Start a new chapter of your life with Chapters, a page-turning journal of human tales that shine the spotlight on youths who are changing the world
sg represent: three local creatives who put singapore on the map
jasmine sokko unmasking the face behind edm’s newest sensation
young f&b towkays cooking up a storm in the culinar y world
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four idol hopefuls who took a shot at living the k-pop dream @TeenageMagazine
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TOWKAY TALES
text: fabian loo
taste of success godmama 107 north bridge road, funan mall #04-07, singapore 179105
FROM SAFEGUARDING TRADITIONAL RECIPES TO CREATING NEWFANGLED MENUS, THESE YOUNG F&B ENTREPRENEURS ARE INJEC TING AN EXCITING NEW BUZZ TO OUR LOC AL FOOD SCENE.
Scan me for more F&B success stories and food recs!
“This way, we can give them a taste of what Nyonya food is and let them understand the rich culinary culture that makes up Singapore in a different and fun manner,” he adds. It started with a dish: Babi Assam. Fredric Goh had chosen to prepare this dish – his family’s signature – for his Food and Nutrition examination back when he was 16. To his surprise, his examiners knew little about this traditional Peranakan recipe. That got him thinking: he might have grown up with these familiar flavours, but a large part of Singaporeans are still unfamiliar with the Peranakan culture and its cuisine. “I realised I needed to let more people know about the Nyonya food I grew up with,” shares Fredric. Fast forward a few years, the 28-year-old is now the co-owner and head chef of Godmama – a modern Peranakan restaurant and bar located at the revamped Funan shopping mall. On its menu are fusion Peranakan dishes, such as the Buah Kelauk Bolognese Pasta and Babi Assam Baked Eggs. By taking traditional flavours and reimagining them into innovative brunch items, Fredric hopes to make Nyonya cuisine more accessible to the younger and international crowd.
But beyond just creating novel dishes, Fredric revealed that being a chef can be very labourious as well. Throughout his career, he has to be on his feet for over eight hours, all while enduring the scorching heat of the kitchen. Working in shifts also makes it hard to spend time with family and loved ones. What keeps him going is the fact that he is able to provide food and services that people can enjoy. “I think that stemmed from the Peranakan tradition of big family dinners,” he says. “Cooking these dishes are all about the feeling, like how it tasted when grandma would cook it, and not just following a recipe.”
ah lock & co. 7 wallich street, tanjong pagar centre #b2-22/23/24, singapore 078884 It started from a humble hawker stall at Yishun Park Hawker Centre. Now, 26-year-old Lee Lock Teng has branched out into the Central Business District area, serving up comforting bowls of his modern Hakka tofu (beancurd) bowls. By modernising the traditional flavours, he hopes to make the often-overlooked Hakka cuisine more accessible. His creation, the Hakka Tofu Bowl, combines elements of the thunder tea rice with Hakka yong tau foo inspired by his grandmother’s recipes – people from all age groups can now enjoy the Hakka flavours that Lock Teng grew up enjoying.
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TOWKAY TALES
lalune 313 orchard road, #b3-48a, singapore 238895
unique bubble tea flavours. Jia Jia serves as the general manager of the store, while her mother deals with the finances.
For most graduates, searching for and securing a job would be a priority. But for Nanyang Technological University alumna Phua Jia Jia, she had something else on her mind – getting her business up and running. The 23-year-old went straight from being a full-time student to the owner of her own business. Her inspiration for starting out so young? Her mother. “Ever since I was young, my mum had always been an entrepreneur. I’ve seen her fail and try again multiple times. It was only natural that I wanted to be like her,” Jia Jia says. Working together with her mother, the pair started Lalune, a takeaway kiosk that sells a variety of croissants paired with
For Jia Jia, the biggest challenge was the transition from school to the workplace. As a recent graduate, she had little working experience. “I had no idea what to do. It’s not school anymore – no model answers, no scripts. It’s just you; you have to figure it out, or you crash and burn.” The lack of a fixed schedule also means that she has to be extra disciplined. A typical day for Jia Jia can have her manning the stall for 13 hours straight, or handling administrative matters from home. There are no fixed working hours and no day-offs – and every day is a different challenge. There were even times when Jia Jia wanted to give up. But she persevered – for her mother. “I’d do anything to make her proud,” she says. “Everyday is going to be an immense grind, and you’ve got to find it in yourself to keep going.”
