Ben Madilynn
Longtime Beatles fans The Itchyworms gear up for a meaningful UK debut, championing nostalgia, rock music, and Pinoy Rock
Filipino rock icons The Itchyworms marks their long-awaited debut in the UK with the #AkinKaNaLangUK Tour.
The chart-topping act behind the hits “Beer,” “Love Team,” and “Di Na Muli” are set to bring their inescapable live performances and anthemic sound through a three-city tour covering Manchester, Liverpool, and London.
As lifelong Beatles fans, the band is especially thrilled to be stepping onto the same stages and streets that shaped their musical heroes.
“We’re HUGE Beatles fans, so I’m excited to go to Abbey Road with my bandmates, and of course Liverpool, and play at the Cavern Club where the Beatles first performed,” shared Vocalist/Drummer Jazz Nicolas. “England feels like our ultimate frontier.”
The UK leg of the tour follows the band’s well-received shows across Japan, Singapore, the US, Canada, and Taiwan. The response during their tour was met with overwhelming love from global fans—many of whom introduced the band’s music to friends and partners of all nationalities.
“What I realised is they don’t care if they understand the words—they understand the feeling,” said Vocalist/Guitarist Jugs Jugueta, reflecting on the universal language of music.
Between shows, the band hopes to squeeze in some sightseeing and soak up the musical heritage of each city.
Jugs explains, “I’ve been to London three times already, but this is the first time I’m going there with my bandmates. We’ll be geeking out on all things Beatles!”
But touring isn’t without its challenges. With a lean crew that includes only a manager, sound engineer, and sometimes one tech, The Itchyworms emphasize flexibility and endurance on the road.
Kelvin Yu, the band’s bassist, shared some tips when it comes to touring the world as an artist from the Philippines. “Our tip to other bands: Start with Japan or Singapore. They’re close to the Philippines, cheaper, and have great gig opportunities with strong Filipino communities.”
Despite the logistical hurdles, the band remains energized by the global enthusiasm for OPM (Original Pilipino Music).
“OPM deserves to be heard and appreciated internationally—and we’re seeing that happen more and more,” the award-winning band shares in a press statement. “We love it!”
The tour has already yielded some unforgettable moments—from a fan in Osaka who tried to kiss two band members, to an enthusiastic senior in Chicago who attempted a surprise striptease mid-show.
As for what audiences can expect from their live performances, the band puts it simply:
“For more than two hours, we hope the music brings people back to the Philippines. We want them to forget their problems and just enjoy Filipino music with fellow Filipinos.”
And the journey doesn’t stop here. While the UK marks a milestone, the band hints at future legs in Australia, New Zealand, a return to Canada in 2026, and possibly, some stops in Southeast Asia.
To their UK fans, the band has a heartfelt message: “We’re so excited to meet you all in Manchester, Liverpool, and London! If you see us on the streets, don’t be shy to say hello!”
Catch The Itchyworms on the #AkinKaNaLangUK Tour:
June 22 (Sun) – Night & Day Cafe (Manchester)
June 23 (Mon) – Cavern Club (Liverpool)
June 28 (Sat) – Dingwalls Camden (London)
Tickets available at: www.itchyworms.com
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Source: The Itchyworms to Cross Continents with #AKinKaNaLangUK Tour
