The Untold Story of Singapore's Indie Music Revolution
Image credit: Altoduo, a Singapore Mathrock band
What are your thoughts on Singapore’s music scene? Is there potential, or is it just stagnant? For years, indie musicians in Singapore have struggled with growth, with some even blaming it on the local community. If you ask any Singaporeans, they may struggle with naming a few musicians from the country. But beneath the mainstream surface lies a vibrant indie music scene bursting with creativity and talent. Whether you're new to the scene or just curious about what goes on beyond the radio hits, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
The Early Days: Music Isn’t a Career, it’s a Way of Life
Image credit: Kathy Chen on Unsplash
Singapore's indie music scene didn’t start with a bang. It began with a few courageous artists who decided to make music that was a little different from the norm. It wasn’t easy—most people were more into mainstream pop, and the infrastructure for indie music was almost non-existent. But pioneers like The Observatory carved out a space for music that didn't follow the usual formulas. These early bands and artists were the trailblazers, setting the stage for a growing indie community.
Imagine trying to make music without access to proper recording studios or platforms to share your songs. That was the reality for early indie musicians in Singapore. Venues were scarce, and the ones that existed were often small and makeshift. But these challenges only fueled the artists' determination. They found creative ways to record, perform, and get their music out there. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was authentic. And that's what made it special.
Indie Labels and Venues: The Backbone of the Scene
Image credit: Scape*
As more artists started to embrace indie music, there was a growing need for record labels. Indie labels like KittyWu Records and Middle Class Cigars emerged to give these artists a platform. They didn’t have the resources of big corporations, but they had passion and a deep love for music. These labels became crucial in promoting and distributing indie music in Singapore, helping artists reach a wider audience.
In Singapore, it's not the big concert halls but smaller, more intimate venues like The Substation and *Scape. These spaces have become cultural hubs, offering a stage for indie artists to showcase their talents. It's in these venues where you are able to find rising Singapore musicians. It’s also in these venues that the indie community really comes alive.
More Than Just Angsty Rock
Singapore as a country, has always flaunted its diversity. Evident in our National song, our pledge, and the love of using the words “melting pot” by our government. This is also the same in the local indie music scene. It's not just about rock or pop. From folk and electronic to punk and kpop. The mix of influences of Singapore’s mix of cultures and love of music from different countries creates a unique sound that's distinctly local.
There are so many talented indie artists in Singapore, each bringing their own flavour to the scene. Take Linying for example with her dreamy voice and thoughtful lyrics. Or Yung Raja, who has been turning heads with his clever bilingual raps and mesmerizing performances. These artists and many others are making waves, both locally and internationally.
Festivals and Gigs: The Heartbeat of the Scene
Image credit: Clarke Quay
If you're looking to dive into Singapore's indie music scene, head over to Baybeats. For America, making it big would be to perform on the Wembley stage. But for Singapore, the end goal would be Baybeats. The three day music festival showcases many local bands and musicians from different genres.
For music lovers, Baybeats offers an opportunity to discover new sounds, local bands, and enjoy live performances. The atmosphere at these festivals is electric, with a palpable sense of excitement and community as artists and fans come together to celebrate their shared love for music.
But don't just limit yourself to the big boys; the indie scene thrives on countless smaller gigs happening all around the city. These intimate gigs are often held in humble settings like cafés, bars, and art spaces. It's usually either hosted by the bar or the band themselves. Although mostly ticketed, these smaller gigs are where music lovers can truly connect with the artists, often getting a glimpse into their raw, unpolished artistry.
If you’d prefer enjoying music for free, read here to learn about 10 free live music venues or 20 live music venues in Singapore.
The Struggles and the Future: Keeping the Dream Alive
Image credit: Esplanade
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and sold-out gigs. The indie scene faces its fair share of challenges. There’s the ever-present issue of funding. Because let’s be honest, making music isn’t cheap. And then there’s the struggle to get noticed in a market dominated by mainstream pop.
So, what’s next for Singapore’s indie music revolution? Well, if the past is anything to go by, the future looks pretty damn exciting. More bands are breaking through, more venues are opening up, and the audience is growing. The scene is evolving, but it’s staying true to its roots—authentic, diverse, and unapologetically indie. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of Singapore’s indie music.
Join the Revolution
What do you think? Does Singapore have talent? Whether you're looking for new music to vibe to or want to support local artists, the indie scene has something for everyone. So, go to a gig, buy some merch, and follow these artists on social media. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite band.
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