Felip (musician)
{{Short description|Filipino singer-songwriter, dancer (born 1997)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2022}}
{{Infobox person
| name = Felip
| image = Ken at the One Zone fanmeeting, 2023 (cropped).jpg
| caption = Felip in 2023
| alt =
| other_names = Ken
| birth_name = Felip Jhon Suson
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1997|1|12}}
| birth_place = Pagadian, Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines
| alma mater = Technological Institute of the Philippines
| occupation = {{hlist|Rapper|singer-songwriter|dancer|producer|composer|entrepreneur}}
| awards =
| years_active = 2018–present
| signature =
| module = {{Infobox musical artist|embed=yes
| genre = {{hlist|P-pop|R&B|hip hop|rock|Visayan pop}}
| instruments = Vocals
| label = {{hlist|1Z Entertainment|ShowBT|Sony|Warner}}
| current_member_of = SB19
}}
}}
Felip Jhon Suson (born January 12, 1997), known mononymously as Felip (stylized in all caps) or by stage name Ken, is a Filipino rapper, singer-songwriter, dancer, and producer. He is the main dancer, lead rapper, and lead vocalist of the Filipino boy band SB19. The group debuted in October 2018. They initially struggled to gain attention from the public before rising to fame after their song went viral the next year. Their discography includes the album Get in the Zone (2020) and two extended plays (EPs). Felip has a wide vocal range and is known for his distinctive deep voice.
Felip started going by his mononym for his solo projects starting from the release of his debut solo single "Palayo" in 2021. He released another single titled "Bulan" in 2022 before releasing his debut solo EP Complex in 2023. The latter two works are hip hop-orientated, in contrast with "Palayo", a slow R&B track.
Early life and education
Felip Jhon Suson was born on January 12, 1997, in Pagadian, Zamboanga del Sur. He has bisdak Bisaya roots. He was raised by his grandparents in Lakewood, Zamboanga del Sur. Felip's father and grandfather are pastors, and their love for gospel music inspired his own passion for music. The influence of his uncle, who plays many musical instruments, led him to learn how to play several instruments early in life.{{Cite web |last=Pagulong |first=Charmie Joy |date=May 12, 2023 |title=Ken of SB19 shows own music style as Felip |url=https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2023/05/12/2265571/ken-sb19-shows-own-music-style-felip |access-date=October 1, 2023 |website=The Philippine Star}}{{Cite news |last=Mallorca |first=Hannah |date=2023-02-10 |title=Felip, or SB19's Ken, is out to change the P-pop genre for the long haul |url=https://entertainment.inquirer.net/485317/felip-or-sb19s-ken-is-here-to-change-the-p-pop-genre-for-the-long-haul |access-date=2023-09-30 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |language=en}} He started dancing when he needed to for a school project. Felip attended Cagayan de Oro College and studied architecture before his musical career began. After joining the band, he transferred to the Technological Institute of the Philippines.{{Cite web |last1=Tuazon |first1=Nikko |date=2 February 2020 |title=SB19: The future of P-pop is here |url=https://www.pep.ph/peptionary/149094/sb19-a721-20200202-lfrm |access-date=September 30, 2020 |website=Philippine Entertainment Portal}}{{Cite web |last=Vila |first=Alixandra Caole |date=March 15, 2020 |title=The phenomenal rise of SB19, Philippine answer to K-pop groups, who beat the odds to become home-grown idols |url=https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3075058/phenomenal-rise-sb19-philippine-answer-k-pop-groups-who |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200315070750/https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3075058/phenomenal-rise-sb19-philippine-answer-k-pop-groups-who |archive-date=March 15, 2020 |access-date=October 6, 2020 |website=South China Morning Post |language=en}}
Career
= 2018–present: SB19 =
{{Main article|SB19}}
ShowBT Philippines, a subsidiary of Korean company ShowBT, conducted a talent search which would ultimately lead to the formation of the band SB19.{{Cite web |last=Raj |first=Tanu I. |date=2021-08-02 |title=SB19: P-pop leading lights determined to do their fans proud and "live with a purpose" |url=https://www.nme.com/en_asia/features/music-interviews/sb19-p-pop-pagsibol-ep-2021-3008435 |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=NME |language=en}} Two weeks after Felip sent his video audition, he was invited to train in Manila. He dropped out of school and left his hometown, which his parents initially disapproved of. "It was a difficult decision", he later told the South China Morning Post, "but I had to do it because dancing is what I really love".
