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| PLAYERTWO Performing live at the GFest Davao 2024 |
In the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of Philippine music, PLAYERTWO stands out as one of the most exciting groups to watch. Hailing from Davao City, this quintet—composed of Ivo Impreso, Luke April, Wave P, Puhken, and Ven Villariza—is redefining the boundaries of OPM (Original Pilipino Music) with their genre-blending sound and innovative approach to creativity. From crafting infectious beats to producing visually captivating content, PLAYERTWO is making waves in the local and global music scene.
The Birth of a Movement
PLAYERTWO’s origin story reflects the serendipity of five highly creative individuals coming together at the perfect moment. “We all met at the right time in our lives,” recalls rapper-producer Ivo Impreso in an interview. Each member brought a unique background to the table:
- Ivo Impreso had already been making a name for himself in R&B and hip-hop.
- Luke April transitioned from rock band musician to a versatile producer.
- Wave P was a staple in Davao’s house music and DJ scene.
- Puhken and Ven Villariza, both affiliated with the Davao art and hip-hop collectives Delinquent Society and WE OUT HERE, added creative direction and artistic flair to the group.
What began as a duo with Ivo and Luke eventually evolved into the five-member powerhouse we know today. The turning point came when Wave P, initially a guest collaborator for their track “Talk Straight,” officially joined the group after realizing their chemistry.
Music That Moves the Crowd
PLAYERTWO’s music is a testament to their collective creativity. Each track is a unique blend of their influences, from rap and R&B to alternative and pop. The group’s breakout hit, “THAT’S MY BABY,” showcases their ability to craft catchy, relatable songs with a twist of humor and personality. The accompanying music video—featuring a playful storyline about falling in love with a dog—captured the hearts of fans and cemented their viral success.
Their live performances, like their unforgettable set at GFest Davao 2024, demonstrate their ability to electrify audiences. “When PLAYERTWO hit the stage, the energy in the room skyrocketed,” one fan observed. Songs like “Someday” and “THAT’S MY BABY” highlight the individual talents of each member, from Ivo’s smooth vocals to Wave P’s infectious beats, while their synergy as a group creates a sound that’s both cohesive and innovative.
A DIY Ethos Meets Gen Z Resourcefulness
Despite their rapid rise, PLAYERTWO remains grounded in their “DIY kids” ethos. Their success story is a blend of raw talent, hard work, and resourceful ingenuity. As Puhken and Luke April shared in an interview, much of their early promotional materials—like Spotify photos and music videos—were created using borrowed equipment and iPhones. “We wasted half a day just figuring out how to use the camera,” they laughed, a testament to their hands-on approach.
This DIY mindset extends to their engagement with fans. PLAYERTWO frequently interacts with their followers through TikTok livestreams, offering glimpses into their creative process and personal lives. They understand that as Gen Z artists, building a connection with their audience is just as important as producing great music.
Musical Evolution and Collaborations
Since their debut, PLAYERTWO has consistently pushed their creative boundaries. Tracks like “Talk Straight” and “HDYF” showcase their ability to experiment with different sounds and emotions. While “Talk Straight” leans into guitar-driven alternative rap, “HDYF” shifts gears with booming horns and intense basslines.
The group is also eager to collaborate with other artists, particularly those in the Bisaya rap movement. When asked who they’d like to work with, the group unanimously answered, “Midnasty.” This openness to collaboration signals exciting possibilities for the future.
Here is a video of their performance on Rappler's Live Jam:
The Road Ahead
PLAYERTWO’s viral success with “THAT’S MY BABY” landed them a record deal with Warner Music Philippines, millions of streams on Spotify, and an ongoing nationwide tour. But they’re not stopping there. Their latest single, “TIKTIKTOKIN,” is a bold exploration of time and creativity, proving they’re not afraid to experiment with both sound and storytelling.
Under the guidance of Paraisla’s Bret Jackson and supported by a growing network of Bisaya artists, PLAYERTWO is poised to make an even bigger impact in 2025. Their ability to balance fun, authenticity, and professionalism has made them a standout act in the oversaturated music industry.
In an era where the music industry is becoming increasingly global, PLAYERTWO’s story is a refreshing reminder of the power of collaboration and authenticity. They’ve managed to merge the creative energy of Davao’s thriving hip-hop and art scenes with the accessibility of social media, creating a brand that feels both grassroots and world-class.
Whether you’re drawn to their catchy beats, their DIY charm, or their electrifying live performances, PLAYERTWO is a group that deserves a spot on your playlist—and your radar.
As their journey unfolds, one thing is clear: PLAYERTWO isn’t just playing the game—they’re leveling it up.
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