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Cup of Joe
Cup of Joe in 2022. From left: Gabriel Fernandez, Raphael Ridao, Gian Bernardino, Xen Gareza, CJ Fernandez, and Raphael Severino
Background information
Origin	Baguio, Philippines
Genres	Alternative rock Indie pop pop rock
Years active	2018–present
Labels	Viva Records
Members	Gabriel Fernandez Gian Bernardino Raphael Ridao CJ Fernandez Xen Gareza Elian Akia
Past members	Raphael Severino
Website	vivavicor.com/artists/cup-of-joe/

Cup of Joe is a Filipino pop/rock band based in Baguio, Philippines, formed in November 2018. They gained widespread recognition for their songs "Tingin" (Look), featuring Janine Teñoso, and "Estranghero" (Stranger), from their debut extended play (EP), Patutunguhan (2023). The band's lineup consists of lead vocalists Gian Bernardino and Raphael Ridao, lead guitar Gabriel Fernandez, rhythm guitar CJ Fernandez, keyboards Xen Gareza, and drummer Elian Akia.

Since their debut in 2019, Cup of Joe has gained recognition for their pop music. In 2023, the band topped the Spotify Philippines' Daily Top OPM Groups chart, surpassing Ben&Ben, which had held the position for over a year. They also ranked second on the Daily Top OPM Artists chart and entered the top ten of the Top Artists chart on the platform, reaching number eight. In June 2024, bassist Raphael Severino departed the band after five years.

Cup of Joe's single "Tingin", featuring Janine Teñoso, was highlighted by Billboard Philippines as one of the top songs of 2023. Their EP Patutunguhan also received notable recognition.

Name

The band chose the name "Cup of Joe" spontaneously when they needed a name for an event. Lead guitarist Gabriel Fernandez suggested the name without any specific inspiration. Over time, the name gained meaning, as "Cup of Joe", a slang term for coffee, came to reflect the band's relaxed music style. The name also resonates with their connection to Baguio, a city known for its cool climate and laid-back atmosphere. The term "Joe" symbolizes an ordinary person, reflecting the band's identity as students who are eager to share their music.

History

2018–2019: Early years and signing under Viva Records

The band was formed in November 2018 by a group of friends from Saint Louis University Laboratory High School in Baguio, with rhythm guitarist Clint Joules "CJ" Fernandez, lead singers Edgar Gian Bernardino and Raphael Ridao, and lead guitarist Antonio Gabriel "Gab" Fernandez coming from Pangasinan, bassist Raphael "Sevi" Severino from Isabela, and keyboardist Vixen "Xen" Gareza from Abra. The band came together to perform at a local event, with the initial idea being just to play music for fun. Despite starting casually, the band quickly gained attention. By the time they graduated from senior high school.

In 2019, less than a year after forming, Cup of Joe signed with Viva Records. The band began performing more widely. Originally, they played at community events, school music festivals, and private parties around Baguio, covering popular songs.

Eventually, they started creating their own music, which led to the release of they success song "Nag-iisang Muli" (Alone Again), which earned them the Best Regional Song trophy at the 2019 MOR Awards and a nomination for Best Recording by a New Group at Awit Awards, with its success on social media platforms like Facebook and Spotify further boosting the band's recognition. The band released the track "Alas Dose" (Twelve O'clock) on November 8, 2019, which became popular during the Christmas season.

2020–present: Patutunguhan and Severino's departure

In 2020, the band released the songs "Sagada" (named after a town in Mountain Province), and "Hayaan" (Let It Be). Both tracks are mid-tempo ballads that emphasize the band's alt-pop style. "Sagada", in particular, resonated with listeners due to its soothing quality and themes of emotional release.

In 2021, they expanded their sound with "Bukod Tangi" (Unique), which features catchy choruses and a new wave style. The track contrasts with their neo-folk song "Ikaw Pa Rin Ang Pipiliin Ko" (I Will Still Choose You), which became their biggest single to date.

In 2022, the band released two singles, "Mananatili" (Remain), and "Estranghero" (Stranger), which further solidified their connection with their expanding fan base. These tracks showcased a more refined sound and style, drawing inspiration from 80s and 90s pop hits.

