LOS ANGELES, United States (July 2026) — Revisiting an old neighborhood or a favorite coastal spot often brings back a flood of memories about the people who used to share those spaces with you. Pinoy singer-producer JMKO is tapping into that exact bittersweet feeling with his latest single, "Malibu."
Known to millions of internet users for his viral "Popcorn Duets" series on TikTok, the Los Angeles-based artist is moving into a new creative era that blends cinematic pop production with deep R&B influences. The track, written by JMKO and Ryan Antooa, marks his first major project under ABS-CBN Music International. The global music initiative recently signed him as part of its new lineup dedicated to expanding the reach of Pinoy talent on the world stage.
A song about memory and identity
For JMKO, who previously won the reality singing competition To The Top in the Philippines and later graduated from the Berklee College of Music, "Malibu" represents a deeply personal step forward in his artistry. The song focuses on how specific locations can preserve memories of past versions of ourselves.
"Malibu is about how places can hold pieces of people," the artist explained. "Sometimes you think you’re remembering someone else, but you’re really remembering a version of yourself that existed during that time."
Stepping into a global spotlight
Instead of just riding the wave of his social media fame, the artist is using his upcoming EP to explore themes of love, longing, and finding a home while navigating life between different cultures and cities. He hopes that listeners can find pieces of their own journeys within his lyrics.
"We’re all trying to make sense of where we’ve been, where we’re going, and who we’re becoming," he shared. "If my music can help people feel a little less alone in that, then I’ve done what I set out to do."
The single is currently available for streaming on all major music platforms. Local Philippine pricing and specific release dates for the upcoming EP were not specified in the initial announcement.
