JAGMAC

All In the Family: JAGMAC’s Pop Power

By Sam Spotswood

Following in the footsteps of sibling groups like the Jackson 5 and the Jonas Brothers, Baltimore natives Jared, Alyssa, Gabriel, Manjo, Angelique, and CJ Patalinghug (collectively known as JAGMAC) have made an impressive mark on the pop world. From their first single in 2015 to their UK tour with Little Mix to their recent acquisition of the title of Radio Disney’s “Next Big Thing,” Jagmac’s wholesome, dance worthy pop discography has earned them recognition from elite members of the music industry. The group continues to progress and gain more success, as seen with their latest hit “Like a Band.” BELLOmag got to talk to JAGMAC and ask them about their relationship as siblings, their musical influences, songwriting process, and more!

As a group of siblings, how do you think being in a band together has changed your relationship?

Our relationship has changed in the best way possible! We have become closer as siblings and as band members. We’re not perfect, and we do have our moments, but we somehow make it work.

How do you think being siblings influences your creative process and your group collaboration? Who would you say contributes the most/who is the laziest (lol)?

Well, we all grew up listening to the same type of music early on, so we all have a similar taste in music. Also, being siblings helps because we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

Jared: What’s it like being the youngest? Does the order from oldest to youngest impact how the band works?

(Jared) Being the youngest has its perks and downfalls for sure, but I love being the youngest because I get all the attention! LOL. Each family dynamic is different, but we make sure to respect each other as siblings and artists, no matter the age.

What is your songwriting process like?

Our songwriting process varies depending on which producer we’re working with, but it usually consists of us sitting around the piano, coming up with different melodies. Then from there, different words will flow and then a concept will eventually develop.

What is your favorite JAGMAC song and why?

CJ – “No Plans” is my favorite song because it’s the most fun to perform!

Alyssa – “Like Me” would be my favorite because the lyrics are so relatable and it’s also a very fun song to perform.

Manjo – “No Plans” is my favorite because there’s a lot of B-More club influence in the production.

Gabriel – “Right Back With You” is my favorite song because it’s one that will never get too old to perform!

Angelique – “Be Honest” would have to be my favorite because the lyrics are everything that we stand for and it’s like our anthem song!

Jared – “Like Ooh” is my favorite because it’s super fun song to dance to!

How do each of you add your individuality to each song/performance?

We all add our individuality just by being ourselves when we perform! It’s so important to have our moment to express ourselves creatively so that the audience can see the flavor that each member has!

What was it like touring with Little Mix?

Touring with Little Mix was a dream come true! They’re such sweet girls and we had such a blast being on tour with them! Playing in different cities every night with thousands of people was an experience we’ll never forget!

What is your favorite part of tour?

Favorite part of tour would be hearing the fans sing our songs back to us!

You’re from Baltimore. What was it like getting to perform in your hometown?

Our first headlining show in Baltimore was totally epic! So many people came out, not only our friends/family, but other people we had never seen before!

As Filipino artists, what do you think about the importance of Asian-American representation in Hollywood and the music industry?

It’s so important because everyone should be proud of where they come from! To be able to connect with your roots is such an amazing thing that shouldn’t ever be hidden or ashamed of. We also look up to some Filipino artists like Bruno Mars, the Black Eyed Peas and even artists like Prince and H.E.R. who are also half Filipino like us!

What are some of your hobbies outside of music?

Aside from music, we like sports, teaching Martial Arts and hanging out with friends and family.

Manjo, I heard you’re the cook in the group. What are some of your favorite things to cook?

“My favorite thing to cook at the moment is Butter Chicken.”

Who is one artist each of you would like to collaborate with?

A: Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Bruno Mars, Thomas Rhett, Beyonce, and Shawn Mendes.

Who are some of your musical influences?

The Jackson 5, Black Eyed Peas, Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, Spice Girls

Make sure to check out some cool fun facts about JAGMAC in the issue below:

Photographer: ARIA EMORY @ariaemoryphotography

Styling: TANYA NAZARIAN

Hair: DONETT DEE EIWASIAN @beautybydee