Filipino-Canadian singer MICO announces debut album, expands world tour

The long-awaited debut album of Filipino-Canadian breakout star MICO titled  “When the Light Turns On” will finally be released on June 26 under Columbia Records. 

The record arrives at a key moment in his rising career, following a breakout year that included a performance at the 2026 Juno Awards in Hamilton, where he introduced his music to a wider audience and also received a Juno nomination for Breakthrough Artist or Group of the Year.

According to his latest post on his Instagram, the album reflects the past “seven years of his life.” He also expressed gratitude to listeners for their continued support, adding that he hopes they will enjoy the project as much as he does.

The 23-year-old singer-songwriter, whose real name Jose Miguel Velasco, built a loyal fanbase through TikTok and Discord, where he shared early music and live performances. Currently, he has over one million monthly listeners on Spotify, with songs such as “Senses,” “HOMESICK,” “cut my hair,” and “another soul” among his releases.

MICO’s sound blends alternative pop and pop-punk influences, shaped by his upbringing in a Filipino household where he grew up listening to OPM. 

As his style developed, he also drew inspiration from pop-punk bands such as Fall Out Boy and 5 Seconds of Summer, according to Bandwagon Asia. His upcoming 10-track album includes the singles “Like You Mean It” and “DREAMBOY.”

MICO is also taking his music on stage with the “Running From a Feeling Tour,” which begins on September 22 in Philadelphia and will move across major cities in North America, including Chicago, Los Angeles, Seattle and Toronto.

The tour will also include stops in Asia and Australia, including a Manila show scheduled for November 21 at Skydome, with ticket access currently available through sign-up.