Filipino singer-songwriter Maki (Ralph William Datoon) unveils his emotionally resonant new single, Kahel na Langit (“Orange Sky”), the fourth color‑themed release ahead of his debut album Kolorcoaster. Dropped digitally on June 13, the song explores themes of loving, losing, and finding warmth in endings
A Song for the Warm‑Hearted Alone
At his music‑video launch on June 14 at the Mall of Asia Sky Amphitheater, Maki described the song as dedicated to “those who always try to be warm for others, but sometimes also want someone to run to when they’re feeling exhausted and frustrated”. He explained that the inspiration comes from the bittersweet beauty of sunsets—endings that glow with orange warmth.
The video, co‑directed with Ingrid Ignacio, features Maki and his “zushibois” circle and incorporates personal mementos—like a handmade shirt—evoking the comfort and decay of memories. Maki emphasized that he wants viewers to find their own meaning in the visuals.
Creative Team Behind the Hue
Kahel na Langit showcases a tight collaborative effort: Maki wrote and co‑produced the track with Tati de Mesa, Jacob Clemente, and Shadiel Chan, with arrangement by his band, including Jon Lopez, Sammy Icaranom, and Ian Moscare. It follows earlier singles like “Dilaw”, “Namumula” and “Bughaw”, continuing the album’s vibrant color concept.
Chart Success & Reception
The single made a strong debut, entering Billboard Philippines’ Top Philippine Songs chart at No. 13 for the week of June 28. On Spotify Philippines, it set a 2025 record for the biggest streaming debut of an OPM track with 206.5K streams, and within 11 days surpassed 3 million streams; its video hit 300K YouTube views upon launch.
Critics also praised Maki’s evolution: Rolling Stone Philippines remarked that “kahel na langit moves away from the brightness of yellow and embraces a warmer tone – calm, expansive, and far more personal”, celebrated its emotional honesty and subtlety.
Kahel na Langit leads into his upcoming album Kolorcoaster, slated for later this year. Meanwhile, Maki continues touring—recently back on the road in the US with Silent Sanctuary and ready to bring his live performance to Canada with James Reid
All in all, Maki deepens his emotional palette with Kahel na Langit, offering a gentle yet stirring meditation on solitude, warmth, and the hues of healing.