The five members of SB19 were selected in 2016, having undergone grueling daily training at a training camp. Their act largely took inspiration from K-pop. Felip debuted as Ken, the band's main dancer, lead vocalist, and rapper, in October 2018. That year, SB19 released their debut single, "Tilaluha" ({{Lit|tearful}}), followed by "Go Up". SB19's leader, Sejun (now Pablo), said that the band had begun to grow disheartened after training so long, but receiving little attention. The group had already considered to disband, but their dance practice video for their song, "Go Up", went viral in 2019, leading Sejun to call it their "redemption song". SB19 released a third single, "Alab (Burning)", before their debut studio album Get in the Zone came out on July 31, 2020. Containing their previous three singles, Get in the Zone was highly anticipated by their newly developed fanbase, which was dubbed A'TIN (pronounced 'eighteen').{{Cite web |last=Panaligan |first=Jojo |date=July 31, 2020 |title=This is the day: SB19 finally drops debut album 'Get in the Zone' |url=https://mb.com.ph/2020/07/31/this-is-the-day-sb19-finally-drops-debut-album-get-in-the-zone/ |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=Manila Bulletin |language=en}}
On May 19, 2023, SB19 released "Gento",{{Cite web |last=Basbas |first=Franchesca Judine |date=May 19, 2023 |title=SB19 Find Gold in New Single 'Gento' |url=https://www.bandwagon.asia/articles/sb19-find-gold-in-new-single-gento-music-video-patatag-ep-release-comeback-sony-music-philippines-may-2023 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230614152214/https://www.bandwagon.asia/articles/sb19-find-gold-in-new-single-gento-music-video-patatag-ep-release-comeback-sony-music-philippines-may-2023 |archive-date=June 14, 2023 |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Bandwagon |language=en-PH}} the lead single off their second EP Pagtatag! ({{translation|strengthening}}).{{Cite web |date=May 10, 2023 |title=SB19 to Release New Single 'Gento' This May |url=https://www.bandwagon.asia/articles/sb19-to-release-new-single-gento-pagtatag-comeback-album-sony-music-showbt-p-pop-philippines-may-2023 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230615112052/https://www.bandwagon.asia/articles/sb19-to-release-new-single-gento-pagtatag-comeback-album-sony-music-showbt-p-pop-philippines-may-2023 |archive-date=June 15, 2023 |access-date=June 15, 2023 |website=Bandwagon |language=en-PH}} The song was a commercial success,{{Cite news |last=Policarpio |first=Allan |date=July 18, 2023 |title=Stell on SB19's 'Nerve-wracking' Leap to Self-manage Career: If Not Now, When? |url=https://entertainment.inquirer.net/509649/stell-on-sb19s-nerve-wracking-leap-to-self-manage-career-if-not-now-when |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805155538/https://entertainment.inquirer.net/509649/stell-on-sb19s-nerve-wracking-leap-to-self-manage-career-if-not-now-when |archive-date=August 5, 2023 |access-date=August 5, 2023 |newspaper=Inquirer |language=en-PH}} while its popularity on TikTok helped introduce SB19 to viewers in other countries, such as the United States.{{Cite web |last=Bautista |first=Rafael |date=May 31, 2023 |title=SB19's 'Gento' Is Taking over TikTok—as It Should |url=https://nylonmanila.com/sb19s-gento-is-taking-over-tiktok/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230531090910/https://nylonmanila.com/sb19s-gento-is-taking-over-tiktok/ |archive-date=May 31, 2023 |access-date=August 5, 2023 |website=Nylon Manila |language=en-PH}}{{cite podcast |last=Violata |first=Annalyn |date=July 2, 2023 |title=Trending Ngayon: SB19's 'Gento', Taylor Swift's the Eras Tour, Team Australia's 59 Medals at Special Olympics |url=https://www.sbs.com.au/language/filipino/en/podcast-episode/trending-ngayon-sb19s-gento-taylor-swifts-the-eras-tour-team-australias-59-medals-at-special-olympics/b9tpie2nt |publisher=Special Broadcasting Service |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805162144/https://www.sbs.com.au/language/filipino/en/podcast-episode/trending-ngayon-sb19s-gento-taylor-swifts-the-eras-tour-team-australias-59-medals-at-special-olympics/b9tpie2nt |archive-date=August 5, 2023 |access-date=August 5, 2023 |language=tl |work=SBS Filipino |time=1:35 |quote=Trending ang 'Gento' dance challenge sa TikTok, hindi lamang para sa mga kapwang Pinoy at Pilipino celebrity, ganon din sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng mundo. Alam niyo ba na umabot na ito sa Amerika at iba’t ibang bahagi ng Asya at maging sa Aprika? |trans-quote=The 'Gento' dance challenge is trending on TikTok, not only for fellow Filipinos and Filipino celebrities but also in different parts of the world. Did you know it has reached America, parts of Asia, and even Africa?}} Pagtatag! was released on June 9.{{Cite web |last=Cruz |first=Jashley Ann |date=June 13, 2023 |title=How SB19 ushered in a new era of music during 'PAGTATAG!' launch |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/showbiznews/news/17728/how-sb19-ushered-in-a-new-era-of-music-during-pagtatag-launch/photo |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=GMA Entertainment |language=en}} That month, SB19 became self-managed after they established the company 1Z Entertainment.{{Cite web |last=Cruz |first=Jashley Ann |date=June 13, 2023 |title=SB19 unveils 1Z Entertainment's plans for the future |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/showbiznews/news/102417/sb19-unveils-1z-entertainments-plans-for-the-future/story |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=GMA Entertainment |language=en}}
With the successful release of Pagtatag!, the group further solidified their presence in the Philippine pop music scene. The Philippine Daily Inquirer later wrote that SB19 became the leaders of the Pinoy pop (P-pop) industry.
