Ruby Ibarra Launches Bolo Music Group, a Filipino American MUSIC LABEL
Ruby Ibarra continues to ignite excitement with her recent headline performance at the Undiscovered Block Party. But this wasn't just any show – she unveiled a game-changing revelation that's shaking up the future of Filipino American music. Teaming up with some formidable individuals, Ruby set the stage to introduce the groundbreaking record label: Bolo Music Group. But this isn’t your typical record label; it's a powerhouse dedicated to cranking up the volume on Filipino-American talent. Here’s the scoop.
Fresh off her creative comeback and the release of her latest single “Switch”, Ruby, CEO & Co-Founder of Bolo Music Group, has formed a team of incredible industry professionals who are ready to take the world by storm. Her Co-Founder, Angelo LASI Macaraeg, is known to many for his work as a producer, mix engineer, multi-instrumentalist, arranger, and band leader.
The dynamic duo is getting the ball rolling with three game changing artists on their roster. Joining Ruby on the list of pioneering talents for Bolo Music Group are Ian Santillano, Ouida, and Vince A. Let’s get to know a little more about them.
First up is Ian Santillano (last name pronounced San - Till - Yeah - Know). The bonafide singer-songwriter-guitarist blends deeply personal lyrics with a folk meets alternative meets funky meets soul meets whatever inspires him now. Ian often describes his music as “if John Mayer and Thundercat had a Filipino American baby who listened to Yebba and Faye Webster.”
In 2022, Ian made his solo debut with “Intropy”, a 12-track album that highlighted his tremendous songwriting and powerful personal reflections. Among his popular releases are “Fire Away” and “Luv”.
Check out his latest single “End of the Earf” and be on the lookout for exciting new projects with Bolo Music Group!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ian_santillano/
Next is Ouida (pronounced "wee-duh"), a Filipino and Irish - American singer-songwriter from San Francisco, California. She blends neo-soul, r&b and pop through the lens of the mixed cultural experiences that shaped her, creating universal queries of identity, belonging and self-realization. Since her first release in December of 2020, Ouida's songs have been heard on popular shows like MTV's Love & Hip Hop Atlanta and Jersey Shore and have been recognized internationally in the Philippines, Ireland, and United States. Ouida’s singing and songwriting skills, admired by many for its authentic vibe, have launched her into the scene as one to watch.
Check out her debut EP, “Come Rain, Come Shine” out now on all streaming platforms!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sfduchess/
Last but certainly not the least is L.A. based, singer, songwriter and producer, Vince A. Through his unique music, he has the ability to evoke emotion and make listeners feel all the feels and more. Vince initially co-founded the hip-hop group "The Lychee Boys" in the Bay Area before transitioning to a solo career in music production and songwriting. His powerful melodies convey relatable experiences, delivering a message of reassurance: "you’re not alone, and you'll be okay." Some of his most popular songs include “Hold U Close”, “The World Is On Fire”, and “Don’t Judge Me”.
Listen to his song I.H.Y and watch the masterpiece of a music video that goes with it now!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundsbyvince/
Aside from a few exciting surprises up their sleeves, the four talents are set to take the stage in Los Angeles at a Spotify event that will take place on November 9, 2023. The following month, you can catch them live at The New Parish for another spectacular performance on December 8, 2023. With all that is in the works, the future's looking bright for Filipino American music and talent with Bolo Music Group on the rise.
Stay up to date by following them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bolomusicgroup/. For more information visit their website https://www.bolomusicgroup.com/.
Written By Nico Belasco
Photographer, Writer, Speaker, Podcast Host, Creative
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