Picture this: you’re sitting in a sun-drenched backyard, the smell of mangoes and rice wafting from the kitchen, and a warm breeze carrying memories of childhood. That’s the vibe Filipino-American artist Labit captures in his latest single, “MANGOES AND RICE.” Released to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, this bedroom pop gem is a heartfelt conversation with his sister about growing up, identity, and the strength found in roots. With an accompanying music video and a forthcoming album, SOL, set for October 10th, Labit is serving up something special. Let’s dive into why this track is the perfect blend of nostalgia and empowerment—and why it’s a must-listen for fans of lo-fi pop and indie vibes.
A Slice of Filipino-American Life
“MANGOES AND RICE” is like a musical scrapbook, flipping through pages of Labit’s childhood as a Filipino-American. The track’s bouncy acoustic guitar and layered, echoing vocals create a summery, carefree sound that feels like a hug from your favorite cousin. Labit’s honeyed voice drips with authenticity as he sings about balancing cultural expectations with personal growth. Lines like, “You / Growing up on mom and dad’s advice / Looking back / It ain’t so black and white / Trust they raised us right,” hit home for anyone who’s navigated the gray areas of identity while holding tight to family wisdom.
The production is intimate yet vibrant, blending lo-fi pop’s chill aesthetic with singer-songwriter storytelling. It’s the kind of song you’d play on a lazy afternoon or during a late-night drive, letting its warmth sink in. Labit’s knack for crafting melodies that stick is evident here—trust me, you’ll be humming this one long after it ends. The track’s wholesome introspection feels like a nod to current indie pop trends, where artists like Rex Orange County and Clairo thrive by keeping things real and relatable.
The music video (check it out here) is a visual love letter to the Filipino-American experience. It starts heavy, showing the exhaustion of workplace stress and cultural pressures, but transforms into a joyful backyard scene filled with family and memories. It’s a reminder that strength comes from community and heritage, perfectly mirroring the song’s message. Plus, Labit’s collaboration with Wanderlust Creamery, a Filipino-American ice cream brand known for flavors like Sticky Rice and Mango, adds a fun, authentic touch to the release. Who doesn’t love a scoop of nostalgia with their music?
Meet Labit: The Multi-Talented Storyteller
Los Angeles-based Stephen Ordoñez, aka Labit, is no stranger to the music scene. A multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and producer, he’s written for artists across genres, from Mario to Emei and Crankdat. His solo project, Labit, is where his heart shines brightest. Since his 2019 debut, he’s built a catalog of music that feels like a warm blanket—think R&B-tinged pop with bold lyrics and infectious hooks. His deluxe debut album, I Bet It’s Still All A Dream, dropped recently, blending contemporary pop with soulful vibes.
Labit’s journey as a Filipino-American artist adds depth to his work. “MANGOES AND RICE” follows his breakout single “CLEANING OUT THE FRIDGE,” which landed on Spotify’s New Music Friday playlists in the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia. His music resonates because it’s honest, reflecting the universal struggle of staying true to yourself while forging your own path. In a music industry buzzing with bedroom pop and lo-fi artists, Labit stands out by weaving cultural pride into his sound, making tracks that are both personal and universally relatable.
Why “MANGOES AND RICE” Matters
This single isn’t just a catchy tune—it’s a celebration of resilience and identity. Labit’s ability to turn personal memories into a universal anthem is what makes “MANGOES AND RICE” so special. It taps into the growing trend of artists embracing their heritage in music, much like how Olivia Rodrigo and Bruno Mars have nodded to their Filipino roots. For fans of indie pop, lo-fi, or singer-songwriter vibes, this track is a must-add to your playlist.
If you’re an artist inspired by Labit’s authentic approach, now’s the time to get your own music out there. Platforms like DistroKid make it easy to distribute your tracks to Spotify, Apple Music, and more, helping you reach listeners worldwide. Plus, you can score a 7% discount on your membership with this link: https://distrokid.com/vip/seven/2058328. It’s a small step that could lead to big opportunities, just like Labit’s journey shows.
So, what do you think of “MANGOES AND RICE”? Does it remind you of your own childhood memories or cultural roots? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear! And don’t forget to stream the track, watch the video, and keep an eye out for Labit’s album SOL this October. This is one artist who’s proving there’s power in every move.