Freestyle is undoubtedly one of the most enduring bands in the local music scene. With a rich musical history spanning over two decades, they have created a legacy that transcends time.

Impressively, they have numerous hits that continue to resonate with music buffs across generations, even at this point. Who would ever forget their popular ditties “Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang? (with Pops Fernandez)”, “Before I Let You Go”, “This Time”, “Para Sa ‘Yo”, “Till I Found You”, So Slow”, and “Once in a Lifetime”?

These songs catapulted the band to musical superstardom. Known for their soulful melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and captivating live performances, Freestyle has cemented their status as one of the country’s premier musical acts.

To their credit, they were able to produce four successful studio albums namely “Freestyle (self-titled debut album),” “This Time,” “I Wanna Get Close,” and “Once in a Lifetime,” and three live albums starting with “Freestyle Live at the Araneta Coliseum,” “Freestyle All Hits Live,” and “Freestyle Love Concert (The Album).”

Looking back, it’s truly a remarkable feat for a band to remain at the top of their game, especially since they achieved massive success in 1998. Up to now, they remain relevant, revered, and adored by their countless supporters. Led by lead vocalist Top Suzara, who from the very start was the band's driving force, they continue to enchant listeners with their distinct sound.

At present, Freestyle, which is now composed of Ian Tan, Gibson Viduya, IJ Garcia, Buoy Manalo, and Top, continues to be popular and has even released hit songs like “Let Love Win,” “Bespren,” “Maybe,” and “Walang Ibang Ikaw.”

And now, the famous band will stage a concert titled “It’s About Time" on Sept. 19, 2025, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Here, they will launch their new song titled “Surrender You,” whose music and lyrics are courtesy of Top himself.

“As the title of the show says, it’s about time. It’s been a long time coming, and everything is about time and has already been about time. I guess it really always is His time, His timing, and not ours. I’m very excited for this concert and hope everyone will join us!” says Top, during a media conference in Quezon City recently.

Top added, "Before, we had our songs from that time. But this time, we have new songs to share live on stage. We will release a new song. That will be our fifth original song since we re-grouped in 2022.

"Our live sound is different. For me, the energy and vibe are different. We now have a different audience, but I know many people will catch up again. It's a chance to meet again," he said.

Since its inception in 1996, only Top was the original member when he came back. IJ said there are four new members in the band but they have known each other for a long time.

"We're new to the band technically, but we are not new to the public. We have known Top for many years," said IJ.

Top also said: "They have been playing with me as Top post-Freestyle. But this is the first time we're playing together as Freestyle. So when I invited them to join me, as Freestyle, I asked them if they wanted to be part of this new chapter."

As the music scene evolves, Top expressed that they draw inspiration from the vibrant array of bands and groups that shape their creative landscape.

"From my point of view, I observe the other bands. Nakakatuwa at nakaka-inspire naman sila. (They are fun and inspiring.) But we don't compete with other bands. We do what we do, and that's all we want to do. You can never please everybody. We like other bands, but some people won't like them. It's a matter of preference, and everyone is entitled to their own choice.

"Basta, we do what we can and do it the best way we can. We hope that when we do it, it resonates with one person. If it does, it was all worthwhile.

"Ang importante is the connection we make. It's not like we have been here. Yes! Nauna lang kami (We were ahead), but that has nothing to do with the intention to share songs and music we want to share," said Top.

The band also took pride in its success even without the help of social media in the past.

Freestyle enjoyed their success, which they earned through hard work and talent, long before social media helped people gain fame. Their journey showed the importance of dedication and creativity. At that time, word of mouth and live performances were crucial for connecting them with their audience.

"I take pride in that. We used to play seven nights a week, promoting our own songs. That was when we came to Manila. But when we were based in Davao, we were busy in the Visayas-Mindanao area. Baligtad. The Manila-born bands try to penetrate Vis-Min. Kami okay na," Top said.

Many are curious to know what the secret of their longevity is as an A-1 musical act.

“If there is one, I really don’t know what it is. I left Freestyle in 2005, and I’m back as their frontman once again for three years now. The universe can be very funny sometimes. But I guess if I did have to answer, whether it applies to Freestyle or not, it’s the commitment to making music, and sharing the music you create together," Top also said.

Aside from performing their latest single, “Surrender You,” which is very inspiring, Top revealed that viewers will be in for a grand musical treat when they watch “It’s About Time.”

“Of course, apart from so many originals we’ve selected for the show, we are doing some other songs that are playful time machines into memories that we hope many will have for themselves, too! It excites us that we are also playing a new song for the very first time on that night. That’s one with a very different kind of story, one that I’m certain everyone knows all too well!”

Neocolours, another prime band from the '90s, whose popularity remains strong to this day, will be the special guest.

“It’s About Time" is produced by Full House Theater Company and NY Entourage Productions. Grab your tickets now at TicketWorld and at the Newport World Resorts Box Office.