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Hey June!
Filipino rock band From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Hey June! (stylized in all caps) is a Filipino indie rock band formed in 2021.[1][2] The band consisted of Jim Mase (vocals/guitar), Coey Ballesteros (bass), and Aci Fodra (drums).[3] The band first gained attention with their debut single "Panahon" (lit. 'Season'), was released in 2022. Their name was inspired by the month of their formation.[4][5]
In 2023, the band released the single "Lasik" from their debut album Curiosity Killed the Cat. The song became a sleeper hit in 2025, gaining widespread popularity on TikTok and Instagram.[6] The track reached the top of the Spotify Philippines Viral 50 chart and surpassed five million streams.[7] It also entered the Billboard Philippines charts in early July 2025, debuting at number 39 on the Philippines Hot 100 and number 20 on the Top Philippine Songs chart.[8][9]
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History
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2021–2022: Formation and "Panahon"
Hey June! was formed in June 2021 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.[10] The band was formed by Soupstar Music through the recommendation of friends and family which resulted in Jim Mase and Earl Paglinawan joining the group.[4][11] Coey Ballesteros who was a neighbor of Darwin Hernandez' brother named Herbert Hernandez (guitarist of the bands Moonstar88 and 6cyclemind), joined as bassist while Aci Fodra - a Velvet Playground music student became the drummer.[4][12] Their first meeting as a band was via Zoom due to the pandemic. By the time they met in person, the initial "awkwardness" had faded and their chemistry had formed. Fodra said that they became close right away.[5]
The band released their introduction single "Just A Hit" in late 2021, followed by the debut single "Panahon" in early 2022.[13][14] According to NME, "Panahon" explores themes of timing and emotional reflection. Its accompanying music video was noted for its nostalgic atmosphere and coming-of-age narrative.[15]
In October 2022, the band officially signed with Island Records Philippines, a division of Universal Music Group (UMG Philippines).[13]
2023–present: Curiosity Killed the Cat
On November 9, 2023, Hey June! released their debut album Curiosity Killed the Cat under Island Records Philippines.[16] The band released multiple singles including "Sino Mali" (Who is Wrong), "Orasan" (Clock), "Lasik",[17] "Biglang Taob"and "Asan ang Gana Ko" as carrier single. The album was produced by Darwin Hernandez and Eunice Jorge of Gracenote.[13]
The album was included in Billboard Philippines' list of "Top 15 Albums and EPs of 2023".[18] The band gained wider recognition after winning the People's Voice Award for Breakthrough Artist at the 36th Awit Awards.[19] They were also nominated for Best Performance by a Group and Best Alternative Recording for "Sino Mali".[20]
In 2024, the band released a single cover of "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears for Fears.[21]
Hey June! embarked on an active series of live performances across Metro Manila in 2025 to promote their album. On April 5, they performed at the iconic UP Fair: REV Music Festival held at the UP Sunken Garden, sharing the stage with major acts such as Imago and Gracenote.[22][23] On May 8, the band performed at Hardstop Productions' held at Imajin in Marikina City. The event featured a lineup of emerging independent acts, including 12th Street, ischi, Eliza Maturan, Kenaniah, and SHANNi.[24]
In June 2025, the band headlined the Malaya Music Fest 2k25 at Okada Manila, sharing the stage with acts such as Kamikazee, Sandwich, Silent Sanctuary, and Earl Agustin, in celebration of the festival's 5th anniversary.[25]
On June 26, 2025, they single "Lasik" reached the number one spot on the Spotify Philippines Viral 50 chart.[26] A narrative music video, starring Will Ashley in the lead role, was released on August 13.[27][28]
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Artistry and influences
Hey June! described their sound as a fusion of nostalgic pop-rock sound with a modern, youthful edge.[a] They developed a distinct sound, describing it as unconcerned with following trends, stating, "We've been very experimental with our sounds. Our creative juices are still very wild."[31]
According to frontman Jim Mase, his band members come from different musical backgrounds, each with their own set of influences. While their individual influences differ, they have learned to work together creatively. Mase shared that his members are fans of the Eraserheads, citing the iconic band as a major influence on their music.[5]
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Band members
Current members
- James "Jim" Ligtas Mase – vocals, rhythm guitar, synth
- Chloe "Coey" Anne Ballesteros – bass, backing vocals
- Albert "Aci" Cian G. Fodra – drums, backing vocals
Former members
- Earl Andrie P. Paglinawan – lead guitar (until 2024)
Accolades
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Discography
Studio albums
Singles
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Notes
References
External links
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