Kai Montinola | Photo by Dookie Ducay

After shining in the spotlight as part of Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11's Big 4, Kai Montinola is embarking on an exciting new chapter—with her debut album and its upcoming launch, "Kai's the Limit." The singer, performer, and all-around creative is ready to take center stage once again. Known for her lively personality and colorful vision, Kai is making her mark in the local music scene not only with her voice but also with her passion and hands-on approach to her craft.

As she prepares for her album launch performance on June 28, Kai expressed that the experience has been happy and rewarding. “We did the recording, and we also did the album cover shoot,” she told Metro.Style. "I enjoy getting dressed up. I love getting dolled up,” displaying a side of herself that enjoys her artistic style and voice.

Although Kai is currently keeping the concept of "Kai's the Limit" a surprise, she did provide a hint: "It's very colorful." Kai shared that the topic may be interpreted in a variety of ways depending on the viewer. According to her, "It's colorful in how you see it, in your perspective, whatever you think it is," implying a multifaceted, creative experience.

Photo by Dookie Ducay

Yes, there will undoubtedly be outfit changes all throughout, so there is something to look forward to. She strongly said that changing clothes is essential for her, saying, “Of course, I would want to express different ways of being me in different outfits.” 

Kai's musical career began long before she ever set foot in a recording studio. In fact, she was a dancer before a singer. She disclosed, “A lot of people know me as a singer, pero mas nauna pa akong sumayaw kaysa kumanta.” She was raised surrounded by music, frequently dancing at family gatherings even as a little child. Her natural affinity for music ultimately led her to where she is today.

Growing up, Kai was greatly influenced by Pinoy pride and award-winning artist Lea Salonga. Referring to Lea's rendition of "Reflection," she stated, "I first learned about her from Disney's Mulan.” This revelation inspired her to aspire to work with Disney as a voice actor like Salonga. “Before I wanted to become a performer or a singer, I actually wanted to become a voice actress.”

Photo by Dookie Ducay

When asked about the theme song of her life right now, Kai chose "The Journey," a track connected to her idol. The song struck a chord with her even back when she was inside the Pinoy Big Brother house, reflecting the changes and growth she’s still going through today.

Working on her first album was a combination of planned and spontaneous work. One unexpected occasion stood out despite the songs being recorded on the designated days: “There was one day na I was in the mood—vocally, emotionally, physically. So nakapag-record ako ng two songs. We finished early and I was like, ‘Let’s record one more!’” What began as a "for fun" take ultimately made the final edit. “It came out so good... iba talaga nangyari when you're enjoying the moment,” Kai mentioned.

Although the album's title is still unknown, Kai said it's a one-word concept that can "branch off to so many things," encapsulating her wide range of passions and bold personality. “I think I perfectly embody that word,” she said. “Because I'm one person, but I love exploring and also branching out to different things.”

Photo by @ed_advincula @no_name_ph

Indeed, Kai had a significant influence on the project's direction. She collaborated extensively with her team to make sure the record reflected her personality, from sound preferences and musical influences to graphic direction. “I shared with them my influences, what I enjoyed singing, and the genres I wanted to express. And also creative ideas,” she said. The result? “It’s so me. It’s like eye candy.”

While it was exciting, Kai acknowledged that the most difficult aspect of the process was being hands-on, too. “It’s very time-consuming... you really need to exert effort into hearing, listening, and doing,” she shared, acknowledging the dedication the creative process demands. Still, Kai believes it’s all worth it: “Wala rin siyang silbi if you're not really exerting effort into what you're trying to make.”

As her debut album and launch will prove, Kai Montinola is creating an experience rather than simply music, which is ready for the world to hear. And if her colorful odyssey could teach us anything, then it is that there is no limit at all.

Lead photo by Dookie Ducay