In an achievement that would be etched in history, five-member Pinoy pop (P-pop) boy band SB19 became the first Filipino artist group and Southeast Asian act to be nominated at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards (BBMA). The group made it to the Top Social Artist category, which was launched in 2011.
The indigenous band with members– Pablo (formerly known as Sejun), Josh, Justin, Ken and Stell—has been pitched against top global superstars Ariana Grande and K-Pop sensations BTS, Blackpink and Seventeen for the title.
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Reacting to the nomination released late Thursday night, May 13, 2021, the group happily took to their social media accounts and posted, “WE MADE IT, A’TIN! We are nominated for Top Social Artist of this year’s Billboard Music Awards!” “A’tin” is SB19’s nickname for their huge fan base. “We are so grateful for your love and support. We wouldn’t have come this far without all of you. A’TIN ‘TO! Iwawagayway ang WATAWAT!” they added.
Even Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray retweeted the BBMA’s art card for the group that showed the voting mechanics for the Top Social Artist category. She included it with the official hashtag #BBMAsTopSocial and tagged her support by liking her tweet. Her tweet also featured four Philippine flags.
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SB19 has been receiving awards and recognitions not only in the country but also worldwide. The group made its local debut on Oct. 26, 2018 with their first single, “Tilaluha.”
It was not until the release of their second single “Go Up,” however, that the group became popular. On March 9, 2020, SB19 officially released its third single “Alab” under its new record label Sony Music Philippines.
Meanwhile, SB19 announced the music showcase dedicated for their new single, “MAPA” on May 13 “It is an online event to be scheduled for May 18 at 7pm. The event will be live streamed on the group’s official YouTube channel and Facebook page. (AW)
