SB19's 24-track album Wakas At Simula is a bold declaration of artistic autonomy. Formed under their own label, 1Z Entertainment, the Filipino quintet—Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken and Justin—have compiled their recent trilogy of EPs: 2021's Pagsibol, 2023's PAGTATAG!, and 2023's Simula at Wakas, now joined by six new tracks. The re-recorded versions of the Pagsibol songs, marked as "Wakas At Simula" editions, reflect the group's evolution, shaped by personal experiences. For the first time, these foundational tracks are officially released under SB19's own imprint, cementing their independence. Among the new additions, "VISA" stands out as a politically charged statement, while collaborations with Japan's BE:FIRST and Asia's pop icon JOLIN elevate the album's cross-cultural reach. The project arrives as SB19 prepares for historic live appearances, including a festival debut at Lollapalooza in Chicago—making them the first P-pop group to perform there—and a spot at Japan's Summer Sonic alongside acts like FKA Twigs and JENNIE of BLACKPINK. Wakas At Simula, which translates to "End and Beginning," captures both closure and momentum. Billboard has ranked all 24 tracks, marking the album as a milestone in modern Asian pop, driven by self-ownership and global ambition.
SB19 isn't just releasing music—they're reshaping the blueprint for artist independence in pop, much like how Burna Boy or Wizkid took control of their global narratives. The fact that "VISA" and collaborations with BE:FIRST and JOLIN made the cut under their own label proves P-pop can compete on the same stage as Afrobeats and K-pop. This album isn't an endpoint—it's a power move.
