Mica Javier Discusses Her New Single, Musical Journey, 'Songs For Selina,' And The Power Of Filipino Representation

As a pop star, fashion trendsetter, actress, and entrepreneur, Mica Javier stands as an essential voice and a must-watch icon in today’s pop culture scene. Her vibrant dance-pop anthem “Runway,” released July 29, marks the exciting beginning of her upcoming EP and a daring new chapter of music set to roll out. “I’m so excited for the world to hear my new song Runway—the 2nd of many, on this musical rebrand that I’ve embarked on this year,” Javier shares. “ Runway is my reminder to strut through life with confidence, owning every part of who I am, unapologetically.”

Ahead, Fizzy Magazine sits down with the radiant and fearless musician to explore her passion for music, her role in Amazon Prime ‘‘Songs for Selina,’’ her signature style, and the importance of Filipino representation in the entertainment industry.

Mica, when did you first realize music was part of you?

I grew up in a family of entertainers, with some of my uncles being pioneers in Philippine entertainment and music. My parents, siblings, and cousins were always singing and dancing and I think I was born with the music or the performer gene for sure. I must’ve been 3 or 4 when I first started ballet, music classes soon after, 13 when I taught myself to play guitar, and probably around 15 when I first started writing my own songs.

Who were the artists who influenced you growing up?

Such a random mix because of what we had access to, but Michael Jackson, the Beatles, the Footloose Soundtrack, then evolved to Britney, TLC, Michelle Branch, Christina Aguilera, Jojo, Destiny’s Child, Mya, and J Lo.

If you had to define yourself in three songs, what would they be?

I Will Survive, Empire State of Mind, and Diamonds.

What does your creative process look like? Do lyrics hit you first, or is it energy, melody, visuals?

Definitely energy first–once a vibe from a track is captured, then comes melody, then lyrics. Visuals come when the song is all done and I’ve marinated with it for a while.

What drew you to Songs for Selina — and what did this story awaken in you?

“Songs for Selina” is an original story born from real-life experiences shared by me, my husband Jay R, known as the Philippines’ King of R&B, and our peers in the industry. As a co-executive producer on the film, I wanted to shed light on the darker realities behind the glitz and glamour–stories that are often overlooked or untold. The industry can be unforgiving, and it was important to show those truths in the hopes of inspiring change and empowering others. What this project awakened in me is the belief that no matter the obstacle, you truly can achieve anything you set your mind to.

How did you prepare emotionally for this role?

Because it was based on true stories, I drew from my own life and testimonies of our peers. Preparing for the role felt natural because when you work so closely with artists trying to make it in the industry, you learn to lead with empathy for their journeys and your own. I had plenty of real-life experiences and past moments to draw from, which made the performance more personal and honest.

What part of Selina’s journey felt closest to your own experience as a woman, as a Filipina, or as an artist?

What really hit home for me about Selina’s journey was how her looks became the first thing people talked about and the main thing they tried to sell. There’s always so much more to a woman than just her appearance–don’t get me wrong, having a great look is a huge blessing. It’s just that in male-dominated spaces, it can be hard to tell when someone’s intentions are genuine. That uncertainty often forces you to build walls to protect yourself, or in Selina’s case, she didn’t, and that made her vulnerable.

What do you hope young queer Filipinas take away from Songs for Selina?

In our culture, where Catholicism and traditional values run deep, exploring gender identity can be especially challenging, particularly within conservative households. Ironically, some of the most fearless, creative Filipino talents are queer themselves. My hope is that young queer Filipinas learn to love themselves first and understand that their talent and spirit are not things to hide. Don’t let fear of rejection or lack of acceptance dim your light. Stay respectful and kind, but always choose what empowers you.

Do you feel like Filipino stories are finally being heard, or is there still a long way to go?

It’s truly encouraging to see Filipino stories gaining more recognition and support on the global stage, slowly but surely. But there’s still a long road ahead. We need to move beyond the stereotypical plots and roles and start telling authentic, impactful stories that are rich in depth and meaning–stories that transcend race, borders, and expectations.

How has your relationship with style evolved over the years, both on stage and off?

My style evolution has come a long way since I first started as an artist. Deeply influenced by the streets of New York and the fashion icons and performers I admire, I’ve always gravitated toward an effortless mix of model-off-duty, grunge, and street style–fueled by my active lifestyle as a creative entrepreneur and performer. My style has lived along that edge, adapting as I’ve become more in tune with my ever-changing body and personal rhythm. Some days, it’s bold and elevated; other days, it’s pared back and functional. It all depends on whether I’m showing up to show out or simply moving through a regular day. As my confidence continues to grow, so does the way I express myself through style.

Who are your style icons?

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Rihanna, and Christine Centenera.

If someone designed a fashion collection based on your music, what would it look like?

If someone designed a fashion collection based on my music, it would embody that model-off-duty energy rooted in NYC street style. Think oversized blazers, cargos, distressed denim, and leather with silver hardware. The palette would live in neutrals—black, grey, beige—with a play on mixed textures like ribbed knits, mesh, and washed cotton. Each drop or season would feature one bold pop of color to break the monotony and make a statement. It’s effortless and edgy–just like my sound.

Are there Filipino creatives who you feel deserve more recognition — be in the fashion, musical, or acting realm?

Yes, there are a few! One is Jay R, known as the Philippines’ King of R&B. I believe he truly deserves to be recognized globally and beyond the Filipino-American community as a force in R&B. His talent as a singer and performer is up to par with the Ushers of the world. I see him as the vessel that will bridge a pure Filipino talent to the global stage, as the next level to his legacy.

What does it mean to you to represent the Philippines in fashion, film, and music?

It’s always a meaningful honor to represent the Philippines in everything I do and in every space I step into. I carry my Filipina identity with pride, something deeply rooted in how I was raised and the values my parents instilled in me.

How do you balance honoring your roots while building something entirely your own?

I balance honoring my roots by carrying the wisdom and values my parents and family instilled in me, while also staying true to my passions and carving out my own path. Through my experiences, I continue shaping my identity and applying that growth to everything I pursue.

What grounds you when the noise gets too loud?

Getting out in nature, doing physical activity, whether sports, a workout, or dance, meditating, and praying

What’s a message or mantra guiding you right now?

What’s meant for you will never miss you.

What advice would you give to young Filipinas’ passionate about music?

Learn that the Philippine industry is a great training ground for the mainstream global industry, because it’s all the same treacherous landscape, different zip code. Get thick skin and don’t be a pushover. Be bold in your pursuit of leveling up in your craft but stay humble always. Follow up like a pro.

What’s something you haven’t done yet — creatively, personally, spiritually — but would love to explore?

Creatively, get an original film project funded and backed by a studio or film financier, sync opps for my music, and launch my lifestyle brand in America. Personally, become a US dollar millionaire from the ground up. And spiritually, get even more deeply connected to my faith. 

And finally, what’s next for Mica Javier?

Aside from releasing the best musical body of work I’ve ever done and working on my creative entrepreneurship ideas, up next is also building my own family unit with my husband.