VP/Cover | Zack Tabudlo: Diving into Music, Big Dreams, and Self-Care
In a quiet room filled with warm light and half-written lyrics, Zack Tabudlo stands at the edge of a new chapter. His voice, once echoing from bedroom walls, now ripples across oceans. A calm in his eyes, not from the absence of storms, but the kind of peace you earn after weathering them.
At 23, he’s not just chasing hits, he’s stepping into something bigger. A journey that’s bolder and more intentional; a new goal that doesn’t just come with numbers, but with meaning.
Fresh off a Mercury Records deal and a year that tested his limits, he’s surfacing from a deep dive ready for more. His latest jump? Not just into new music, but into a fresh role as the face of Blackwater, a move that mirrors his belief in taking care of what’s within and what’s seen.
When Music Feels Like Home
Music for Zack Tabudlo is more than just a career, it’s his home. The only place where he feels safest and most like himself. Crafting new melodies and lyrics has been his passion and just the thought of it makes his eyes light up.
“I feel I’m at my best when I’m in the studio making music,” he shares.
Now taking it a step further, he recently reached a game-changing moment when Mercury Records officially welcomed him into their roster—a move that solidifies his place among global music heavyweights.
“It was a dream come true for me, joining the roster of artists who I look up to and who influenced my music. It’s such a surreal experience,” he says. ”After so many years of hard work and learning, I’m proud to finally be part of the Mercury Records family.”
This milestone for Zack was anything but overnight. It began with the release of his first full-length album, Episode, which he describes as a turning point in his life and career. For him, coming out of the pandemic, he wasn’t sure what the future looked like. Lo and behold, Episode blew up across Southeast Asia, and eventually reached the US.
The Story of Diving
After a months-long break since Isa, Dalawa, Tatlo, Zack came back with Diving, a track that doesn’t just signal a fresh era but also sets the tone for what’s to come under Mercury Records.
“Diving was the start of this new chapter of songs coming soon. It’s headed toward the sonic direction we’re taking in the US. I built the song on the foundation of how pop songs are usually made, but I also wanted to experiment with new textures and sounds. It’s both a statement and a way to kick off my Mercury Records announcement.”
The song reflects Zack’s evolving artistry, embracing experimentation without losing the emotional core that fans love about his music. With global exposure now within reach, Diving acts as both a love letter to his Filipino fans and a bold invitation to new audiences abroad.
Confidence Starts with Self-Care
Behind the music, Zack has been carving out another role that speaks to his values—becoming the face of Blackwater, a brand that champions men’s self-care.
“I feel grateful for this opportunity to work with a brand that promotes self-care for men. It’s an honor because self-care is something I think is really important—not just for men, but for everyone,” he shares.
Zack’s self-care routine is simple but non-negotiable: a shower and skincare, especially after a show or a workout. One step he never skips? Sunscreen. His go-to is the Sun Defense Sun Stick—easy to apply, no white cast, high SPF, and water-resistant.
“I love how Blackwater made one specifically for men. It’s super handy, and perfect for someone like me who sweats a lot!”
For Zack, confidence starts from within. Essentially, self-care is learning to love and accept yourself. It boosts your confidence and helps you believe in what you can do.
It’s a perspective that mirrors a growing movement among young men to break stereotypes and embrace habits that make them feel and look their best. As Zack proves, self-care isn’t vanity—it’s simply showing up as the best version of yourself.
Chasing Dreams, Breaking Barriers
The road to success is rarely easy, and Zack knows this better than anyone. The weight of expectations, pressure, and criticism can be heavy, but his support system keeps him grounded.
“My family and everyone who supports my music gives me the courage to keep going. It’s never easy to deal with pressure, but I just pray about it. At the end of the day, as long as my family and my girlfriend support me, I’m good with that.”
He also has a piece of advice for those who hold back because of fear or judgment: Don’t settle for what-ifs. Grab the chances thrown your way and just go for it!
This mindset has helped him push past boundaries, both in his personal growth and his career. Zack’s journey is a reminder that courage isn’t about being fearless; it’s about moving forward even when fear exists.
What’s Next for Zack Tabudlo?
With his Mercury Records deal opening new doors, Zack is gearing up for an exciting year ahead. Fans can expect a mix of heartfelt ballads and experimental tracks, all carrying his signature storytelling and emotional depth.
“There’s a lot of upcoming things this year, most especially new music, new releases. So stay tuned for that!” he teases.
And while his sound continues to evolve, so does his role off-stage. As the brand ambassador for Blackwater, Zack is championing the message that self-care is for everyone; especially men who want to feel confident in their own skin. It’s a partnership that feels authentic to who he is, blending his creative expression with a lifestyle that prioritizes looking and feeling good.
Despite the growing fame, Zack remains refreshingly grounded. Whether he’s talking about music, faith, or self-care, there’s an honesty his fans connect with. He’s the kind of artist who doesn’t just create hits, he inspires his audience to embrace who they are, take care of themselves, and go after their dreams.
Zack Tabudlo is more than a chart-topping artist. He’s a voice of his generation: bold, relatable, and unafraid to dive into new waters. And with his career hitting new heights—including his new role as brand ambassador for Blackwater—one thing is certain: this is only the beginning.
Publisher | Richie de Quina (@richiedequina) & Gwynn Crisostomo
Editor-in-Chief | John Luke Chica (@annoyedluke)
Junior Editor | Lei Sedero (@arthreo)
PR & Advertising Manager | Josh Austria (@imjoshaustria)
Digital Manager | Allen Esteban (@iamallenesteban)
Words by Lei Sedero (@arthreo)
Photographer: Peter Almario (@picturesquebypeter)
Assisted by: John David Credito (@creditoooo) and Brenna Alabastro (@alabasthrow)
HMUA: Jayson Miguel M. Labeo (@exyajerate.mua)
Assistants: Michole Mananquil (@cholestarr) and Raynan Allen Mauricio
Stylist: Giuseppe John Aaron Mangsat (@aaronmangsat)
Assistants: Dhea Ondes (@dheaondes) and Em Freo (@freoemelyn)
