Meet Filipino-Canadian pop/R&B artist Mikey Jose —a soulful powerhouse and a PhD candidate in neuroscience.
Existing at the intersection of science and spirit, Jose draws vocal inspiration from legends like Stevie Wonder and Allen Stone to contemporary icons like Jazmine Sullivan and Lucky Daye.
His new single, “AY NAKO!”, just dropped—and it’s so good, you’ll wonder why Mikey Jose isn’t already a household name.
In Tagalog, “Ay Nako!” loosely translates to “Oh my gosh!”—but it carries deeper meaning. It’s the sigh your aunt lets out when you mess up (again), the groan your mom gives when love gets complicated. It's exasperation, affection, and life—all wrapped up in one phrase.
From the jump, Jose launches into sing-speaking that matches the palpable energy of the track—funky, soulful, and impossible not to move to.
Vocally, he’s in a league of his own—effortlessly hitting high notes and delivering the top-line melody like his life depends on it. His performance is fluid, emotionally rich, and playfully dances between registers. Lyrically, he weaves between English and Tagalog, adding a vibrant layer that feels both joyful and deeply rooted in his identity.
Sonically, the funky electric guitar riffs, driving rhythm, soulful harmonies, and twinkling keys amplify the groove from the very first beat.
An honest stunner of a single, “AY NAKO!” is the track to press play on if you want to truly understand Mikey Jose’s artistry—and all the talent he brings to the table.