A Powerful Performance Amid the Chaos of Tokyo
Acclaimed Filipina singer-songwriter Barbie Almalbis has once again proven her artistry knows no bounds with the release of the music video for her latest single, “All U Wanna Do.”
Shot guerilla-style in the middle of Tokyo’s iconic Shibuya Crossing, the video captures Almalbis’ soulful and unfiltered performance against the vibrant rush of city life. Singing live with only her earphones for accompaniment, Barbie stands out as a calm yet powerful presence in a sea of strangers—transforming an ordinary public moment into an extraordinary act of vulnerability, resilience, and expression.
A Creative Journey in the Heart of Japan
The spontaneous project came to life during Almalbis’ recent trip to Japan, where she was invited to perform. The music video was directed and conceptualized by renowned photographer and filmmaker Niña Sandejas, whose intimate, documentary-style storytelling perfectly complements Barbie’s raw emotional delivery.
“It wasn’t an original idea—tourists film themselves there all the time—but this shoot was something else,” shared Sandejas. “Barbie sang full voice, rain pouring, people brushing past, and we only had a few takes before her next gig. What struck me most wasn’t the chaos—it was her calm. Her devotion to every performance, whether onstage or on the street, never changes.”
Behind the Scenes: Passion, Precision, and Faith
The shoot was a true collaborative effort, featuring a small, dedicated crew. Rachael Roldan took care of hair, makeup, and lighting, while Martin Honasan, Barbie’s husband, handled crowd management amid the busy crossing. Ysmael Salvador, who also edited Almalbis’ previous visuals for “Platonic” and “Needy,” brought Sandejas’ dynamic, handheld footage together into a beautifully cohesive narrative.
In a nod to Almalbis’ musical past, Sandejas wove in subtle audio echoes from Hungry Young Poets’ “Runaway”—a nostalgic detail that ties Barbie’s early career to her present artistry.
“It felt right to bring that spirit full circle,” Sandejas said. “Folding memory into the present, blending the old and the new—that’s what this piece is about.”
A Testament to Authentic Artistry
For Almalbis, the collaboration was a reflection of shared trust and creative instinct.
“Niña really is a natural,” Barbie shared. “She reacts to her surroundings with such honesty—it’s almost instinctive. Watching her work reminded me that the best art often happens when you let go and just create.”
“All U Wanna Do” isn’t just a song—it’s an intimate portrait of an artist staying true to her craft, no matter the setting. Amid Tokyo’s organized chaos, Barbie Almalbis reminds us that music, emotion, and authenticity can shine even in the most unexpected places.
Watch the music video here.
Barbie Almalbis continues to push creative boundaries while staying rooted in sincerity. Her latest visual masterpiece at Shibuya Crossing captures what makes her artistry timeless: honesty, heart, and unfiltered humanity.