WHYLUCAS is carving an unconventional path in the world of entertainment as Singapore’s standout contestant on Chuang Asia Season 2. This highly anticipated idol survival program, airing on WeTV starting 2 February, has already showcased WHYLUCAS’s exceptional talent. With a stunning debut performance that secured him a spot in the Top 9, he has captivated audiences with his impressive vocal prowess and commanding stage presence. Far from the typical idol trainee, WHYLUCAS brings a unique blend of artistry, academic discipline, and an unrelenting passion for music to the competition.
More than just a performer, WHYLUCAS is a singer-songwriter and self-proclaimed "John Mayer-wannabe" who is determined to elevate Singapore’s music scene on the global stage. Leveraging the visibility of Chuang Asia, he aspires to become not only a celebrated artist but also a cultural ambassador for Singapore, sparking conversations about the nation’s creative potential.
From busking on Orchard Road to captivating international audiences, WHYLUCAS’s journey exemplifies resilience, ambition, and a commitment to pushing boundaries. As he embraces the rigorous challenges of the idol program, his sights are set on inspiring others to chase their dreams while continuing to evolve as an artist. We had the privilege of sitting down with him to delve into his journey on the show and his exciting plans for the future.
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Congratulations on making it onto Chuang Asia: Season 2! You've transitioned from performing on Orchard Road to competing on Chuang Asia:Season 2. How has your busking experience prepared you for the idol survival program?
Being ready for anything is crucial on the show, especially with the constant new challenges during performance rounds or reality TV filming. I think the ability to improvise—whether it’s in how I present myself or speak—is a skill I really honed through busking. It also taught me grit—the determination to keep pushing even when the goal feels far away. I’ve always dreamed of becoming an international touring musician, but there were times when earning just $20 a night felt incredibly draining.
As a self-proclaimed "John Mayer-wannabe" which of his songs would you love to perform on the show, and how would you add your unique twist?
Album-wise, my favourite is Continuum, then Battle Studies. I personally love 'Slow Dancing in a Burning Room', 'Gravity', 'Perfectly Lonely', 'Heartbreak Warfare', 'Half of My Heart' and 'Love on the Weekend'. I don’t think any of them should be redone by me because they are already so unique on their own and I might butcher it hahaha. But if really I have to choose one, it’s gonna be 'Slow Dancing in a Burning Room'.
Balancing school studies with a burgeoning music career must be challenging. How do you manage to find a good balance between one and the other?
I think it’s about knowing your strengths, weaknesses and priorities. I prioritise happiness and career. I feel I’ll be happier doing music rather than accounting. So I spend about 10-15% of my time in a semester on school work. It also helps that I get the freedom to choose modules that I’m good at, such as public speaking or organisational behaviour.
Competing in an international setting like Chuang Asia, how do you blend Singaporean cultural elements into your performances to stand out?
I don’t have many Singaporean cultural elements in my performance, but I remain true to myself. I’m a competitive Singaporean guy with a need to use Singlish in every sentence. So keep a look out for my interviews and reality TV self. Also, maybe the competitiveness would give me an edge.
Your online presence has been instrumental in reaching global audiences. Any memorable fan interactions or surprising feedback from international viewers?
One time when went to training, I heard someone call my name and give me a little asking me to push on. It’s the first time something like this actually happened I feel like this really keeps me going on days when I’m really down and lonely. Also, I saw on X, someone was saying they recognised me by my Singapore accent that never goes away.
watching chuang asia s2 interview and i die when hearing whylucas speaks because singaporean accent😭😭
— mint ꪆৎ (@mintyqrt) January 1, 2025
Beyond Chuang Asia, where do you envision your music career heading, and how do you plan to continue pushing boundaries?
I hope to take my career overseas actually, either LA or Shanghai, Beijing or perhaps Chengdu. I hope to release full-length albums after this and tour. I want to dive deep into this craft and work on it like never before. This show really gave me the confidence to do so. I also hope to potentially incorporate dance into my performances, beyond just guitar and a band.
What advice would you give to fellow Singaporean musicians aiming to break into the international music scene?
As my good friend from university, Jack Chen Le Xin—the founder of Gigspace, a revolutionary app for Singapore's gigging community—always says: "Do first, think later."
