Filipina singer Dionela takes a captivating step into vulnerability with her latest single, “sining” (which translates to “light” in English), featuring the smooth vocals of R&B icon Jay R. Released alongside a stunning music video, the song delves into the complexities of love and loss, offering a poignant reflection on the aftermath of a relationship’s end.
A Ballad Wrapped in Modernity
“sining” is a departure from Dionela’s usual upbeat pop anthems. The song leans towards a soulful ballad style, driven by a melancholic piano melody and a gentle yet pulsating beat. Dionela’s voice takes center stage, showcasing both its raw power and delicate vulnerability as she navigates the emotional landscape of the lyrics. The introduction of Jay R in the second verse adds a layer of depth and maturity to the song. His smooth vocals offer a comforting presence, providing a male perspective on heartbreak and the lingering hope for reconciliation.
Lyricism Laying Bare the Heart
The true strength of “sining” lies in its poignant and relatable lyrics. Dionela paints a vivid picture of a love that has faded, using metaphors like “a fire slowly dying” and “a flickering flame.” Lines like “Naalala mo pa ba, ‘yung mga pangako?” (Do you still remember the promises?) resonate with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet pang of lost love. The song explores the lingering hope that love can be rekindled, with lines like “Sana, may pag-asa pa” (Maybe there’s still hope). This element of uncertainty adds a layer of realism and emotional complexity to the narrative.
A Visually Stunning Journey
The “sining” music video perfectly complements the song’s emotional depth. The video opens with Dionela wandering through a desolate cityscape, reflecting the emptiness she feels after the relationship’s end. As the song progresses, the use of soft, muted colors and diffused lighting creates a dreamlike atmosphere that mirrors the introspective nature of the lyrics. The video seamlessly intercuts between solo shots of Dionela and scenes featuring her and Jay R. Their interactions, filled with a subtle longing, hint at the shared history of the couple. The final scene, where they stand together bathed in a warm light, leaves the possibility of reconciliation open to interpretation.
A Collaboration of Powerhouses
The collaboration between Dionela and Jay R proves to be a masterstroke. Dionela’s powerful vocals perfectly complement Jay R’s signature smooth delivery. Their vocal harmonies in the chorus create a sense of unity and shared vulnerability, further emphasizing the emotional core of the song. The presence of a seasoned artist like Jay R adds a layer of maturity and gravitas to the track, elevating it beyond a simple heartbreak ballad.
More Than Just a Love Song
While “sining” is undeniably a love song, it transcends the genre by exploring themes of self-discovery and resilience. The song acknowledges the pain of loss but ultimately offers a message of hope. Dionela’s journey through the music video represents the process of healing and moving forward. The final scene, with a single ray of light breaking through the clouds, suggests a brighter future on the horizon.
A Testament to Growth
“sining” marks a significant step forward for Dionela’s artistic journey. The song showcases her growth as a vocalist, her willingness to explore new musical styles, and her ability to connect with listeners on a deeper emotional level. The collaboration with Jay R further solidifies her position as a rising star in the OPM (Original Pilipino Music) scene.
“sining” is not just a song; it’s an experience. It’s a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the enduring human spirit. Dionela and Jay R have delivered a masterpiece that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved and lost, leaving listeners with a lingering sense of hope and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
Sining Song Lyrics
[Verse by Dionela:]
A flower is not a flower
Until they bloom
Like my first time living life
The day I met you
Hate to think that humans
Have to die someday
A thousand years won’t do, ooh
[Pre-Chorus: Dionela]
No wonder I fell in love
Even though I’m scared to love
Baby, I know the pain
Is unbearable (There’s no way)
Pinsala’y ikinamada
Mo binibining may salamangka
You’ve turned my limbics
Into a bouquet
[Chorus: Dionela]
Ikaw ay tila sining sa museong ‘di naluluma
Binibini kong ginto hanggang kaluluwa
Gonna keep you like the “nu couché”
All my life
At kung sa tingin mo na ang oras mo’y lumipas na
Ako’y patuloy na mararahuyo sa ganda
I’d still kiss you every single day
All my life
[Verse 2: Jay R]
If I could paint a perfect picture
Of the girl of my dreams with a curvy figure
Voice of an angel like a symphony
No doubt, she’s a masterpiece
No matter the color, you’re beautiful
You’re one of a kind like a miracle
Hindi ka papanaw hanggang huling araw
Maging kabilang buhay, ikaw ay ikaw
[Pre-Chorus: Jay R]
No wonder I fell in love
Even though I’m scared to love
Baby, I know the pain
Is unbearable (There’s no way)
Pinsala’y ikinamada
Mo binibining may salamangka
You’ve turned my limbics
Into a bouquet (Oh, binibini)
[Chorus: Jay R, Dionela, Jay R & Dionela]
Ikaw ay tila sining sa museong ‘di naluluma
Binibini kong ginto hanggang kaluluwa
Gonna keep you like the “nu couché”
All my life
At kung sa tingin mo na ang oras mo’y lumipas na
Ako’y patuloy na mararahuyo sa ganda
I’d still kiss you every single day
All my life
[Instrumental Break]
[Outro: Dionela]
At sa pagdating ng huling araw
‘Wag mag-alala
Naramdama’y habang buhay
Nakamantsa
That the world will never take away
After life
ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
[Verse 1: Dionela]
A flower is not a flower
Until it blooms
Like my first time living life
The day I met you
Hate to think that humans
Have to die someday
A thousand years won’t do, ooh
[Pre-Chorus: Dionela]
No wonder I fell in love
Even though I’m scared to love
Baby, I know the pain
Is unbearable (There’s no way)
The damage is sustained
By the enchanting lady
You’ve turned my feelings
Into a bouquet
[Chorus: Dionela]
You are like art in a museum that never ages
My golden lady, through and through
Gonna keep you like the “nu couché”
All my life
And if you think your time has passed
I’ll continue to be captivated by your beauty
I’d still kiss you every single day
All my life
[Verse 2: Jay R]
If I could paint a perfect picture
Of the girl of my dreams with a curvy figure
Voice of an angel like a symphony
No doubt, she’s a masterpiece
No matter the color, you’re beautiful
You’re one of a kind, like a miracle
You won’t fade until the last day
Even in the afterlife, you are you
[Pre-Chorus: Jay R]
No wonder I fell in love
Even though I’m scared to love
Baby, I know the pain
Is unbearable (There’s no way)
The damage is sustained
By the enchanting lady
You’ve turned my feelings
Into a bouquet (Oh, lady)
[Chorus: Jay R, Dionela, Jay R & Dionela]
You are like art in a museum that never ages
My golden lady, through and through
Gonna keep you like the “nu couché”
All my life
And if you think your time has passed
I’ll continue to be captivated by your beauty
I’d still kiss you every single day
All my life
[Instrumental Break]
[Outro: Dionela]
And on the last day
Don’t worry
The feelings are forever
Stained
That the world will never take away
After life