MANILA -- After years in the making, the moment has finally come for Rico Blanco's newest song, "Paalam."
A beautiful farewell song, “Paalam” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
"Paalam" contemplates the emotional weight of parting, whether from a person, a chapter, a place, or a former self.
In Blanco’s hands, goodbye becomes not only an act of release and reawakening, but also a gift that offers clarity, grounding, and ultimately, healing.
“Out of all the songs I’ve released, 'Paalam' is the song that took me the longest to finish,” Blanco admitted via a press release. “Some songs I finish in minutes, days, or weeks, but this one has been a work in progress for many, many years.”
OPM singer-songwriter Rico Blanco. Handout
"Paalam" was originally inspired by a former bandmate's departure in the '90s, but over the years it changed and gained deeper meaning after the death of Blanco's brother.
Blanco even revealed that for years, he hesitated to record the song, waiting for the right singer to come along.
With its kundiman arrangements and intricate orchestral builds, the song taps into something powerful and primal, as if unlocking something personal from Blanco without completely giving away the story.
“Production-wise, I always knew how I wanted the song to sound,” shared Blanco. “I wanted it to have a timeless arrangement, or some would say a bit traditional.”
"Paalam" follows the renewed success of Blanco solo catalog, particularly “Your Universe.”
Before becoming a solo artist, Blanco started as part of the OPM band Rivermaya.
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