RUBY IBARRA’S NEW “BAKUNAWA” MUSIC VIDEO IS A CULTURAL MASTERPIECE—WITH A BOMBSHELL REVEAL

Ruby Ibarra is back, and she’s giving us chills with her newest single “Bakunawa,” and an iconic music video to match. Oh, and if that’s not enough, she just casually dropped the biggest announcement at the end: she’s expecting her first child! 

The new single is a vibe, combining Ruby’s signature razor-sharp flow with deep cultural references, specifically the Bakunawa, a mythical sea dragon in Filipino folklore that tries to swallow the moon (yes, the same one you read about in those epic mythology stories). She helms the director’s seat in this one and the track also features Ouida, Han Han and June Millington.

For those of you unfamiliar, the bakunawa is a mythical sea serpent or dragon in Philippine folklore, deeply connected with the ancient Filipinos' beliefs surrounding lunar eclipses. The story of the Bakunawa is a key part of Philippine mythology, which reflects the early cultural and spiritual relationship of the people with celestial events.But Ruby Ibarra isn’t just repping her culture—she’s also showing power, resilience, and growth, both in her music and in her personal life. This new track is a total anthem, reminding us that no matter what tries to dim our light, we rise.

The Bakunawa music video is pure visual art. Ruby herself channels the fierce energy of the Bakunawa, all while rocking stunning looks that fuse modern streetwear with traditional Filipino textiles. She’s literally embodying the strength of her ancestors while sending a message that resonates hard with all of us today. Throughout the video, we see Ruby leading a group of warriors, representing the power and tenacity of the Filipino people, particularly Filipino women. The moon takes center stage as a symbol of hope and protection—much like what Ruby's music has come to represent for so many fans. It’s empowering, visually striking, and 100% Ruby.

Now, for the jaw-dropper: At the end of the video, Ruby turns to the camera and cradles her belly, revealing her pregnancy in the most iconic way possible. It's the perfect mic drop moment, and honestly, we’re not okay (in the best way possible). Her fans instantly flooded social media with congratulations, sharing how her announcement filled them with even more admiration for the rapper.

If it feels like Ruby Ibarra has been everywhere lately, you’re not wrong. Aside from dropping this fire new single and making headlines with her pregnancy reveal, she’s been making waves on the national stage. Just last month, she was a featured speaker at SXSW 2024 in Austin, where she shared insights on using her platform to uplift Filipino culture and empower women in the music industry. Ruby Ibarra also contributed to the soundtrack of the hit TV show The Cleaning Lady, where her powerful track "Runaway" was prominently featured. The Cleaning Lady, which stars Filipino American actress Elodie Yung, follows a Filipina cleaning woman who gets entangled in the criminal underworld to protect her family. Ruby Ibarra's track "Runaway”made such a powerful impact in The Cleaning Lady's first season that she was brought back to contribute heavily to the second season's soundtrack. Her music resonated with the show’s themes of survival, resilience, and the struggles of immigrant women, making her an essential part of the series' sonic landscape.

Not only did Ruby help shape the soundtrack for season two, but she also made a special cameo appearance in one of the episodes, further cementing her connection to the show. Her involvement showcases how her music and presence continue to elevate Filipino American representation in mainstream TV, making her an integral part of The Cleaning Lady’s success.

For Ruby Ibarra fans, this new single and video hit different. It’s not just about fire beats and lyrical genius (which, let’s be real, Ruby always delivers); it’s also about embracing heritage, resilience, and transformation. The legend of the Bakunawa is all about overcoming the darkness, and that’s exactly what Ruby is doing as she enters this new chapter of her life—not just as an artist, but as a mother.

Ruby Ibarra is expecting her first child in early November, but she's showing no signs of hitting pause. She's staying active by collaborating with Bolo (her own label) artists on their individual projects, refining her own upcoming work, and has even scheduled a few live performances. One major event on her calendar is headlining the all-Filipina Island Woman Rise concert at the Ford Theater in Los Angeles on October 5, 2024.

We can’t wait to see what Ruby does next—both as an artist and a soon-to-be mom. 

Lyrics - Ruby Ibarra

Music Producer - Angelo “LASI” Macaraeg

Director - Ruby Ibarra

Director of Photography, Editor - Desire Lacap @DesireLACAPTURE 

Producers - Stephanie Franco, Michelle Sim

Featuring - Han Han, Ouida & June Millington

Dancer - Candace Kumar

Artwork - Lawrence Iriarte, Diego Iriarte

BTS for Ruby Ibarra - Fernando Godinez

BTS for Desire Lacap - Victor Dionisio

1st Assistant Camera - Jacky Chiu

Assistant Camera/Grip - Karlo Aquino

Gaffer - Tehan Davis

Key Grip - Jamari Mitchell, Jessica Schlegal

Grip/Production Assistant - Matt Kim

Production Assistants - Bryan Flores, Gabby Franco, Tajianna Okechukwu, Chris Snellings, Robert Torres

Principle Hair & Make-Up Artist - Carla Fajardo

Assistant Hair & Make-Up Artist - Gwen Dalisay Lucchesi, Abbey Acala

Nail Tech for Ruby Ibarra - Kait’s Kreations

Earrings for Ruby Ibarra - BRWNGRLZ

Stylist for Ouida - Mey Saechao

Extras - Mikey Alejandro, Deborah Atienza, Jo Anne Boston, Angelo Macaraeg, Mykho Magalong, Julian Sabolboro, Marian Sabolboro, Lulu Sapigao, Carolyn Sideco

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