Angela Ken. ABS-CBN News
MANILA — Singer-songwriter Angela Ken is ushering in a new chapter in her music career with the release of her six-track EP titled “Panahon,” a project she describes as a reflection of life’s changing seasons and the strength that comes from enduring them.
According to the Kapamilya artist, the EP centers on the idea of being “pinagtibay ng panahon,” or strengthened by time, as it explores different kinds of love and the lessons that come with it.
“It’s all about songs that transcend through time and season. Lagi ko siyang sinistick doon sa theme na pinagtibay ka ng panahon,” she shared.
Ken explained that the project tells a cohesive story something she intentionally built not only from her own experiences but also from the stories of people around her and the realities of the world today.
“It’s also very evident. It’s also very personal for me. It’s also not just based on my experience, but from my friends, from what’s happening also right now… all that’s happening in the world,” she said.
More than just a collection of songs, “Panahon” serves as a message of hope and validation, especially for listeners navigating their own struggles.
“I want this to be a source of hope, a source of validation also to people na being human is okay… na there will be times na hindi mo talaga mapipigilan yung pagdapa mo,” Ken added, emphasizing that setbacks are part of growth.
The EP was two years in the making, born out of a period of creative frustration for the singer.
“I’m very, very frustrated that time… parang paulit-ulit na lang,” she recalled.
It was during this challenging phase that Ken found inspiration in the simplest moments even while looking at the clouds eventually rediscovering her passion for songwriting.
A significant part of the creative process also involved her longtime partner, Patrick, who co-wrote the songs despite not originally being a songwriter.
“The things you do for love… he became one,” she said with a smile, adding that their seven-year relationship has also been “pinagtibay na rin ng panahon.”
Ken credited her partner not only for contributing to the lyrics but also for helping her regain confidence in her craft.
“Isa siya sa mga nagpa-realize sa akin na I can still write… I just need to breathe, look at my surroundings, observe, and don’t pressure myself,” she shared.
Known for her heartfelt and relatable music, Ken continues to stay true to her identity as an artist who embraces vulnerability.
“As a warm embrace… I’ve been very vocal… na okay lang ‘yun, na normal ‘yun sa tao, na itong mga nararamdaman mo, valid siya,” she said, encouraging listeners to acknowledge their emotions while also taking steps forward.
With some tracks like “Kulimlim,” “Pwede Bang Mamaya,” and “Baka Bukas” already released, Ken invites fans to listen and connect with the rest of the EP.
Looking ahead, the singer also expressed hopes of reaching bigger milestones, including staging her own concert.
“Kung mangangarap ka na lang, taasan mo na… hopefully for the upcoming months and years to come, that will happen,” she said.