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momohaii | Asia’s Triple Threat Unifying East through Vibrant Verses

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Amidst the blinding lights and skyscrapers of Los Angeles emerges a pulsating beacon of talent, Matthew Onghai, better known by his intriguingly stylized moniker, momohaii. As a Filipino-Chinese artist, he’s not just the quintessential triple threat—singer, songwriter, and producer— he’s an embodiment of cultural harmony in Asia, a vibrant melding of East and Southeast Asian cultures seasoned with the verve of American pop music.

From the resonance of his vocals to the richly woven narratives of his songs, momohaii’s music is a hypnotic journey through complex human emotions. His stylistic range oscillates from moody, melancholic melodies to invigorating, energetic tracks. Whether exploring the intricacies of love, the sting of loss, or the sweet, lingering essence of nostalgia, he ensures each lyric strikes a chord and every melody finds a home within the listener’s heart.

momohaii’s journey into the music scene is nothing short of enchanting. Steeped in the realms of melody from a young age, his affair with music began on the keys of a piano, transitioned to the chords of a guitar, and ultimately found a home on the interface of a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). His debut single, “last line,” a poignant exploration of the bittersweet interplay between past love and future uncertainties, served as the catalyst for his burgeoning musical journey.

From its release in December 2022 to a mere few months later, his discography, including tracks like “telephone,” “another us,” and “626,” has swelled to over 65,000 streams worldwide. Beyond the numbers, his music has sculpted a community of listeners united by shared experiences and emotional resonances.

An unapologetic Swiftie, momohaii is a testament to the power of inspiration. Drawing from artists like Joji, Keshi, Audrey Nuna, and Post Malone, his music is a delicate confluence of influences blended seamlessly with his unique perspective and talent. He infuses his tracks with energy, personal emotions, and a versatility that ranges from slow, emotive ballads to peppy anthems. But at the heart of it all is the aspiration to connect deeply with fans, crafting lyrical narratives that are relatable and transcendent.

Emblematic of his journey as an artist, momohaii’s recent EP, “im momo, hi,” represents a milestone in his evolving career. Released on June 28, 2023, it serves as a remarkable showcase of his musical prowess, yet also a time capsule of his personal and creative growth. This collection isn’t just about the songs; it’s a reflection of momohaii himself.

Upon the initial encounter with the EP, one is instantly drawn to the array of tracks it presents. Each song varies in tone, pace, and emotional depth, showcasing the dexterity and adaptability of momohaii as a music artisan. “Smoke and mirrors” and “626” enthrall with their unique sonics and narratives, keeping listeners intrigued and keen to delve deeper into the collection.

“Last line” and “telephone” continue this auditory journey, offering an introspective exploration of the human experience, punctuated by unforgettable lyrics and momohaii’s distinctive, hauntingly melodious vocals. The thematic continuity in “another us” further cements the artistic intention of the EP, uniting the contrasting elements under a common banner of introspection and exploration.

Finally, we arrive at the closing piece of this musical anthology, the self-titled track “im momo, hi.” This track stands as the crown jewel of the EP, its resonating heartbeat and grand finale. It threads together subtle references to previous songs, sewing a continuous, infinite loop of musical brilliance – an ouroboros of sound.

Yet, “im momo, hi” is more than just a conclusion. It is an encapsulation of the artist himself, an auditory self-portrait. This song is momohaii reaching out across the ether, declaring his identity and artistic intent in his own, distinctive voice. It’s a personal introduction, set to a beat you can’t help but sway to.

Saturated with both chill vibes and universally relatable themes, the track’s lyrical prowess shines through lines like, “Gotta problem, you and I are more friends, yes.” These words, in their simplicity, capture a depth of emotion and intricacy of human relationships that is quintessentially momohaii. His ability to craft lyrics that resonate on a deeply personal level with his listeners is a testament to his songwriting skills, reinforcing why he is an artist to watch.

This track does not merely signify the end of the EP; instead, it is a glorious apex, a climactic moment that allows for both reflection on the musical journey that’s just unfolded and anticipation for what’s to come. In this way, “im momo, hi” isn’t a conclusion. It’s a promise – a promise of more music, more stories, and more momohaii.

The essence of “im momo, hi” is more than just the songs. It’s the culmination of the experiences, thoughts, and influences that have shaped momohaii as an artist. From the mesmerizing blend of East and Southeast Asian culture and American pop to the various artists who’ve inspired him, every component is encapsulated within the EP’s framework. It’s his open letter to the world, introducing not just the artist, but the person behind the art.

