SB19 is a groundbreaking Filipino boy band that has reshaped the local music scene and catapulted P-pop (Pinoy pop) onto the global stage. Formed in 2018 by ShowBT Philippines, a subsidiary of a South Korean entertainment company, SB19 consists of five multi-talented members: Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin.
Unlike many local groups, SB19 trained under a rigorous Korean-style system—similar to K-pop idols—making them the first Filipino group to be trained under a Korean entertainment company. Their name, "SB19," is derived from "Sound Break" and the number 19, symbolizing the collaboration between South Korea (1) and the Philippines (9).
Quick Facts
-
Debut Date: October 26, 2018 (with the single “Tilaluha”)
-
Group Members: Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin
-
Genre: P-pop, pop, hip-hop, EDM
-
Company: Formerly under ShowBT Philippines; now self-managed under their own label, 1Z Entertainment
-
Fanbase Name: A’TIN (pronounced “eighteen”)
-
Achievements:
-
First Southeast Asian act nominated for Billboard Music Awards’ Top Social Artist (2021)
-
“Bazinga” topped Billboard’s Hot Trending Songs chart for seven weeks
-
First Filipino act to appear on Billboard’s Social 50 chart
-
Meet the Members
Pablo (John Paulo Nase)
-
Role: Leader, main rapper, songwriter, producer
-
Birthday: September 14, 1994
-
Trivia: CEO of their self-managed company, 1Z Entertainment. Deeply involved in writing and producing the group’s music.
Josh (Josh Cullen Santos)
-
Role: Lead rapper, vocalist
-
Birthday: October 22, 1993
-
Trivia: Known for his fierce charisma, solo music releases, and fashion-forward personality.
Stell (Stellvester Ajero)
-
Role: Main vocalist, choreographer
-
Birthday: June 16, 1995
-
Trivia: Recognized for his powerful voice and is responsible for much of the group’s choreography.
Ken (Felip Jhon Suson)
-
Role: Main dancer, vocalist
-
Birthday: January 12, 1997
-
Trivia: Has a deep, distinctive voice and has released solo music under the name Felip.
Justin (Justin de Dios)
-
Role: Sub-vocalist, creative director
-
Birthday: July 7, 1998
-
Trivia: The youngest in the group. Has directed several of the group’s music videos, showcasing his eye for visual storytelling.
Discography Highlights
Albums
-
Get in the Zone (2020)
-
Pagtatag! (2023)
-
Simula at Wakas (2025)
Hit Singles
-
“Go Up” (2019)
-
“Alab (Burning)” (2019)
-
“What?” (2021)
-
“Bazinga” (2021)
-
“Gento” (2023)
-
“Liham” and “Ilaw” (2023)
-
“Moonlight” and “Tulog Na” (2025)
Global Recognition
SB19 made international headlines when “Bazinga” topped Billboard’s Hot Trending Songs chart, beating BTS’s “Butter” for the most number of weeks at No. 1. In 2021, they were the first Southeast Asian act nominated for Top Social Artist at the Billboard Music Awards.
The group has since held global tours, received international media attention, and inspired a growing wave of P-pop artists to follow their lead.
Visual & Creative Ventures
SB19 members aren’t just performers—they’re creatives behind the scenes too.
-
Music Videos: Known for visually striking videos like What?, MAPA, and Gento.
-
Documentary: Pagtatag!: The Documentary (2024) became the highest-grossing Filipino documentary film.
-
Acting: Starred in short films and web content like Ex-Mas (2020) and Our Zone: The Anniversary Series (2021).
-
Directing: Justin, the youngest member, has directed several official MVs.
Merchandise & Collaborations
SB19 has partnered with fashion brands like Bench, launched official lightsticks, photocards, and exclusive collectibles. Their online and concert-exclusive merch sells out fast, proving the group's immense popularity among A’TINs.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
SB19 didn’t just break into the music scene—they redefined it. Their success proves that Filipino artists can compete globally without losing their cultural identity. By blending international pop trends with Filipino language, values, and storytelling, SB19 created a blueprint for the future of P-pop.
They are more than just a boy band—they are cultural ambassadors, creative pioneers, and a source of national pride for millions of Filipinos worldwide.
