SB19 is the very definition of P-pop royalty. Whenever they appear, it is almost a matter of time before they smash another record or achieve something mind-blowing. Thanks to their worldwide reach in popularity, their high production performances, and A’TIN’s instantaneous engagement with the boys and their content, they have achieved so much in such a short span of time.
They walked through the fire, nearly disbanded at one point, crawled through the mud, and dodged many bullets, all to pave the way for Original Pilipino Music (OPM). This article is a list of the many “First Pipinos” that we will take a closer look at.
If there’s anything that we missed, please feel free to contact us on our Facebook page.
What exactly is “First Pipino?”
Whenever SB19 achieves something incredible, A’TIN will mostly say that it is “First Pipino.” This is actually an endearing play on words. In Filipino, pipino literally means “cucumber.” Because of how close the words sound similar to how “Filipino” is pronounced, A’TIN sometimes shortens it humorously to “first pipino.”
It is fandom slang that started as a playful way to celebrate the boys’ milestones in a fun, lighthearted way. Over time, “pipino” became an inside tag that shows both pride and affection. For A’TIN, using “pipino” is a way of saying “we know its a big deal, but let’s have fun too!”
“First Pipino” to release an exclusive CD in Japan (September 2025)
SB19 just made history as the first Filipino group to drop a Japan-exclusive CD with Simula at Wakas, arriving September 17, 2025. Felip, also known as Ken in the group, actually paved the way first with his Japan-only 7 Sins CD released August 21, 2024, so this win feels extra sweet. Both releases have surged on CDJapan’s all-genre charts, with Simula at Wakas and 7 Sins hitting top spots and landing within the top three, proof that A’TIN’s power is loud in Japan.
SB19 recently visited Singapore as part of their “Simula at Wakas” World Tour. This performance would break historic ground as they sold out Arena @ EXPO and would break a record for Filipinos performing in the country.
The Singapore concert is also a long-time coming for A’TIN in the country, as they were unable to perform in 2023 due to unforeseen circumstances. The fact that they kept their word and returned only strengthened the fans’ resolve in supporting SB19 and showering them with appreciation.
“First Pipino” to perform at the new stage in Spotify Lounge in Singapore (August 2025)
SB19 has the unique distinction of being the very first to perform at the new stage at the Spotify Lounge in Singapore. This important milestone holds significance as it solidifies their international impact and their rapid growth in worldwide popularity. The event highlighted their dynamic stage presence and live vocals, creating an electrifying atmosphere captured in key performance moments shared across social media and video platforms.
Sb19’s performance brought together Spotify executives from across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and beyond. The intimate show had fans and media cheering along, creating an electric atmosphere. Adding to the excitement, the group teamed up with Indonesian singer Aruma, proving once again why they’re standing tall as Southeast Asia’s rising music icons on the global stage.
“First Pipino” allowed to busk at Singapore’s Financial Center (August 2025)
In another first, SB19 are the first artists that were allowed to busk at Singapore’s Financial Center. This busking performance was part of their activities during their Simula at Wakas World Tour in Singapore in August 2025.
The group expressed their humble awe and gratitude over the experience as they drew a large crowd. The experience became a memorable moment for the Singaporean A’TIN in attendance and the group, as their large number was bigger than expected.
“First Pipino” fanbase to win a 3-peat in the BBFA (August 2025)
A’TIN achieved a historic three-peat victory in Billboard’s Fan Army Face-Off by winning in 2023, 2024, and 2025. In 2023, they edged out CARATs with 51.1 percent of the vote. They followed up in 2024 with a stronger win over Navy at 56.3 percent. Then in 2025, they secured their place in BBFA history by defeating the Selenators with 60.1 percent of the vote.
“First Pipino” P-pop to have a documentary on Netflix (July 2025)
SB19’s story just became even more special as they are the first P-pop group to have their own documentary on Netflix. Titled “Pagtatag! The Documentary,” it takes place during the band’s Pagtatag era, where they show the struggles and successes that happened during that time. It follows their bold move of stepping away from their former management, ShowBT, and bravely building their own company, 1Z Entertainment.
We get to see their emotional battle to keep the SB19 name, the heartbreak of canceled shows on their world tour, and their unwavering determination to keep going despite the heavy pressures of the industry. For A’TIN, this is a revelation of the band behind the scenes. The documentary gives a peek into everything SB19 had to overcome and how much heart they poured into their journey. Pagtatag! The Documentary officially dropped on Netflix on July 23, 2025, after first having a limited run in cinemas back in 2024. We have a no-spoiler feature on the documentary, which you can read here.
“First Pipino” live performance on Wish Bus Stopover on a scaffolding (June 2025)
While many OPM artists have performed on the prestigious Wish FM bus, none can ever say that they performed it like SB19. The P-pop group not only performed their hit single, “Dungka!”, but they also performed it on scaffolding. They all had water guns and playfully aimed water at A’tin. As crazy as it sounds, the request was a bold yet powerful statement: SB19 was on top of the world and was planting its flag on it.