Momohaii has structured this EP as a reflection of his musical journey and an insight into his persona, taking listeners on a voyage of discovery into his mind and heart. Each track serves as a chapter in this narrative, expressing a different aspect of his journey. While future EPs may delve deeper into specific sounds he’s developed, “im momo, hi” remains the all-encompassing introduction, the beautiful summation of the influences, emotions, and experiences that make momohaii the unique artist he is today.

Future EPs, however, are anticipated to focus on specific soundscapes that he seeks to explore and hone. In addition to his music, he’s also planning a gamut of content, including covers, music videos, and live performances, to foster a more intimate connection with his fans.

Bursting onto the scene from Texas, momohaii, now based in Los Angeles, is making waves with his mesmerizing vocals and dynamic musical style. Through his heartfelt and healing music, he captivates listeners, offering them a chance to sing along to their life experiences. With a grand vision of conquering the world, he’s an artist you can’t afford to miss.

To his fans, momohaii expresses an ardent love and gratitude. Every message, DM, and comment is treasured, serving as a reminder of the support that fuels his music.

For more of momohaii’s work, you can check his website at https://momohaii.com/, or follow him on Spotify, Apple Music, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Youtube.

In the often chaotic world of music, momohaii stands as a symbol of unity, a beacon of talent uniting disparate cultures under the vibrant banner of heartfelt music. As the triple threat of Asia, his journey is far from over. If anything, the momohaii phenomenon has only just begun.

This article contains branded content provided by a third party. The views expressed in this article are solely those of the content creator or sponsor and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or editorial stance of Popular Hustle.

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iurisEkero Proves Pop Music Doesn’t Have to Be Loud to Be Good

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iurisEkero

There’s something refreshing about an artist who doesn’t chase volume. “I don’t make music to sound loud. I make music to sound deep,” says iurisEkero, and after diving into his catalog, you get exactly what he means.

Born in Mendoza, Argentina, iurisEkero (stylized in lowercase, like his approach to fame) grew up in a house where music wasn’t just background noise—it was the main conversation. His grandfather recorded albums as a vocalist, his father played trumpet, and young Iuris absorbed it all. But here’s what’s interesting: instead of just carrying the torch, he’s completely reimagined it.

Now splitting time between the USA and Argentina, iurisEkero creates what he calls “sonic exploration”—pop mixed with electronic textures, ethereal vocals, and these atmospheric moments that genuinely make you want to hit pause on everything else. He pulls inspiration from unexpected places: cities at night, red wine, those comfortable silences between people who know each other well, and what he describes as “the glitch of memories.”

His latest single, “This Summer Night,” dropped on August 19th and perfectly captures that specific magic. At 3:17, it’s packed with synths that stick in your head and a melody that somehow feels both nostalgic and brand new. Other tracks like “The Sun, The Wine and You” and “Midnight Drive” show his range—each one catching different emotional frequencies while keeping that distinctive warmth that comes from his bicultural perspective.

The numbers tell their own story. Nearly 3 million Spotify streams. Over a million YouTube views. But when you mention this to iurisEkero, he seems genuinely surprised. “I don’t even understand those numbers,” he admits. “I just enjoy and am grateful.”

What he hopes listeners take away is simple: that urge to play a song again, whether you’re remembering someone, dancing alone in your kitchen, or waiting for something you can’t quite name yet. Even his breakup songs somehow feel optimistic—there’s always this undercurrent of possibility in his work.

Currently working on a new album featuring various guest artists, iurisEkero seems ready for whatever comes next. The sound explorer from Mendoza has found his frequency, and people are definitely tuning in.

Find iurisEkero’s music on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and other streaming platforms, or visit his official website and follow him on Instagram.

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Alain Mékani Confronts Success and Solitude in New Single ‘Quiet’

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Alain Mékani

What happens when you achieve everything you dreamed of before turning 23, but there’s no one around to celebrate with? That’s the question Alain Mékani wrestles with in “Quiet,” his introspective new single that dropped August 1st, 2025.

The Dubai-based artist, who grew up in Beirut speaking Arabic with his mom and French with his dad while MTV played in the background, has been carving out his own corner of the Middle Eastern pop scene since his 2023 debut “Fool.” But this latest track hits different. It’s raw, honest, and uncomfortably relatable for anyone who’s ever felt alone in a room full of people.

Written during a period of professional success while living abroad, “Quiet” runs just over three minutes but packs an emotional punch. The track opens with Mékani reflecting on his younger self’s dreams—the car, the new place, all achieved before his 23rd birthday. But here’s where it gets real: “I left it all behind just to find myself / But am I really free?”

