No Man’s an Island; Zack Tabudlo

Zack Tabudlo has signed to Island records; a label that should feel at home in a land of 7,107 of them (at least at high tide). Island are celebrating 60 years of nurturing talent, from Bob Marley to U2, and are, “a byword for artistic integrity and innovation… signing mavericks and game-changers who have altered the course of music.”

Copyright: Island Records

You may be familiar with Zack from Voice Kids back in 2014 when he was 12. Six years later and his maturity makes him that “maverick game-changer” Island pride themselves in nurturing. He spans so many genres and talks of mixing, “old school vibe with today’s music.” At eighteen he is already a veteran performer, frequently collaborating with, and producing, other artists.

Nangangamba

Listening to his recently released, “Nangangamba” it hits you; this is no normal ballad. Hearing the lyrics, “Ito na ang pagkakataon, Wala nang pipigil sa’yo, ‘Wag ka nang mahihiya, Sabihin na ang totoo.” ("This is the time of opportunity, No one will prevent you, Don't be ashamed, To say what is true.") You imagine it written for our isolated age of pandemic loneliness. A time we need to feel connected and loved, a time it is important for us to be honest about how we are feeling. A timely message, but not only did he write this song, he produced, arranged, mixed and engineered it. Multitalented, oozing confidence, he speaks enthusiastically about his vast array of influences, opportunities to sing in other languages and a bright future.

Copyright: Island Records

He is obviously excited, and does not need the Island executives, who are on hand, taking obvious pride in his talent. Interviewing him today in Rick Olivares’ Journalism class, he exuded maturity and confidence, and just as we were saying goodbye, he asked, “Don’t you want to hear a song?” Before we could all shout, “Yes” into our muted Zoom microphones, he picks up his guitar and launches in, pitch perfect, with impeccable timing, good looks, killer smile and world-class talent. Get ready, this man is no island, he’s going global!

Copyright: Island Records


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