Darren Espanto bares heart in new album 'Ikaw Pa Rin'

Darren Espanto marks a major milestone in his musical journey with the release of Ikaw Pa Rin, a deeply personal and sonically rich album that celebrates his 11th year in the industry. A coming-of-age chronicle wrapped in lush vocals and heartfelt lyricism, the new LP is Darren’s most ambitious project to date—featuring 13 tracks that trace the highs, lows, and quiet in-betweens of love, growth, and emotional discovery.

The album launch, held to a packed crowd of fans and supporters, doubled as a celebration of his artistry and enduring connection with the Darrenatics. Darren took the stage to thunderous cheers, offering live performances of selected tracks, including the fan-favorite title song Ikaw Pa Rin, a collaborative effort with DJ M.O.D. that seamlessly melds Darren’s smooth vocals with MOD’s signature rhythmic flair.

What sets this album apart is Darren’s deeper involvement in the songwriting process. Of the 13 tracks, five were penned by Darren himself, including “Bibitaw Na,” “Hanggang Kailan,” “Ilang Beses,” “Iyo,” and the poignant “Paano Kung Tayo na Lang?”—a lyrical team-up with fellow young singer-songwriter Angela Ken. These songs reflect a more mature and introspective Darren, navigating vulnerability and what-ifs with melodic restraint and sincerity.

Fans of Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition will also recognize Paalam Muna Sandali, the show’s eviction theme song, which found unexpected resonance beyond the series. In a lighthearted moment during the launch, Darren recalled rushing to record the song after a flight, fearing his best friend AC Bonifacio might be the first to get evicted. “Minadali ko talaga ‘yung recording,” he said with a laugh. “But we were genuinely surprised by how much people connected with it.”

Another standout is the emotionally-charged ANNAB music video—revealed for the first time during the event—which stars actress Ashley Del Mundo. The visual, now live on ABS-CBN Star Music’s YouTube channel, adds a cinematic layer to the song’s melancholic charm.

Rounding out the album are tracks that display Darren’s evolving musical range: “Di Makaramdam,” “Miss,” “Duyan,” a Chinese-Tagalog version of “Iyo,” and a heartfelt reimagining of the hit Dati, now performed as a duet with Belle Mariano. The latter track, soft and nostalgic, bridges the past and present of OPM with refreshing tenderness.

But at the heart of Ikaw Pa Rin is a dedication that has remained consistent throughout Darren’s 11-year career—his fans. “This album is for the Darrenatics,” he shared. “Each song tells a story, not just of love, but of the journey we’ve all taken together. Thank you for growing with me.”

From child prodigy to seasoned performer, Darren Espanto’s latest release is more than just a musical achievement—it’s a thank-you note, a diary entry, and a promise that he’s just getting started.