New P-pop Boy Band AYO Release Pre-Debut Single, “I’m Him” — Listen
As a first taste of what to expect from the seven-member Davao-based boy band, the song celebrates identity, purpose, and collective strength.
By Ralph Regis
Courtesy of Sony Music Philippines
Courtesy of Sony Music Entertainment
Davao-based rising P-pop boy band AYO makes a bold first impression with the release of their pre-debut single, “I’m Him,” released under Sony Music Philippines.
In December 2025, the seven-member group — consisting of members Justin, Renzo, GV, TJ, Enzo, Zack, and Patrick — was announced as one of the label’s latest additions to their growing roster of exciting P-pop acts, along with Davao-based girl groups HARA and Daelux.
As part of the new generation of P-pop groups who are unafraid to disrupt the norm, AYO bring the multicultural spirit of their hometown with the unapologetically authentic sound of their pre-debut single — celebrating identity, purpose, and collective strength.
Forged from their rebellious spirit and self-awareness, the track sends the message to listeners to stand firm and embrace who they are and their individuality.
“Within our group, we each bring different strengths and come from varied backgrounds,” the group says in an official statement. “Instead of letting that highlight our individuality alone, we turn it into a collective advantage. ‘I’m Him’ represents our confidence in our individual strengths — but more importantly, it’s about expressing them together as one, in harmony.”
With themes about identity and self-discovery, the track is an empowering anthem that invites listeners to embrace their individuality, along with their imperfections being used as strengths.
Produced by Paolo Lofranco, “I’m Him” has all the upbeat hip-hop sound and layered textures that bring something new to the group’s sound. The group also had its hand in the songwriting and production process. “We’re incredibly grateful to be working with our producer on this song. It is a song he already made even before AYO was formed,” the group shares. “Moving forward, we’re excited to create and write more of our music while continuing to explore different sounds and genres.”
The release was accompanied by a music video helmed by ODS Productions, which captures the group on a visual front, shot in a warehouse and a helipad. The group praised their collaboration, saying, “They were able to fully embody our vision as artists and translate it into reality with precision and care […] We look forward to growing this partnership further and building a stronger, more active creative community in Davao — and eventually across Mindanao.”
Listen to AYO’s pre-debut single, “I’m Him” below:

Ralph Regis
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.