The eclectic pop track is penned by Benj himself, and produced by Grammy-nominated artist Xerxes Bakker
Benj Pangilinan, the talented brother of renowned actor Donny Pangilinan, has embarked on his own path in the music industry, joining the ranks of Sony Music Entertainment’s newest recording artists in 2023.
Hailing from a prestigious lineage of established actors, music icons, and prominent entertainers, this promising newcomer is determined to defy skeptics with an impressive debut that delves into the realm of young romance and nostalgia.
His debut single, “Love, That’s Rare,” poignantly explores the complexities of love while acknowledging its profound impact on shaping one’s perspective—both for the better and the worse. Benj wrote the song as a means of transporting himself back to a specific moment in time, helping him navigate the conflicting emotions he experienced during that period.
“I wrote this song a while back, and honestly, I’m not entirely sure why,” shares Benj. “Lyrics and melodies often arrive unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. It’s about recognizing those creative sparks and capturing them.”
Grammy-nominated producer Xerxes Bakker, known for his collaborations with renowned artists such as Imagine Dragons and Snoop Dogg, took charge of producing the track. Blending ’80s soft rock grandeur with electronic elements, Xerxes provides Benj Pangilinan with a musical playground to showcase his versatility and songwriting prowess, ensuring a solid structure that withstands any cracks. The result is a captivating contemporary pop piece that is bound to leave a lasting impression.
Benj recalls the immediate comfort he felt upon meeting Xerxes for the first time. “There was an instant connection. After a brief conversation, it was evident that our visions were aligned. From a production perspective, it’s all about establishing a mutual understanding of the song’s vision and fostering trust in one another.”
Benj Pangilinan’s debut single, “Love, That’s Rare,” is now available on all major digital music platforms worldwide, courtesy of Sony Music Entertainment.
