When we launched the Complex Council this year, we intended to prod the minds of those we believe best represent our key tenets of music, lifestyle, and pop culture. Featuring artists, content creators, athletes, and entrepreneurs, the Council is as reputable as anyone in their respective fields.
So far, the audience reception – that includes you dear reader – has been awesome. Complex Council V1 was a catch-all for big names such as Al James, Denise Julia, and Bigboy Cheng. V2 zeroed in on the future with talents like Kiyo, Waiian, and Nadine Lustre. And every single time, you’ve come through to like, share, and comment on how we made the right picks (well, most of the time; Debbie Downers are still out there. We still love you though.)
With a ton of stories at hand from various perspectives, the Council is also an opportunity to scoop valuable wisdom, especially for the fresh start that is 2024. Open your Resolutions journal because here are the best Complex Council quotes to live by for the New Year, straight from the sources themselves. If you want to read the full list, check out the main Council page here.
Al James
“You have to stay inspired, motivated, and work hard para ma-pursue mo yung gusto mong passion” – On the boom of the local hip-hop scene.
Complex Council: Al James
Nadine Lustre
“Trust your gut. Be careful of the people you keep around you.” – On the best lessons of her 20s.
Complex Council: Nadine Lustre
Alaric “Anygma” Yuson“
Hindi kasi ako ganon mag-isip. ‘Sana ginawa ko ‘to. Sana ginawa ko ‘yan.’ In general, go harder lang. Pagbutihin pa lalo.” – On whether he’d change anything about FlipTop’s beginnings.
Complex Council: Anygma
Don’t Blame The Kids (Emil and Vince Javier)
“Madalas mag-sstart ka dahil uso. Biglang yung ideas mo nawawala na. Consistency is needed to leave a mark.” – On entering the streetwear market
Paul Tan
“I believe timing is everything. Everything falls into place at the right time.” – On whether he’d change his origins in sneaker culture.
Complex Council: Paul Tan
Pauline Lopez
“You can’t teach grit. Puso talaga” – On why Filipino athletes kick ass.
Christian Alexander
“The everyday singer in the Philippines can sing better than most people in the world.” – On why Filipinos have a massive interest in music.
Complex Council: Christian Alexander
Waiian
“Being authentic and honest is how you separate yourself from everybody else” – On the emphasis of being ‘real’ in his music.
