The Filipino music scene welcomes a poignant new track as the rising band It All Started In May unveils their latest single, titled "Naaalala." Released in the final weeks of 2025, the song delves into the familiar ache of reminiscing about a lost love, capturing the bittersweet feeling of looking back on a relationship that ended when a former partner moved on.
A Song Born from Memory and Reflection
The lyrics of "Naaalala" resonate with anyone who has experienced a sudden heartbreak, with lines like "Bakit ganyan? Biglang nawala, dahil sumama ka na sa iba" (Why is it like that? You suddenly disappeared because you went with someone else). The band describes it as a track that delivers the sting of a relapse moment, where memories come flooding back unexpectedly. This theme of reflection is deeply personal for the group, as echoed in their social media posts.
Bassist and vocalist JP shared a nostalgic thought, recalling, "Naaalala ko pa 'yung mga araw na mas madalas kwarto ko lang nakakarinig ng mga tinutugtog ko" (I still remember the days when only my room would hear what I was playing). Drummer Mikee added a humorous yet relatable note about the band's persistence, stating, "Minsan naaalala ko 'yung mga sinabi kong 'last na ito' pero ayun, may part two, three, at four" (Sometimes I remember the times I said 'this is the last one,' but then there's part two, three, and four).
Milestones and a Major Partnership
Composed of Red (guitarist, lead vocalist), Pau (guitarist, vocalist), Jai (keyboardist), Mikee (drummer), and JP (bassist, vocalist), the band's career has been on a steady ascent since they signed with Universal Records in February 2025. Their activity has included consistent releases, guest appearances, and live performances.
"Naaalala" is their fourth official single, joining their previous tracks:
- "O' Kay Tamis"
- "Pasado"
- Their cover of Hotdog's classic "Manila"
In a significant move for their career, the band officially became ambassadors for LYRIC, the country's largest musical instrument retail chain, on November 22, 2025. This partnership underscores their growing influence in the local music industry.
Launch Event and Looking Forward
The music video for "Naaalala" was launched on the same day as their LYRIC signing at the Kowloon House Dining Hall on Matalino Street in Quezon City. The event was a celebration of their new chapter, featuring performances by fellow artists SunKissed Lola, Earl Generao, SHANNi, and brei. It All Started In May capped the night with their own set, energizing the crowd.
With "Naaalala" providing a sentimental close to the year—embodying a "malayo pa pero malayo na" (still far but has come far) feeling—the band is poised for more. As they enter 2026, It All Started In May promises more music and milestones, proving they are only just beginning their journey in the hearts of Filipino music lovers.
