SB19, the Philippines’ P-Pop royalty, continues to dazzle music enthusiasts worldwide with their latest release: THE FIRST TAKE versions of their hit tracks “GENTO” and “MAPA.” These fresh renditions, now available on all digital music platforms via Sony Music Entertainment, showcase the group’s exceptional talent and commitment to their craft.
THE FIRST TAKE, a prominent YouTube channel with nearly 10 million subscribers, is known for its unique format where artists perform a song in a single take, filmed against a minimalist backdrop. SB19’s performances of “GENTO” and “MAPA” on the channel have garnered over 4.5 million views, making them some of the most-watched performances by an Asian pop group.
In a collective statement, SB19 expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to perform on such a prestigious platform. “We’re eternally grateful to THE FIRST TAKE for giving us an opportunity to showcase our work on a platform known not just for its massive global following but for elevating the audio-visual experience of music fans with much-needed authenticity and rawness,” the group shared. “The performances really challenged us to work within our limitations and deliver to the best of our abilities. We’ve always considered performing as a sanctimonious process that deserves utmost preparation, love, and respect.”
SB19’s participation in THE FIRST TAKE marks a historic moment as they are the first Southeast Asian group and Filipino artists to be featured on the globally recognized platform. They join the ranks of international stars such as aespa, MANESKIN, and ITZY who have also graced the channel.
Their performance of “GENTO” highlights the group’s ability to harmonize, sing, and rap with precision, while their rendition of “MAPA” features an uplifting gospel-infused arrangement that has resonated deeply with fans. Both tracks are now available for streaming, bundled with their original versions, offering listeners a complete experience of SB19’s musical evolution.
