Maki reveals surreal backstage chat with Rex Orange County

After opening for his musical idol in Manila, the “Dilaw” hitmaker shares how the dream encounter inspired him to write a hundred new songs.

For Maki, one photo says more than any elaborate caption could.

The OPM hitmaker shared a candid shot of himself deep in conversation with British singer-songwriter Rex Orange County backstage at the latter’s Manila concert, and judging by Maki’s caption, the moment was one he knew he would never forget.

“U guys have no idea how much this convo means to me. Sulat pako ng mga ano 100 songs,” Maki wrote, seemingly still trying to process the fact that he was actually there, talking to one of his musical inspirations.

Then came the simplest reaction to a moment that still felt surreal: “Is this real life.”

The photo came after Maki opened for Rex during his exclusive Manila concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Aug. 20, alongside fellow Filipino act Over October, who also served as one of the British singer-songwriter’s front acts.

Maki performed some of his own hits, including “Dilaw” and “Saan,” before eventually meeting Rex backstage. For the young artist, the encounter carried an added layer of meaning: Rex had long been among his musical inspirations, with Maki previously covering his songs.

So, in one night, Maki went from singing the music of an artist he admired to becoming one of the acts opening for him, and eventually having a conversation with him.

It was the kind of full-circle moment that can make even a rising artist stop and take stock of how far he has come.

Rex’s Manila show marked his second major Philippine appearance after his first concert for Filipino fans at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in October 2023.

This time, however, one of the artists welcoming him back was someone who once knew him primarily through his music. Maki didn’t just open for one of his musical inspirations. His inspiration was there to watch him perform.

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