mama’s boy bakes 7 maxwell road, amoy street food centre #02-87, singapore 069111 Fahmy Putra was “frustrated”. He was a fan of macaroni and cheese, but found it hard to find places that served it well. Most establishments, he said, creates versions that are made with processed cheese. “We were pretty frustrated that Singapore [restaurants] do not know the beauty of incorporating good cheeses into macaroni and cheese,” says the 31-year-old. Thus, Fahmy decided that he had to come up with his own rendition of macaroni and cheese – one made with quality cheeses that he, and others, will enjoy. And so he started Mama’s Boy Bakes in February last year. Operating out of his home kitchen, his decision to begin a home-based business was a practical one: having to juggle a part-time job while taking care of his mother. The business started picking up, and it gave Fahmy the confidence to open a physical store.
“There’s only so much coverage we have as a home business,” he says. “We thought it would be interesting to have a hawker stall specialising in macaroni and cheese too.” Last July, Fahmy opened a stall in Amoy Street Food Centre, featuring their classic macaroni and cheese, as well as local variants like Lemak Chilli Padi. It was a difficult decision and transition, from the home kitchen to a legit hawker centre. Fahmy shares: “You’re bound to have doubts and insecurities in every business venture. But we’re lucky to have such an amazing customer base, and a supportive group of friends and family.”
anthony the spice maker 333 kreta ayer road #01-25, singapore 080333 Crafting traditional spice blends might be a forgotten trade, which would explain why some might find it surprising to see a 25-year-old in charge. “Some of them tend to think that only older people practice this age-old craft,” shares Min Ling, who has fully committed herself to her father’s business upon graduation from university. The choice was a logical one. “I was thinking since I will have to give my employer my 100% effort, why not use this 100% in my own family’s business?” Today, the self-proclaimed “spice girl” is the business development manager at Anthony the Spice Maker. Moving ahead, she hopes to organise workshops to educate the younger generation on the basics of crafting traditional spice blends.
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#FOODOFTHEDAY
text: chew hui ling
foodie adventure FOLLOW US AS WE EAT OUR WAY THROUGH THE STAR VISTA! FROM EPIC BURGERS TO HEARTY BOWLS, YOU’LL FIND PLENTY OF WALLET-FRIENDLY EATS TO KEEP YOU FUELLED THROUGHOUT THE DAY. photography: chino sardea assisted by celine styling: sharon tan assisted by sermin makeup and hair: gigi sng models: joseph tan, lee rong yin
Greendot #01-33, The Star Vista
Going green has never been this delicious! The folks at Greendot offer plenty of vegetarian eats that are anything but boring – think comforting bowls of noodles and colourful bentos packed full of flavour. on her: blue blazer & shorts set, $150, mico boutique, reebok puremove bra orange, $79, royal sporting house on him: pink stripe shirt, $79, g2000, chums booby face t-shirt,
$57.90, converse chuck taylor all star 70 hi, $109.90, swee lee
Omoomodon #02-14/15, The Star Vista
If you’re looking for a fuss-free option to dine at, look no further than Omoomodon. As its name suggests, this Korean-Japanese fusion joint takes its dons (bowls in Japanese) very seriously. Besides its signature bowls, you can also choose to customise your meal from scratch – done through a selfordering kiosk. Plus, it’s Halal-certified! on him: wool knitwear, $89, blue polo tee, $53, g2000 on her: knit polo tee, $69, g2000, stripe panel denim jeans, $89, mico boutique, nike white track jacket, $115, royal sporting house, chums medium pouch sweat h/lime, $38.90, swee lee
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#FOODOFTHEDAY
Guzman Y Gomez
#01-32, The Star Vista
