Zack Tabudlo returns with a bright, ‘80’s pop-inspired number about a girl who gives hints of love and interest, but is afraid of commitment. Released today via Island Records Philippines, his latest single ‘Elizabeth’ was loosely inspired by his admiration for Liza Soberano; hence, the title’s relation to the actress’ real name outside of showbiz.
Zack admits that it was actually Liza who got him into songwriting at a young age. “I wrote a ton of songs about her starting out until I paved my way to writing through my personal experiences,” the Nangangamba singer confesses. “She’s such an inspiration to a lot of people including me, who got started with a craft I love to do.”
A fictional account
From a lyrical standpoint, ‘Elizabeth’ puts accurately into words Zack’s frustration about unrequited love, and how the most interesting pieces of music come from a place of romantic uncertainty and youthful sentiment. “The song is about a person who gives you mixed feelings, showing interests but throws you off from time to time,” Zack adds.
As a fictional account that exists in the writer and producer’s fevered imagination, ‘Elizabeth’ gives us a different side of Zack that we haven’t heard of: a distinct range, a flair for infectious storytelling, and a way with words.
An earworm of a track
With its pulsating beats and retro-futurist sheen, Zack shares that his new song is heavily indebted to the new wave hits of the ‘80s, rendering the earworm of a track a colorful, fun exterior. “It’s my first time releasing a song with this style and it’s been fun,” the young producer and singer-songwriter said. “I wanted to go for something mellow having the foundation from the original one but has a ‘slow dance’ feel to it instead of going full ballad.”
For his part, Zack incorporates a lot of personal modified samples for the drum tracks and a lot of 80s synths and effects. The aesthetic move allows the eclectic artist to explore sounds outside of his comfort zone, and experiment with outsider ideas that don’t necessarily subscribe to conventional music-making.
Zack Tabudlo’s ‘Elizabeth is out today (February 26, Friday) on all digital platforms worldwide via MCA Music Inc.
Zack Tabudlo is an alt-pop RnB artist from Manila, Philippines. He hit the ground running when he began his music career, becoming a finalist for reality talent show Talentadong Pinoy at the age of 10. He was a contestant for the voice kids season 1, and had a stint as a member of youth singing group GRAVITY, and one half of teen pop duo Zack and Fritz.
When it comes to music production, Zack has certainly earned his stripes. Under the mentorship of Vehnee Saturno and Chris Anthony Vinzons of Sonic States Studio, Zack continued to hone his techniques and sensibilities.
Among his influences are contemporary pop chart-toppers Shawn Mendes, Harry Styles, and Island Records label mate Charlie Puth. But Zack approaches the genre of pop with his own distinct approach. His artistry can be characterized as a tasteful blend of R&B, soft rock, funk and vocally driven pop.
With a slew of catchy singles under his belt, all leading up to what’s looking to be a promising full-length in the future, the young musician is gaining momentum. His hustle may have been riding below the radar, but one can expect 2021 to be Zack’s year.
