MULTIPLATINUM American singer Max Schneider, a.k.a MAX, seemed to have made the most out of his trip to the Philippines where he took part in various activities as a gift to his fans.
Among them was his special appearance at the musical noontime variety show “ASAP Natin ‘To” where he collaborated with Filipina actress and singer Alexa Ilacad to perform the song “Stupid in Love” that went viral on TikTok.
Released in February, the single was MAX’s collaboration with Huh Yunjin of fourth generation K-pop girl group LE SSERAFIM. It is part of his latest album “Love in Stereo,” where he joined forces with other artists like keshi, JVKE and Bazzi.
At the “ASAP Natin ‘To” stage, Ilacad sang Huh’s part in the song. She sparkled on stage with her glittery black outfit coupled with sheer black gloves adorned with crystals. Ilacad and MAX had a blast on stage as they grooved to the head-bopping song.
At the end of their performance, MAX talked more about “Stupid In Love,” which is about falling in love deeply with a person and mindlessly doing things together.
The American singer shared that he got his inspiration for his song from his personal experience.
“I wrote the song because I got engaged in four months to my wife. We got married in nine months, which is kinda crazy, but we just had our eighth wedding anniversary this week,” he explained.
“Sometimes, you just got to be stupid enough to just go for what’s in your gut. That’s what the song is about,” he continued.
MAX also acknowledged the K-pop idol, whom he described as a “queen,” and said that he was honored to team up with her for the song.
He also did a high-five with Ilacad and complimented her red hair, which was like Huh’s hair color. “She’s got the red hair, too. Everybody is slaying their red hair,” Max said.
Meanwhile, Alexa said that it felt surreal to team up with the American pop artist.
“I still can’t believe that happened. So thank you so much, MAX, for choosing me, and for ‘ASAP’ for the opportunity,” she said.
On Instagram, the 24-year-old singer-actress shared several photos of her ensemble for her “ASAP Natin ‘To” performance.
MAX left a comment on the post where he said, “Such a pleasure to perform with you today. You killed it.”
On X (formerly Twitter), several netizens praised Ilacad’s vocal skills and said that she killed the performance. The hashtag “AlexaDUETSwithMaxSchneider” trended on the platform.
“New face coz why not… my girlie just slayed and owned the part,” a social media user said.
Another netizen also commended the duet and said, “The double vocal slayage with Max and Alexa on ASAP stage. That’s how you do it.”
Some fans believe that Ilacad is ready to conquer the concert stage. The actress-singer is set to have a concert with her on-screen tandem KD Estrada on May 31 at the Music Museum in San Juan.
PH visit
MAX was in the Philippines to hold mall shows in Manila from April 5 to 7. He kicked off his show in U.P. Town Center, followed by Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and One Ayala.
The singer said this was his second time visiting the country. He shared that he enjoyed trying out new things in the Philippines, including visiting a restaurant that has “singing cooks and waiters.” He also tried food at a popular fast-food chain.
“It was so fun. I’ve had so many great experiences, so thank you for the warmth and kindness. It’s been incredible,” MAX said, following his “ASAP Natin ‘To” performance.
MAX also performed “Stupid In Love” live on the Wish 107.5 Bus.
In an Instagram story, MAX thanked Filipinos for what he described as “a special and unforgettable trip.”
“Met so many special people. So much passion from the fans. You sang beautifully and loud at our shows. Incredible kindness from the teams I got to work with and artists I got to meet/collaborate/perform with,” he said.
“Excited to be back again soon. Mahal kita,” he added.
