Nicole Asensio out with new single ‘Silong’

The “Gameboys” fever have gone a notch higher after the streaming of episode 11 last Sunday.

After being delayed for two weeks, it was a much-awaited moment for fans both here and abroad to watch the continuation of the highly-popular BL (Boy Love) series that features Kokoy de Santos and Elijah Canlas. Produced by The IdeaFirst Company, it has caught the attention of netizens worldwide.

What makes the series click? “Gameboys” is well-acted, has a relatable script that is attuned to the times, and the production values are topnotch even if the scenes were shot in the comfort of the actors’ homes.

We don’t know if the success of “Gameboys” inspired other filmmakers to do their own BL series, but there are so many now being streamed on YouTube. Others are being shot and are set for streaming soon.

“Gameboys” has some kind of magic that drew audiences to watch it. For one, Kokoy and Elijah are such good actors (aside from being good-looking) so watching them is just too good to pass up.

Other plus factors are the script and inspired direction. Who would have thought that The IdeaFirst Company can come up with a unique story set during the time of pandemic but speaks volumes about love, family, acceptance, forgiveness and finding one’s identity?

Another BL series that has good acting, story, script and direction is “Hello Stranger” from  Black Sheep that features Tony Labrusca and JC Tolentino. A movie is now in the works after “Hello Stranger” was also well-received.

A movie for “Gameboys” is likewise in the works after 10 episodes but the producers decided to extend it for three more episodes. A new addition to the cast is Miggy Jimenez who plays Cai’s best friend in Bukidnon, while Terrence (Kyle Velino) is back to add more spice to the story.

This twist in the story makes it even more exciting. As a result, fans went wild as they try to figure out what happens to Gavreel and Cairo, whose romance has kilig factor to the max!

“Gameboys” is streamed Fridays on The IdeaFirst Company’s YouTube channel.

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Nicole Laurel Asensio is an award-winning singer-songwriter who has taken home an Awit Award (2017) and a TrendStar (Korea) Award (2018). She is often referred to as the “Schizoprano” because of her versatile vocals able to span many genres, and her quick adaptability and resilience in the music industry.

Nicole grew up with music flowing in her veins from both sides of the family. She is the granddaughter of coloratura, librettist and voice professor emeritus Fides Cuyugan-Asensio and theatre artist Celia Diaz Laurel, niece of broadway star Cocoy Laurel and daughter of singer Iwi Laurel. Her first exposure to music was through musical theatre and classical music. As a child she sang for composer Schoenberg.

After getting a degree in Literature and writing her first book, she embarked on a quest to find her own voice in the industry. Being a rebel, she founded and toured with all-female rock band General Luna. They performed original music and toured for five years abroad and in the Philippines with major brand endorsements. She also opened for international rock acts such as Mr. Big and Slash.

In 2014 she embarked on a solo career and released a self-produced album entitled “Schizoprano” under MCA Universal. She is a favorite among corporate event clients locally and abroad and has performed in London, Barcelona, Dubai, Doha, Shanghai, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Maldives, U.S.A., Malaysia, and Vietnam.

She has recently caught the eyes of a few Grammy award-winning producers and has signed with Warner Music Group.

Nicole is currently writing, producing and recording her second album with a team of top tier musicians and is aimed to release new music this year with Warner Music, the first, a single titled “Silong,” will be launched today on Spotify.