Sofronio Vasquez revealed that he’s signed with New York-based Republic Records, which seems to be one of his prizes after winning the 26th season of The Voice USA.

Republic Records is home to big international acts like Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, and John Legend, as well as K-pop girl groups TWICE and ITZY.

Vasquez said he is “automatically signed” with the record label in a sit-down interview with Karen Davila, which was uploaded on the latter’s YouTube channel on Thursday, January 16.

“I am automatically signed with Republic Records. I can’t believe it,” he shared, without disclosing any further details.

“When I look back, I see my colleagues becoming champions. I used to tell myself that I want to be a champion too. And now, this is the moment that has been given to me to be the champion,” he continued.

When asked about his plans for the $100,000 (approximately ₱5.8 million) he won, Vasquez said it will be used as an “investment” in hopes of taking his budding music career further.

“I will use the money as an investment in my music,” he said. “Because music is what I truly want to do. Now I’ve been given the chance to break into the mainstream, which is America, and I’m going to make the most of it.”

The singer said that he doesn’t mind facing rejections at some point in his career, saying he is open to working hard to “produce” himself or reach out to “big names.”

“If I have to produce myself, if I have to reach out to people, big names, I’m always open to it. A ‘no’ is a ‘no,’ and a ‘yes’ is a ‘yes.’ I’ll keep trying. If I receive a ‘no,’ I’ll just move on to the next opportunity,” he explained.

During the interview, Vasquez also spoke about his bond with his The Voice USA coach Michael Bublé, likening him to his late father. “I’m blessed. He is just an amazing person.”

“He’s so kind. He’s very genuine,” he continued. “I will forever treasure how he loved me. I see my father in him.”

Vasquez was named the winner of The Voice USA season 26 in December 2024, making him the first Filipino to win the singing contest. He previously competed in It’s Showtime’s Tawag ng Tanghalan segment and The Voice Philippines, but wasn’t successful.

Following his win, the singer has been gracing several appearances in the Philippines and also received a courtesy call from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in Malacañang.