Bisaya Beats Meet the Big Apple: Cookie$ & Midnasty Shine in Times Square

When underground hip-hop transcends regional boundaries and hits one of the world’s busiest intersections, you know something special is happening. That’s exactly the moment captured by Cookie$ and Midnasty — two rising names in Bisaya hip-hop — as they got their spotlight illuminated on a massive Spotify billboard in Times Square. What makes this more than just an optics play? It’s a milestone for culture, representation, and global exposure.

The Story Behind the Moment

Cookie$ and Midnasty teamed up for a track called Wa Na Wa, released under Spotify’s initiative KALYE X, which aims to celebrate and elevate Pinoy and Bisaya hip-hop. 

In their own words, Cookie$ described the collaboration as “an important step” toward bringing Bisaya hip-hop beyond local borders — a way of sharing “vibrant Bisaya culture through our music.” Meanwhile, Midnasty spoke about using hip-hop as “an avenue … to channel our energy into something positive,” and emphasized the opportunity to reach a wider audience. 

Performing “Wa Na Wa” during the first leg of KALYE X concerts in Cebu City, the duo introduced Bisaya-flavored energy to their hometown audience — but Spotify had bigger plans. As part of the campaign’s reach, their artistry was projected onto a billboard right in Times Square, New York City — a move that symbolically brings their hometown roots onto a global stage.

Why It Matters

• Representation: For many fans of regional hip-hop (especially outside Manila), seeing local Bisaya artists represented internationally — not just in the Philippines — sends a powerful message about culture, identity, and relevance. The Times Square billboard isn’t just an ad: it’s affirmation that Bisaya hip-hop belongs on the global map.

• Exposure: Times Square is one of the most iconic and traveled areas in the world. Getting featured there means exposure not just to Filipino fans, but to a global audience — forcing listeners to pause, click the code, maybe stream the song, and possibly become new fans.

• Symbol of Growth: The fact that the streaming platform behind the campaign is Spotify, and the track is part of a curated playlist and release, speaks to how regional hip-hop scenes are being recognized and supported by major global players. It signals growth of Filipino hip-hop from local streets to global streams.
  

A Personal Note — For Us Producers

As we build projects like this, developing together this kind of moment is powerful inspiration. It shows that with authenticity, regional flavor, and quality execution — even artists outside of major capitals can reach global visibility. At 777 International, we strongly suggest a model worth paying attention to if you're thinking about how to promote your own music or beats.

What It Says About the Future of Hip-Hop

The feature of Cookie$ and Midnasty in Times Square hints at a shift in the narrative: hip-hop is no longer centralized around a few major cities or scenes. Streaming platforms and their global reach are opening doors for regional artists everywhere. What was once “underground local rap” can now become an international calling card.

Conclusion

Cookie$ and Midnasty lighting up a Spotify billboard in Times Square isn’t just a win for the artists or 777 International — it’s a win for Bisaya hip-hop, for regional representation, and for every artist grinding outside of mainstream centers. It proves that with the right platform, community support, and creative integrity, music from anywhere can reach everywhere.