5 music videos with stories you can relate to

CEBU, Philippines — Whether it’s the butterflies that come with having a crush, the uncertainty of holding on to someone, or simply finding the strength to keep moving when life gets tough, music has a way of putting our feelings into words.

These freshly dropped music videos from ABS-CBN Music artists Brent Manalo and Heath Jornales and P-pop groups AJAA, AZTER, and WRIVE bring different emotions and experiences to life, each telling a story that viewers can relate to in their own way.

1. Brent’s “Pareho Tayong Nahihiya” MV puts hidden feelings in the spotlight

Brent and Analain Salvador play two co-workers who quietly harbor feelings for each other in the music video for “Pareho Tayong Nahihiya,” directed by John “Sweet” Lapus. Set in a coffee shop where the two work together, the story follows their subtle interactions as they navigate their mutual attraction without ever finding the courage to confess what they truly feel. The song was composed and produced by StarPop label head Roque “Rox” Santos and was released as part of Brent’s “Lover Boy” EP.

2. Heath goes back to someone he continues to care about in "Back to You" MV

Heath puts his own take on love and longing into “Back to You,” a heartfelt track about caring for someone who keeps slipping away and choosing to return despite the distance. The Kapuso singer-actor stars alongside his mom, Kayla Davies, in the music video, where he makes an effort to express his care while harboring feelings for someone special. Composed by Heath himself and produced by Rox Santos, the song is among the standout tracks from his debut EP.

3. AZTER explores uncertainty and hope in “Parang May Mali” MV

New P-pop boy group AZTER brings its “univerZity” concept to life in the music video for “Parang May Mali,” which is set inside a classroom and reflects the school-inspired theme of the group’s debut album. The setting serves as a backdrop for the song’s story about feeling stuck in love while still holding on to hope that things can eventually fall into place. Written by Roel Rostata, Patrick Rodriguez, and John Reinard Fernandez, the track gets a dynamic visual treatment through choreography by Cedrick Mateo and AZTER’s Kean. The music video was directed by Edrex Clyde Sanchez.

4. WRIVE gives a fresh visual spin to "Sumayaw Ka" feat. Cianne Dominguez

WRIVE brings a contemporary take to Gloc-9’s hiphop track “Sumayaw Ka,” encouraging listeners to take a break from their worries, enjoy the moment, and keep moving forward. Originally composed by Gloc-9, the new version, which features Cianne Dominguez, is produced by Darren Cashwell and WRIVE member Russu. The music video features the five-piece P-pop group dancing and playing around in a closed room while dressed in cool denim ensembles. Its visualizer shifts between high- and low-angle shots, creating a CCTV-inspired perspective. 

5. AJAA turns nervous first meetings into a feel-good “KAKABAKABA” MV

AJAA brings the excitement of meeting someone special to life in “KAKABAKABA,” a track from their latest EP “4:ÜS,” that highlights the nerves that come with being around someone you like — and how those jitters can fade when you’re together. The MV follows the group inside a thrift shop as they try to win over their special someone, eventually leading to a prom-inspired celebration where they get to spend time together. Composed by Dennis Campañer and produced by Gab Tagadtad, “Kakabakaba” was directed by Mark Putian and gives the song a playful visual treatment that matches its youthful charm. — (FREEMAN)