Ervin Besana
Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana
20+ years in OPM. One unfiltered voice. Ervin Besana is a veteran bassist and a dedicated music reviewer and critic. Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana is where the technical craft of a musician meets the sharp eye of a professional critic. In a world of "nice" opinions, Ervin provides high-level, constructive criticism to help artists sharpen their craft and help fans find music they actually love. From viral hits to underground gems, we analyze music with the ear of a player and the standards of a critic. No bias. Just the truth.
Author
Ervin Besana
Category
Podcast website
Latest episode
Jun 14, 2026
Where to listen?
Podcasts in the app Replaio Radio Coming soonPodcasts are coming to the app soon. Install now and be the first to see a whole new take on podcasts
Episodes
Why Great Songs Fail, Burnout & The Music Industry 14.06.2026 1:03:37
Sa episode na ito ng Usapang Musiko, nagkuwentuhan kami ni Kuya Monty Macalino tungkol sa mga bagay na bihirang pag-usapan ng mga musikero. Pinag-usapan namin: • Kailan dapat tumigil sa pag-aayos ng kanta • Bakit may mga kantang akala mong magiging hit pero hindi nangyayari • Burnout sa touring at pagiging full-time musician • Ang problema sa pagmamadali ng music industry • Bakit mas mahalaga ang...
Song Review: Robyn M, Casterfall, Fiona 01.06.2026 1:08:38
Sa episode na ‘to ng Usapang Musiko, sinuri namin ang tatlong bagong OPM tracks: Robyn M – Overmorrow Casterfall – BEDEM Fiona – Anong Gagawin Mo Ngayon? Pinag-usapan namin: Bakit hindi guaranteed ang “hit song” sa panahon ngayon Paano naging connected ang isang kanta sa Minecraft fandom Bakit mahalaga pa rin ang live gigs kahit viral ka online Ang importance ng identity sa music At bakit nostalgi...
Live Performance vs Spotify | Building REAL Fans | AI in Music 18.05.2026 1:04:55
Live Performance vs Spotify. Building REAL Fans. AI in Music. Sa bagong episode ng Usapang Musiko, kasama ko si Monty Macalino ng Mayonnaise para pag-usapan ang isa sa pinakamalaking reality check sa music scene ngayon: • Bakit hindi sapat ang streams • Paano talaga bumuo ng loyal fans • Difference ng listeners vs superfans • Stage presence at live performance • At paano binabago ng AI ang music i...
From Chops to Pocket: Real Talk on Musical Growth 03.05.2026 1:26:17
Sa episode na to ng Usapang Musiko, kasama ang guest na si Eljomiah Cal (former co-host ng Mind The Beats) pinag-usapan namin ang isang reality na maraming musicians ang ayaw aminin: Hindi lahat ng kayang mong tugtugin… dapat mong tugtugin. Pinag-usapan namin: Paano nag-evolve ang playing style from “chops” to musicality Bakit mas mahalaga ang space at pocket kaysa speed at complexity Ang harsh...
Song Review: Callisto, The Little Pear, wax.wav 26.04.2026 1:12:47
Sa episode na to ng Usapang Musiko, sinuri namin ang tatlong bagong OPM tracks: Pula't Puti – Callisto Sun Mon – The Little Pear 10PM – wax.wav Pinag-usapan namin: - Bakit “perfect sounding” songs minsan walang kaluluwa - Bakit exposed ka agad pag hindi mo kaya i-perform live - At bakit mas tumatagal ang kanta na may identity—kahit hindi flawless Walang bias. Walang filter.
Music Industry Truths Every OPM Artist Must Know 14.04.2026 50:17
Musicians love to say: “Music lang, sapat na.” Reality check—it’s not. In this episode, Ervin Besana and Monty Macalino breaks down: Why success depends on your definition—not your talent The role of business, contracts, and positioning And why most artists fail before they even understand the game Bottom line: Good music gets ignored every day. Smart artists don’t.
