Will P-pop Legend SB19 Change Their Name?

Here’s What
We Know So Far

It’s definitely a lit era for our beloved P-Pop groups as they take their talents to a
bigger stage with trending performances and international nominations. And when
it comes to getting that bag, P-Pop kings SB19 certainly did not come to play.

Their comeback hit song “WYAT” recently bagged major recognition as the Best
Dance/Electronic Recording from the 36th Awit Awards, and the boys are also set to
jam next month at the Asia Artist Awards 2023.
But if there’s anything that left us speechless lately, it’s the subtle clues on possible
rebranding under a new name. This was not on our bingo card this week, bestie!

Hints That Got Us Overthinking

While social media speculations sometimes add fuel to the fire, we can’t help but
overthink with these publicity changes that started with TM Tambayan’s post.
Individual names were listed on the artist lineup, and host Ai Dela Cruz even
introduced them as Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin.

Same thing applies to the Fusion PH Music Fest, where the boys were referred to as
“Mahalima.” This was followed by the members dropping “SB19” on some of their
social media bios.
During the “One Zone” fan meet event, no trace of their usual outro “this has been
SB19” was heard from any member. What we got instead is the line “This is our
home. This is our zone. This is One Zone,” which could have been used as a
reference for the event. A special corner was also dedicated for fans to take on a
logo redesign challenge. Jumping to conclusions is not a good sport, but maybe it
could be a soft launch for a new group identity?

Not Just A Name

It’s no secret that SB19 is now a self-managed group under 1Z Entertainment,
something they have been manifesting since their trainee season. But what a lot of
people don’t know yet is that their previous management, ShowBT, still owns the
trademark for the name SB19 until 2031, that’s according to the World Intellectual
Property Organization. This has led people to believe that the recent adjustments
are linked to former management and trademark issues.

As they shy away from using their original group name, we’ve seen a rollercoaster
of emotions from their ever-supportive fanbase, A’TIN. Of course, it’s not easy to bid
farewell to the OG, but at least the boys could personally pick a brand new identity
that fits their artistry and the value that they bring to the music industry.

Rebranding is not a new thing. But we can’t deny that they already built a global
presence under the name SB19. Hopefully, the question of whether the group
would keep a tighter grip on SB19 or a full force redirection to a new name will
finally be answered in the coming days. After all, it’s not SB19 without Pablo, Josh,
Stell, Ken, and Justin, not the other way around. We will be supporting the boys
what ever it will be!