A new era begins for iconic OPM band Moonstar88 as they officially sign with EMI Records Philippines under UMG Philippines.
The band was warmly welcomed by the UMG Philippines team led by Managing Director Enzo Valdez, marking a significant milestone in their career.
For years, Moonstar88 has been under Soupstar Music and remains part of its roster even as they sign with EMI Records Philippines. Its founder, Darwin Hernandez, became emotional during the signing. He shared that the moment was very meaningful, as Moonstar88 was the very first band signed and managed by Soupstar.
Band members Maysh Baay, Bon Sundiang, and Herbert Hernandez expressed their excitement and gratitude for this new chapter. They shared feeling overwhelmed and grateful for the opportunity, and proud to continue creating music that connects with listeners, including younger audiences like Gen Z.
The group also emphasized that each of their songs carries its own identity, showcasing different themes, emotions, and perspectives, something they believe keeps their music fresh and relatable to audiences.
During the signing event on April 20, members of the press were given an exclusive preview of two tracks from their upcoming album, which are entitled “Goma” and “Kape Tayo.” The band revealed that a total of 13 new songs are already lined up for release.
Formed in 1999, Moonstar88 has been widely celebrated in the Filipino music scene, with their timeless hit “Torete” continuing to resonate across generations. In fact, the band staged the anniversary concert 25 Years of Torete in 2025, an event filled with nostalgia that highlighted their impact on OPM.
With this new partnership, fans can expect more heartfelt and relatable “hugot” hits from Moonstar88, which is proof that even after decades in the industry, their music continues to evolve while staying true to the emotions that made them beloved in the first place.