After announcing his participation in this year’s Round Festival in South Korea, Josh Cullen continues his winning streak with the release of his new single, “Sumaya,” under Sony Music Entertainment. This track delivers a quiet rumination on heartbreak and acceptance, blending R&B, trap, pop, and bedroom hip-hop with minimalist production that reveals rewarding layers as it unfolds. It’s a vulnerable piece that expresses the painful truths of a relationship’s end but is written from a place of genuine care for the other person’s freedom and happiness.
Josh shares, “’Sumaya’ is about the heart-wrenching journey of accepting that it’s time to let go of someone and the memories you’ve shared. It’s a song that delves into the pain and sadness of moving on while still cherishing the good times you had together.”
SB19’s lead rapper and vocalist explains that the lyrics tackle the bittersweet feeling of parting ways and reflecting on a love that once felt life-affirming and real. With the line, “kapag naihatid ka, di na kita susunduin,” Josh demonstrates his nuanced skill in creating songs that resonate deeply. He credits his friend Kael Guerrero for helping him write the track, noting, “We drew inspiration from our own life experiences and memories, making this song very personal and emotional for both of us.”
Regarding production, Josh explains that he and his co-producer, Kael, meticulously crafted the initial groundwork to capture the emotional depth and bittersweet nature of “Sumaya.” They made final tweaks to balance the song’s form and intricacies with the genuine intent of his songwriting style. The talented team at Tribute Collective then re-arranged it, adding their unique touch.
“Kael and Tribute are real gems in this industry, and their combined efforts helped achieve a sound that is haunting and melancholic, perfectly matching the theme of letting go and the sorrow that comes with it,” Josh Cullen explains.
The track’s release is accompanied by a music video featuring Josh Cullen as the lead star. The visuals depict him waking up from the relics of the past, allowing himself to journey back to a time filled with love and rosy optimism, only to realize that these memories are illusions he must come to terms with.
Josh shares, “In the music video for ‘Sumaya,’ I wake up in a house filled with the most important memories of my life, memories of someone I love deeply. As I touch these objects, they start to disintegrate, and I realize it’s because of me. I find myself shifting between reality and the void, struggling to escape the overwhelming chaos and emotions happening all at once. I don’t ever want to forget these memories, yet I know I have to accept and release what I can’t control.”
The music video was directed by Josh Cullen and Jonathan Tal Placido. Josh adds, “Big shout out to Miko del Rosario as well. He stuck with me during those late-night editing sessions. Despite the tight schedule and lack of sleep, it wasn’t as stressful as I imagined. We had fun, and their passion and dedication made the whole experience incredibly rewarding.”
Josh Cullen’s “Sumaya” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide. Watch the music video on Josh Cullen’s YouTube channel.
