For years, Cookie$ has been a force in Cebu’s hip-hop scene— as an artist, then as a producer, and founder of Bakeshop Studios, a creative HQ for fresh new talents. Today, his journey takes on an even deeper meaning. After facing a serious health challenge, he has not only returned stronger but also rediscovered his Catholic faith. In this feature, Cookie$ talks about the ride, his recent experiences, and next moves.
Cookie$’s transition into producing and founding Bakeshop Studios wasn’t just about expanding his career—it was about building a home for artists like him. "I wanted to help out the Collective (The Bakeshop Studios) have a space and platform to create and congregate here in Cebu, especially for those visiting the city." What started as a simple Discord server during the pandemic has grown into a full-fledged creative space, where musicians, visual artists, and producers come together to collaborate and push their craft to new heights.
However, running Bakeshop Studios came with its own set of challenges. "Making sure I'm on top of things like admin, backend, and cleanliness of the space was tough. As an artist myself, I tend to lack follow-through on boring but important things," he admits with a laugh. But with time and experience, he’s learned to balance it all. “I don’t manage artists—I just give them the platform to create. They have full creative control.”
Interestingly, Bakeshop Studios wasn’t built by scouting new talent—it grew organically. "I wasn’t looking for artists. When we started as a Discord server, we already had a ton of artists there. We got to know each other, became friends, and that’s how the Bakeshop Studios family came to be."
Guiding younger artists has been a rewarding experience for him, even though it comes with its challenges. "I let them do whatever they want as long as they look out for each other and don’t cause trouble," he says. "The downside is that they’re still young and tend to go overboard, so sometimes I have to step in and remind them to be responsible." But seeing their growth and hearing their gratitude makes it all worth it. "After all the hard work, just hearing them say 'thank you' is the most rewarding feeling."
As for his own music career, Cookie$ is at a turning point. He’s currently pushing his debut album, A Life of a Bai, which marks a shift from his signature high-energy, club-ready sound to something more mellow and reflective. "My music was always aggressive, hard, and energetic—something you’d hear in clubs and parties. But with this album, it’s more chill and laid-back. Something you can play while your grandma is around or on a Sunday morning."
This shift in sound seems to reflect the shift in his own life. After overcoming his recent health struggles, he has rekindled his faith in God. "Everything I do now is for His glory," he says. His faith has given him new direction—not just in music, but in life.
What’s Next for Cookie$?
With his debut album out, Cookie$ is preparing for a US tour this year, bringing A Life of a Bai to a global audience. He also has bigger dreams beyond music, hoping to one day sit down for a podcast with Joe Rogan and Tim Ferriss. "And of course, I want to tour the world and perform my songs everywhere," he adds.
As he steps into this new phase of his career—one guided by faith, purpose, and a love for the craft—one thing is clear: Cookie$ isn’t just making music. He’s building a legacy.
Famous Last Words?
We asked Cookie$ to share some inspirational advice or give a personal message to the fans and audiences out there: "1 Corinthians 10:31: So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God"
Amen. Check out all the latest updates from Cookie$ on his socials https://www.facebook.com/cookie.vibe and stream A Life of A Bai on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/0m6w1zbK0x6rVAGMuKmUUL?si=DUArYS-pSgC9pOKnFxk8Kw
*Shoot by Black*Press Team: Niko Blanco, Sean Mondejar, Lauren Mariscal *Photos from the Archives of Cookie$ and The Bakeshop Studios
Comments