Theater actor Vien King makes recording debut with Isa Pang Habang Panahon

The Filipino music scene sees a compelling new voice in Vien King, a celebrated theater actor, who now makes his official foray into the recording industry. Known for his commanding presence and emotive performances on stage, Vien steps into the spotlight as a singer with the release of his debut single, Isa Pang Habang Panahon, written and produced by hitmaker Kiko Salazar.

A Gawad Buhay nominee and L.E.A.F. awardee, Vien has established himself as one of the leading men in contemporary Philippine theater. He starred in the intense musical “Passion” and most recently took on the role of Ibarra in “Liwanag Sa Dilim,” produced by 9 Works Theatrical, opposite Alexa Ilacad’s Maria Clara.

His transition to the recording scene is a natural next step for an artist whose passion lies in storytelling — now not just through characters, but through his own voice.

Isa Pang Habang Panahon is not just a debut — it’s a declaration. Rooted in aching vulnerability, the song tells the story of love lost and the desperate hope for one more chance to make it right. With lyrics that explore regret, longing and redemption, the ballad paints a picture of a heart that has not moved on — a soul still praying for the return of a once-beautiful connection.

“Ang natatanging dinarasal ay ang mabalik ang dating atin,” Vien sings with emotional restraint that builds into a stirring crescendo. The chorus, haunting and heartfelt, pleads for “isang pagkakataon, isa pang habang panahon” — one more shot at forever. The melody, set against Kiko’s lush yet delicate arrangement, allows Vien’s voice to shine with clarity and soul, never overpowering, always honest.

The track is marked by moments of reflection: “Akala ko nga, paglipas ng panahon, ‘tong nadarama, kusang malilimot…” — lines that echo a universal truth: we don’t always get closure, and some emotions refuse to fade. Vien breathes life into each phrase, making the listener feel every unsent message, every unspoken apology and every unresolved goodbye.

Vien’s strength lies in his ability to blend the emotional nuance of theater with the intimacy of a pop ballad. Rather than rely on flashy vocal runs, he opts for storytelling — painting vivid emotional landscapes with every line he delivers. His theatrical discipline is evident in the way he shapes the song’s arc: from gentle reflection to a soaring, almost prayer-like appeal for reconciliation.

This balance of craft and sincerity will set Vien apart in the crowded world of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) balladeers. He isn’t trying to fit into a mold — he’s simply being himself: an artist with a voice, a heart and something deeply personal to say.

With Isa Pang Habang Panahon, Vien marks a bold beginning in the recording world, bringing with him the same authenticity that made him a beloved figure onstage.

The collaboration with Kiko Salazar — whose songwriting credits include some of the biggest names in OPM — gives this debut a strong foundation. But it’s Vien’s soul-stirring performance that truly elevates the song into something timeless.

“I’ve always wanted my music to speak to people the way theater does,” Vien shares. “This song is very personal to me — it’s about recognizing your mistakes, wishing you could go back and still believing there’s a chance to start over.”

Isa Pang Habang Panahon is now available on all major music streaming platforms. Dive into this stirring debut and discover the heart of a true artist finding his song.