After a year of preparation and the challenges that were brought by the Covid-19 pandemic, MNL48 finally released their highly anticipated seventh single, “No Way Man,” with its music video released on their YouTube channel last April 1, earning an estimated 690,000 views as of this writing.
With its energetic melody, the first all-Filipina idol group’s single, according to Hallohallo Entertainment, Inc. (HHE), mirrors their can-do attitude amid their struggles.
“No Way Man” also served as the idol group’s third Senbatsu Sousenkyou single with Abby Trinidad, the winner of their annual fan election last year, leading the 16-woman Senbatsu as its Center.
Joining her are Senbatsu returnees Sheki Arzaga, Ella Mae Amat, Jamie Alberto, Jan Elaurza, Jem Caldejon, Dian Mercado, Lara Mae Layar, Coleen Trinidad, Dana Brual, Yzabel Divinagracia, and Ruth Lingat. Along with them are first-timers Andi Garcia and Princess Briquillo, as well as promoted Third Generation Kenkyuusei Lyza Roxas and Rianna Chua.
"NO WAY MAN" Abby Trinidad leads the 16-woman Senbatsu for MNL48's highly-anticipated seventh single, "No Way Man." PHOTO BY HALLOHALLO ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
In a press release, Trinidad thanked her fellow members for the inspiration to do her best for “No Way Man.” According to her, she witnessed them gave their very best to deliver a quality comeback for MNL48.
She then later admitted that she had doubts that she can pull it off. However, she kept in mind the support and encouragement she receives from the people around her.
“At first, I doubted if I could do this but I always kept in mind that I have a good support system in my sisters, co-members, and the MNL48 fans who kept encouraging and believing in me,” she said.
For Arzaga, “No Way Man” exhibits their growth as performers and highlights their vocal prowess, character, and talent in a different dancing genre. “The song has a beautiful meaning. It reflects our life as idols,” she said.
According to Angel Pancho, MNL48’s head coach, “No Way Man” will be an unforgettable single for the idol group not just because of the difficulty of its choreography, but also for what the girls went through while rehearsing for the song.
She also said that they had a hard time catching up as they are learning its dance steps through online sessions. “They have experienced a lot of things and the lyrics speak of everything [they] have been through,” she added.
HHE also revealed that a music card for “No Way Man” and a mini photobook are set to be released soon. The music card will contain the ticket that will be used for a planned Handshake Event which will be announced at a later date.