Five of Singapore's biggest music stars are giving their guitars—and their hearts—to the next generation.
JJ Lin, Benjamin Kheng, Shabir Sulthan, Awi Rafael, and Taufik Batisah announced their support for Gift a Guitar—a new initiative founded by Danny Loong (CEO of Timbre Group) in partnership with SGMUSO and The Rice Company Limited (TRCL). The artists have each pledged signed guitars that will be auctioned to fund music education and performance opportunities for underserved youths aged 13 to 20.
The campaign aims to gift 600 guitars, provide structured lessons, and offer mentorship opportunities, culminating in a youth showcase at Sing60 Festival this November.
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“For me, music was my way to dream, to express, and to connect,” said JJ Lin, who contributed his prized Martin D-45 guitar. “By supporting Gift a Guitar, I hope to spark that same fire in young people.”
Loong, who was inspired by a personal story involving his father’s old Yamaha guitar, shared that the initiative is more than just instrument donation—it’s about empowering youth with belief and community. “That gift changed everything for me,” he said. “I want today’s youths to have that same spark.”
The project’s journey also includes a pivotal moment in 2019 when Prime Minister Lawrence Wong gifted Loong a guitar to be passed on. This act eventually led to a jam session with a young guitarist named Christie, and the seed for Gift a Guitar was sown.
Youths aged 13 to 20 can now register via this form. Selected participants will receive a guitar, undergo professional training, and perform at Sing60.
