Known for timeless hits like “Hanggang Ngayon” and “Better Days,” Kyla has long been celebrated as the Philippines’ Queen of R&B, captivating listeners with emotional ballads and heartfelt performances. But beyond the soulful anthems that defined her career, the singer revealed that she has always had a deep love for upbeat and feel good music.
In an exclusive interview with PUSH ABS-CBN, Kyla shared how her musical roots continue to shape the kind of songs she enjoys performing the most.
“I've always loved, because yung roots ko talaga is really R&B, soul, and jazz. So, I tend to really go for songs that have more rhythm,” she said.
While fans often request her signature ballads during live performances, Kyla admitted that she misses singing energetic R&B tracks on stage.
“I do have a lot of tracks from before na mga R&B, na mga upbeat, and I miss singing them live. Kasi ngayon, they would always just ask, the audience would always just ask for songs na mga slow, mga birit, I mean, there's nothing wrong with that. But sometimes, it's just so refreshing to do something more upbeat and has rhythm. Naka-feel good, di ba? So, I miss that,” she expressed.
Returning to the music scene after seven years with her full-length album, Next Episode, Kyla said she enjoyed singing her new tracks.
“I'm just really happy now. In this album, Next Episode, I have more of those songs that have more rhythm and [are] upbeat,” Kyla told PUSH ABS-CBN.
During an intimate media conference, the singer also revealed that fans can look forward to a deluxe edition of the album that will feature additional tracks, including “Tulad ng Dati.”
“We actually started some of the songs in 2022. Medyo nadelay because siyempre we are getting back on our feet after the pandemic. I'm just really grateful natapos namin siya last year and we came up with a lot of beautiful songs. We made it even more special kasi we are going to release a deluxe version of the album with a few more tracks,” Kyla happily announced.
Aside from new music, Kyla teased an upcoming collaboration that she believes fans will find exciting.
“Hinahanap ko po ang perfect song and mayroong collaboration with some artist that I think you’ll find more exciting kasi ako I’m so excited,” she added.
Released under Star Music, Next Episode holds special meaning for the singer, as several songs were inspired by her personal experiences, including the title track and the previously released single “Back to Bliss.”
The album also has Kyla collaborating with respected local producers and composers, including Jonathan Manalo, ABS-CBN Music’s Head of Creatives, Content, and Operations.
READ: PH Queen of R&B Kyla grateful to work with Jonathan Manalo in new album ‘Next Episode’
In a previous interview, Kyla opened up about the emotional journey behind finally releasing an album filled with original tracks.
“Sobrang tagal kong inabangan ang album na ito. We really worked so hard for this album, the whole process and all of it, the recording, the songwriting. It's been a journey. It’s been really, really great, itong Next Episode. I feel so relieved na finally maririnig niyo na ‘yung ilang years na namin ginawa na album,” Kyla told PUSH ABS-CBN.
She also expressed pride in the album’s overall sound and artistry, adding: “Lahat ng songs talaga is really R&B and everything is really written well, produced well, and arranged well. I just can say na I’m really proud of it. This one is special and different… Personal ito kasi it is the first time that I wrote something based on personal experiences.”
READ: EXCLUSIVE: Kyla reflects on 25-year journey, says she’s 'gutsy enough to break the norm'