The chorus doesn’t pull punches either. When he admits “I’ve been going through some changes and my mind is fucking racing,” you feel that restless energy. It’s not polished pop perfection; it’s someone working through their stuff in real-time. The official music video, which premiered July 31st, visually captures this internal conflict.

“Quiet” by Alain Mékani

Family threads through every verse — and you can feel it. There’s the promise to make his mother proud, the desire to share his victories, and that gut-punch line about missing the people who matter most. The bridge transforms into something between a mantra and a desperate reminder: “Be somebody if you’re nobody.” It’s less motivational poster, more survival mechanism.

Since emerging with tracks like “Awlad El Haram” and his licensed reimagining of the Lebanese classic “Tallou Hbabna” earlier this year, Mékani has built a reputation for blending French, Arabic, and English lyrics with what critics call a “melancholic awakening” sound. Regional outlets including Musivv and Buro 24/7 Middle East have taken notice of his ability to pair cross-cultural production with genuine vulnerability.

The artist, who taught himself guitar after starting on accordion at eight, turned to songwriting as therapy following his father’s death in 2015. While working a marketing day job in Dubai, he spent nights and weekends learning production, eventually creating the demos that would launch his career.

Currently working on collaborations with Rayan Bailouni and Jay Janith, Mékani is pushing further into French territory with his upcoming releases. It’s a natural evolution for someone who grew up switching between languages at home. As he puts it: “I write in three languages because some emotions need more than one passport.”

“Quiet” is now streaming across all major platforms. Connect with Alain Mékani on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Anghami, Instagram, TikTok, and at alainmekani.com.

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Siren Built Her Entire Sound in Secret and Now She’s Ready to Surface

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Siren

The first thing that hits you about Siren isn’t just her voice—it’s the sheer audacity of someone who taught themselves everything. No formal training, no music theory classes, just pure instinct driving her to create something that sounds like Rammstein got into a late-night conversation with Lana Del Rey while Massive Attack played in the background.

At 24, this LA-based artist has already written around 70 songs, most still unreleased, sitting in her vault like secrets waiting to surface. Born June 13, 2001, Siren started making music in 2019, and what’s emerged since then defies easy categorization. Her sound pulls from trip-hop pioneers like Portishead, the industrial weight of German metal, and the cinematic drama of Tchaikovsky—yes, the Swan Lake composer.

“Every ache must be turned into art,” she says about her approach to music. It’s this philosophy that drives her self-described “raw confessions where melancholy meets beauty.” Her mezzo-soprano voice shifts between whispered vulnerability and soaring intensity, creating what she calls “cold waves of sound that mesmerize like a siren’s voice in the night sea.”

Siren

The artist’s journey started unexpectedly early. One of her most vivid childhood memories involves her grandmother singing Russian folk songs on a winter swing—an experience she describes as “blue, cold, wintry, dark, nostalgic, deep, soulful, and melancholic.” By twelve, she’d discovered Rammstein, which she credits with awakening “strength, courage, resistance, and the spirit of a fighter.” The band shaped about 60% of her musical taste, while Lana Del Rey, who she calls her “musical mother,” opened up the other side of her artistic personality.

What’s striking about Siren’s work is how she balances opposing forces. She describes her music as reflecting both her anima and animus—the feminine emotional vulnerability paired with masculine instrumental drive. This duality shows up everywhere in her sound: acoustic piano meets electric guitars, string arrangements collide with rock drums, trip-hop grooves support orchestral swells.

Her latest release, “Devil 2019,” dropped on August 3, 2025, running 3:28 and showcasing her hypnotic vocal control. But it’s just a taste of what’s coming. Her debut single “Siren Heroine,” released on June 13, previews her upcoming album “Blue Blood,” which promises an oceanic, siren-themed concept drawn from songs written three to four years ago.

Siren

Beyond music, Siren works as a visual artist, filmmaker, and photographer, creating her own visual concepts exactly as she imagines them. She admits to both loving and fearing the ocean—thalassophobia mixed with an obsession for deep blue imagery. “I reflect what I fear. I am what I fear,” she explains.

When asked about dream collaborations, she mentions Hans Zimmer, Rammstein, and Lana Del Rey—though she notes that most of her musical heroes are dead. Her approach to creation remains uncompromising: “I don’t write for people—I write for myself. Music is how I let you know me.”

For those curious to dive deeper, Siren’s music can be found on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, SoundCloud, and her website. Follow her journey on Instagram and TikTok.

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