The country's Ultimate Star, Jennylyn Mercado, a multi-awarded actress and platinum-selling artist, is orchestrating a grand return to her musical roots. Her newest single, Ayaw Pang Umuwi (Don’t Want to Go Home Yet), has just dropped, serving as a delightful prelude to her highly anticipated debut album under ABS-CBN's Star Music — a project a year in the making.
"Sobrang nakakakilig. Finally! This album is one year in the making but it is definitely worth the wait," Jennylyn exclaimed, her excitement palpable.
Crafted by the talented Trisha Denise and brought to life under the expert production of ABS-CBN Music's Jonathan Manalo, Ayaw Pang Umuwi is a charmingly mellow pop track. It perfectly encapsulates that blissful, almost childlike joy of wanting to linger in the presence of someone truly special — that feeling when the moment is so perfect, you wish it would never end.
Jennylyn admitted initial reservations about the song's playful vibe. "At first, I was not sure if the song would fit me since it's very different from my past songs. It’s very cutesy tapos medyo bagets! But of course, I put all my trust in Sir Jonathan and Sir Roxy. They are some of the best in the music industry and I know I am in good hands," she shared, highlighting her faith in the creative team behind her musical resurgence.
Since its release across all major music streaming platforms last Friday (April 11), Ayaw Pang Umuwi has been met with an outpouring of warm reactions from fans, igniting even greater anticipation for Jennylyn's upcoming full-length album.
Online reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. "@marinelorubia3534" commented, "Natamaan ako bawat linya, grabe.... Walang kupas ang boses ni Ultimate Star!" (Every line hit me hard, wow... The Ultimate Star’s voice is timeless!)
Another fan, "@meinardsantiago3609," shared, "Ganda ng song at ang ganda pa ng boses! Thanks to Star music for Ultimate Star Jennylyn Mercado's newest album! Nakaka good vibes na song" (The song is beautiful and the voice is so beautiful! Thanks to Star Music for Ultimate Star Jennylyn Mercado's newest album! It's a feel-good song.)
The excitement for more music is evident, with "@Darleeeee10" adding, "Can’t wait na marinig pa ibang songs sa album nya" (Can’t wait to hear the other songs on her album.)
Having earned the moniker “Ultimate Star,” Jennylyn Mercado has a rich musical history, boasting multiple albums and extended plays released over the past two decades. She is celebrated for delivering iconic OPM hits such as Kahit Sandali (Even Just for a Moment), "If I’m Not In Love," "Sa Aking Panaginip" (In My Dream), and "Basta’t Nandito Ka" (As Long As You’re Here).
Now, with "Ayaw Pang Umuwi," Jennylyn showcases a refreshing new sound while retaining the vocal prowess that has captivated audiences for years. The single is a delightful taste of what’s to come, promising a musical journey that blends her signature style with a vibrant, youthful energy.