Recently, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong shared his Spotify Wrapped, giving us a glimpse into his love for timeless acts like Oasis and Roy Orbison, artists who’ve left an indelible mark on music history. PM Wong joins a global list of leaders like Obama, who use music to connect with their citizens through shared cultural love and cult classics.
Singapore, too, is home to a thriving music scene filled with talented artists whose sounds span a range of genres and influences. From indie rock to nostalgic retro vibes, there are plenty of local acts that we think PM Wong—and Singaporeans—would appreciate exploring. Here’s five local acts that we think the PM would absolutely love:
Club Mild
Formerly known as M1LDL1FE, the band weaves in Britpop-inspired grooves and their anthemic tracks mirror the energy of Oasis. Their track ‘Distraction' shares a similar energetic and anthemic quality found in many Oasis songs. The driving rhythm and catchy hooks in ‘Distraction’ evoke the Britpop essence that Oasis popularized, making it a track that fans of the genre might appreciate.
The Pinholes
The Pinholes bring a nostalgic rock ‘n’ roll charm, reminiscent of Roy Orbison’s golden era. A good example would be their track ‘Sunshine’ which captures a nostalgic rock 'n' roll essence reminiscent of Orbison's era. The upbeat tempo and melodic hooks in 'Sunshine' evoke the classic vibes that defined the 1960s rock scene, making it a song that fans of Orbison's music will definitely enjoy.
Astreal
Astreal is a cornerstone of Singapore’s indie music scene, renowned for their ethereal shoegaze and alternative rock soundscapes. While their style leans heavily on dreamy, atmospheric tones, tracks like 'Wallflower' showcase an emotive intensity and melodic depth reminiscent of Soul Asylum’s alternative rock anthems. With their layered guitars, introspective lyrics, and haunting vocals, Astreal crafts music that resonates deeply, offering a uniquely local take on a genre beloved worldwide. Fans of heartfelt, guitar-driven soundscapes will find much to admire in Astreal’s evocative discography.
Disco Hue
Disco Hue's vibrant track 'Plastic Hearts' channels the nostalgic essence of 80s synth-pop in a way that feels strikingly similar to the iconic sounds of Erasure. With its shimmering synths, infectious melodies, and upbeat energy, the song echoes the lush, danceable rhythms that defined Erasure’s heyday. Both acts masterfully blend retro elements with an irresistible sense of modernity, making 'Plastic Hearts' a delightful nod to the timeless allure of synth-driven pop.
Charlie Lim
Charlie Lim’s 'Light Breaks In' stands out as a modern echo of Elton John’s timeless balladry. The track’s delicate piano melody and emotionally charged lyrics draw parallels to Elton’s classics like 'Your Song,' capturing a similar sense of vulnerability and heartfelt expression. Charlie’s soaring vocals, paired with the lush arrangement, evoke the same bittersweet intimacy that defines Elton’s most memorable work. With its reflective tone and cinematic quality, 'Light Breaks In' feels like a contemporary nod to the storytelling and emotional depth that have made Elton John a musical icon.
