals, “Silver Lining” is a straightforward love ballad that explores the freedom found in falling in love and how love can flourish despite all the imperfections. Just like the song’s message, the song’s production is not all about grand gestures. Anchored by the emotion and weight of the storytelling, the track becomes exactly what it needs to be.
For some listeners, the track might feel familiar or even overshadowed by her earlier works. However, this is exactly where Laufey shines, crafting slow, intimate songs that may just be what we need to get through whatever’s overwhelming around us. At the end of the day, “Silver Lining” finds the beauty in an imperfect relationship and gently reminds us to take a breath, pause, and be vulnerable in the arms of our loved ones. — Ralph Regis, Lifestyle and Culture Writer
“Telepono” – ONE CLICK STRAIGHT
There’s a certain sense of almost unexplainable comfort one can find when listening to “Telepono” by ONE CLICK STRAIGHT.
Beyond the beautifully nostalgic yet familiar atmosphere of its melodic rock instrumentals, the song’s lyrics are what ultimately make this so reassuring. Detailing the simple yet relatable desire to constantly be on call with a special someone, this single from the Filipino alternative rock band reels you in with a calming familiarity, tinged with just the right amount of kilig to keep you listening over and over again. — Mayks Go, Writer and Photographer
“Pag-ibig ng Ikaw at Ako“ – Earl Agustin
Earl Agustin sure knows how to swoon listeners with kilig-worthy lyrics and a voice that’s perfect to hear live or during a quiet moment with a significant other. “Pag-ibig ng Ikaw at Ako” is a heartfelt throwback to classic OPM love songs, the kind that gets played endlessly on the radio and sung passionately in karaoke sessions. As a slow and steady ballad, it captures the timeless feeling of young love with its warm melody, reminding listeners of the simple, meaningful joys found in romantic moments. Earl’s smooth vocals and deeply relatable lyrics make the song a perfect soundtrack for date nights, long and easy drives, or even a future go-to karaoke song in the making.
With this release, Earl continues to build on his growing reputation as an artist who knows how to craft a hit, like he did with “Tibok,” without giving in to what’s trendy. He stays true to his sound and his lane, even releasing tracks that are longer than the typical singles we hear today. Perhaps we’re witnessing a future staple in teleserye theme songs — someone who honors the past while embracing the future with his distinct level of artistry. — Ralph Regis
“What Was That” – Lorde
Four years past the release of 2021’s misunderstood Solar Power, Lorde has returned to the public eye with “What Was That?” — a synth-pop anthem that reckons with the aftermath of a devastating breakup. As always, the Kiwi pop sensation expresses her innermost (and most candid) thoughts with such authenticity, making each listening experience as relatable as possible to millions of her fans across the world. While most people would note that it may sound like a return to her Melodrama roots, it’s undeniable that Lorde is moving forward with a new direction as she approaches the release of her album, Virgin. — Gab Saulog
“O’ Kay Tamis” – It All Started In May
Living up to its name, It All Started In May’s debut single “O’ Kay Tamis” is as sweet as it gets.
At its core, the song is a uncomplicated danceable tune, blending elements of old school pop, blues, and funk, with nice hints of Manila sound for good measure. There’s a charming simplicity found in “O’ Kay Tamis” that makes it all the more captivating musically, perfectly combined with relatable lyrics about missing and pining for one’s lover. — Mayks Go
“Bulaklak sa Buwan (budots remix)” – Ely Buendia, DJ Love
When Ely Buendia announced a remix album for his acclaimed Method Adaptor, few expected a collaborative piece with budots pioneer DJ Love — but the pair more than delivered.
Bringing together two legendary creative forces in OPM, “Bulaklak sa Buwan (Budots Remix)” is so distinctly Filipino, it might as well be the next national anthem. Jokes aside, the track is undeniably addictive, irresistibly danceable (as expected from DJ Love), and surprisingly lush in its production.
