On the opening day of Lollapalooza 2026, SB19 brought P-pop to one of the world’s biggest music festivals. Making their Chicago debut, the five-member group became the first Filipino act to perform at Lollapalooza, leaving many international viewers eager to learn more. From their genre-blending hits and hands-on creative approach to their chart success, world tours and cross-cultural collaborations, here are 5 things to know about the group taking Filipino pop worldwide

Who are the five members of SB19?

From left: Ken, Justin, Josh, Pablo and Stell. Photo: Instagram @officialsb19

SB19 consists of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken and Justin, with each member bringing something different to the group. Leader Pablo is the creative force behind much of their music, serving as their principal songwriter and producer while also contributing vocals and rap. Josh is known for his commanding stage presence and sharp delivery, while main vocalist Stell stands out for his impressive range and energetic dancing. Ken, who releases solo music as Felip, adds contrast with his signature deep voice, while youngest member Justin contributes vocals and helps shape the group’s visuals and creative direction.

How did SB19 rise to fame?

SB19’s journey began when the members were brought together by ShowBT Philippines and underwent years of K-pop-inspired training in singing, dancing and live performance. They officially debuted in October 2018 with the ballad “Tilaluha”, but their early releases struggled to attract attention, bringing the group close to disbandment. Everything changed in 2019 when the dance-practice video for “Go Up” went viral, winning viewers over with their synchronised choreography and stable vocals. The breakthrough soon helped them become the first Filipino act to enter Billboard’s Social 50 chart.

Their music refuses to stay in one lane

For many international listeners, “Gento” was their first introduction to SB19. The bass-heavy 2023 hit combines hip-hop production, sharp rap verses, powerful vocals and intricate choreography, becoming one of the group’s biggest global breakthroughs. However, their discography offers plenty of variety. “Mapa” is a heartfelt tribute to parents, while “Dam” blends dramatic electronic production with Celtic and Filipino folk influences. Moving between pop, hip-hop, R&B, rock and ballads, SB19’s music often pairs addictive hooks with Filipino wordplay and themes of family, ambition, perseverance and cultural identity.

They are the creative force behind their own music

Photo: Instagram @officialsb19

Unlike many idol groups, SB19 are deeply involved in shaping their own work, from songwriting and production to choreography and visual direction. Pablo writes or co-writes much of their discography, while Josh and Ken have also earned songwriting credits across the group’s releases. Stell contributes to choreography, and Justin helps develop their concepts, visuals and music videos. Their creative independence grew after they established 1Z Entertainment in 2023, allowing the members to manage their careers and take greater control of their artistic direction rather than simply performing ideas created for them by an outside team.

They are helping take P-pop global

SB19’s international rise began long before Lollapalooza. In 2021, they became the first Southeast Asian act nominated for a Billboard Music Award, while “Dam” later debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart in March 2025. Their 21-show Simula at Wakas world tour further expanded their reach, taking them across Asia, North America, the Middle East and Oceania. In 2026, they continued building cross-cultural connections with “Emoji”, a collaboration with Taiwanese C-pop superstar Jolin Tsai that brought together two leading names from Southeast and East Asian pop.

Also see: 10 K-pop comebacks to watch in August 2026, from Red Velvet to Stray Kids