JayR’s film ‘Songs for Selina’ exposes the music industry’s dark side
‘Songs for Selina’ | CONTRIBUTED
LOS ANGELES — How far would you go for fame – and what price would you pay?
Filipino American R&B icon and producer JayR confronts these questions in “Songs for Selina,” his latest project now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
Starring an all-Filipino cast, including his wife Mica Javier and Rachel Alejandro, the film peels back the glamorous veneer of showbiz to reveal its harsh realities.
Drawing on more than two decades in the industry, JayR steps into both leading and behind-the-scenes roles to tell a story that hits close to home.
“This film is about the unspoken truths in the music scene — the sacrifices, betrayals and ethical dilemmas artists face behind the scenes,” he told Inquirer.net USA.
“I’ve been in this industry for a long time, and I’ve seen how things can get really complicated. I wanted to create a story that exposes those hidden struggles, not to sensationalize, but to shed light on what many artists go through, often in silence.”
Inspired by true stories and his own journey, the Filipino American singer and composer crafted Songs for Selina to shed light on the industry’s dark side and to serve as a cautionary tale for aspiring artists.
The story follows two musical soulmates, Maya (Rachel Coates) and Selina (Mica Javier), whose friendship and careers are torn apart by the ruthless pressures of fame and the industry’s inner workings.
CONTRIBUTED
The project was a labor of love for the Fil-Am singer, who not only starred in the film but also composed and produced most of its original music.
Despite setbacks, including a three-year delay due to COVID-19, JayR and his team completed the film in Los Angeles, elevating its production quality.
“Producing this film was a personal mission for me,” JayR said. “I wanted to tell a story that isn’t often told — the reality behind the music industry that many people see only on the surface. It’s about the sacrifices artists make, sometimes at the expense of their integrity, and the betrayal that can happen when ambitions clash. I think it’s important for people to understand that success often comes with a cost, and not everyone is prepared for it.”
He emphasized that the story is rooted in real experiences and aims to educate both industry insiders and fans about the challenges artists face.
“This isn’t just entertainment; it’s a reflection of some harsh truths. I hope it opens eyes and starts conversations about the ethical issues and mental health struggles that often go unnoticed in the industry,” JayR noted.
As a seasoned artist, JayR also highlighted his commitment to advocating for artists’ rights and mental health.
“Having been in this business for over two decades, I’ve seen many talented people struggle because they weren’t protected or supported,” he said. “Sharing these stories is my way of giving back and helping to empower the next generation of Filipino musicians and entertainers. If my experience can serve as a warning or a lesson, then I’ve done my part.”
Looking ahead, JayR is working on new music projects and has already begun planning additional film ventures. His advice to aspiring artists is to stay authentic, leverage digital platforms and remain vigilant in navigating the industry’s pitfalls.
“Stay true to your craft and your values,” JayR said. “Use technology to your advantage and don’t be afraid to tell your story. The industry is tough, but with perseverance and integrity, you can carve out your own path. Just remember, success isn’t just about fame — it’s about staying true to who you are, no matter what.”
“Songs for Selina” not only showcases Filipino talent but also serves as a compelling reminder of the industry’s dark side – an honest reflection from one of its most influential figures.