On January 31, 2025, SB19 released a teaser of their new EP Simula at Wakas. The first single from the EP is scheduled for release on February 28, while the EP itself will be premiered on April 25. {{Cite web |last=Saenz |first=Rome |date=2025-01-31 |title=SB19 To Release New EP 'Simula At Wakas,' Announce Tour |url=https://billboardphilippines.com/music/news/sb19-are-creating-new-beginnings-with-upcoming-ep-simula-at-wakas-new-single-tour-2025/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=billboardphilippines.com |language=en-US}} Billboard then exclusively revealed plans for the SB19 Simula at Wakas World Tour,{{Cite web |last=Benjamin |first=Jeff |date=2025-02-12 |title=SB19 Set ‘Simula at Wakas’ World Tour: See Where the Filipino Band Will Visit in 2025 |url=https://www.billboard.com/music/concerts/sb19-simula-at-wakas-world-tour-us-dates-exclusive-1235899604/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=Billboard |language=en-US}} which would kick off at the Philippine Arena on May 31, 2025.{{Cite web |last=Iglesias |first=Iza |date=2025-02-12 |title=SB19 to kick off world tour in Philippine Arena |url=https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/02/12/entertainment-lifestyle/show-times/sb19-to-kick-off-world-tour-in-philippine-arena/2054226 |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=The Manila Times |language=en}}
= 2021{{Endash}}2022: Solo singles =
In April 2021, SB19 became the first Filipino act to be nominated for a Billboard Music Award when they became a contender for the fan-voted category Top Social Artist. Around the same time, Felip was visiting his hometown after his grandmother died. On July 22, 2021, the band released their first extended play (EP) Pagsibol ({{literal translation|sprouting}}).{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Surej |date=2021-07-22 |title=Listen to SB19's highly anticipated six-track EP 'Pagsibol' |url=https://www.nme.com/en_asia/news/music/listen-to-sb19s-highly-anticipated-six-track-debut-ep-pagsibol-2999630 |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=NME |language=en}} SB19 began August with the online concert Back in the Zone. During the concert, Felip debuted the original song "Palayo" ({{Lit|away}}) in a solo performance. His outfit, a red lace top paired with high-rise pants, drew attention on social media.{{Cite web |last=Bodegon-Hikino |first=Kara |date=2021-08-02 |title=SB19 take fans BACK IN THE ZONE with second major online concert – gig report |url=https://www.bandwagon.asia/articles/sb19-back-in-the-zone-online-concert-showbt-black-star-entertainment-mona-gonzales-alex-bruce-4th-impact-pagsibol-ep-gig-report-review-2021 |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=Bandwagon |language=en}}
In August, Felip featured on a remix of Filipino rapper Matthaios's song "Pangga" ({{Lit|love}}).{{Cite web |last=Idris |first=A. Azim |date=2021-09-20 |title=Ken of SB19 debuts as FELIP with slick music video for solo single 'Palayo' |url=https://www.nme.com/en_asia/news/music/ken-of-sb19-debuts-as-felip-with-slick-music-video-for-solo-single-palayo-3049521 |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=NME |language=en}} On September 18, Felip officially released "Palayo" as his debut solo single, alongside the music video. He wrote and composed the slow R&B track{{Emdash}}a departure from SB19's energetic pop style{{Emdash}}about someone walking away from a relationship, with lyrics in Cebuano, Filipino, and English. Using the mononym Felip for his solo projects, Felip was the first SB19 member to start a solo career.{{Cite web |last=Malig |first=Kaela |date=2021-09-18 |title=SB19's Ken marks solo debut with 'Palayo' MV |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/lifestyle/hobbiesandactivities/803786/sb19-s-ken-marks-solo-debut-with-palayo-mv/story/ |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=GMA News Online |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Galang |first=MC |date=2021-09-21 |title=SB19's Ken Marks Solo Debut As FELIP With 'Palayo' |url=https://hiphopdx.com/en_asia/news/id.64670/title.sb19s-ken-marks-solo-debut-as-felip-with-palayo |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=HipHopDX |language=en}} His fans were dubbed sisiws ({{Lit|chicks}}).{{Cite web |last=Galang |first=MC |date=2023-02-02 |title=FELIP's Thunderous Arrival: Meet Rap's New Rockstar |url=https://hiphopdx.com/en_asia/news/felips-thunderous-arrival-meet-raps-new-rockstar-complex-ep |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=HipHopDX |language=en}} On November 26, Felip launched his clothing line Superior Son, which promptly sold out.{{Cite news |last=Robles |first=RenzNeil |date=November 27, 2021 |title=Superior Son: Ken Suson's new clothing line sold-out after launch |work=Village Pipol |url=https://villagepipol.com/superior-son-ken-susons-new-clothing-line-sold-out-after-launch/ |access-date=September 30, 2023}}
On May 28, 2022, Felip released the single "Bulan", along with the music video. The song was written by Felip, who composed the melody, and described by GMA News' Shia Lagarde as having a "more experimental and aggressive sound", influenced by rock and hip-hop, than "Palayo".{{Cite news |last=Lagarde |first=Shai |date=May 28, 2022 |title=SB19's Ken drops solo comeback as Felip with 'Bulan' |work=GMA News |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/lifestyle/hobbiesandactivities/833182/sb19-s-ken-drops-solo-comeback-as-felip-with-bulan/story/ |access-date=October 1, 2023}} Both the song and the music video were inspired by Philippine mythology;{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Surej |date=2022-05-30 |title=SB19's Ken shines a spotlight on Filipino mythology in video for new FELIP single 'Bulan' |url=https://www.nme.com/en_asia/news/music/felip-sb19-ken-bulan-music-video-3236212 |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=NME |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Guanzon |first=Sofia |date=2022-05-26 |title=FELIP Spotlights Filipino Lore In Comeback Single 'Bulan' |url=https://hiphopdx.com/en_asia/news/id.70552/title.felip-spotlights-filipino-lore-in-comeback-single-bulan |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=HipHopDX |language=en}} he used the story of Bulan, Haliya, and the Bakunawa as a metaphor for crab mentality. The single's melody and chants were inspired by indigenous ritual music. In November 2022, Felip was named "Breakthrough Artist of the Year" at the 8th Wish 107.5 Music Awards.{{Cite web |date=November 15, 2021 |title=8th Wish Music Awards: The Official Nominees |url=https://www.wish1075.com/8th-wish-music-awards-nominees/ |access-date=November 23, 2022 |website=DWNU}}
= 2023: ''COM•PLEX'' =
Felip began his production for his debut solo EP while he was on the WYAT (Where You At) Tour, SB19's first world tour, in late 2022;{{Cite web |date=September 5, 2022 |title=LOOK: SB19 Announces WYAT World Tour Dates |url=https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/music/sb19-announces-where-you-at-world-tour-dates/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230615103344/https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/music/sb19-announces-where-you-at-world-tour-dates/ |archive-date=June 15, 2023 |access-date=June 15, 2023 |website=Rappler |language=en-PH}} he wrote some of the lyrics during flights.{{Cite web |last=De Cartagena |first=Angelo |date=2023-02-02 |title=Loud And Clear: A Rocksta Of His Creation, Felip Is Out To Make Some Noise |url=https://nylonmanila.com/loud-and-clear-a-rocksta-of-his-creation-felip-is-out-to-make-some-noise/ |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=Nylon Magazine |language=en-US}} Felip released the lead single "Rocksta" on January 19, 2023, along with its black-and-white music video.{{Cite web |last=Ordonez |first=Eli |date=2023-01-20 |title=SB19's Felip shares edgy video for new single 'Rocksta' off 'Complex' EP |url=https://www.nme.com/en_asia/news/music/sb19-felip-teases-video-rocksta-complex-ep-3382522 |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=NME |language=en}} On February 3, his debut EP Complex was released under Warner Music Philippines. A six-track hip-hop record, it has a heavy composition and takes inspiration from hip-hop and rock. Felip described Complex as "a play on the many meanings of the word complex" and more confident and musically experimental. It has lyrics in English and Cebuano. Journalists described the EP as autobiographical and unapologetic.{{Cite web |title=Felip debuts six-track EP 'Com-plex' under Warner Music Philippines |url=https://mb.com.ph/2023/2/5/felip-debuts-six-track-ep-com-plex-under-warner-music-philippines |access-date=2023-09-18 |website=Manila Bulletin |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=SoundStrip |date=2023-01-19 |title=Ken Suson of SB19 releases solo music project as FELIP |url=https://businessmirror.com.ph/2023/01/20/ken-suson-of-sb19-releases-solo-music-project-as-felip/ |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=BusinessMirror |language=en-US}} On February 10, he released the music video for the EP's closing song "Straydogs", which was filmed in Japan.{{Cite web |last=Galang |first=MC |date=2023-02-10 |title=FELIP Roams The Streets Of Japan In 'COM•PLEX' EP Standout Cut, 'Straydogs'—Editor's Pick |url=https://hiphopdx.com/en_asia/news/felip-roams-the-streets-of-japan-in-complex-ep-standout-cut-straydogs |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=HipHopDX |language=en}} Felip later did live performances of the EP's songs called "Superior Sessions Live".{{Cite web |last=Galang |first=MC |date=2023-04-12 |title=FELIP Premieres 'Superior Sessions Live' Performance Of 'ROCKSTA' |url=https://hiphopdx.com/en_asia/news/felip-premieres-superior-sessions-live-performance-of-rocksta |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=HipHopDX |language=en}}
On September 12, Felip performed at Music Matters Live 2023 in Singapore, marking his first solo performance at an international music festival.{{Cite web |last=Bautista |first=Rafael |date=2023-09-20 |title=Peek Into FELIP's "Complex, Crazy, Blessed" 2023, So Far |url=https://nylonmanila.com/felip-music-matters-live-2023-interview/ |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=Nylon Manila |language=en-US}} The following day, he then did a solo show in Clarke Quay.{{Cite web |last=Judine Basbas |first=Franchesca |date=2023-09-08 |title=SB19's FELIP to perform solo show in Singapore |url=https://www.bandwagon.asia/articles/sb19-s-felip-to-perform-solo-show-in-singapore-tickets-how-to-watch-clarke-quay-fountain-square-main-stage-september-2023 |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=Bandwagon |language=en}}
On November 8, Felip released his rendition of Never the Strangers’ “Moving Closer” as part of ‘The Classic Cover’ series in celebration of Warner Music Philippines’ 30th anniversary.{{Cite web |last=Fernandez |first=Jenny |date=2023-11-09 |title=SB19's Felip Performs Never The Strangers' Moving Closer |url=https://billboardphilippines.com/music/news/felip-releases-cover-of-never-the-strangers-moving-closer/ |access-date=2025-01-31 |website=billboardphilippines.com |language=en-US}}
On December 20, Felip joined Aegis and Jose Mari Chan for a holiday-themed concert. One of the producers explained that he was a unanimous pick because “he is from Cagayan De Oro (CDO), and his music resonates with AEGIS on a personal level”. {{Cite web |title=Felip to join AEGIS and Jose Mari Chan for holiday-themed concert |url=https://mb.com.ph/2023/12/9/felip-to-join-aegis-and-jose-mari-chan-for-holiday-themed-concert |access-date=2025-01-31 |website=Manila Bulletin |language=en}}
On December 22, Felip released an unannounced single “Kanako”, which is a departure from his signature rap style, and features a primarily rock sound with lyrics in both Cebuano and English. The song went on to reach #1 on the iTunes Philippines chart less than 12 hours after its release.{{Cite web |last=Saulog |first=Gabriel |date=2023-12-22 |title=SB19's FELIP Releases New Bisaya Single "Kanako" |url=https://billboardphilippines.com/music/news/sb19s-felip-releases-new-cebuano-single-titled-kanako/ |access-date=2025-01-31 |website=billboardphilippines.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2023-12-22 |title=SB19’s FELIP releases latest single titled 'Kanako' |url=https://www.easyrock.com.ph/post/sb19s-felip-releases-latest-single-titled-kanako |access-date=2025-01-31 |website=www.easyrock.com.ph |language=en}}
= 2024: Collaborations and ''7sins'' =
On January 5, Felip announced a performance at 12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub with PLAYERTWO.{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/felipsuperior/status/1743180615196000527 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20241205111408/https://x.com/felipsuperior/status/1743180615196000527 |archive-date=2024-12-05 |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}} He later teased a song collaboration with the 5-piece band to be released on January 19.
On January 13, Felip opened for the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals. He also had a special collaboration with Ylona Garcia.{{Cite web |last=Bautista |first=Rafael |date=2024-01-11 |title=What To Expect At The Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals |url=https://nylonmanila.com/pop-culture/epic-gaming-music-collab-predator-league/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=nylonmanila.com |language=en-US}} In the same event, he closed the show with his group, SB19, alongside Philippines’ Popstar royalty, Sarah Geronimo.{{Cite web |last=Dy-Zulueta |first=Dolly |title=Sarah Geronimo, SB19 to perform 1st collab song live |url=https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/music/2024/01/10/2263242/sarah-geronimo-sb19-perform-1st-collab-song-live |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=Philstar.com}}
On January 16, he held a birthday live performance at 12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub and sang for the first time their highly anticipated collaborative single “FLYYY” with Playertwo. Beyond accidentally revealing the music video for “FLYYY”, the two acts also unveiled another joint track titled “Pagdali”, to be released at a later date. {{Cite web |last=Fernandez |first=Jenny |date=2024-01-19 |title=FELIP And PLAYERTWO's New Single 'FLYYY' Is Out Now |url=https://billboardphilippines.com/music/felip-and-playertwo-release-new-collaborative-single-flyyy/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=billboardphilippines.com |language=en-US}}
On January 21, two days after the digital release of the song, “FLYYY” music video was dropped. Later, he announced the release of their second collaborative single “Pagdali”. The song was released digitally midnight of February 2, and the music video soon followed at 8pm PHT.{{Cite web |last=Angan |first=Kara |date=2024-01-26 |title=FELIP And PLAYERTWO Team Up Again For 'Pagdali' |url=https://billboardphilippines.com/music/news/felip-playertwo-announce-second-collaboration-pagdali-single-release-2024/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=billboardphilippines.com |language=en-US}}
On February 9, Felip headlined Lucky Chinatown Countdown to Chinese New Year. {{Cite web |title=Instagram |url=https://www.instagram.com/p/C22PZIcLiNr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=www.instagram.com}} He also performed at the grand unmasking of Phirst Park Homes in Bacolod on February 17.{{Cite web |title=Phirst Home |url=https://www.facebook.com/felipsuperior/posts/kit-anay-ta-sa-february-17-2024-sa-phirst-park-homes-bacolod-/381774414470980/}} Felip was also one of the performers of BingoPlus Share the Love Share the Luck on March 1. {{Cite book |url=https://doi.org/10.3726/b21296 |title=For the Love of Nature |date=2023-03-24 |publisher=Peter Lang Verlag |isbn=978-1-4331-9980-6 |editor-last=Share |editor-first=Jeff}}
On April 4, Felip dropped a pre-save link of a new single, “Fake Faces”. {{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/felipsuperior/status/1775553849014521878 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240618193828/https://x.com/felipsuperior/status/1775553849014521878 |archive-date=2024-06-18 |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}} The song was released immediately that midnight (April 5), and the music video at 8pm PHT. "Fake Faces" was co-written with Grammy-nominated songwriter/producer Seann Bowe (Wiz Khalifa, All That Remains, The Veronicas), and produced by internationally-acclaimed producer Hyuk Shin, founder of the 153/Joombas Music Group.{{Cite web |title=Felip unmasks his emotions with pop-rock single 'Fake Faces' |url=https://mb.com.ph/2024/4/19/felip-unmasks-his-emotions-with-pop-rock-single-fake-faces |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=Manila Bulletin |language=en}} It seemed to be a departure from the hip-hop sound that he debuted with in his EP, COMPLEX.{{Cite web |last=Angan |first=Kara |date=2024-04-04 |title=SB19's FELIP Announces New Single, 'Fake Faces' |url=https://billboardphilippines.com/music/news/felip-announces-pop-rock-single-fake-faces-sb19-ken-release-2024/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=billboardphilippines.com |language=en-US}} Felip revealed he made a 2-day trip “to Malaysia to work on everything from the track to the music and lyric videos.” {{Cite web |title=FELIP Unmasks His Emotions with Pop-Punk Single 'FAKE FACES' |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/onemusic/articles-news/felip-fakefaces-hyukshin-22334}}
On April 15, Felip graced Billboard Philippines’ Hip-hop Rookies of the Year. He was named one of the “8 rising artists who are determined to bring the genre from the streets to the rest of the world.” {{Cite web |last=Philippines |first=Billboard |date=2024-04-29 |title=Billboard Philippines Reveals Hip-Hop Class of 2024 With O Side Mafia, Felip, Illest Morena, Hev Abi & More |url=https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/billboard-philippines-hip-hop-class-2024-1235669010/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=Billboard |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/BBPHOfficial/status/1778364314040377770 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240618172633/https://x.com/BBPHOfficial/status/1778364314040377770 |archive-date=2024-06-18 |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}
