Pop-Culturalist.com

From breaking barriers as the first Filipina to walk in Arab Fashion Week to delivering chart-topping hits like “Amakabogera” and “Kakayanin Kaya,” MayMay Entrata has created a paradise of her own across music, film, and fashion. A multi-talented performer, she has captivated audiences with her infectious energy, bold creative vision, and unwavering authenticity. Her impact has been recognized with numerous accolades, including a nomination for Best Asia Act at the MTV EMAs, reinforcing her status as a rising global star.

Now, with her latest single “Paradise,” MayMay is embracing a new side of her craft—one that finds strength in vulnerability. A shimmering dance-pop anthem laced with raw emotion, the track marks a turning point in her musical journey, showcasing her ability to balance resilience with introspection. Through evocative vocals and introspective lyrics, she reflects on the bittersweet aftermath of a love that wasn’t meant to last, making “Paradise” not just a song, but a testament to growth, self-worth, and the courage to let go.

Pop Culturalist caught up with MayMay to discuss this exciting new chapter, the inspiration behind “Paradise,” and the biggest discoveries she’s made about herself and her music along the way.

PC: Your career spans multiple disciplines—acting, dancing, hosting, singing, and modeling. Do you feel most at home in any one of them? How do these experiences shape your work as an artist and songwriter?
MayMay: I feel most at home in music and performing—it’s where I connect most deeply with my emotions and my audience. While acting, dancing, and modeling have all shaped my growth as an artist, music is where I can truly express my deepest feelings and experiences.

PC: You’ve been open about times when you considered stepping away from your career. What—or who—kept you moving forward?
MayMay: There were definitely moments when I felt like giving up, but my faith, along with the support of my family and fans, kept me going. I also reminded myself of how far I’ve come and the dream I’m still working toward.

PC: On the other hand, when you reflect on everything you’ve accomplished, is there a moment that stands out as a turning point?
MayMay: Winning Pinoy Big Brother was definitely a turning point in my life. It opened so many doors and gave me the platform to pursue my dreams. Another pivotal moment was recording “Amakabogera”—that song helped me regain my confidence and rekindle my love for music.

PC: You’re in such an exciting chapter of your career as a music artist. What has been the biggest discovery you’ve made about yourself and your craft?
MayMay: The biggest discovery I’ve made is that vulnerability is my strength. Being honest and open in my music not only helps me heal but also allows me to connect with my listeners on a deeper level.

PC: Tell us about “Paradise” and the inspiration behind the song.
MayMay: “Paradise” is a heartfelt song about the emotional aftermath of a breakup, capturing the pain of being taken for granted and the strength it takes to let go of a one-sided love. Inspired by my own experiences, it serves as a reminder that even in heartbreak, there is resilience and self-discovery.

PC: You collaborated with an incredible team—Amy Allen, Tommy Brown, Lostboy, and Boy Matthews. What was the biggest takeaway from working with them, and how did you challenge each other creatively to bring this song to life?
MayMay: Working with such talented people was an incredible experience. The biggest takeaway was learning to trust the creative process and stay open to new ideas.

PC: You’ve been steadily releasing music. If you had to choose a song that best represents who you are as an artist at this moment—besides “Paradise”—which one would it be and why?
MayMay: I would choose “Amakabogera.” It represents my journey of self-discovery and empowerment—embracing who you are, flaws and all, and finding the strength to keep going. That message is still very much a part of who I am as an artist today.

PC: Looking ahead to the rest of 2025, what’s next for you?
MayMay: I’m preparing to release my upcoming album, a project I’ve been working on for quite some time. It’s my most personal and vulnerable work yet, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
MayMay: One artist that might surprise people on my playlist is Mitski, especially her song “Mine.” I love sad music, and her songs always hit me emotionally. It’s quite different from the genre of my own music, so it might catch people off guard, but I really appreciate how raw and powerful her music is.

PC: First album you bought or streamed?
MayMay: Not an album, but a song—”Always Remember Us This Way” by Lady Gaga.

PC: First concert you attended?
MayMay: Hillsong.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
MayMay: Again, not an album, but a song that changed my life—and how I see things in a more positive way—is “Echo” by Tauren Wells. It reminds me that no matter what challenges I face, I’m never truly alone, and there’s always hope. The uplifting message and energy in the song inspire me to stay positive and keep moving forward.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
MayMay: Coachella.

PC: A must-have on the road?
MayMay: Especially when I’m traveling, I always make sure to have my phone, a first aid kit, earphones, skincare, and a map—just in case there’s no signal for Google Maps!

To keep up with MayMay, follow her on X, Instagram, YouTube, and Spotify. Stream “Paradise” today.

Photo Credit: ABS-CBN