Drawing from the timeless heart of Filipino love songs alongside acoustic pop, R&B, and soft jazz textures, the singer-songwriter delivers a personal collection exploring the different ways we experience, hold onto, and rediscover love.
In his new six-track EP, Akda sa Pag-alala, Filipino singer-songwriter LEYO brings the tradition of harana into the modern era. Released under Sony Music Entertainment, the project weaves together classic OPM, acoustic pop, and R&B to create a deeply personal body of work. Rooted in themes of affection, longing, vulnerability, and self-discovery, the record explores romance through intimate stories that feel universally relatable.
Carried by stripped-back instrumentation and smooth vocals, the EP pairs memorable guitar riffs and warm basslines with subtle jazz and bossa nova touches. LEYO draws inspiration from the artists that shaped his upbringing—spanning global icons like The Beatles and Stevie Wonder alongside local legends such as APO Hiking Society and the Manila Sound—resulting in a nostalgic pop collection with a fresh, contemporary feel.
“Every song on this EP was written using just an acoustic guitar. I made the harana tradition my own by blending it with the music I grew up listening to, combining classic OPM influences with Western pop and R&B elements,” LEYO shares.
Across its tracklist, the EP paints romance in a wide spectrum of moods and emotions. “Pritong Itlog” uncovers quiet tenderness in the simple routine of cooking a meal for a loved one, whereas “Kapag Umuulan” captures the wistful longing of a hopeless romantic. Meanwhile, “Torpe” and “Pwede Ko Bang Itanong” navigate the hesitation and anxiety of unspoken affection. Rounding out the project, “Kung Magugunaw ang Mundo” and “Kumusta Ka Sinta” reflect on unwavering devotion, nostalgia, and making peace with past chapters.
“Ultimately, it captures my journey as a young man figuring out who I am and discovering what love truly means,” LEYO shares.
Behind the boards, the EP is elevated by the collaborative production of LEYO himself alongside Rain Santana and 2026 Awit Awards winner Brian Lotho, whose distinct styles came together to shape the record’s cohesive sound.
LEYO adds, “Working with Rain Santana and Sir Brian Lotho really unlocked the full potential of these tracks. They brought two distinct approaches: Rain encouraged me to be more playful and think outside the box, while Sir Brian pushed me to be more intentional with every production choice.”
On the technical side, renowned sound engineer Emil Dela Rosa took charge of mixing and mastering the opening two tracks, with Hazel Pascua handling the final polish for the remaining four.
Ultimately, Akda sa Pag-alala stands as a heartfelt time capsule of young love and self-discovery. With earnest storytelling and a keen melodic touch, LEYO delivers a gentle reminder that the deepest memories of love are often found in life’s quietest, everyday moments.
LEYO’s 6-track EP, Akda sa Pag-alala is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
