P-Pop Boyband AYO Finds Strength in Duality in Pre-Debut Single ‘I’m Him’

The Davao-based pop act challenges conventions while celebrating identity, purpose, and collective strength

AYO is the latest addition to Sony Music Entertainment’s esteemed roster of P-Pop acts. Arriving with primal energy and unmistakable superstar aura, the Davao-based, seven-member boy group is composed of Justin, Renzo, GV, TJ, Enzo, Zack, and Patrick. Their name is derived from the Cebuano word “maayo,” which means talented. It’s also commonly used as a call for attention, much like knocking on a door.

Representing a new generation of pop groups that are unafraid to disrupt the norm, AYO embodies the multicultural spirit of their hometown while rewriting the rules with effortless confidence and discipline. These qualities reflect the unapologetically authentic sound of “I’m Him,” their pre-debut single. Anchored in rebellious spirit and self-awareness, the song defies expectations while encouraging their listeners to stand firm on who they are and embrace their individuality.

“Within our group, we each bring different strengths and come from varied backgrounds,” shares the P-Pop newcomer in a press statement. “Instead of letting that highlight our individuality alone, we turn it into a collective advantage. “I’m Him” represents our confidence in our individual strengths—but more importantly, it’s about expressing them together as one, in harmony.”

Touching on themes such as identity and self-discovery, the track empowers music fans to embrace every facet of themselves, including imperfections. It reframes difference as strength and individuality as power, asserting presence and purpose.

“I’m Him” is produced by Paolo Lofranco, whose booming hip-hop beats, layered textures, and commanding vocal design, bring an exciting new dimension to their sound. The group also contributed heavily to the songwriting and production process, reflecting the duality that defines their work: chaotic and refined, raw and powerful.

“We’re incredibly grateful to be working with our producer on this song,” AYO reveals. “It is a song he already made even before AYO was formed. Undoubtedly, it captures the core of AYO’s DNA. Moving forward, we’re excited to create and write more of our music while continuing to explore different sounds and genres.”

Accompanying the release of the track is a music video helmed by ODS Productions. The video captures the pop group’s duality through contrasting environments: raw, industrial warehouse scenes, which reflect their chaotic and powerful side, and the helipad scenes, which highlight their refined, elevated presence. Together, these elements exhibit two extremely different visuals unified by a singular identity.

AYO also praised ODS Productions, the creative group responsible for the video treatment and direction. “They were able to fully embody our vision as artists and translate it into reality with precision and care. It’s also a pleasure collaborating with a team that shares the same passion and drive that we have for creativity. We look forward to growing this partnership further and building a stronger, more active creative community in Davao—and eventually across Mindanao.”

AYO’s “I’m Him” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family. Learn more about our creators and labels here.