Say hello to new P-Pop group Raya

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Raya, a fresh addition to the P-Pop scene, brings contemporary flair and confident energy to the ever-growing industry. Formed through the Viva Artists Agency and Viva Music Group's V-Next talent auditions in 2024, Raya is a carefully curated group of young and promising artists.

The group consists of Abel, Anna, Ash, Aviona, Jemima, Kash, Priscilla, Rona, and Sofia, each bringing their own distinct style and presence. For their pre-debut release, they put a new spin on the classic hit "Bongga Ka Day." Infusing the track cheekiness, swag, and a sprinkle of nostalgia, their version highlights their strong vocals, sharp choreography and vibrant energy.

Raya is the freshest addition to the P-Pop scene. PHOTO COURTESY OF VIVA MUSIC

Raya is the freshest addition to the P-Pop scene. PHOTO COURTESY OF VIVA MUSIC

Beyond entertainment, Raya aims to inspire with a fresh sound that resonates across generations. Their music is bold and dynamic, with performances that leave a lasting impression. Their cover of Sarah Geronimo's "Kilometro," released on their official YouTube channel, further showcases their talent and stage presence.

As they step into the spotlight, Raya is set to make an impact in the industry. With each performance, they are carving out their place in P-Pop and pushing Filipino music forward.

Viva Music Group and Viva Artists Agency continue to support OPM and P-Pop talent, and Raya stands as one of their most promising new acts, alongside GAT and Mutya. Bringing fresh energy and undeniable talent, they contribute to the growing recognition of Filipino artists on the global stage.

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Get ready to be dazzled — Raya is here to stay!

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Austin-based band Culture Wars has released their latest single, "Typical Ways," now available for streaming worldwide. The song, with its layered guitars and anthemic vocals, explores the struggles of addiction and falling into familiar patterns.

Vocalist Alex Dugan wrote the song as an angry letter to himself - its explosive, belt-worthy chorus showcases a level of emotion and angst all but lost in modern rock n' roll.

Austin-based band Culture Wars CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/ELIOT LEE

Austin-based band Culture Wars CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/ELIOT LEE

The track comes on the heels of the band's supporting Mexico run with 2000s icons Keane, and Asia stadium tours with Maroon 5, LANY, and The Script. At every stop, "Typical Ways" consistently received the loudest cheers, solidifying Culture Wars' growing global presence.

Alex recalls the song's unexpected origins: "Dillon came over with a guitar riff and song idea, which I thought was cool but couldn't find the right melody for. However, overnight I had written the whole thing in my sleep and woke up the next morning immediately singing the entire verse and chorus. I quickly recorded it on my phone and showed Dillon. Since then, it has consistently been the biggest crowd moment on every tour."

Written in Austin and recorded at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, "Typical Ways" reflects a difficult period in Alex's life before meeting his wife. As the first track from their upcoming 2025 album, it sets the stage for a record that speaks to a generation craving authenticity in rock music.

The group's energizing and unapologetically moving record is aa breath of fresh air. As the band's name implies, seemingly disparate passions battle within the songs, somehow beautifully making peace. Combining the past, present, and future with bold swagger emphasizing mastery of actual instruments, Culture Wars oozes with honesty, ambition, and unabashedness built to resonate with diverse audiences.

In 2021, the band released their widely praised debut EP "teche," amassing more than 11 million streams independently, inciting a flurry of activity on TikTok, and charting top 30 at US alt radio.

Highlights include tracks like "Faith," "Lose Money," and "Leave Me Alone," which was featured on the Grammy-nominated soundtrack for "Bill & Ted Face the Music." The band's recently released tracks "Heaven" and "It Hurts" (top 20 US alt radio) have amassed over 10 million streams in just a few months, catapulting the band to new heights in 2025.

With momentum building, Culture Wars is set for an exciting year ahead.

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