Barq has just released his latest single, titled “Tumatak.”
The rising rap musician, also known as Arkin Magalona, gets vulnerable in the self-penned track, which showcases a more reflective (and intimate) side of himself. Utilizing thunderous production alongside its razor-sharp lyricism, the song highlights a new side of Arkin’s artistry — simultaneously debunking the pre-conceived notions about his principles and way of life, while also unlocking his potential as a storyteller.
“I wrote the track from a very personal place,” Barq shares in an official press statement. “It reflects where I am right now: not just as an artist, but as a person.” Produced by his friend and collaborator Denzel Vaughn (also known as DVaughn), “TUMATAK” is a stark difference from his previous single “Shake Dat Thang,” which stood out as a playful throwback to 2000s hip-hop. Yet with his latest release, it’s evident he’s evolving his capabilities as an artist.
”It’s the same Barq, but a different bite,” he continues. “I’m like a fusion restaurant serving multiple flavors: it’s up to you to pick from the current or old selections, which food you would choose to try out. Every time you release something with your name and your truth on it, that’s a risk. You’re putting your heart out there for people to judge. But growth requires risk. Legacy requires risk,” the youngest son of the late Francis Magalona admits. “It’s all about leaving your mark on the world,” shares the rookie hip-hop act. “No matter what you’re doing in life, you should always aim to create something that lasts, something worth remembering. It’s a reminder that impact isn’t just about fame or status –– it’s about legacy.”
Together with the track’s release on digital and streaming platforms worldwide, Magalona also dropped its official music video, directed by HS3K and featuring cinematography by David Sta. Ines. Check out the full music video below:
In a previous interview with Billboard Philippines, Magalona opened up about making his own mark in Filipino hip-hop, hence adopting the stage name ‘Barq.’ “I want to inspire people to explore other avenues in music. Sa hip-hop pa lang, maraming nang sub-genres, lalo na sa current generation na maraming nag-i-innovate (In hip-hop alone, there’s already a lot of sub-genres, especially within our current generation where there’s a lot who are innovating),” he shared. “I definitely want us all to innovate and not be complacent.”
Listen to Barq’s new single “Tumatak” below: