Manila, Philippines — February 23, 2025. What a night for the people of Manila! This year's line up of Plus63 was nothing short of epic, and people can still feel the vibes. Attendees couldn’t contain their excitement as they gathered for a killer lineup headlined by the incredible Kehlani.
As festival-goers entered the grounds, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. The festival kicked off with Jolianne, hugging us with her lover girl setlist and sweet voice. Performing songs from her new Plain Girl EP, she had also made a special appearance alongside Arthur Nery. Their unexpected collaboration was a highlight, especially when they performed ‘Lullaby’. The chemistry between them was palpable, and the crowd loved every second of it. who captivated the crowd with his soulful melodies.
Then it was Mrld, who serenaded us with her hit songs like An Art Gallery Could Never Be As Unique As You, Ligaya, and Sandali. Collectively, the crowd had sang and danced along from the mellow vibe to the shift in hype beat.
James Reid then brought the energy up a notch. His performance was an electrifying party, and when he dropped Hanap-Hanap, Pauwi Na, and Mirasol, the crowd cheered. With his charismatic stage presence, he had everyone on their feet, dancing and enjoying every moment.
Following her was Raveena, whose ethereal sound transformed the festival into a dreamlike experience. As she performed Honey, Mystery, and Bloom, the crowd was entranced, lost in the beauty of her voice and the enchanting atmosphere she created. It was a moment that felt almost magical.
Next to take the stage was Jenevieve, whose unique blend of pop and R&B resonated deeply with the crowd. Her powerful vocals shone through during Nxwhere and her popular hit Baby Powder, and the audience responded with cheers and enthusiastic sing-alongs, creating a connection that felt genuine and heartfelt.
As the night continued, thrilla from Manila—RINI mesmerized the audience with his smooth R&B vibes. His heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies created an intimate atmosphere, particularly during Meet Me in Amsterdam, with fans singing along to what catapulted him in the spotlight, My Favorite Clothes. The Filipino-Australian decided to surprise us as well with a harana cover of Hinahanap-Hanap Kita during his setlist. The connection he forged with the crowd was profound, leaving many in awe of his talent.
Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived: Kehlani took the stage as the headliner. Her commanding presence and powerful vocals electrified the audience, performing both old and new songs like Honey, Distraction, Toxic, and After Hours. With her fans all around circling for dance mosh pits, raising witty banners for her to see, and singing along to every word, the night was lively and her energy on stage was met. Kehlani’s authenticity and passion shone brightly, creating an unforgettable connection with her fans.
But the festival wasn’t just about the music. It was a feast for the senses, with various Filipino food stalls offering delicious local dishes and beverages that made the experience even richer. Attendees enjoyed everything from savory street food to sweet treats, satisfying both hunger and cravings for culture.
There were also unique booths where festival-goers could get inked with meaningful designs, like Moonlight Tattoos, and The Archives Booth capturing memories of the night with fun snaps. There was a set up of merchandise as well and specs like Joint and the official Plus63 shirts and totes that offered stylish wears that added a trendy touch to the festivities. These elements created a lively, immersive environment that celebrated Filipino culture in all its forms.
As the festival came to a close, it was clear that Plus63 Manila had been a resounding success. The lineup showcased a diverse array of talent, celebrating both local and international artists. The sense of community and shared love for music was palpable, making it a night that attendees would cherish for years to come.
With unforgettable performances and an atmosphere brimming with joy, Plus63 Festival 2025 left a lasting impression. As the lights dimmed and the crowd began to disperse, the echoes of laughter, music, and the tantalizing scents of food lingered, a testament to the incredible experience that had just unfolded.
Special thanks to Insignia Presents for bringing AURORA, Kolohe Kai, Hoobastank, stand-up comedian Anna Akana, and the upcoming sold-out Tyler, The Creator CHROMAKOPIA: THE WORLD TOUR in Manila this September. For more details, visit their website or follow them on social media @insigniapresents.
Photos by Jovelyn Mateo
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