At the turn of October, apart from spooky season being in full swing, the “October Theory” online trend serves as a motivational “second New Year.” It offers people a chance to reset goals, form new habits, and embrace fresh beginnings.
With less than 100 days left before Christmas, and Filipinos having fully kicked off the holiday season since the start of the ‘ber months, now is the perfect time to get the ball rolling in opening a new chapter.
It’s a moment to reflect on the year so far, realign priorities, and focus on what truly matters — from strengthening relationships, nurturing your mental and emotional well-being, or pursuing long-derailed dreams.
Luckily, we have the perfect playlist to soundtrack that. Billboard Philippines lists down 10 songs that perfectly fit the October Theory vibe — from IV of Spades’ “Aura” and Ebe Dancel’s “Bawat Daan” to SB19’s “Mapa” and Cup of Joe’s “Multo.”
“Bawat Daan” – Ebe Dancel
“Bawat Daan” by Ebe Dancel is the perfect soundtrack to a tender, autumn-tinged weight of nostalgia and longing — something you’d play in a quiet moment of reflection when you feel lost or without direction. Anchored by Dancel’s acoustic arrangement and heartfelt vocals that deliver a bittersweet punch, it offers a message of still finding the right path toward something, or even someone.
“Aura” – IV of Spades
If we’re talking about new beginnings, IV of Spades know a thing or two. Having recently reunited as a four-piece, Zild, Unique, Blaster, and Badjao embrace a sense of rebirth and growth with their comeback single “Aura.” The track, which in itself feels like an opening chapter, reflects a desire to reconnect amidst both chaos and calm. With their voices blending seamlessly, the track feels melancholic as if we ought to leave the past behind.
“First Luv” – BINI
BINI made a comeback with a Filipino track with “First Luv,” a warm anthem that celebrates diverse forms of love and the excitement of falling in love for the first time — may it be platonic, romantic, or even familial. The catchy bubblegum pop track delivers kilig-filled energy and excitement, serving as the perfect prelude to deeper reflections on one’s feelings and emotions, while also symbolizing a fresh start — even the courage to open one’s heart to people again.
“Mapa” – SB19
SB19’s emotional track “MAPA” shines a light on parents, “Ma” and “Pa,” as guiding maps through a child’s life, helping them navigate uncertainties, challenges, and decisions. Acting as a lullaby and paying tribute to how parents make sacrifices for their loved ones, the song serves as a heartfelt love letter and a touching tribute that deepens the bond between children and their parents. It also serves as a reminder that it is never too late to grow closer.
“Araw-Araw” – Ben&Ben
Ben&Ben‘s “Araw-Araw” is all about showing consistency in love and showing up every day for a loved one. It emphasizes how daily choices and actions speak volumes, and how choosing to be with someone again and again through thick and thin makes the love even greater. The track feels like a soundtrack for capturing the intimate feeling of rekindling a love that may be flickering, with hopes of starting anew and giving the relationship a second chance to grow stronger.
“Multo” – Cup of Joe
Also quite fitting for the Halloween vibe, Cup of Joe‘s chart-topping (and record-breaking) hit “Multo” blends haunting melodies with powerful, introspective lyrics that evoke memories, nostalgia, and the figurative ghosts of the past. The song’s dreamy atmosphere amplifies its themes of love, loss, and growth, making it hauntingly perfect to blast past midnight for the night owls and all-nighters out there. In a sense, blasting the song can offer a cathartic feeling of letting go of the ghosts of the past and embracing the present and what’s to come.
“kahel na langit” – Maki
Translated to “orange sky,” Maki‘s “kahel na langit’ is a track for the yearners out there who cherish moments with people they once had and wish they could still hold onto. With the kind of warmth a person brings, that feeling may linger even if fleeting, and a gentle reset in our lives can often bring more good than we realize.
“Bagong Simula” – juan karlos
As the title suggests, “Bagong Simula, translated as “New Beginning,” serves as the closing track of juan karlos‘ 2024 album Sad Songs and Bullshit Part 2. It invites listeners to reflect on their journey of letting go while embracing new chapters in life with open arms and the presence of a special someone by their side. With the courage to start anew, the track is perfect for those ready to embrace the changes that come with new beginnings.
“Kaakit-Akit” – Over October
Over October‘s “Kaakit-Akit” captures the heartfelt enchantment one feels toward someone and becomes this crazy, indescribable feeling. With a kind of “delulu” (delusional) admiration, this feeling can always be attributed to the intensity of being completely captivated by another person. Falling in love may feel different for each of us, but we can’t deny that it also marks a significant step toward new possibilities and can signal the start of something new, as Troy and Gabriela would sing.
“Ikaw” – Healy After Dark
Healy After Dark‘s “ikaw” is a standout track that beautifully captures the essence of longing and the complexities of love. It’s a commanding and reaffirming song about being honest with one’s feelings toward another person. It flows effortlessly with the moment and the passage of time, as love gradually deepens and evolves. Perhaps you need to remind yourself to embrace what your heart feels and trust where it leads.