Filipino Music Awards Nominates Arthur Nery, Dionela, More for ‘R&B Song of the Year’

The first-ever Filipino Music Awards has revealed its nominees for R&B Song of the Year, honoring a genre that continues to shape the sound of contemporary Filipino music. Known for its groove, vocal dexterity, and sleek production, R&B has provided a stage for artists to showcase both technical prowess and emotional depth. This year’s nominees reflect that range, balancing sensuality, intimacy, and artistry.

Arthur Nery leads the pack with “Segundo, Siguro,” a sultry cut that highlights his signature mix of smooth vocal delivery and lyrical longing. Dionela earns double recognition in the category: First with “Ikigai,” a standout collaboration with rapper Loonie that fuses melodic production with sharp and lyrical storytelling, then again with his vocally colorful solo effort “Marilag.” Jason Dhakal’s “Magic” brings a distinct voice to the mix, pairing his velvet tone with shimmering production that pushes the genre forward. Rounding out the nominees is Jess Connelly’s “Fool Me Twice,” a confident track that blends heartfelt lyricism with the polished groove of LUSTBASS.

By spotlighting these artists, the Filipino Music Awards highlights R&B’s role as a genre rooted in vocal flourishes and production finesse, delivering music that thrives in both texture and feeling. These nominees showcase not only the genre’s adaptability, but also its growing influence in the Filipino music scene.

The Filipino Music Awards ceremony takes place on October 21 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Complimentary tickets are available through Filipino Music Awards magazine packages on SariSari.Shopping.

Elijah Pareño

Music Writer

Elijah Pareño is the Music Writer of Rolling Stone Philippines. He writes daily music news, features, reviews, and radar stories of the website.

In addition to music writing, Pareño has written about the behind-the-scenes writers and producers from the P-pop scene, interviewed hip-hop artists like Shanti Dope and Zae, and featured up-and-coming artists for the Music Forecast 2026. Aside from music, Pareño has written about the state of affairs that affects pop culture. He wrote a movie review for 'Mortal Kombat II' and reported and interviewed photojournalists at the September 21, 2025 protests in Luneta and Mendiola.

Prior to working in Rolling Stone Philippines, Pareño was a freelance writer for 3 years and independent live music promoter

See more stories by Elijah Pareño

• In This Article:
• Filipino Music Awards