The mini-concert brought delight to many fans who came to see them perform, and their scaffolding performance surely became a core memory for many A’TIN in attendance. One funny tweet comes from Irmay Ledesma, Marketing and Accounts Director at 1Z Entertainment, where she asks if the boys could perform on scaffolding with Wish FM, saying “Hindi safe sa taas ng bus, but we gotchu.” What we got was something spectacular.
“First Pipino” Back to Back Wish Bus Stop Over Session (Philippines and US, June and July 2025)
As previously mentioned, SB19 has occasionally performed their songs on Wish FM’s Wish Bus, as many artists from the Philippines do. What makes them unique and special, however, is their distinction of being the first to be able to do so in both the Philippines and the US.
Screengrabbed from fancam of korogaru213 on YouTube
In the United States, SB19 made an appearance with a Wish Bus Stopover Session held at Santa Monica Beach, California, making them the first Filipino artists to do so in both countries in a record first. This took place in July 2025. This performance increased their international fame to new heights and allowed them to connect with Filipinos all over the world.
“First Pipino” Southeast Asian Act to perform at the 2025 Hito Pop Music Awards (June 2025)
SB19 made history on June 21, 2025, as the first Southeast Asian and first Filipino act to perform at the prestigious Hito Pop Music Awards in Taiwan. As the only non-Taiwanese performers, they lit up the Taipei Arena with powerful stages of “Gento,” “DAM,” and “DUNGKA!” and even teamed up with Taiwanese boy group Ozone for a special collaboration.
The milestone cemented their role as trailblazers of Filipino and Southeast Asian music, proving their rising influence on the Asian stage. In fact, the performance at the awards night got the attention of a lot of Taiwanese fans that they were able to ask for a portion of the venue for the Taiwan concert to be opened since it was already sold out even before the Hito Awards.
“First Pipino” to sold out the PH Arena (May to June 2025)
When tickets for SB19’s “Simula at Wakas” World Tour went on sale on March 15, 2025, the group made history as their Philippine Arena concert sold out in less than seven hours. Over 100,000 A’TIN rushed to the SM Tickets platform, quickly filling all 55,000 seats of the world’s largest indoor arena. SB19 celebrated the milestone on Instagram, thanking fans with a heartfelt message and their trademark “Mahal namin kayo.” For many, the sellout wasn’t just about numbers but a powerful reminder of the deep bond between SB19 and A’TIN that has been built over years of love and dedication.
“First Pipino” to hold two consecutive shows at the PH Arena (May to June 2025)
As if selling out one Philippine Arena show wasn’t enough, SB19 made history by adding a second date, becoming the first Filipino act to hold two consecutive concerts at the world’s largest indoor arena. The “Simula at Wakas” tour kickoff started with a sold-out May 31, 2025, show, and due to overwhelming demand, a second night was added on June 1.
With 55,000 seats filled each night, this milestone proved just how powerful their fanbase is while also shining a global spotlight on OPM. The back-to-back Philippine Arena shows marked the start of their world tour, which will bring SB19 to Taipei, the US, Canada, Singapore, the Middle East, and more stops in Australia, Tokyo, and Hong Kong.
“First Pipino” Listening Party on Spotify (May 2025)
SB19 became the first Filipino artists to host a Spotify Listening Party, which took place on May 3, 2025. The event celebrated the release of their “Simula at Wakas” EP and was an audio-only shared listening experience available to Spotify Premium users.
During the event, fans were able to stream the new tracks in real time alongside SB19, chat live, and vibe together as a community, making it a fun, unique digital gathering experience. Not only did this milestone prove P-pop’s rising spot globally, but it showcased the dedication of A’TIN and the strong streaming presence of the band on Spotify.
“First Pipino” to cause an online queue of 100,000+ on SM Tickets (March 2025)
In March 2025, SM Tickets found themselves being swamped by hungry A’TIN looking to get tickets to see SB19 perform. The group was in the middle of their “Simula at Wakas” world tour, and the tickets went on sale. In March 2025, SB19 made history when tickets for their “Simula at Wakas” world tour went on sale. The shows scheduled were for the two-day concert, one on May 31 and on June 1. In total, the tour would draw 100,000 fans, a record-breaking number that overwhelmed demand and caused long stretches of queues for hours.
The shows sold out in less than 7 hours and proved how massive SB19’s following had become. The event proved to be more than a concert and showed how P-pop was on the rise, with SB19 front and center as they set new standards for all Filipino artists.
“First Pipino” with multiple songs in the top 10 of the Genius Lyrics chart (February 2025)
SB19’s songs from the “Simula At Wakas” EP achieved high rankings from the Genius Lyrics chart in February 2025, especially their lead single, “DAM.” It cements the group’s status as trailblazers in Filipino pop music, breaking new ground on global music platforms and further solidifying their presence in the global music scene.