In 2023, the band released their debut EP, Patutunguhan (Direction), which was featured on Billboard Philippines' list of top albums and EPs of 2023. The song "Tingin" (Look) debuted on the Billboard's Philippines Songs Chart at number 25. By December 11, it had reached its peak position at number six. Cup of Joe and Janine Teñoso’s performance of "Tingin" on the Wish 107.5 Bus was uploaded on July 17 to YouTube, where it garnered over one million views.

In February 2024, Cup of Joe held their first solo concert, titled "Cup of Joe: Seatbelts On!", at the New Frontier Theater on February 9 and 10. The event was presented by Viva Live Inc. On March 22, Cup of Joe announced their participation at the grand debut album concert of their fellow OPM rock band, Lola Amour, which took place on April 13.

On June 26, the band announced on X that Sevi was amicably leaving the band after five years without providing a reason for his departure.

On August 2, Cup of Joe released the music video for their hit song "Misteryoso" (Mysterious), featuring Jhoanna, a member of P-pop group Bini as an actress and Justin of SB19 as its music video director.

On September 6, Cup of Joe announced a special four-part project titled "DOS: The Sixth JOEnniversary Special" to celebrate their sixth anniversary. The announcement was made through the band's social media platforms, unveiling a series of events that would take place throughout September.

In December, Cup of Joe was recognized by Spotify as its Top 3 Group and Top 3 Local Group in the Philippines for 2024.

Artistry

Musical style and themes

Cup Of Joe defines their sound as experimental pop, blending various genres including acoustic pop, retro, and alternative pop ballads. They also incorporate elements of retro-wave and neo-folk into their music. Additionally, the band embraces a unique aesthetic that challenges traditional gender norms, which they describe as "gender-bending". The band are deeply influenced by their environment in Baguio. Bernardino noted that their single, "Nag-iisang Muli", was inspired by the scenic surroundings where they began writing the song. Ridao initiated the songwriting process with the line "Kay lamig ng simoy ng hangin" ("The breeze is so cold"), reflecting the cool breeze of Baguio. From this starting point, Bernardino crafted the guitar accompaniment, creating imagery rooted in their environment.

Described as anthemic, their sound is characterized by swelling synths, mesmerizing harmonies, heart-thumping drums, and hooks that transform raw emotions into unforgettable melodies. However, it is their songwriting that truly sets them apart. The band crafts vivid imagery within their lyrics, using sceneries as metaphors to convey the messages they want their audience to grasp, and has mastered the art of transforming poetry into music that resonates with universal experiences as they explore themes of heartbreak, love, or hope, continually reinventing familiar narratives in fresh and compelling ways. This unique blend of sound and storytelling has established them as a distinctive voice in the contemporary music scene.

Influences

Gian Bernardino cites Eraserheads, Rivermaya, and Apo Hiking Society as key influences from the OPM (Original Pinoy Music) scene. Among international artists, he draws inspiration from Olivia Rodrigo, Chappell Roan, Harry Styles, and Benson Boone. He identifies OPM icon KZ Tandingan as his most significant influence. Cup of Joe's influences include Ben&Ben, This Band, and Eraserheads. Bernardino expressed the band's desire to collaborate with Ben&Ben, whom Raphael Ridao identified as their main influence within the OPM scene, citing their "unique" and "distinctive sound".

Cup of Joe expressed pride in seeing fellow bands from Baguio, making a name for themselves. The band dispelled the notion of competition between bands, with CJ Fernandez emphasizing their unity as musicians. He mentioned their pride in representing Baguio as one, highlighting the achievements of bands like Dilaw and their mutual support. Xen Gareza noted that Baguio's music scene has "always been rich", attributing its recent exposure to social media and word of mouth, and cited bands like Dilaw and SunKissed Lola as examples. Bernardino also shared that the atmosphere in Baguio has been a source of inspiration for their songwriting and compositions.

