Music news No. 1 : Asia's Soul Supreme KZ Tandingan just dropped her latest song "Winning" co-written by Grammy winner TxTHEWAY and produced by Grammy-nominated Chris "Flict" Aparri. This is all in line with KZ's wish to become an international star.
News No. 2: She's now seen sporting copper-colored hair styled by Jing Monis. It is a stark departure from the usual blonde/dark/orange-colored streaks seen on her social media ever since she cut her hair super-short last year.
KZ describes that her hairdo and the way she dresses is part of how she presents herself as an artist and will not apologize for it. " Am very maximalist in terms of expressing who I am. When it comes to styling, am always looking for a new color or cut. Medyo matagal ko sya pinaglaban kasi as a singer kelangan naka long hair ka, naka-gown."
The 30-year-old singer credits her agency, Cornerstone Entertainment, for allowing her to be a free spirit when it comes to self-expression. So far, her unique style has gained the attention of discriminating fashion watchdogs. Last year, the MEGA Fashion Awards named KZ the Most Stylish Performer Of The Year.
For anyone who wants to change their look but is hesitating, KZ gives this piece of advice: "Whether you do something or you don't, people will still judge you, so why not just do something that makes you happy? If some people don't like my hair, am still happy with it, so it's no problem."
KZ said she lives a happy married life these days with her musician-husband TJ Monterde. She will be seen next as the vocal mentor of Top Class, the newest and biggest P-Pop (Pinoy Pop) reality talent search competition in the Philippines. The show will admit 30 lucky students who will receive mentoring and guidance from KZ in her capacity as soul diva and sole X Factor Philippines champion.
Auditions for Top Class are currently ongoing and will be open only until April 20 for boys aged 16 to 26.
As a singer who started as a virtual unknown and rose her way to the top, KZ said being part of Top Class is her way of giving back, to share the lessons and experiences she gained in show business.
"There are a few things I would look for in my students in Top Class. One is having the right attitude. Your talent can get you up there, but your attitude will let you stay there. Then, their minds must be very open to learn and they must be willing to put in the hard work. As a mentor, I will be nice but also strict," KZ stated.
Top Class, to be shown in the second half of 2022, is hosted by Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray and is a collaborative effort between Kumu, Cignal Entertainment, TV5, and Cornerstone Entertainment.