The infusion of bouncy, looped basslines, playful whistle hooks, and twinkling bells lends a whimsical, almost dreamlike energy to Buendia’s original. It’s a remix that not only reimagines the song, but reclaims the dance floor with a proudly local sound. — Rome Saenz
“Funny” – ena mori
Whenever ena mori releases new music, she never pulls the same trick twice — and her March single, “FUNNY,” is no exception.
Produced alongside Tim Marquez of ONE CLICK STRAIGHT, the track is a glitchy, synth-laced explosion of hyperpop that balances chaos with clarity. From the first note, its grungy, provocative energy commands attention, fitting for a song rooted in feminist critique.
Leaning into hyperpop’s maximalist tendencies while retaining her signature art-pop sharpness, “FUNNY” brims with digital distortion, erratic rhythms, and spoken-word verses that skewer performative masculinity and rigid social norms. It’s a biting anthem that proves pop can be both playful and politically charged. — Rome Saenz
“Divine” – BGYO
Despite taking some time away from the public eye in recent years, BGYO have made such a strong comeback this 2025, especially with the release of their self-titled EP. Despite the abundance of great tracks within the record, the undeniable standout is “Divine.” Kicking off with a soaring string intro, the song only continues to ascend further with the abundance of catchy hooks and impressive vocal performances from each member. — Gab Saulog
“MSK” – Kjwan
When Kjwan returned with long-awaited new music last year, it was more than just the esteemed Filipino rock band finally coming back with a new song after eight years — they also surpassed expectations of who they were and could potentially become.
They further prove this on “MSK” — their first single of 2025 — with its progressive rock-leaning instrumentals and introspective lyricism on life and finding enlightenment. Here, we see Kjwan step further into exciting new musical territory, leaving listeners with a well-rounded single that leaves one wanting even more. — Mayks Go
“Hari Ng Kapalpakan” – BLASTER
BLASTER’s confessional single, “Hari Ng Kapalpakan,” is a standout track from his latest album, Last Fool Show. Beyond the groovy, disco-inspired set of soundscapes that he has become known for, this track explores a new side of BLASTER — one that delves deeper into the struggles of feeling like a failure, being unfulfilled, and carrying the weight of expectations. The ’70s-inspired instrumentation only adds to the charm, solidifying this as one of the best OPM releases of the year. — Gab Saulog
“Love Calling“ – Uncle Bob’s Funky Seven Club
For the unfamiliar, Uncle Bob’s Funky Seven Club is practically the Avengers of the Filipino funk and jazz music scene — an ensemble of top-tier musicians from various bands. At the time “Love Calling” was recorded, the group included musical director and bassist Francis De Veyra, vocalists Pael Gutierrez, Zsaris Mendioro, and Faye Yupano, guitarist Gabe Dandan, saxophonist-flutist Nicole Tejedor-Reluya, and drummer John Reluya.
“Love Calling” is an easy and smooth listen, perfect for a slow day. Whether you’re starting your morning with a warm cup of coffee, making breakfast, or simply vibing before taking on the rest of the day, this track sets the right mood. It’s safe to say the song is rich with musical instruments and layered vocals, with a standout saxophone solo. It’s a groovy track that’s easy to listen to, but still sounds impressive. Clocking in at five minutes, the track brings everything together seamlessly, with each member contributing with precision, leaving no crumbs behind. — Ralph Regis
“BULLETPOOF” – Sica, Wavyier
Unafraid, hard-hitting, and fierce — these are just some ways to describe Sica and Wavyier’s collaborative piece “BULLETPOOF.” The track isn’t just a flex — it’s a raw, unfiltered dive into street reality, ego, and survival. Here, Sica and Wavyier pull no punches, painting a picture of aggression, loyalty, and the high-stakes mindset of someone who lives with danger on speed dial.
