Filipino actor and musician Elijah Canlas has released his new album, South II. The project is a coming-of-age hip-hop and R&B record that reflects youth, memory, and self-discovery.
South II works as a musical memoir. The album revisits elijah’s teenage experiences, including misunderstandings, social pressure, and the search for identity. Instead of showing anger, the songs focus on reflection and emotional honesty.
Youth, Growth, and Basketball Imagery
The album uses basketball as a recurring symbol. The sport represents discipline, friendship, and resilience. These themes help ground the story in familiar youth experiences. The project also shows the challenges of growing up in difficult environments. It presents reckless moments as life lessons. The album avoids glorifying risky behavior. Instead, it highlights accountability and personal growth.
“u wanna be?” and Other Album Highlights
The lead track “u wanna be?” serves as the album’s emotional center. The song questions the pressure to gain social approval and external validation.
The music video, directed by Kiyo, uses a raw and intimate visual style. The minimalist approach matches the song’s introspective theme.
Another important track is “Bituin.” The song was originally written by elijah’s late brother JM. He later finished it with his eldest brother Jerom as a tribute to their family memory.
A New Creative Chapter
With South II, Elijah Canlas continues expanding his music career beyond acting. The album shows his interest in storytelling through sound.
The project encourages listeners to look back on their own past while finding connection through shared experiences.
South II is now available on major streaming platforms worldwide.
Listen to the album here:
https://elijahcanlas.lnk.to/SouthIIMB
