By: Olivia Nerpouni
Angeli Chaves is stepping into what could be one of her most exciting years yet. With her debut EP Star on Earth on the horizon, the rising musician is crafting a sound that she describes as “cosmic and pop-forward.” More specifically, the project is an exploration of love in its many forms, wrapped in melodies that carry deep emotion and strength. Working with Grammy-nominated producer Luigie Gonzalez, known for his genre-defying soundscapes, Chaves’ project is shaping up to be truly unique.
This year, Chaves took center stage as a headliner for Fil-Am Fashion Week 2025, a milestone that marks a notable step in her growth as both a performer and an advocate for Filipino representation in creative industries. Having participated in the event for the past two years, this headlining moment appears to be an exciting new level of recognition for her artistry. But perhaps one of the most anticipated aspects of her journey is the release of her single, “Luxurious,” a song focused on self-confidence and femininity. The music video for the song, set to debut in 2026, is shaping up to be a full-circle reflection of Chaves’s talent and collaboration. “‘Luxurious’ isn’t about wealth or status,” Chaves explains. “It’s about self-worth, inner shine, and feeling empowered in your own skin, as the world watches.”
Photo Courtesy: Angeli Chaves
The music video’s production has come together with the support of a dedicated team of creatives, each of whom Chaves credits as vital to bringing her vision to life. Firstly, Chaves thanks Director Ricardo Moreno, whose artistic approach helped make the entire experience enjoyable and collaborative. Supporting Moreno’s direction was Assistant Director Sheila Shing Cordero, whose leadership contributed to keeping the production on track from start to finish. Mat Frasier, the Technical Coordinator, connected Chaves with a talented crew that helped ensure the day went smoothly, while Mike Zessin (Assistant Director – Technical) managed lighting and cues, and MJ Gonzales (Production Assistant) handled behind-the-scenes logistics.
Family has also played an important role in the success of “Luxurious.” Chaves’s mother, Tata Chaves, was “the brains of the entire project,” overseeing creative direction and production details. Her father, Jimbo Chaves, served as the Audio Playback Lead and emotional support throughout the shoot, offering laughter and hands-on assistance every step of the way. Another key contributor to the visual appeal of “Luxurious” was Sheen of Pretty Party Please, Chaves’s Tita, whose set design transformed a simple space into something cinematic. With additional help from Sam Kinderknecht, Anne Marie McMurtrey, and April Luz Garcesa, Sheen’s lighting, decor, and ambiance turned the shoot into a dreamy, real-world experience.
The choreographic expertise of Khayla Grace Maglipon, Chaves’s cousin, also added to the production. As a choreographer, Maglipon’s creative direction influenced the physical storytelling of the video, guiding Chaves and her dancers through movements filled with emotion. Dancing alongside Chaves were McKenzie Proctor, Michelle Delvaux, and D’Annalyn Faith Washington, whose performances reflected confidence. The male supporting cast – Olexander Zoshchak, Conor McMurtrey, Dominik McBride, Gavinoah Vogt, Karem Boukhari, Kendric Degraffreed, and Nathan Austria – also contributed to the video’s dynamic energy. Complementing them were the female supporting cast – Alexia Alvarado, Caliah Soleil Narvios Tuiletufuga, Jasmine Mai Pratt, Kiara Landon (Miss Earth USA Eco 2025), and Makayla Daniels – who embodied the empowerment that “Luxurious” celebrates.
Furthermore, no production would be complete without glam, and Chaves’s beauty team delivered with style. Jasmine Mai Pratt of M2J Studio, with the help of her mother, Margie Pratt, created Chaves’s makeup look. Melisa Hensley styled Chaves’s hair, while Medy Santos and Elenita Nigro perfected the dancers’ hairstyles and makeup, making sure everyone looked radiant under the camera lights. And the fashion for “Luxurious” was striking, thanks to collaborations with talented designers. Priyanka Chopra of Priyanka Signature Couture and Santiago Miguel and Alejandro Vazquez of Santiago Alejandro sponsored some of Chaves’s most eye-catching wardrobe looks. Priyanka Signature Couture provided a pink embroidered gown along with a gold-beaded top and black-and-gold mini skirt ensemble paired with gold cuffs, jewelry, and boots that helped Chaves make a statement on screen. On the other hand, Santiago Alejandro created a distinctive purple-and-silver gown with ruffled shoulders and a detachable train, as well as a black-and-white look with a tutu-style skirt, leggings, heels, and mesh gloves that conveyed a sense of Old Hollywood elegance. Max Alvarado, Wardrobe Coordinator for Angeli, also helped curate and style her outfits.
Behind the camera, Perry Cucinotta was responsible for capturing the project through film and photography, while Brielle Dimalanta documented the behind-the-scenes moments that revealed the laughter and teamwork of the entire crew. Chaves also expressed gratitude to Tom Kearns, who sponsored his beautiful vintage car, featured in one of the video’s most memorable scenes. The venue itself, sponsored by Melanie, Scott, and the Proctor family, provided the perfect backdrop. And to keep the crew energized throughout the long shoot days, Chona and Joey Lastimosa provided food assistance, while Percy Pepa of Papa’s Lumpia, Sally Esmena (Master Esthetician of BeauteMe), and Norman and Mari Austria of NBrothers Bakeshop contributed meals and desserts. Vergielyn Aglugub sponsored the dancers’ rehearsal venue, while Joyce and Ed Maglipon sponsored flights for Khayla Grace Maglipon, making sure everything ran smoothly. Coordinating the large cast and crew were Rubyeve Jumamil (Boys’ Talent Coordinator), Lyn Bethard (Girls’ Talent Coordinator), and Armi Casingal (Dancers’ Coordinator), whose organization helped the production stay on track.
As Chaves reflects on the experience, she is filled with gratitude. “I am endlessly thankful to everyone who made ‘Luxurious’ possible,” she says. “Every person who showed up, whether they were setting up lights, styling hair, or just offering support, put their heart into this. This project was built on love, teamwork, and creativity.”
Aside from the excitement of “Luxurious,” the rest of 2025 also appears to be packed with a busy and fulfilling schedule for Chaves. October and the months ahead are filled with appearances and performances in celebration of Filipino American History Month, as well as upcoming holiday events that she is looking forward to sharing with her fans. And while summer remains her favorite season, Chaves says the holiday months bring a certain magic that fuels her artistry. Still, all eyes are on the approaching launch of Star on Earth, the EP that is expected to solidify her position as one of the most exciting emerging voices in pop. Her favorite track, “Dream Boy,” is a song that balances ethereal soundscapes with pure emotional expression. “The hook is infectious,” Chaves says. She credits Luigie with making it feel both magical and fresh.
In the coming months, Chaves plans to continue building her Star on Earth brand by sharing more behind-the-scenes glimpses on TikTok and Instagram, offering fans a closer look at the creative process and the community that surrounds her. With the “Luxurious” video set to premiere in 2026 and Star on Earth coming soon, Angeli Chaves appears poised to shine even brighter in the near future.