Band members

Current members

• Edgar Gian Bernardino – lead vocals
• Raphael Ridao – lead vocals
• Vixen "Xen" Gareza – keyboards
• Antonio Gabriel "Gab" Fernandez – lead guitar
• Clint Joules "CJ" Fernandez – rhythm guitar
• Jose Elian Akia – drums

Former Members

• Raphael "Sevi" Severino – bass guitar (until 2024)

Accolades

Discography

Extended play

Singles

Videography

Television

Music videos

Notes

1. ^ Elian Akia is not widely recognized as a member of the band, but he contributed to several tracks, including their debut single "Nag-iisang Muli".
2. The music video for "Alas Dose", there is no description provided regarding the director. However, a Facebook post by Cup of Joe on October 30, 2019, indicates that the video was directed by Vj Catacutan (also appeared as an actor in the video), as noted in the post's caption.

References

1. "Fan's rough grab almost sends Cup of Joe's frontman falling off stage during Balamban Festival concert". Manila Standard. May 7, 2024. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
2. "Cup of Joe sells out show, adds second date". www.philstar.com. November 19, 2024. Retrieved December 7, 2024.
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4. San Juan, Ratziel (November 21, 2023). "Cup of Joe become most streamed OPM group on Spotify Philippines among new milestones recorded". Billboard Philippines. Archived from the original on December 22, 2023. Retrieved August 26, 2024.
5. "Cup of Joe bassist Sevi exits band". GMA News. Archived from the original on August 3, 2024. Retrieved August 26, 2024.
6. ^ "Readers' Choice Of The Best Releases Of 2023: SB19, And More". Billboard Philippines. December 3, 2023. Archived from the original on May 22, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024.
7. ^ Pagulong, Charmie Joy (September 21, 2023). "Now brewing: Cup of Joe 'serves different blends of music' from Baguio". The Philippine Star. Archived from the original on September 22, 2023. Retrieved September 4, 2024.
8. Pacia, Jewelle. "How Cup of Joe is brewing their way to mainstream success". Pikapika. Archived from the original on September 13, 2024. Retrieved September 4, 2024.
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32. Jessica Ann Evangelista (September 28, 2024). "BINI, SB19 among nominees in comebacking MYX Music Awards". Philippine Daily Inquirer. Archived from the original on October 6, 2024. Retrieved September 28, 2024.
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35. "The New Hue Hosts Third Annual Video Music Awards at The Astbury". Adobo Magazine. August 19, 2024. Archived from the original on August 27, 2024. Retrieved August 26, 2024.
36. "Full List Of Winners Of The 2024 Wish Music Awards". Billboard Philippines. January 14, 2024. Archived from the original on January 14, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024.
37. "The 10th Wish Music Awards Official List of Nominees". Wish 107.5. October 30, 2024. Retrieved October 31, 2024.
38. "Week of September 14, 2024 - Billboard Philippines". billboardphilippines.com. September 11, 2024. Retrieved September 14, 2024.
39. "Cup of Joe: Naka-duet si Theft Curry". ABS-CBN Entertainment. July 13, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024.
40. Viva Records (September 13, 2019). Nag-iisang Muli - Cup of Joe [Official Music Video]. Archived from the original on September 10, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024 – via YouTube.
41. Viva Records (December 7, 2019). Alas Dose - Cup of Joe [Official Music Video]. Archived from the original on September 10, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024 – via YouTube.
42. Cup of Joe (June 10, 2022). Cup of Joe - Estranghero (Official Music Video). Archived from the original on September 10, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024 – via YouTube.
43. Cup of Joe (April 6, 2022). Cup of Joe - Mananatili (Official Music Video). Archived from the original on September 10, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024 – via YouTube.
44. Cup of Joe (March 24, 2023). Cup of Joe - 'Tataya' (Official Music Video). Archived from the original on September 10, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024 – via YouTube.
45. "Cup of Joe and Janine Teñoso Release Music Video of 'Tingin'". Billboard Philippines. October 24, 2023. Archived from the original on August 26, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024.
46. "Cup of Joe drops 'Misteryoso' MV starring BINI's Jhoanna and directed by SB19's Justin". GMA News. Archived from the original on September 13, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024.
47. Cup of Joe (July 20, 2024). Lahat ng Bukas - Cup of Joe ft. Keanna Mag (Official Music Video). Archived from the original on September 13, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024 – via YouTube.

External links

• Cup of Joe on YouTube

• Filipino rock music groups
• Filipino pop music groups
• Filipino indie rock groups
• Musical groups established in 2018
• 2018 establishments in the Philippines
• Viva Records (Philippines) artists