A New Chapter for JMKO: Taking Up Space Means Being More Yourself.
Written by JJ Mayang
Photography by Joi Conti
LOS ANGELES, CA — Filipino singer-songwriter JMKO has entered a new era of fearless honesty and artistic expansion. Following his move from the Philippines to the United States and his transformative experience at Berklee College of Music, he is preparing to release a new single July 16th that signals both personal and creative evolution.
A successful artist in the Philippines, JMKO made the difficult decision to leave home after a life-altering family loss. The passing of his brother became a catalyst that challenged him to pursue the dreams he had long imagined but never fully embraced.
“Witnessing my brother’s passing made me realize that life is short. I wanted to reach my full potential in this lifetime.”
That realization led him to Berklee College of Music, where he was only one of two Filipino students. While immersed in one of the world's most renowned music institutions, JMKO found himself carrying an unspoken responsibility to grow as an artist while representing Filipino talent on an international stage.
Yet, the greatest transformation happened internally.
Surrounded by musicians from around the world, JMKO discovered that artistic growth wasn't about becoming someone else but being unapologetically himself.
His earlier work often lived within the boundaries of traditional R&B, but Berklee challenged him to experiment, take risks, and trust his instincts. The experience unlocked a new confidence that continues to shape his music today.
“I learned that I didn't have to pretend. I didn't have to prove anything. I could just be myself.”
That mindset forms the foundation of the music JMKO is creating now.
Where previous songs may have only scratched the surface, his newest material invites listeners deeper into his inner world. Declarations of love, moments of longing, and reflections on human connection embody emotions that many people struggle to express out loud.
It introduces listeners to a more fearless artist that is willing to explore new sounds while remaining rooted in the emotional depth that has become his signature. The release marks the beginning of a broader body of work that leans into vulnerability, revelations, and personal truth.
“These songs are revelations. They're conversations and declarations that people sometimes can't say for themselves.”
While the sonic palette expands beyond the R&B influences that first introduced him to audiences, the heart of the music remains unmistakably JMKO. At the center of his artistry is a distinctly Filipino sensibility of world-class vocal ability and storytelling that refuses to hide behind filters.
Growing up in a culture that embraces feeling and connection, JMKO credits Filipino artists with bringing a unique emotional openness to music.
“Filipinos aren't afraid to feel,” he explains. “We're honest with our emotions, and that shows up in our songwriting.”
That influence can be heard throughout his work: rich vocal harmonies, layered arrangements, soulful riffs and runs, and an unwavering commitment to making listeners feel something.
As he establishes himself in Los Angeles, he remains grounded by the values he brought from home: humor, humility, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the sacrifices that made this journey possible.
“I think about my family and everything I've sacrificed to be here. I want all of that to mean something.”
Those sacrifices are now fueling a larger purpose.
Beyond his individual success, JMKO sees himself as part of a growing movement of Filipino artists gaining visibility on the global stage. Inspired by the recent achievements of Filipino musicians and performers across major international platforms, he views this moment as a long-overdue recognition of a community that has always possessed extraordinary talent.
“We've always been world-class. We've always deserved this space.”
JMKO hopes his voice contributes to the movement of authenticity, culture, and creative excellence without compromise.
He describes his music as “cinematic R&B”: songs crafted with technical precision and emotional intention, designed to make listeners feel as though they're living inside a film soundtrack of their own lives.
Every lyric, harmony, and vocal performance serves a purpose.
For JMKO, music is ultimately about creating moments where listeners recognize themselves in someone else's story. As he prepares for his July release and the next chapter of his career, the message he hopes audiences carry with them is simple:
“There's always a rainbow after the rain. Be true to yourself. Life is happier when you don't have any filters.”
With a new sound, a renewed sense of purpose, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, JMKO is proving that taking up space doesn't require changing who you are.
Sometimes, it simply means becoming more of yourself.
About JMKO
JMKO is a Filipino singer-producer based in Los Angeles whose music blends emotional R&B, pop, and immersive sonic storytelling. A former winner of GMA's To The Top and a Berklee College of Music alumnus, JMKO creates music for those navigating the in-betweens of identity, love, and self-expression. Known for his viral Popcorn Duets series and emotionally driven artistry, he is currently signed under ABS-CBN Music International.
Support his work below!
About TAYO NA
JMKO's story is exactly why TAYO NA exists.
TAYO NA is an Austin-based print magazine and community exhibition dedicated to documenting Filipino artists and makers, the creativity, sacrifice, and cultural pride that Filipinos carry wherever they go. Featuring JMKO is part of our ongoing effort to spotlight Filipino voices who deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated on every stage, whether that stage is in Austin, Los Angeles, or anywhere Filipinos are making their mark in the US.
This November, we are bringing that mission to life with TAYO NA Sa Sari Sari Store, a two-day immersive magazine launch and Filipino arts market during Austin Studio Tour on November 14 and 15, 2026. Follow us on Instagram for event updates and to stay connected with the Filipino creative community we are building.