To understand the importance of this, the chart measures the popularity and engagement of song lyrics based on searches, annotations, and interactions on the Genius platform, a leading lyrics database and annotation site. For SB19, entering the top 10 with multiple songs means their work resonates deeply with a global audience. It shows how deep their songwriting strength is, and it expands their influence beyond just music streaming.
“First Pipino” invited to THE FIRST TAKE(July 2024)
SB19 made history as the first Filipino act to perform on the popular Japanese YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE. They performed a one-take performance of GENTO, which premiered on July 1, 2024. The song is known for its hook, choreography, yet the performance challenged the boys to deliver their world-class vocals and flawless energy in a single take. Not only did they deliver a unique performance with their own fun adlibs, they rose to the occasion and proved their authenticity.
They would be invited once again to perform “MAPA,” a touching, heartfelt tribute to parents. Millions of viewers heaped praise on both performances and highlighted SB19’s artistry, vocal prowess, and sincerity. Their performance proved that Filipino talent stands tall amongst the world’s best.
“First Pipino” to be awarded the Best Artist Award at the Asia Artist Awards (December 2023)
At the Asia Artist Awards in December 2023, SB19 made history as the first and only Filipino act to win the Best Artist Award (Singer). They also took home the Hot Trend Award, proving their impact among powerhouse artists from across Asia.
It was a proud moment not just for the group but for P-Pop and Filipino music, made even more special by happening right here at the Philippine Arena on December 14, 2023. It should be noted that, although SB19 was not the only Filipino artist in attendance as Horizon won the Focus Award, both groups made their mark on the world’s stage.
“First Pipino” to both enter the World Digital Song Sales and debut at the top (June 2023)
SB19 first entered the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart in June 2023, when “Gento” debuted and peaked at number eight. Less than two years later, they reached an even bigger milestone as their single “DAM” debuted at number one in March 2025, making them the first Filipino act to ever top the chart.
“First Pipino” to break into the top five on two Billboard charts in the same week (July 2021)
In July 2021, SB19 made history as the first Filipino act to break into the top five of two Billboard charts in the same week. Following the release of their “Pagsibol” EP, their songs “What?” and “MAPA” both climbed the Billboard LyricFind Global and LyricFind US charts, a huge feat that highlighted just how far their music had reached.
A’TIN around the world searched for the lyrics to these tracks, showing not only how catchy they were but also how deeply people connected with their meaning. This important milestone proved that SB19’s artistry resonated beyond the Philippines. It solidifies their place as budding trailblazers who will bring P-pop to an international audience.
“First Pipino” to be nominated for Billboard’s Top Social Artist (April 2021)
In April 2021, SB19 made history once again as they were nominated for Top Social Artist at the Billboard Music Awards. This was historic because they were the first Filipino group and the first Southeast Asian act to be recognized in the category. This was indicative of how far their music and influence have reached on the international stage.
Despite not taking home the award, the nomination itself was already a monumental victory as it proved that P-pop stands alongside global juggernauts like BTS, BLACKPINK, and even Ariana Grande. P-pop would only grow more after SB19 has reached this milestone in their young career.
“First Pipino” to appear at the Billboard Year-end Chart (December 2020)
In December 2020, SB19 made history when they landed on Billboard’s Year-End Social 50 Artists chart when they came in at number 6. This was a massive achievement as they became the first Filipino and Southeast Asian act to appear on Billboard’s year-end chart. This comes two years after their debut and a year after their song, “Go Up,” became a viral sensation.
The Social 50 measured an artist’s online presence across platforms like YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. SB19’s placement showed the dedication that their growing fanbase, A’TIN, was becoming. With their support, the group has already proved that P-pop can stand out on its own and shine brightly on the international level.
BONUS “First Pipino” featured in Grammy’s Global Spin (July 2022)
While SB19 performs as a group, the members individually have accolades of their own. Among them is Ken, who is also known as Felip. On July 22, 2022, He was notably the first full-blooded Filipino artist to perform on the Recording Academy’s Grammy Global Spin series. Ken showcased his solo comeback single “Bulan,” a song that is inspired by Philippine mythology, combined with parts of hip-hop, rap, rock, and hints of indigenous Filipino elements.
The song highlights Ken’s high-tier rap and dance skills, as well as his efforts to express himself beyond his SB19 counterpart. This important milestone marks a significant step for Ken as a solo artist while also letting OPM be recognized on the global stage.
Trend setters. History makers. P-pop Kings. No matter what you call them, SB19 will always be the boys who made their dreams come true and blazed a trail for budding P-pop artists looking to follow in their footsteps. Their many achievements will only grow over time as SB19 gains more popularity and success as their career grows.
Wherever life chooses to lead SB19 next, A’TIN will surely follow to continue their undying love and support as always. Their win, after all, is also our win. Their achievements become our shining beacon, showing the world just what Filipinos are capable of. Down in the comments, remember to say “SB19 first pipino” if there are any moments that we may have missed that you feel should make this list. We truly appreciate it, as your input can help us make this list grow.
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