CinemaBravo

Following the success of his single “Lihim,” singer-songwriter Arthur Miguel is embarking on a new musical journey with his five-track extended play (EP) titled “MU.”

Continuing to deliver heartfelt lyrics, the 24-year-old artist approaches his music with a fresh perspective. Reflecting on past criticisms of being labeled a “user” as a “cover artist,” Arthur now navigates the inevitability of negative feedback in the music industry with grace, showcasing growth and resilience in his evolution as an artist.

Interview insights with Arthur Miguel

Meeting with select media outlets, including CinemaBravo, Arthur discussed how his music impacts people and his approach to creating it.

He shared, “Hindi ko po siya naiisip, kasi… as an artist, gusto ko lang talagang makaka-relate yung people. Hindi ko iniisip kung magti-trend ba ‘tong song na ‘to or something. Basta ang gusto ko, makinig sila sa akin.”

(“I don’t think about it, because as an artist, I just want people to relate to my music. I don’t think about whether this song will trend or something. What I want is for them to listen to me.”)

On his unique selling point, he said, “Siguro, yung [unique] about myself is kung paano ko iparating yung song… yung mga hugot, gano’n! Kasi, from the very bottom of the heart talaga yung lyrics na nilalagay ko… Pag pinakinggan mo yung lyrics na ‘to o yung melody na ‘to, parang masasabi nila na, ‘O, my god, si… Arthur Miguel ‘to kasi gan’to yung tunog.’”

(“Maybe what’s unique about myself is how I convey the song… the emotional pull, like that! Because the lyrics I write come from the very bottom of my heart… When they listen to these lyrics or this melody, they might say, ‘Oh my god, it’s Arthur Miguel because this is how it sounds.’ “)

CinemaBravo also asked Arthur about the most positive and negative feedback he has ever received and how he handled them.

Reflecting on the positive feedback, Arthur mentioned, “Siguro yung parang [na-heal] mo ‘ko, gano’n… Nakakabasa kasi ang mga comment na parang nakakatulong sila sa school daw… ta’s sa mental health nila. Yun naman talaga yung goal ko… kahit hindi physically ako makatulong… mentally, nakakatulong ako sa kanila.”

(Maybe like, ‘you healed me’… I read comments saying my music helps them with school… and their mental health. That’s really my goal… even if I can’t help physically, at least mentally, I can help them.)

Arthur admitted that he never imagined having such an impact on people, as he once lacked confidence in himself.

“Hindi e! Kasi, [noon] wala akong confidence sa sarili. So, hindi ko siya ine-expect na gano’n yung mangyayari. Kaya natutuwa ako kapag gano’n yung mga reaction nila.”

(No! Because back then, I had no confidence in myself. So I didn’t expect that to happen. That’s why I’m happy when I get those reactions.)

Regarding negative feedback, Arthur related its inevitability.

“Hindi siya maiiwasan… Sobrang perfect mo naman kung hindi ka nakatanggap ng negative feedback. Pero tini-take ko na lang siya.”

(It’s unavoidable… You’d be too perfect if you never received negative feedback. But I just take it.)

He chooses not to engage with negative comments, especially those accusing him of using others to get ahead.

“Hindi kasi ako nagbabasa na ng mga bash comment, pero siguro yun pa din, babalik pa din do’n sa no’ng cover artist ako, kasi sobrang big deal talaga no’n sa ‘kin na sabihan ng gano’n na ‘gumagamit.’ Ayoko din ng sinasabihan… kahit hindi na cover, like gumagamit ka ng tao para lang umangat ka.”

(I don’t read bashing comments anymore, but it still goes back to when I was a cover artist, because it was a big deal for me to be told that I’m ‘using’ someone. I don’t like being told that… other than covering songs, using people just to get ahead.)

Moreover, he believes responding only fuels more negativity. “Hindi ko siya sinasagot kasi the more na sagutin mo, the more na may sasabihin sila, and lalo lang lalala yung issue.”

(I don’t respond because the more you answer, the more they’ll have something to say, and the issue will just get worse.)

Exploring new sounds with ‘MU’

His EP’s lead single, “Malabong Ugnayan,” features bedroom pop star Jikamarie and addresses the ambiguity of relationships without clear status or intentions—a common experience for many Filipinos.

Arthur explained that people are often caught between yes, no, and maybe. The collaboration was seamless for the duo. Initially, Arthur completed the song but felt it lacked something. Recognizing its R&B vibe, he thought Jikamarie would be the perfect addition, completing the track.

The EP also includes four B-side tracks—his recent release “Isaoras,” “GHINOST,” “Dati,” and “Maling Panahon”—showcasing his signature songwriting with a new twist.

Departing from his guitar-driven acoustic pop, Arthur sees this EP as a chance to explore new sounds and incorporate different elements while maintaining his unique style. Unlike his previous album “Pasahili,” which delved into the pain of being unchosen, “MU” explores the mix of hope and heartbreak when someone forces themselves into uncertain situations.

Most of the songs on the EP are upbeat yet emotionally deep. Arthur intentionally crafted them this way, believing that everyone will eventually realize that despite the pain, you must dance through your hardships. He draws inspiration from pop star Taylor Swift, reflecting on the idea of being happy, free, and confused simultaneously. Accepting your crisis, though it may bring tears, ultimately leads to strength and pride.

Arthur acknowledges the distinct difference between his new songs and past releases, emphasizing that he is in an exploration phase, creating something new. He wants people to associate “Arthur Miguel” with more than just mellow, sad songs.

Future performances and message to fans

Before releasing the EP, Arthur Miguel was busy with performances and festivals, including a unique morning set at the Circus Music Festival in Makati. Discussing plans for the EP, he hinted at upcoming live shows, believing that the music can only be fully appreciated through live performance.

Arthur hopes the EP resonates with listeners dealing with ambiguous relationships. He believes “Malabong Ugnayan” can evoke a range of emotions, from pain to happiness, and suggests that if you’re lucky, the person you’re in an ambiguous relationship with might be the right one. While it’s tricky and scary, he wishes listeners good luck.

Arthur also expressed gratitude to his fans, encouraging them to continue listening to his songs and thanking them for their support of his EP “MU: Malabong Ugnayan,” which is now available on all music platforms.

“Hi, guys. Thank you so much for listening to my songs, and sana ipagpatuloy n’yo lang and I hope to see you soon, everyone. And thank you ulit sa pag-support nung EP. It’s out now. ‘MU: Malabong Ugnayan,’ it’s out now on all music platforms. Yun lang! Thank you so much!”

(Hi, guys. Thank you so much for listening to my songs, and I hope you continue to do so and I hope to see you soon, everyone. And thank you again for supporting the EP. It’s out now. ‘MU: Malabong Ugnayan,’ it’s out now on all music platforms. That’s all! Thank you so much!)