In April, Felip teased a partnership with PUBG Mobile Philippines. The campaign spun a commercial,{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.facebook.com/pubgmobilephil.official/videos/1180596403123878/ |title=4.6M views · 38K reactions {{!}} PUBG MOBILE {{!}} Superior Showdown ft. FELIP {{!}} HERE COMES THE KING 👑 💣 FELIP is taking over the PUBG MOBILE battlegrounds! Be part of the action with the Superior Pass, AVAILABLE NOW! Collect the... {{!}} By PUBG Mobile Philippines {{!}} Facebook |language=en |access-date=2025-02-20 |via=www.facebook.com}} Superior Pass where fans and players alike can collect his voice pack, a frame, and an avatar for free through certain missions {{Cite web |title=EXCLUSIVE: SB19's Felip says PUBG mobile collab a dream come true |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/2024/7/11/exclusive-sb19-s-felip-says-pubg-mobile-collab-a-dream-come-true-1452}} and game live streams where he gets to play with fans and players. {{Cite web |title=Facebook |url=https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=856780983156800&set=a.637465318421702 |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=www.facebook.com}} Felip also went to Japan with his group, SB19, for their Pagtatag! concert. While there, he visited Warner Music Japan and later announced that he will be releasing his debut album.{{Cite web |last=Angan |first=Kara |date=2024-05-10 |title=FELIP Announces Debut Album Via Warner Music Japan |url=https://billboardphilippines.com/music/news/felip-announces-the-arrival-of-his-debut-album/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=billboardphilippines.com |language=en-US}}
In June, Felip also announced that he would be holding two album concerts to celebrate the release of 7sins: one in Manila in July{{Cite web |last=Go |first=Mayks |date=2024-06-24 |title=Here's How To Get Tickets for Felip's '7sins' Concert |url=https://billboardphilippines.com/music/news/sb19-felip-to-hold-7sins-the-album-concert-tickets-2024/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=billboardphilippines.com |language=en-US}} and one in Japan in September.{{Cite web |last=Saulog |first=Gabriel |date=2024-06-26 |title=SB19's Felip To Perform 7sins Album Concert In Japan |url=https://billboardphilippines.com/music/news/sb19s-felip-to-perform-in-japan-for-7sins-album-concert-tickets-2024/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=billboardphilippines.com |language=en-US}} On July 5th, he released his highly anticipated debut solo full-length album—a nine-track album he described as a "journey of acknowledging human shortcomings." The songs also represent the seven deadly sins and the feelings and emotions connected to each sin. {{Cite web |last=Roxas |first=Jaira |date=2024-07-05 |title=FELIP releases first solo album '7sins' |url=https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/music/felip-releases-first-solo-album-7sins/ |access-date=2025-02-20 |website=RAPPLER |language=en-US}}
Artistry
= Influences =
Ken is a fan of metal and rock bands such as IV of Spades, Slipknot, Korn, Metallica, FM Static, Sleeping with Sirens, and Paramore. He also likes hip-hop bands and, due to his religious upbringing, gospel bands. Ken's inspirations for "Bulan" included Post Malone, Lay Zhang, One Ok Rock and Jaden Smith.{{Cite web |date=June 1, 2022 |title=SB19's Ken, also known as Felip, shoots down copying allegations in 'Bulan' |url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/06/01/22/sb19s-ken-shoots-down-copying-allegations-in-bulan |access-date=October 1, 2023 |website=ABS-CBN News}} He was influenced by hip-hop artists such as Al James, Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, Post Malone, Kid Cudi, and Lil Uzi Vert in Complex. His favorite K-pop artist is BTS member RM. He is also a fan of RnB music and singer Daniel Caesar.
= Musical style =
Each member of SB19 has a different taste in music, so they do a mix of their respective styles in their songs. He considers his solo work a way to explore genres of music other than his band's P-pop, saying that his songs as Felip are more experimental. His deep bass voice, once a point of insecurity for him, now features heavily in both SB19's music and his solo projects. However, he has a wide vocal range, and can do falsetto. He considers his genre to be "hip-hop metal rock", and has also been influenced by R&B. After the release of Complex, HipHopDX Asia
Felip, who speaks Cebuano, Filipino, and English, chose to highlight the Cebuano language in Complex, because Cebuano-language rap and artists have received less attention in the Philippines.
Public image
Filipino magazines such as Nylon Manila have highlighted Felip's "experimental" fashion choices, writing that he blends menswear and womenswear together.{{Cite web |last=Alumno |first=Lyn |date=2021-08-17 |title=8 Of Ken Suson's Most Bad-ass 'Fits That Prove He's A Style Icon in the Making |url=https://nylonmanila.com/ken-suson-badass-outfit/ |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=Nylon Manila |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2021-09-20 |title=In Palayo, Ken Suson Raps In Full Bisaya And Nails The Cropped Blazer Look |url=https://nylonmanila.com/ken-suson-palayo-music-video-felip/ |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=Nylon Manila |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Estrebello |first=Fern |date=2020-02-10 |title=SB19 Ken is defying gender norms — so let's stan him harder |url=https://villagepipol.com/sb19-ken-is-defying-gender-norms-so-lets-stan-him-harder/ |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=Village Pipol |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Mallorca |first=Hannah |date=December 1, 2021 |title=From eye makeup to sparkly suits: How SB19 breaks gender barriers through fashion |url=https://philstarlife.com/style/159055-how-sb19-breaks-gender-barriers-through-fashion?page=2 |access-date=2023-09-30 |website=Philstar Life}} He has been described as the most reserved member of SB19.{{Cite web |last=Severo |first=Jan Milo |date=July 7, 2022 |title=SB19's Ken becomes first full-blooded Filipino to perform in Grammy's Global Spin |url=https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/music/2022/07/07/2193714/sb19s-ken-becomes-first-full-blooded-filipino-perform-grammys-global-spin |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=The Philippine Star}} NME{{'s}} Tanu I. Raj, after interviewing the band, wrote that "Ken remains the tempered, silent pillar throughout, speaking only when the others prod him to, and only after glancing at them from the corner of his eye."
