SB19 is a five-member Filipino boy band that debuted in 2018. The group’s members consist of Pablo, Stell, Ken, Josh, and Justin. They are referred to as the “Kings of P-pop” due to their heavy contributions to the Pinoy pop genre (a mix of traditional Filipino music, modern pop, and hip-hop).
The name “SB19” originated from their former Korean management company, ShowBT, and South Korea’s country code (82) minus the Philippines’ country code (63), equaling 19. Now, the SB stands for “Sound Break,” representing their goal to break into the music industry and celebrate Filipino culture in their music.
SB19 fans are officially known as “A’TIN,” which is a play on words from the Filipino word “atin,” meaning “ours.” The A is separate because it originates from the group’s initial name, Aurum. A’TIN is pronounced like 18, which symbolizes that 18 comes before 19—meaning the group always puts their fans first. (Awww!) On the contrary, haters or bashers are known as “HA’TIN.”
Each group member is extremely well-rounded in his talents, starting with Pablo (formerly Sejun), the leader, main rapper, and lead singer. Pablo brings SB19 together with his friendly energy and strong passion for music. Additionally, Pablo is the main composer for the group.
Stell is SB19’s main vocalist and lead dancer. His large and high vocal range allows him to shine with his falsetto. Stell is also the group’s main choreographer. He’s the most extroverted, and Pablo calls him their “happy pill.”
Ken, also known as FELIP in his solo career, is the group’s main dancer, lead rapper, and lead vocalist. Ken stands out on most songs due to his extremely deep and gritty vocals. However, he can also sing high, allowing him to show contrast in his lines.
Josh is the lead rapper, lead dancer, and sub-vocalist. He’s the most charismatic member, always bringing charm and attitude to SB19. His lively raps always bring fire to the songs. Josh is also the eldest member, making him the kuya (older brother) of the group.
Justin is the visual and sub-vocalist. Although he doesn’t get as many raps as Josh or high parts like Stell, Justin provides much of the harmonies or other vocal parts that truly complete SB19’s songs. He is also the youngest member, making him the group’s bunso (younger brother).
Additionally, all of the members have successful solo releases. They each have a unique style outside of SB19, and they’re all able to shine separately and in a group.
After three years of extensive training, SB19 debuted on October 26th, 2018, with a single titled Tilaluha. The song wasn’t very popular, so they released a second single, Go Up, on July 19th, 2019. After receiving minimal attention from these songs, SB19 was on the verge of disbanding before they suddenly went viral a few months later. Morale began to grow, and the group became the first Filipino act on the Billboard Next Big Sound chart on November 20th, 2019. They gradually became more popular, releasing their first album, Get in the Zone, on July 31st, 2020.
From 2020 to 2022, SB19 released major hits such as What?, MAPA, Bazinga, Mana, and WYAT. On April 30th, 2023, they released their single GENTO, which quickly became one of their most popular songs. Soon after, they released the album Pagtatag! on June 9th, 2023. This was also their first release under 1Z Entertainment, their self-made label, instead of ShowBT.
Currently, SB19 is planning on releasing a new album, Simula at Wakas, on April 25th, 2025. They recently put out the pre-release single DAM, which is quickly gaining popularity, becoming the fastest P-pop music video to reach ten million views as well as achieving the top spot on Billboard World Digital Song Sales. Simula at Wakas is speculated to be SB19’s biggest comeback yet.
Photo credit: Billboard Philippines, @ SB19Off
SB19 may have had a rough start, but through their effort and dedication, they are reaching the great success that they’ve worked hard for. The Kings of P-pop certainly don’t disappoint!