Song Review: Ozone Vibe, Off To Aurora, Eleyn 30.03.2026 50:59
Sa episode na ‘to ng Usapang Musiko, sinuri namin ang tatlong bagong OPM tracks: Gusto Ko – Ozone Vibe Bituin – Off To Aurora Fall Back – Eleyn Pinag-usapan namin: Bakit “loose” pakinggan ang ibang tracks kahit maganda ang idea Bakit hindi sapat ang pagiging polished At bakit may mga kanta na kahit hindi perfect… mas tumatama Walang bias, walang filter.
Monty Macalino: The Truth About OPM Labels & Longevity 23.03.2026 1:37:27
"I want the song to be famous, not me." Most bands in the Philippines hit a wall after just 24 months. Monty Macalino of Mayonnaise has been at the top for over 20 years. In this episode, we’re stripping away the "rockstar" ego to talk about the brutal business of staying relevant. Monty joins me to discuss the "Jopay" Paradox—the blessing and the curse of having a hi...
How Music Labels Really Work | OPM Industry Secrets with Monty Macalino 16.03.2026 1:24:48
"No matter how good your song is, if it's not the right time, it won't work." In this episode, I’m joined by Monty Macalino of Mayonnaise to deconstruct the "general knowledge" of the music industry that most artists learn too late. We’re diving into the "miscommunications" of the label world and the controversial reality of how songs actually reach Number 1....
5 Music Career Mistakes I Wish I Avoided 09.03.2026 21:37
Are you playing gigs for the same ten people every week? Are you waiting for the world to "discover" your genius while your Spotify plays stay at zero? In this solo episode, Ervin Besana breaks down the 5 hard truths he learned while navigating the Filipino music scene. This isn't about being a "rockstar," it's about the tactical mistakes that separate hobbyists from pr...
The Louie Jay Owa Interview: The Chongkeys to EnjointPH Transition 01.03.2026 44:44
The Season 3 Premiere is here. Sa pagbubukas ng bagong season, hindi tayo magsisimula sa mababaw. Kasama natin si Louie Jay Owa Velasco. Frontman ng EnjointPH, lead guitarist ng The Chongkeys, and brand ambassador ng Vans at Tribal Gear. Sa loob ng 12 taon sa industriya, nakita niya ang lahat: mula sa siksikang Rakrakan Festival hanggang sa "real-life work" na kaakibat ng pagiging record...
Off To Aurora - Sampung Hakbang TRACK REVIEW 27.10.2025 21:02
In this episode, Ervin Besana reviews the new single 'Sampung Hakbang' by the band @OffToAurora . He discusses the technical aspects of the song, its nostalgic influences from the 90s and early 2000s, and provides a critical analysis of its lyrics and overall impact. The review culminates in a rating, reflecting on the song's potential as a reintroduction to the band while acknowledg...
Dear Juliet, - Biyaya (Track review) 13.10.2025 22:57
In this episode, Ervin Besana discusses the return of the band Dear Juliet with their new single 'Biyaya'. He shares personal updates about his health and the direction of his channel, which will focus more on music reviews. The review of 'Biyaya' highlights its musical elements, production quality, and lyrical themes, while also critiquing the band's approach and expectations...
What is Meaningful Music Today? Facing the Good, the Bad, and the Bomalacks in OPM 04.08.2025 18:24
What is 'meaningful music' in today's OPM scene, and are we getting too much "bomalacks" (nonsense)? In this candid episode of Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana, Ervin doesn't hold back, tackling frustrating trends. He discusses artists like Elias J TV, questioning the ethics of earning millions from uncredited covers, and the controversy surrounding Dom Guyot's provoc...
Unpacking "Magpakailanma" by Ft. Pidiong – A Heartbreaking Melody 28.07.2025 29:53
What makes a song truly connect? In this Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana music review, Ervin dives deep into "Magpakailanma" by Ft. Pidiong , an indie band and Red Horse Musiklaban 2024 grand finalists! We explore the track's journey, from its early 2010s guitar vibes and Pidiong's raw, emotional vocals to its powerful chorus hooks and cinematic finale. Lyrically, it's a poi...
