1 month ago
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Every Filipino artist's dream is to fill the Smart Araneta Coliseum, and on February 8 and 9, that dream will become a reality for Cup of Joe. The six-man act from beautiful Baguio City has sold out their first major concert at the iconic venue, marking a defining moment in their rise to fame.
Titled "Silakbo," the music event promises to showcase the group's original music and captivating performances, solidifying their status as one of the country's most exciting young acts. But beyond their streaked hairstyles and rocker makeovers, what truly stands out with Cup of Joe is their humility and unwavering commitment to their craft.
At a cozy media conference, a select group of editors, columnists and reporters from the entertainment beat engaged in a free-flowing conversation with Gian Bernardino, Rafael Ridao, Gabriel Fernandez, CJ Fernandez, Xen Gareza and Elian Skia.
Beyond their streaked hairstyles and rocker makeovers, what truly stands out about Cup of Joe is their humility and unwavering commitment to their craft. PHOTO COURTESY OF VIVA LIVE
The banter was light and fun, with the boys teasing each other and laughing as they looked back on their journey from high school friends to headline performers. They were a delight to watch, so genuine and grounded that it was impossible not to hope they remain the same, even as their lives are set to change in profound ways, as lives often do after conquering the Araneta stage.
Humble beginnings, big dreams
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Cup of Joe's journey began in 2018 in the cool, pine-filled city of Baguio. What started as casual jam sessions among classmates quickly evolved into a more passionate pursuit.
Before they knew it, they were invited to perform at school programs, where their heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies began to gain attention.
The group's music struck a chord with young listeners, particularly among the collegiate crowd, earning them a dedicated following and paving the way for performances on bigger stages.
Moreover, their first original composition, "Nag-iisang Muli," which they uploaded to Spotify to commemorate their graduation from senior high the following year, quickly gained traction, charting in Spotify Philippines and catching the attention of listeners beyond Baguio.
Fast forward six years and Cup of Joe is now preparing to take The Big Dome stage.
Asked how they feel about the milestone, Gian nervously chuckled, "Filling Araneta? It's a dream we didn't even dare to dream before. It's surreal, and we're beyond grateful. We just wanted to make good music and hoped people would feel it. Knowing that our songs have reached this many people is incredible."
Authenticity in the spotlight
Without a doubt, it is that all-important authenticity that propelled Cup of Joe to where they are today. And even as their popularity continues to soar, they've managed to stay grounded and true to their roots.
"We're still just a group of friends who happen to make music," Elian said. "Even with all the lights and attention, we remind ourselves why we started — and we just go back to, it's all about the music and the connection it creates."
True to form, amid the band's journey from their high school days at Saint Louis School in Baguio to playing in sold-out arenas, they haven't let fame change who they are. Despite their coordinated outfits, their spirit clearly remains unaltered.
"We're still those same boys who love to hang out and laugh at the silliest things," CJ added with a grin.
All the more sincere in their music, Cup of Joe's songs — for their fans, whom they playfully dubbed "Joewahs" (a slang for "significant other") — poignantly and unerringly capture themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Replay "Nag-iisang Muli," "Mananatili," or "Sagada" and there's nothing left to say.
"We just write what we feel," Xen simply shared. "If it's something that moves us, we know it will move others too."
Celebration of gratitude
As they prepare for their big Araneta debut, the boys declared that "Silakbo" is more than just a concert for them — it's a celebration of the people who have supported them every step of the way.
"This isn't just our achievement," Rafael said. "It's a victory we share with everyone who's believed in us. Our families, friends and fans made this possible."
And, as their second most defining trait after authenticity — shines through in everything they say and do — these boys' admirable humility — Cup of Joe ended the Q&A session by reiterating their commitment to staying connected to their roots. Be it where they began or why their fans came to love them.
"Baguio will always be home," Gabriel shared first, "No matter how far we go, we'll always carry the lessons and values we learned there."
To their fans, Gian made it clear that despite the trappings of fame, their music will always come first.
"After all, for [Cup of Joe], success isn't about how big the stage is. It's about how much heart you bring to it," he ended so eloquently.
"Silakbo," the concert, is produced by Viva Live and Viva Music Group.