In its writing, the song is playfully confident in the way the artists make witty quips: “Do it on your block, ‘kala mo agawan base when we spin at you,” “Icе Spice, ice, ice, baby, may flu,” and more.
Produced and mixed by Gaspari 777, the track is undeniably easy on the ears, and can confidently survive hundreds of replays. — Rome Saenz
“Picture Window” – Japanese Breakfast
Like many great songwriters, Michelle Zauner of Japanese Breakfast has always treated music as a journal of sorts — and what she and her band have accomplished with “Picture Window” is a perfect example of that. Even with its (somewhat) macabre outlook on fate and death, the track serves as a poetic set of musings that highlight Zauner’s penmanship, while backed by gorgeous and equally layered instrumentations. As Zauner croons on the chorus, one can feel the underlying pain and anxiety of her premonitions, giving it the edge that sets it apart from several other great songs of 2025. — Gab Saulog
“BEBE” – STAYC
As STAYC step into their fifth year together, the bubbly K-pop favorites make it known that they are just getting started.
From the get-go, the South Korean girl group have always been vocal about upholding and striving for artistic excellence in all that they do beyond anything else.
This fact continues to hold true with the release of their single “BEBE” — a fierce, vibrant, and bouncy track that sees STAYC embracing a new, exciting side of themselves, transforming and redefining their very identity. With this, they not only tear down stereotypes that the public have long tried to pin them down with, but also ultimately become testament to the fact of their artistic commitment to never be boxed in. — Mayks Go
“Arc de Triomphe” – Aminé
When the summer rolls around, rapper Aminé always makes his long-awaited return, and rarely does he ever disappoint. This time, he’s back with a sixteen-track album, appropriately titled 13 Months of Sunshine, but our pick from the record is “Arc de Triomphe.”
Inspired by beats of the 1990s UK Garage, the track is filled with snappy snares, bright keys, and bars that are equal parts bursting with confidence and easy on the ears. Well-established Norwegian producer Lido leaves his fingerprints all over the track, incorporating seamlessly into Aminé’s energy. The song’s sophisticated production, along with its sheer replay-ability (I once had it going on loop for hours without noticing), has earned its spot as one of the best musical releases of 2025 so far.
With its lush, tropical atmosphere, it becomes the kind of song that makes the heat feel cinematic — sun-drenched, effortless, and just a little bit larger than life. — Rome Saenz
“Bitin“ – Over October
Marking their first release since their eight-track sophomore album Make Believe, Over October’s latest single is undeniably catchy, even if its lyrics revolve around the familiar themes of “what ifs,” confusion, and heartfelt confessions. It leans into the emotional storytelling of two people not being on the same page when it comes to their feelings, highlighting the pain of missed connections. The quintet continues to showcase their ability to craft upbeat tracks that are often focused on themes of regret and vulnerability.
Acting as a sequel to the group’s chart-breaking single “Ikot,” “Bitin” follows a similar formula but doesn’t try too hard to be an instant hit, especially following the band’s breakthrough. With their approach to storytelling in their songs, Over October delivers a track that feels emotionally resonant and honest, and a thoughtful follow-up that builds on what “Ikot” started. — Ralph Regis
“Like JENNIE” – JENNIE
There is no stronger statement than taking claim of your name, especially with what BLACKPINK’s JENNIE was able to do so with “like JENNIE.” Both a clapback at haters and a celebratory anthem of her impact within the global music scene, this track is not only catchy (thanks to Diplo, Leclair, and Jorge’s production), but is also worthy of all the acclaim it has received since its release. And while many have touted “like JENNIE” as the best of the BLACKPINK solo tracks, it’s hard to claim otherwise. — Gab Saulog
“Abracadabra” – Lady Gaga
While Lady Gaga has played around with a variety of genres over the past few years, “Abracadabra” is a welcome return to her grandiose pop roots. It’s maximalist yet explosive in all the best ways, and features the pop superstar’s operatic tendencies on full display — resulting in quite the profound statement that her artistry is continuously moving forward while equally honoring her past. The energy alone from the single is enough to get everyone up and moving, making it undeniably one of the best songs of the year thus far. — Gab Saulog
“Tanga“ – KAIA
“Sabi nga ni mama, ‘wag ka tatatanga,” sings KAIA in this catchy, pop-laden track that wastes no time and keeps things refreshingly simple. Without relying on overwhelming production, the song gets straight to the point; it’s a fun, confident, and a certified “last song syndrome” type of track. The five-member girl group continues to emerge as one of the hottest acts in the P-pop scene, and if you’re still unfamiliar with them, then “Tanga” serves as the perfect gateway.
