Why is no one listening to local music? Also, here are some good Singaporean artistes

Reading Time: 5 minutes

By Syaura Nashwa (24S03R)

Read until the end for artist recommendations!

Do we have culture?

This is a great debate between edgy teenagers and zealous seniors. The older generations would argue that Singapore has its local food and colloquial language. Though, some aren’t sure if hawker food, “shiok”, and love for bubble tea are substantial grounds to grow culture.

Amidst all these different opinions, there is one thing we can agree on. No one listens to Singaporean music.

Singapore is a late bloomer in its establishment. The older neighbouring countries have had stronger roots in its history and culture in which Singapore lacks. The congregation and coexistence of different races and ethnicities here gives rise to a unique blend of cultures.

However, we still lack appreciation for the Arts in all forms, including music. This is because we had to rush for urbanisation and modernisation. There was simply no time to spare for culture.

Unlike the UK, US, or other Asian countries, Singapore lacks subgenres and simply support for local talent. There is a strong correlation between music and a country’s political climate. For instance, the development of certain genres of jazz in the US was associated with the Civil Rights movement and Black Power movements in the 60s and 70s.

The sheer lack of interest or mere unawareness leaves a gaping hole in the music scene in Singapore. Though most overlook, there lies a vibrant ecosystem thriving in their very essences of musical talent.

We only have ourselves to blame. We turn to Spotify’s Global Top 50 because there simply aren’t good singers here! Right?

Underrated Singaporean talent

To make your life easier, here are some recommendations based on popular bands/singers you like. Listen to them now before you continue reading this article!

CURB

@curballcaps on Instagram

CURB’s members first met at Lasalle College of the Arts when they were students. Their songs are infused with exciting signature electric guitar riffs coupled with emotional lyricism. My favourite song happened to be “2020”. To me, their instrumentals resemble the likes of Arctic Monkeys, but CURB’s are more ambitious.

The trio highlights the significance of deliberately creating sounds and lyrical ideas inspired by their influences. The stories they tell are personal-led narratives. For instance, instead of wallowing melancholia, they explore and process that perceived sadness and thus create art from it.

CURB reminds themselves that they can’t simply leave town. Staying present and ensuring their music resonates with Singapore makes more sense than attempting to fit into a Midwestern artistic framework.

Maya Raisha

@mayaraishaa on Instagram

I first stumbled upon Ms Raisha’s Instagram when I was wondering who was performing at Esplanade one evening. Her bubbly social media presence soon struck me after and I’ve been dabbling in her music ever since.

Ms Raisha sings in both English and Malay and grew up playing classical music. Later on, she transitioned into “soul-R&B inspired by jazz” and ended up with a fervent and unique discography.

Ms Raisha writes songs about passion and heartbreak. She delves into the raw essence of human emotions, navigating the intricate dance between intense love and the piercing ache of loss.

She captivates global audiences with her undeniable vocal prowess and dynamic stage presence. She has performed beyond Singapore, including the grand Carnegie Hall in New York!

Subsonic Eye

@subsoniceye on Instagram

Subsonic Eye is an up-and-coming Singaporean band who recently performed shows in Los Angeles, Brooklyn, Washington, and other cities in the US! In fact, they held their own concert in November at the Esplanade.

Their guitar-driven melodies tell tales of love, longing, introspection, and the highs and lows of navigating through life’s uncertainties.

Subsonic Eye take chances to reflect on these uncomfortable emotions. Ultimately, they navigate the beauty of being in the moment and things around us.

The indie rock band is becoming a local sensation and it’s no surprise why. Their extensive discography has even earned them a “This is ‘Subsonic Eye’” playlist on Spotify already.

BLUSH

@blush__band on Instagram

Back in 2021, I came across Blush’s single “Best Friend”. Having thought this was similar to Rex Orange County’s rendition, I was pleasantly surprised by the mellow instrumentals and soft vocals. It was very akin to beabadoobee’s “Apple Cider”!

From what I listened to, Blush explores the ideas of nostalgia and summer love. Where heartbreak and longing overlaps, that is where Blush touches on which makes you reflect on your love life or the lack thereof.

Sometimes, they talk about being who they aren’t for the sake of others. If you have intricate feelings of being not enough for the one you love, perhaps Blush is for you.

Long Live The Empire

@longlivetheempiresg on Instagram

In their own words, “Long Live The Empire is a 4-piece chicken meal from KFC comprising of Marc (wing), Wai Huin (thigh), Jun Wern (backside), Leroy (breast)”.

It’s edgy, it’s indie rock, and it sure is (finger-licking) good. It is an underground gem piled under the bulwark of commercial pop and sponsored music.

There isn’t much about them on the Internet. Though, many listeners appreciate their invigorating performances, so it could be a fun musical discovery for you!

Cosmic Child

@cosmicchildband on Instagram

Cosmic Child’s discography incorporates ethereal instrumentals and melodious vocals. Their music blends elements of shoegaze, psychedelic rock, and dream pop, creating atmospheric and immersive melodies.

Shoegaze is a subset of indie and alternative rock distinguished by its dreamy blend of hazy vocals, guitar distortion, effects, feedback, and powerful sound levels.

Their unique sonic landscapes and evocative performances puts them on the map in the Singaporean indie music scene.

“Cats, Cats and Cats Again” is a fond favourite despite and because of its cute title. Cosmic Child isn’t purr-fect, but when I listen to it I am feline good.

Aren’t you awestruck by how diverse and good Singaporean music is? There are so many aspiring and talented singer-songwriters and musicians in Singapore. If we don’t give them a shot, how do we create a culture we are proud of?

Since it’s our land, and our culture, all these artists are part of what makes our music. If we don’t support them, who will?

Hopefully, my inclusion of personal opinions and experiences with each artist compels you to listen to them. Listening to their music underscores the importance of supporting local artists to foster a vibrant cultural identity.

Together, let us celebrate Singaporean music as a crucial aspect of the nation’s cultural tapestry!

This article was made possible by Hani, a wonderful friend with an impeccable music taste.

Links to Spotify profiles

Curb: https://open.spotify.com/artist/16be15Aitv731NGEMWwt9V?si=XaAZzFU2S_KMKbosPmqmuQ

MAYA RAISHA: