Five-member Pinoy pop (P-pop) boy band SB19 made history as the first Filipino group and Southeast Asian act to be nominated at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards (BBMA). The group made it to the Top Social Artist category, which was launched in 2011.
The homegrown act—comprised of Pablo (formerly known as Sejun), Josh, Justin, Ken and Stell—is competing with top global superstars Ariana Grande and K-Pop groups BTS, Blackpink and Seventeen for the title.
Reacting to the nomination released late Thursday night, May 13, 2021, the group happily took to their social media accounts and posted, “WE MADE IT, A’TIN! We are nominated for Top Social Artist of this year’s Billboard Music Awards!” “A’tin” is SB19’s nickname for their huge fan base. “We are so grateful for your love and support. We wouldn’t have come this far without all of you. A’TIN ‘TO! Iwawagayway ang WATAWAT!” they added.
Even Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray retweeted the BBMA's art card for the group that showed the voting mechanics for the Top Social Artist category. She included it with the official hashtag #BBMAsTopSocial and tagged her support by liking her tweet. Her tweet also featured four Philippine flags.
SB19's hard work has been paying off, as they are now receiving awards and recognitions not only in the country but also worldwide. The group made its local debut on Oct. 26, 2018 with their first single, “Tilaluha.” It was not until the release of their second single “Go Up,” however, that the group became popular. On March 9, 2020, SB19 officially released its third single “Alab” under its new record label Sony Music Philippines.
Meanwhile, SB19 announced on May 13, 2021 at exactly 12 midnight the music showcase dedicated for their new single, "MAPA." It is an online event that will happen this coming May 18, 2021, Tuesday, at 7 p.m. The live event will be made available on the group's official YouTube channel and Facebook page. REDD BERMUDO
