In a fast-evolving P-pop landscape dominated by powerhouse groups and genre-bending soloists, a new name is quietly but steadily carving his space — Raks, the 23-year-old artist from Dumaguete City whose journey is built on passion, grit, and an unwavering belief in what music can do.

Signed under Beetzee Inc., Raks embodies the new generation of Filipino performers: self-made, self-trained, and fueled by the desire to tell stories that resonate. His artistry is defined not just by talent, but by years of early-stage discipline, a deep sense of purpose, and a commitment to continuous growth.

Childhood shaped by stages and spotlights

Long before he stepped into the world of P-pop, Rakhim S. Tahir was a boy who simply loved to perform.

He began at six years old, joining local talent shows, school programs, and later, national and international competitions. One of his earliest breakthroughs came in 2018, when he represented the Philippines at the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Long Beach, California — bringing home six medals across all categories he joined.

The following year, he tried his luck on national television through Idol Philippines, marking the beginning of his transition from a competition kid to a more intentional, self-aware artist.

Discovering his voice through songwriting

It wasn’t until 2023 that Raks found a deeper, more personal way of expressing himself — songwriting.

His debut single, “Me, Myself, and I,” marked his first step in crafting original music. Later that year, he joined a songwriting competition where his self-written and choreographed entry, “Care to Spend the Rest of the Night with Me,” earned him 2nd runner-up, proving that his artistry extends beyond vocals and performances.

His growth continued onstage, including a standout appearance at Sillimusika 2024 where he served as one of the front acts for Lola Amour, and a performance at V1BE Fest Manila’s Creators Studio inside the Mall of Asia Arena.

In August 2025, he also took part in the All-University Acquaintance Party of Silliman University, further solidifying his reputation as Dumaguete’s rising hometown performer.

A pandemic that sparked a dream

Like many Gen Z artists, the pandemic became a turning point.

Confined at home, Raks immersed himself in K-pop and P-pop, discovering a world where storytelling, choreography, and performance merged into something electrifying.

This was the moment he decided: he wanted to become an idol.

Since then, he has auditioned for shows, joined training camps, attended workshops, and honed his skills in singing, dancing, and stage performance. It was a long and often challenging road, but on 16 October 2024, his persistence paid off — he officially signed with Beetzee Inc.

Now, he is preparing for his grand debut as the label’s newest P-pop soloist.

Beyond the stage lights, Raks is grounded, thoughtful, and driven by both gratitude and ambition. Here’s a closer look at the artist behind the rising name.

His musical influences growing up

“It started with Bruno Mars. Pero habang nagshi-shift ako ng genre (But, I started shifting genre). I’m now heavily influenced by Jackson Wang on the foreign side, and BGYO and SB19 from the Philippines.”

These influences show in his sound —smooth, performance-heavy, and emotionally charged.

Life beyond music

“I am currently a second-year Mass Communication student at Silliman University. Before that, I studied Music major in Voice starting in 2021.

Tumutulong din po ako minsan sa mom ko (I sometimes help my)  who works as a fish vendor in the public market.”

Behind the spotlight is a student balancing academics, training, and family responsibilities — a testament to his determination.

Dream collaborations

“SB19 po, kasi they’re an all-around group. I love their songs and how they can perform any genre. Inspiring sila and amazing artists.

I also want to collab with Jackson Wang — I admire his artistry and how he expresses himself through music.”

These choices highlight his alignment with powerful, genre-fluid performers.

Songs he wants to cover

“It would definitely be ‘What’ by SB19. It would be really nice if I could have a mega crew dancing with me for that cover.”

A bold choice that matches his love for strong choreography and intense performance energy.

His goals as an artist

“As a growing artist, gusto ko pong ma-recognize ng maraming tao. I want to reach more people through my music and hopefully promote in Manila as an idol someday.”

It’s a simple but heartfelt dream — one that is already unfolding.