Discography
{{Main|SB19 discography|List of songs recorded by SB19}}
= Album =
| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center"
|+List of albums with selected details ! scope="col" rowspan="2" | Title ! scope="col" rowspan="2" | Album details ! scope="col" | Peak chart positions |
| scope="col" style="width:2.5em; font-size:90%"| JPN Hot {{cite web|url=http://www.billboard-japan.com/charts/detail?a=hot_albums&year=2024&month=09&day=02|title=7sins|date=August 28, 2024}} |
|---|
| scope="row" | 7sins
|
{{Collapsible list | title = Track listing|
| 25 |
= Extended plays =
| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;"
|+List of extended plays with selected details ! scope="col" | Title ! scope="col" | EP details |
| scope="row" | Complex
|
{{Collapsible list | title = Track listing|1. "Rocksta"|2. "Superiority"|3. "Mictest"|4. "Drinksmoke"|5. "Criminal"|6. "Straydogs" }} |
|---|
= As lead artist =
| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;" |
| scope="col" | Title
! scope="col" | Year ! scope="col" | Album ! scope="col" | {{Ref.}} |
|---|
| scope="row" |"Palayo"
| 2021 | rowspan="2" {{Non-album singles}} |
| scope="row" |"Bulan"
| 2022 |
| scope="row" |"Rocksta"
| rowspan="2" | 2023 | rowspan="2" | Complex |
| scope="row" |"Straydogs" |
| scope="row" |"Fake Faces"
|2024 |{{Non-album single}} |{{n/a|—}} |
= As featured artist =
| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;" |
| scope="col" | Title
! scope="col" | Year ! scope="col" | Album |
|---|
| scope="row" | "Pangga (Remix)" {{small|(Matthaios featuring Felip, Michael Pacquiao & Soulthrll)}} | 2021 | rowspan="5" {{Non-album singles}} |
| scope="row" | "Flyyy" {{small|(Playertwo featuring Felip)}} | rowspan="2" | 2024 |
| scope="row" | "Pagdali" {{small|(Playertwo featuring Felip)}} |
| "ID" {{small|(Sky-Hi featuring Ryoki (Be:First), Ryuki (Mazzel), Jimmy (Psychic Fever from Exile Tribe) and Felip)}} | rowspan="2" |2025 |
| "Kawasaki" {{small|(One or Eight with Felip and thủy)}} |
Videography
{{See also|SB19 videography}}
= Music videos =
| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders" |
| Year
! style="width:12em;" | Title ! style="width:11em;" | Director(s) ! scope="col" class="unsortable" | {{Abbr|Ref.|Reference(s)}} |
|---|
| scope="row" | 2021
| "Palayo" | {{hlist|Felip|Bea Laino|Chapters Ph}} |
| scope="row" | 2022
| "Bulan" | {{hlist|Felip|Bea Laino|Chapters Ph}} |
| rowspan="3" scope="row" | 2023
| "Rocksta" | {{hlist|Felip}} |
| "Straydogs"
| {{hlist|Felip|Bea Laino|Chapters Ph}} |
| "Kanako"
| {{hlist|Felip}} |
| rowspan="2" |2024
|"Fake Faces" |John Karlo Calingao |
| "Envy"
|Jay-Ar Villarojas of Kawingan Studios |
Live performances
{{Main|List of SB19 live performances}}
=Concerts=
==Joint Concerts==
| class="wikitable"
! width="20%" | Event ! width="15%" | Date ! width="20%" | Venue ! width="20%" | Location ! width="20%" | Collaboration With ! width="5%" | {{abbr|Ref.|Reference}} |
| Aquatic Beats
|align="center"|April 1, 2023 |align="center"|Aqua Planet |MC Einstein·Quest |
| PPOPCON
|align="center"|July 16, 2023 |align="center"|Araneta Coliseum |
| Winter Carnival
|align="center"|December 23, 2023 |align="center"|P7 Arena |Bandang Lapis·Alamat |
=Showcases=
| class="wikitable"
! width="25%" | Title ! width="20%" | Date ! width="25%" | Venue ! width="25%" | Location ! width="5%" | {{abbr|Ref.|Reference}} | |
| Complex Showcase
|align="center"|February 5, 2023 |align="center"|Ayala Malls Manila Bay |{{cite web|title=Com·plex Showcase at Ayala Malls Manila Bay| publisher=Ayala Malls Manila Bay|url=https://twitter.com/AyalaManilaBay/status/1620640316654235651?lang=en|website=twitter.com|access-date=February 1, 2023}} | |
| Complex Friday {{efn|co-headlining with PLAYERTWO}}
|align="center"|March 24, 2023 |align="center"|URBN QC |Quezon City | |
| Superior Sessions Live {{efn|co-headlining with Dilaw}}
|align="center"|April 14, 2023 |align="center"|Social House Bar and Restaurant | |
| Complex Showcase
|align="center"|April 16, 2023 |align="center"|MarQuee Mall | {{cite web|title=Com·plex Showcase at MarQuee Mall|publisher=MarQuee Mall|url=https://twitter.com/marqueetweets/status/1647148789294305280|website=twitter.com|access-date=April 15, 2023}} |
| Complex Live in Singapore
|align="center"|September 13, 2023 |align="center"|Clarke Quay | {{cite web|last=Basbas|first=Franchesca Judine|title=SB19's Felip to perform solo show in Singapore|date=September 8, 2023 |publisher=Bandwagon Asia|url=https://www.bandwagon.asia/articles/sb19-s-felip-to-perform-solo-show-in-singapore-tickets-how-to-watch-clarke-quay-fountain-square-main-stage-september-2023|access-date=September 11, 2023}} |
| A Not So Silent Night: Felip Live in Abu Dhabi
|align="center"|December 24, 2023 |align="center"|Villaggio Hotel }} | |
| Felip
|align="center"|January 16, 2024 |align="center"|12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub |
{{notelist}}
=Guest Appearances=
=Music Festivals=
| class="wikitable"
! width="20%" | Event ! width="15%" | Date ! width="20%" | Venue ! width="20%" | Location ! width="20%" | Organizer(s) ! width="5%" | {{abbr|Ref.|Reference}} |
| We Play Here
|align="center"|April 27, 2023 |align="center"|SM Aura Samsung Hall |Warner Music Philippines |
| Music Matters Live
