MANILA, PHILIPPINES — On July 20, The New Hue, an independent community focused on championing local music and fostering a vibrant space for OPM, held its highly anticipated third Video Music Awards at The Astbury in Poblacion, Makati. The event saw a vibrant gathering of artists, producers, music labels, writers, and directors come together to celebrate the diverse talents of the Original Pinoy Music scene.
Driven by a mission to elevate and amplify the voice of OPM, The New Hue has established itself as a driving force in the industry with a foundation of inclusivity, authenticity, and community-building as their well-built core values upon which they celebrate OPM. Through initiatives like the annual Video Music Awards, the community aims to recognize and reward Filipino musicians’ exceptional artistry, talent, innovation, and contributions stretching across different genres.
“The OPM is alive!” exclaimed Kenaniah.
The night began with a black carpet arrival, where artists and industry figures strut down to pose for photos. Among the notable figures graced the event were Sponge Cola, Kean Cipriano, Adie, Unique Salonga, Zild, Cup of Joe, Janine Tenoso, Hoest, Ana Declaro, Alex Bruce, and many more. The night was surely a vibrant display of honoring the diversity and talent within the OPM scene. Mix Fenix took center stage as the charismatic host, guiding the audience through an evening of musical excellence.
This year’s VMA started with a “Pre-show” to give the house party vibe the music component it needs to hype up everyone in attendance as early as 4 PM. The floor was dominated by upcoming acts Jikamarie, Julia Q, Gello Marquez, and Ryannah J.
The main show kicked off with an incredible performance from the rock band Kjwan, setting the tone for the night’s lively celebration. Other acts that had made it to the stage included Maki, Angela Ken, Nhiko Sabiniano, Pappel, ALYSON, Manila Bombsquad, Duane of Mango Room, MRLD, and Illest Morena, who further showcased the depth, diversity, and ability of music to connect people.
Community supporters served as award presenters in honoring this year’s winners. Ena Mori, Razorback, Nina Sandejas, Vydd, Aia de Leon, Kenaniah, Bullet Dumas, and Jayda all presented the Cube to its rightful owners. Entities such as Herschel Philippines, Corona, The Archives Booth, UIC, JBMusic, MP Canlas, Mangoroom, JCMedia, Astbury, The Media Mint, and media alliance Magic 89.9 helped make the event possible.
The ecosystem of music supporters across the country played a pivotal role in determining the winners, who were crowned through a combination of public votes, community endorsements, and media alliances. This approach firmly establishes the VMA as a “community-based award,” earned not merely by streams but through recognition from fellow artists and industry colleagues. The votes reflect not just the numbers but the artist’s overall dedication and hard work throughout the period, honoring their commitment to their craft.
Among the big winners were:
• Male DJ of the Year: John Odin
• Female DJ of the Year: Dara Carmina
• Male Artist of the Year: Juan Karlos
• Female Artist of the Year: Denise Julia
• Group Artist of the Year: Cup of Joe
• Hiphop Artist of The Year: Al James
• Indie Artist of The Year: Illest Morena
• New Artist of The Year: Dilaw
• Bassist of The Year: Diego Manzano
• Guitarist of the Year: Vie dela Rosa and Leon Altomonte
• Drummer of the Year: Tim Marquez
• Keyboardist of the Year: Pat Lasaten
• Vocalist of the Year: Unique Salonga
• Song of the Year: Ere by Juan Karlos
• Music Video of the Year: Panahon by Unique Salonga
“It’s not about being the best. It’s about trying your best,” Tim Marquez of One Click Straight mentioned during his acceptance speech after being recognized as Dummer of the Year.
The gathering also served as an avenue for break for the artists in attendance. You see artists performing for artists. The exchange of energy is totally different. It’s not your usual music festival. Artists were given the chance to connect with one another.
The event’s success underscores OPM’s continuously growing momentum and recognition. The New Hue stays true to its advocacy of creating a lively, diverse, and inclusive environment, shining a spotlight on incredible talents that continue to emerge from our local music community, and providing space where the rich sounds and stories of Pinoy music can thrive.
Watch out for the micro site to be launched soon to see everything that took place during the VMA 2024.