Collaborating with Zack Tabudlo on the track, KAIA deliver with their playful style in their music, which proves how they can confidently embrace their identity with a track that screams early 2010s P-pop. With themes of high school crushes and young love that may seem cheesy to some, KAIA embraces this “Wattpad era” kind of romance wholeheartedly.
In “Tanga,” the narrator dives deep into heavy marupok territory, falling hard for someone despite the risk of heartbreak. It’s charming, relatable, and a nostalgic reminder of the love stories we yearned for during the naïveté of our younger years. — Ralph Regis
“Kape” – Project Yazz
Musical duos always make for interesting acts to watch out for. Often, one would wonder how their sound takes shape with just two individuals coming together to make magic.
With “Kape” by Project Yazz, vocalist Faye Yupano and bassist Bergan Nuñez join forces to paint a picture of love — a heartfelt confession of care and devotion through both the sweet and the bitter. Just like the best kind of coffee, the song is straightforward yet flavorful, possessing a comforting sonic quality perfect for any situation. — Mayks Go
“Dance With My Mistakes” – Lola Amour
Lola Amour’s latest hit single, “Dance With My Mistakes,” fully encapsulates the raucous energy of a group we all know and love. While cleverly disguised as an upbeat anthem, the track is actually a somber meditation on making peace with the end of relationship. With credit to the production by CUURLEY and Hyuk Shin, the song stands out as one of the group’s catchiest releases in their career, and is sure to grow on more people as the year goes by. — Gab Saulog
“Cake” – Any Name’s Okay
If Any Name’s Okay releasing an alternative rock song was on your 2025 bingo card, you can go ahead and tick that box. Being a breakup anthem, the indie folk-pop outfit’s February single, “Cake,” doesn’t shy away from being raw and petty.
As lead vocalist Sofia Abrogar cries, “It’s my youth / You’re like, 26, my dude,” the song doesn’t just mourn the end of a relationship — it confronts the ego, immaturity, and gaslighting that came with it. Rather than wallowing in despair over a breakup, Any Name’s Okay invite the listener to celebrate the end of toxic cycles and meaningless excuses.
Ultimately, “Cake” is the sound of reclaiming power, realizing you deserve better, and refusing to let someone rewrite the ending to a story they already ruined themselves. — Rome Saenz
“8TonBall“ – SB19
One of SB19’s tracks from their Simula at Wakas EP, “8TonBall,” is a powerful song to get you going, and maybe even burn some calories while you’re working on your cardio. Co-written by Josh, it’s a hype-worthy anthem that blends rock, hip-hop, and pop with ease, with the Kings of P-pop seamlessly coming together on the track. From the get-go, it doesn’t sound like something you’d immediately associate with a Filipino act, which says a lot about how SB19 is fit for the global stage. It’s the kind of song that is nothing but high energy, easily gets stuck in your head, and is worthy of a repeat listen.
Additionally, for those who recently got into SB19 and can’t stop listening to “DUNGKA!” or “DAM,” this track builds on those singles with the same high energy and production quality, showcasing the group’s strengths both vocally and performance-wise. “8TonBall” may get overshadowed by the aforementioned singles, but it’s still proof of their versatility and fearlessness to experiment with different sounds. — Ralph Regis