Mackie Empuerto, one of the powerful trio comprising the TNT Boys, breathes new life into the Ryan Cayabyab classic “Can This Be Love,” his first single as a solo artist that is set to drop on digital platforms on Friday (March 18).

A Smokey Mountain original, “Can This Be Love” talks about young love particularly the magic of first love. Marvin Querido arranged and produced Mackie’s remake under TNT Records.

During the media launch for his song, Mackie shared that he was at first hesitant to explore a solo music career. “There was a time when I got scared to explore but I chose to believe in myself and in what I can do,” he shared.

The 16-year old Kapamilya talent also said that he personally believed that “Can This Be Love” is the perfect single for his age and he liked that it is relatable to everyone.

When asked if he ever experienced being in love as narrated in the song, he admitted to being inspired by his crushes when he recorded the remake. He said, “Yes, I think it’s normal to have a crush especially since I’m a teenager. Isa po ‘yun sa mga pinaghugutan ko po, ‘yung mga crush ko.”

Coinciding with the launch of his single, Mackie also signed a contract with ABS-CBN Music, TNT Records, and Polaris Entertainment.

ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo welcomed him to the ABS-CBN Music family. “We’re very excited because we believe in what you can do as a singer. With the talent that you have, we know that you will reach greater heights,” he told Mackie at the launch.

TNT Records and Polaris Entertainment head Reily Santiago also stressed they all recognized Mackie’s artistry, which they would like to share with more music fans. He said, “Alam naman natin ang achievements ni Mackie at ang talento niya and we just want to share that. Abangan niyo ang gift niya sa kanyang fans!”

Known as not just a singer but also a dancer and an actor, Mackie was a finalist in “Tawag ng Tanghalan Kids,” which led to his amazing journey as a member of the world-class group TNT Boys. Aside from music, he also ventured into acting and won Best Child Actor of the Year at the Urduja Film Festival 2019 for the movie “Bakwit Boys.” He will also continue to be a member of TNT Boys.

Relive the feelings of first love in Mackie’s “Can This Be Love,” out on digital platforms on Friday (March 18). For more details, like Star Music on Facebook (www.facebook.com/starmusicph) and follow it on Twitter and Instagram (@StarMusicPH).