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The Rise and Impact of BINI: From Formation to Stardom

GOOVER DAILY REPORT August 4, 2024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Formation and Early Career
  3. Music and Releases
  4. Concerts and Performances
  5. Documentaries and Media Exposure
  6. Challenges and Support
  7. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • This report dives into the journey of BINI, the Filipino girl group formed by ABS-CBN's Star Hunt Academy. Starting from their debut in June 2021, BINI has quickly risen to global stardom through a series of hit singles, EP releases, and high-profile performances. Key milestones include their viral tracks like 'Born to Win' and 'Pantropiko,' the success of their first EP 'Talaarawan,' and their impactful BINIverse concert series that spanned both regional and international venues. The report also elaborates on the leading roles played by their fan base, the BLOOMs, and includes challenges faced by the group, such as privacy issues and the need for improved artist protection by Star Magic. Various forms of media exposure, including documentaries and international fan meet events, have significantly contributed to their growing fame and influence in the music industry.

2. Formation and Early Career

  • 2-1. Formation through ABS-CBN's Star Hunt Academy

  • BINI is a Filipino girl group formed through ABS-CBN's Star Hunt Academy program. The formation began in 2018 with 250 auditionees aged 16-19 from across the Philippines. After a selection process, the initial female trainees consisted of 12 girls. Eventually, this was narrowed down to eight members: Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena. The group trained for two years before debuting, receiving coaching from local professionals like Kitchy Molina and international coaches from South Korea. The group first performed as trainees on August 3, 2019, at the pre-show of the PBB Otso Big Night and other events, including mall shows and a National Youth Commission event.

  • 2-2. Debut with 'Born to Win'

  • BINI made their official debut on June 11, 2021, with their single 'Born to Win.' Before this, they released a pre-debut single, 'Da Coconut Nut,' on November 20, 2020, which transformed a classic Filipino novelty song into an electropop track with choreography from South Korean influences. Leading up to their debut, various teasers and a performance practice video of 'Ngiti' were released to show their progress. The official music video for 'Born to Win' premiered on the same day as their debut concert, which featured unit performances and highlighted their rigorous training sessions.

  • 2-3. Introduction of the Group Members

  • The final eight members of BINI are Aiah (visual, main rapper, sub vocalist), Colet (main vocalist, lead rapper, lead dancer), Maloi (main vocalist), Gwen (lead vocalist, lead rapper), Stacey (main rapper, lead dancer, sub vocalist), Mikha (main rapper, lead dancer, visual), Jhoanna (leader, lead vocalist, lead rapper), and Sheena (main dancer, sub vocalist). Two members, Sheena and Gwen, were originally housemates from Pinoy Big Brother: Otso. Each member brings unique skills to the group, contributing to their dynamic performances and diverse musical style.

3. Music and Releases

  • 3-1. Release of 'Born to Win' and Early Success

  • BINI officially debuted on June 11, 2021, with their debut single 'Born to Win.' The electronic-pop track was released as a digital track by Star Music on June 4, 2021. 'Born to Win' quickly gained traction, surpassing 100,000 streams on Spotify within 17 days of its release and achieving over 200,000 views on YouTube within the first 24 hours. The single's success was followed by the group receiving the Billboard Philippines Hitmaker Award in 2024.

  • 3-2. First EP 'Talaarawan' and Its Impact

  • In March 2024, BINI released their first EP titled 'Talaarawan.' The EP, which included singles like 'Karera' and 'Pantropiko,' reflected the group’s commitment to women’s empowerment. By late March, BINI had over two million monthly listeners on Spotify, making them the highest-streamed female OPM artist and the most-streamed P-pop group on the platform. 'Pantropiko' also became a viral hit on TikTok, leading to a popular dance challenge and further boosting the group's fame.

  • 3-3. Hit Singles like 'Karera,' 'Pantropiko,' and 'Cherry On Top'

  • BINI's discography includes several hit singles. 'Karera,' released as a promotional track from their EP 'Talaarawan,' gained popularity at school graduation ceremonies for its resonant lyrics. 'Pantropiko' reached the top position on the Daily Top Songs chart of Spotify Philippines and garnered 100 million streams on Spotify and YouTube Music by July 2024. The group's latest single, 'Cherry On Top,' was released on July 11, 2024, and topped the Top Songs chart on iTunes Philippines, becoming the number one trending music on YouTube immediately after its release.

4. Concerts and Performances

  • 4-1. BINIverse Concert Series and Its Fan Engagement

  • The BINIverse concert series commenced with three consecutive sold-out shows at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City in June 2024. Each concert showcased the individual talents of BINI members through solo performances and interactive elements, such as balloon drops and large beach balls, creating a festive atmosphere. The series also featured the advance performance of their new single 'Cherry on Top' before its official release. The BINIverse concert series was well-received, prompting regional concerts in Baguio, Cebu, and General Santos. These concerts were instrumental in strengthening fan engagement, with BINI's dedicated fanbase, the BLOOMs, actively participating in the events.

  • 4-2. Significant Performances in GenSan and North America

  • BINI's BINIverse concert in General Santos (GenSan) on July 20, 2024, was a significant event, drawing over 8,000 fans. The concert had a positive impact on local economies, with events specialists seeing it as an opportunity for future concert venues in the region. Following the GenSan concert, BINI extended their reach to North America with performances scheduled in Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Toronto in August 2024. These international engagements underscore BINI's growing global presence and the broadening of their fanbase.

  • 4-3. Impact on Local Economies and Fan Reception

  • The BINIverse concert series in regional areas such as GenSan significantly boosted local economic activities, attracting large crowds and potential future investors. Events such as these have helped establish regional cities as potential hotspots for future concerts. Fan reception was overwhelmingly positive, as seen with the SOX Blooms' warm welcome in GenSan, demonstrating the group's substantial regional and national influence. Additionally, the concerts facilitated further fan engagement through interactive events and strategic fan projects, reinforcing the strong bond between BINI and their BLOOMs.