|align="center"|September 12, 2023 |align="center"|*Scape The Ground Theatre |Singapore |Branded Pte Ltd. |
=Performances on Award Shows and Specials=
| class="wikitable"
! width="20%" | Event ! width="15%" | Date ! width="15%" | Venue ! width="15%" | Location ! width="30%" | Performed Song(s) ! width="5%" | {{abbr|Ref.|Reference}} |
| Miss Zamboanga del Sur
|align="center"|September 16, 2023 |align="center"|Mega Gymnasium |"Criminal" • "I Want You" |
| A Holiday Trail: Tree Lighting Ceremony
|align="center"|November 8, 2023 |align="center"|Ayala Malls Glorietta |Makati |"Rocksta" • "Palayo" • "Moving Closer" • "Criminal" |
| Asia-Pacific Predator League
|align="center"|January 13, 2024 |align="center"|SM Mall of Asia Arena |"Rocksta" • "Criminal" • "Drinksmoke"{{efn|featuring Ylona Garcia}} |
| Lucky Chinatown's Countdown to Chinese New Year 2024
|align="center"|February 9, 2024 |align="center"|Lucky Chinatown Mall |"Rocksta" • "Superiority" • "Drinksmoke" • "Criminal" • "Straydogs" • "Mictest" |
| Rhythms of the Heart
|align="center"|February 11, 2024 |align="center"|Ayala Malls Trinoma |Quezon City |"Rocksta" • "Criminal" • "Drinksmoke" • "Moving Closer" • "Pagdali" • "Flyyy" • "Palayo"{{efn|collaboration performance with PLAYERTWO}} |
{{notelist}}
Awards and nominations
{{Main|List of awards and nominations received by SB19}}
| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders"
|+ ! width="20%" | Award ceremony ! width="15%" | Year ! width="35%" | Category ! width="35%" | Nominee(s)/work(s) ! width="15%" | Result ! width="5%" class="unsortable" | {{Abbr|Ref.|Reference(s)}} |
| rowspan="4" |Wish Music Awards
| rowspan="3" align="center" |2023 |Breakthrough Artist of the Year | rowspan="2" scope="row" align="center"| FELIP |{{won}} | rowspan="3" align="center"|https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/01/23/23/sb19-leads-8th-wish-music-awards-with-4-awards |
|---|
| Wisher's Choice Award
|{{nom}} |
| Wishclusive R&B Performance of the Year
|align="center" | "Palayo" | {{won}} |
| rowspan="1" align="center" |2024
|Wishclusive Hip-hop Performance of the Year | align="center" | "Rocksta" | {{won}} | align="center"|{{Cite web |date=January 14, 2024 |title=Full List Of Winners Of The 2024 Wish Music Awards |url=https://billboardphilippines.com/music/news/here-are-the-winners-of-the-9th-wish-music-awards-sb19-josh-cullen-felip-denise-julia-2024/ |access-date=January 14, 2024 |website=Billboard Philippines}} |
| Myx Music Awards
|rowspan="1" align="center" |2024 |Rock Video of the Year |align="center" | "Fake Faces" | {{won}} |
| rowspan="1" |PPOP Awards
| rowspan="1" align="center" |2023 |Top Performing Artist of the Year |align="center" | FELIP | {{won}} | align="center"|{{Cite web |date=December 2, 2023 |title=Still the Kings: SB19, sweeps the 8th PPOP Awards 2023 by Jia Bote |url=https://lifestyle.tribune.net.ph/still-the-kings-sb19-sweeps-8th-ppop-awards/ |publisher=Daily Tribune}}{{Cite web |date=December 2, 2023 |title=Complete list of winners at the 8th PPOP Awards 2023 by Jonathan Hicap |url=https://mb.com.ph/2023/12/2/complete-list-of-winners-at-the-8th-philippine-pop-ppop-awards |publisher=Manila Bulletin }} |
| Push Awards
|rowspan="1" align="center" |2023 |Breakthrough Music Artist |align="center" | FELIP | {{won}} |
| rowspan="4" |VP Choice Awards
|align="center" |2020 | rowspan="3" |Fashion Influencer of the Year | rowspan="4" align="center" | Ken Suson | rowspan="4" {{won}} |
| rowspan="1" align="center" |2021 |
| rowspan="1" align="center" |2022 |
| rowspan="1" align="center" |2023
|Fashion Influencer of the Year (HALL OF FAME) |
| rowspan="1" scope="row" |Channel R Radio Music Awards - Seattle, USA
| rowspan="1" align="center" |2023 | Best New Artist | align="center" | FELIP | {{nom}} | rowspan="1" align="center" |{{Cite web |title=Channel R Radio Awards 2023|url=https://channelrradio.com/radioawards2021/|access-date=2023-12-17 |website=channelrradio.com|language=en}} |
| rowspan="2" scope="row" | Awit Awards
|rowspan="1" align="center"| 2023 |scope="row"|Best Instrumental Recording |rowspan="1" scope="row" align="center"| "Bulan" |{{nom}} |rowspan="1" align="center"|{{cite web|publisher=Awit Awards|title=List of Nominations at Awit Awards 2023|url=https://web.facebook.com/AwitAwards?_rdc=1&_rdr|website=Facebook|access-date=September 10, 2023}} |
| align="center" |2024
|Best Cover Art | align="center" | "Complex" | {{nom}} |align="center"|https://www.facebook.com/AwitAwards/posts/pfbid0gWGF4Wbd24ad8wPyBxYWp1ifKbpzTwmsD8Q83iDjNzX7Ee63sUUZ9y3F4fWmmuJ6l |
References
{{reflist}}
Further reading
- {{Cite web |last=Angan |first=Kara |date=February 16, 2023 |title=FELIP Gives Us A Track By Track Guide To His Debut EP, 'COM•PLEX'—Exclusive |url=https://hiphopdx.com/en_asia/news/felip-gives-us-a-track-by-track-guide-to-his-debut-ep-complex-exclusive |access-date=October 1, 2023 |website=HipHopDX}}
- {{Cite web |date=February 24, 2023 |title=Behind the Music: FELIP |url=https://wish1075.com/behind-the-music-felip/ |access-date=October 1, 2023 |website=DWNU}}
- {{Cite web |last=Franco |first=Kai |date=February 10, 2023 |title=Felip Fully Breaks Away From Expectations in "COM•PLEX" |url=https://wonder.ph/popculture/felip-complex-review/ |access-date=October 1, 2023 |website=Wonder}}
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