Beyond Likes & Shares – Do We Still Need Music Critics? 14.07.2025 28:53
In an age of endless likes and shares, do we still need professional music critics? In this thought-provoking episode of Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana, Ervin (a critic himself!) dives into why these voices remain vital. We'll explore how critics go beyond simple "likes" by providing deep analysis, historical context, and guidance through the overwhelming amount of new music. Disco...
Time Warp – Could 90s Bands Conquer Today's Music Scene? 07.07.2025 25:30
What if a 90s band landed in today's music scene? In this intriguing episode of Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana, Ervin explores how nostalgia impacts our love for older OPM hits and the challenges new artists face in breaking through that "filter." We'll compare lyrical styles from different eras and dissect how the music industry has evolved, from 90s labels and radio dominance...
AI in Music – Friend or Foe? When Does "Help" Go Too Far? 30.06.2025 21:33
Is AI a helpful tool or a full-blown takeover in music? In this thought-provoking episode of Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana, I dive into the rising wave of AI in music creation, from Timbaland's 'Stage Zero' to Suno AI, which generates full songs from text prompts. I'll explore the line between AI as a smart assistant (like how I use it for my podcast) and AI as the main creator....
The Hidden Cost of the Spotlight – Who's Really Getting Paid? 23.06.2025 19:20
Ever wonder where your indie gig entrance fee actually goes? In this crucial episode of Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana, I dive into the often-unseen issue of unpaid gigs in the Philippine indie music scene. I'll explore why venues and organizers do what they do, and contrast that with the real costs and "exposure" trap faced by artists. It's a straightforward look at whether the current system t...
Dissecting "Narcy" by Good Weather Company – A Masterclass in Sound & Story 16.06.2025 24:00
Dive into our new Music Review & Critique segment as we break down "Narcy" by Good Weather Company. This Manila-based band masterfully blends grunge, post-rock, and new wave, delivering an atmospheric yet urgent sound. "Narcy" is a 7-minute, 22-second journey from gloomy introspection to powerful hope, telling a raw story of resilience against manipulation. From its evocative instrumentation t...
Usapang Musiko Season 2: The Evolution – Less Fluff, More Fire. 09.06.2025 24:32
Season 2 of Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana is here, and we're not holding back. This episode lays out the exciting new direction: less interviews, more focused, in-depth discussions (30-45 mins tops!). Get ready for brand new segments covering music reviews, critiques, and even some passionate rants on the industry. It's still your dose of music insights, but now it's sharper, more d...
Turbo Mouse: When Musical Differences Create Magic 22.12.2024 1:25:02
In this special season finale of "Usapang Musiko With Ervin Besana," we dive into the whimsical world of Turbo Mouse ! What began as a lighthearted joke transformed into a vibrant musical journey. Join us as we explore how this eclectic band, born from spontaneous jam sessions, blends diverse tastes to create a unique sound that resonates with all. Don't miss this captivating interview! --- Sali k...
Creating Vibrations: The Artistry of Weejah's Music 29.11.2024 1:01:07
Join me as we dive into the vibrant world of Weejah, a reggae fusion band that masterfully blends pop, comedy, modern hip-hop, and reggaeton vibes. Formed in April 2023, these talented musicians share a passion for reggae, crafting music that resonates with raw emotion and authenticity. Tune in to discover their unique journey, creative process, and the heart behind their infectious sound! --- Sal...
From Artist to Industry Leader: Bong Andres 19.11.2024 1:26:36
Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Bong Andres, the mastermind behind Soulfiesta Artist Management and Country Coordinator at Tunecore PH . Discover his evolution from artist to industry leader, explore the contrasts between the social media age and the past, and unravel the delicate balance between creating content and true art in today's musical landscape. Use promo code (TCPH2024)...
From Inception to Inspiration: Coastal Dreams' Journey in Music 25.10.2024 1:03:27
In this exclusive interview with Coastal Dreams, Indielible Ink's artist of the month for October, we dive into the band's exciting journey since their inception in December 2023. Discover the intricate songwriting process that drives their pop-punk sound, and learn how each member's unique talents contribute to their dynamic performances. Join us as we explore the emotional depth and experimentat...
Replaio is not a podcast publisher; show names, artwork and audio belong to their authors and are distributed through public RSS feeds.