Acclaimed Filipino-Australian producer Mark Feist, the sonic architect behind hits for Destiny’s Child, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Lopez and Celine Dion, has returned to the Philippines — but not to revisit old ground. This time, he is here to build the future.

And leading that charge is none other than the country’s very own “King of R&B,” Jay R.

Their latest collaboration, “Tunay” (“Real”) dropped last 25 July, and it is an infectious blend of New Jack Swing grooves and smooth R&B hooks that harken back to the golden age of soul — while feeling right at home in today’s playlists. It is slick, confident and effortlessly cool — just like the artists behind it.

“Jay R is an artist who truly inspired me,” said Feist. “His talent, his voice and his work ethic are world-class. ‘Tunay’ wasn’t just made — it was crafted. And I genuinely believe it can compete with the best tracks out there globally.”

For Feist, this is not just another collaboration — it is a statement. At this point in his career, after producing global chart-toppers and contributing to over 35 million records sold worldwide, he only signs with projects that meet his uncompromising standards. And Jay R, he says, clears that bar with ease.

But the music does not stop there. The duo is already working on another track — a yet-to-be-released duet between Jay R and rising pop star Shanice, poised to become another high-caliber offering from Feist’s growing slate of productions.

Hitmakers in motion

These projects are part of Feist’s broader vision through Hitmakers Entertainment, his full-service label, production house and publishing company. With a sharp focus on real artist development in the streaming era, Hitmakers is already producing results: one of its breakout stars, TASH, has amassed over 80 million streams and built an international fan base — all before her 20th birthday.

“We signed TASH at 15, no following, just raw talent,” said Feist. “Now she’s headlining shows with fans flying in from overseas. That’s what real artist development looks like — and that’s what we’re bringing to Southeast Asia, too.”

Strategic moves forward

To expand that vision, Hitmakers recently entered into a strategic partnership with Symphonic Distribution, one of the music industry’s most respected names in independent digital distribution and artist services. The alliance promises new opportunities for Southeast Asian talents to break through on a global scale.

“Symphonic Asia’s Guji Lorenzana and CEO (chief executive officer) Jorge Brea are game-changers,” Feist added. “They’re building systems, not just chasing trends. Together, we’re creating an ecosystem that empowers Asian artists to dream bigger — and get there faster.”

The future of Filipino music is global

For both Feist and Jay R, this is not just about a hit single. It is about creating a pipeline for Filipino and Southeast Asian talent to rise on a world stage — with authenticity, precision and excellence.

Jay R, long regarded as one of the most technically gifted and versatile artists in the Philippines, is more than ready for this next chapter. And with Feist in the studio, the possibilities are limitless.

As Feist put it: “We’re not just making songs. We’re building a sound that the world can’t ignore.”

And with “Tunay” as just the beginning, it is clear: this partnership is here to make waves — not just in Original Pinoy Music, but far beyond.