MUSIC REVIEWS

Fine by Ayana Beatrice:
A Filipino Ballad with a Universal Heartbeat

A review by Dominique La Victoria, host of Dominique’s Island Fiesta on Shire Extra

Ayana Beatrice’s single “Fine”, released in 2024, is a touching Filipino pop ballad that blends vulnerability with quiet determination. Influenced by the moody elegance of Lana Del Rey with the warmth and passion of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), the track floats between melancholy and strength, carried by Ayana’s emotive delivery and atmospheric production.

Music and Lyrics

At its core, “Fine” is about carrying the weight of unspoken struggles while presenting composure on the surface. The verses open with reflective imagery: closing one’s eyes, feeling time ticking away, trying not to overthink. The chorus displays the tension between fragility and bravery:

“Every night I say, it’ll be alright.
 A little smile, a wave, hold back don’t cry…”

It’s the familiar mask of collectedness we put on for the world, even as exhaustion and heartache linger beneath. The bridge deepens the confession: “They’ll never know the countless sleepless nights” before turning toward perseverance: “The only way is to try.” The writing is straightforward yet honest, its simplicity making it widely relatable.

With its Filipino pop ballad genre influence and Lana Del Rey feel, “Fine” leans into an emotionally immersive soundscape:

• Vocals – Tender, slightly hushed, with a lingering emotional ache. Ayana’s voice carries intimacy while hinting at inner strength.
• Instrumentation – The piano and violin textures create gentle layers, setting just the right temperature and mood.
• Atmosphere – Dreamy, introspective, almost floating; the song feels like a peek into a late-night journal.

Universal Resonance Shared Across Borders

What makes “Fine” even more impactful is the story behind its release. Ayana Beatrice, a Filipino singer and actor hot off the heels of her MA in Musical Theatre at Leeds Conservatoire, worked on this single while navigating the challenges of studying and living abroad. Her strength amidst those struggles shines through each beat, making the song a testament to quiet perseverance.

Ayana chose to release “Fine” during her time in the UK to take advantage of the larger platform the scene offered, allowing her music to reach a broader international audience. A few months ago, she even visited Shire Extra for an interview with Dominique on Dominique’s Island Fiesta, where the single was played and warmly received.

The song’s themes, reflection and hope amidst hardship, are universal, resonating with listeners no matter where they come from. In this way, Ayana’s artistry proves that diversity in the UK’s music scene is a strength: stories from different cultures expand the emotional and creative landscape for everyone. With her talent and perspective, Ayana Beatrice is a welcome, enriching addition to the local arts, culture, and music scene.

Listeners have begun connecting with Ayana’s message. Gemma, a listener from Wishaw, shared her thoughts:

“Listening to Ayana Beatrice on Shire Extra gave me such a lift. Fine makes me feel hopeful, and it’s amazing to hear this kind of talent being shared with our community.”

End Note:

“Fine” is a moving portrait of quiet endurance. It speaks to anyone who has ever smiled through their struggles, whispered promises of “it’ll be alright” in the dark, and chosen to try again despite uncertainty. With its blend of honest lyrics, atmospheric pop-ballad styling, and Ayana Beatrice’s emotive presence, the single marks her as an artist worth watching.

Verdict: 4.5/5 – Intimate, touching, and beautifully understated.