5. Documentaries and Media Exposure

  • 5-1. Production and release of 'BINI Chapter 1: Born to Win'

  • The documentary series titled 'BINI Chapter 1: Born to Win' provides an in-depth look into BINI’s journey from formation through their rise to superstardom. This collaborative project between iWantTFC, ABS-CBN News, and Current Affairs premiered on September 8, 2024, on iWantTFC. Directed by Jet Leyco and Jeff Canoy, the series chronicles BINI's rigorous training schedules, auditions, performances, and fan interactions, offering an intimate behind-the-scenes view. The documentary aims to highlight the group's perseverance, sisterhood, and their comprehensive journey leading to significant milestones, such as their first solo concert.

  • 5-2. Media events and fan meets in California

  • BINI’s international media presence included participation in the 'ASAP Natin ‘To in California' concert on August 3 at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, California. This event featured prominent stars from the Philippine entertainment industry. Ahead of the main concert, BINI engaged in several fan meets held at Corner Occasions, an event space in Ontario. During these fan meets, BINI interacted with their devoted fans, the BLOOMS, and engaged them in dance activities, teaching choreography steps to their hit tracks like 'Salamin, Salamin.' These pre-concert engagements were part of the series of fan meets hosted alongside other notable Filipino celebrities.

  • 5-3. Role of ABS-CBN News, iWantTFC, and other media in promoting BINI

  • ABS-CBN News, iWantTFC, and other media platforms played a crucial role in promoting BINI through regular coverage, special features, and exclusive content. The production of 'BINI Chapter 1: Born to Win' documentary by iWantTFC and ABS-CBN News exemplifies this collaboration, showcasing behind-the-scenes insights and backstage preparations. Media events and press conferences also served as platforms for the group to connect with a broader audience. The timely and comprehensive media promotions have significantly contributed to enhancing BINI's visibility and aligning their brand as a global symbol of Filipino talent.

6. Challenges and Support

  • 6-1. Privacy and public respect issues

  • Laurenti Dyogi, the head of Star Magic and manager of the P-pop girl group BINI, has addressed concerns regarding the members' privacy and personal space. Specific incidents include an uncomfortable public encounter involving member Aiah, who experienced harassment in Cebu when a man named AJ Fernan got physically close to her and recorded videos, later uploaded on Instagram. Another member, Maloi, faced intrusive fan behavior in Batangas while dining with her family; fans approached for photos and videos, even going live on social media. Dyogi has emphasized the importance of respecting the group's privacy, urging fans to allow the members to enjoy their personal time without unwanted intrusions. Following these events, Star Magic released a statement highlighting the necessity to respect their talents' personal space, particularly when they are off-duty.

  • 6-2. Fan safety and the role of BLOOMs

  • BINI has demonstrated a strong commitment to fan safety, especially during events. An example of this was during the Dagupan Bangus Festival on April 30, where the group cut their performance short due to extreme heat conditions that led to fans passing out. The members prioritized the well-being of their attendees by offering water and advising against pushing, actions that were well-received by both fans and netizens. These incidents underscore the group's dedication to ensuring a safe environment for their fans, known as BLOOMs.

  • 6-3. Calls for improved treatment by Star Magic

  • In light of the privacy and safety issues faced by BINI members, there have been calls for improved treatment and protective measures from their managing agency, Star Magic. Recognizing the importance of safeguarding their artists, Star Magic is actively working to enhance their strategies to protect BINI and ensure their well-being. The agency reinforced its commitment through public statements and measures aimed at preventing harassment and providing a safe working environment for the group.

7. Conclusion

  • BINI's rapid ascent to fame illustrates their exceptional talent, relentless hard work, and the unwavering support from their fanbase, the BLOOMs. Despite confronting privacy concerns and issues regarding public respect, BINI has managed to thrive with the backing of their managing agency, Star Magic, which is working on better protective measures. This narrative underscores the increasing impact of Filipino artists on the global music stage and highlights their cultural significance and inspiration. The comprehensive documentation and diverse media exposure of BINI's journey not only showcase their achievements but also hint at their promising future opportunities. In essence, BINI sets a new benchmark for Filipino musical prowess and fan engagement, potentially unlocking more avenues for the global recognition of Filipino talents.

8. Glossary

  • 8-1. BINI [Music Group]

  • A Filipino girl group formed in 2019 through ABS-CBN's Star Hunt Academy. Debuting in June 2021, BINI consists of eight members and is known for their hit singles and engaging performances. They have a strong fanbase called BLOOMs and are recognized for their role in promoting Filipino culture and music globally.

  • 8-2. ABS-CBN [Company]

  • A major Philippine media and entertainment group that formed BINI through its Star Hunt Academy. ABS-CBN has been instrumental in producing and promoting BINI's music, documentaries, and concerts, contributing significantly to their success.

  • 8-3. BINIverse [Concert Series]

  • A series of concerts by BINI that engaged fans through interactive performances. The BINIverse concerts have enhanced fan participation and boosted local economies, particularly noted in GenSan.

  • 8-4. BLOOMs [Fanbase]

  • The dedicated fanbase of BINI. BLOOMs have played a crucial role in supporting the group through fan projects, providing a warm reception at events, and actively participating in concerts and media engagements.

  • 8-5. Star Magic [Talent Agency]

  • A talent management agency under ABS-CBN responsible for managing BINI. Star Magic has been called upon to improve the treatment of BINI members, particularly concerning privacy and public respect.

9. Source Documents