For some wickedly good Mexican grub, you can’t go wrong with Guzman Y Gomez. From massive burritos wrapped in fresh tortilla to cheesy nachos loaded with guacamole, these seriously filling delights are enough to make you go “oh my guac”. on him: chums color nep chambray top light blue, $149.90, mads norgaard jessie black denim jacket, $239, dr denim utility green chino, $149, fjallraven kanken greenland cotton beanie dandelioin, $69, swee lee on her: pink silk set, $189, ns’ boutique, CHPO vanessa sunglasses in turquoise/black, $59, swee lee
Rollie Olie
#02-05, The Star Vista
Fancy sushi rolls with a Cali twist? Here at Rollie Olie, one can expect everything from poké bowls to freshlymade salads – but it’s their signature Californian rolls that are to die for. And with names like Sunkissed Salmon, Beachcomber and even one dedicated to K-pop, what’s not to like? on her: reebok combat
hoodie, $89, reebok puremove bra orange, $79, royal sporting house, reebok aztrek shoes, $159, tweed designer skirt, $228, mico boutique on him: reebok mesh bball tank blue, $69, royal sporting house, blue pants, $99, g2000, rockport garett wingtip men’s shoes, $219, sole spirit, white jacket, stylist’s own
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#FOODOFTHEDAY
Qi Ji
#01-22, The Star Vista
There’s nothing quite like a plate of good old-fashioned nasi lemak – and Qi Ji does it well. A favourite haunt amongst locals, this humble eatery serves up familiar homegrown flavours that makes you feel right at home. on him: mid mood blazer, $279, mid mood pants, $99, g2000, reebok white shirt, $59,
royal sporting house, sandals, $119, hush puppies, fjallraven ulvo hip pack medium mountain blue, $85, swee lee on her: beige jacket, $59, anastasia, polka dot dress, $128, dunamis, lucca vudor shoes, $129.90, envy and pride
Carl’s Jr
#B1-10, The Star Vista
Craving for a bangin’ burger? Hit up this classic fast food joint for some of that Americanstyle goodness, served with a bucketload of fries on the side that’s perfect for sharing. on him: blue stripe shirt, $79, g2000, mads norgaard rigid jeans, $179, converse chuck taylor all star ox white, $79.90, swee lee on her: white top, $89.80, denim midi skirt, $139.80, ns’ boutique, vans ua old skool gum bumper red, $89, swee lee
Stockist: Anastasia, #01-25 • Dunamis, #01-25A • Envy and Pride, #01-30 • G2000, #01-11 • Hush Puppies, #01-13 • Mico Boutique, #01-37 • Ns’ Boutique, #01-26 • Royal Sporting House, #01-36 • Sole Spirit, #01-04/05 • Swee Lee, #01-07/10, all at The Star Vista
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DRESSED FOR SUCCESS
text: chew hui ling
POWER moves
BEHIND EVERY SUCCESSFUL WOMAN, IS A POWERFUL WARDROBE. BOSS UP YOUR STYLE WITH THESE MODERN CL ASSICS THAT WILL MAKE YOU FEEL STRONG, CONFIDENT AND READY TO TAKE OVER THE WORLD.
PRINTED BLAZER, $79.90, PRINTED TROUSERS, $55.90 MANGO
PLAID BLAZER, $159 MANGO
STRAPPY BUCKLED PLAYSUIT, $59.90 PULL & BEAR
Graphic Satin Blouse, $109, H&M
Jaded London Printed Joggers, $77.08, Topshop
Leopard Print Skirt, $94.95, H&M
Rayon Crepe Bow Tie Long-Sleeve Blouse, $49.90, Uniqlo
prints charming D o n’ t b e a f r a id t o p la y w it h p a t t e r n s! Fr om b old a n im a l m ot if s t o s t r iking g r a p h ic elem en t s , p r in t s a r e a g r ea t w a y t o a d d a c ool ed g e t o you r ou t f it . Printed Shirt, $39.90, Pull & Bear
Shirt Dress, $49.95, H&M
Floral Print Blouse, $49.90, Mango
Toffee Animal Print Skirt, $30.83, Dorothy Perkins
Floral Print Draped Top, $99.90, Floral Print Trousers, $99.90, Zara
Mesh Bodycon Dress, $34.95, H&M
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DRESSED FOR SUCCESS
ZIP-UP DENIM DRESS, $69.90 BERSHKA
POPLIN SHIRT WITH POCKET, $49.90 ZARA
BELTED COAT, $259 ZARA
Striped DoubleBreasted Waistcoat, $69.90, Stradivarius
Hana Tajima Ribbed Wide Pants, $29.90, Uniqlo
Faux Leather Midi Skirt, $39.90, Bershka
smart silhouette Asymmetric Tuxedo Dress, $75.54, Topshop
N o t a f a n of s t r u c t u r ed f or m s ? S w it c h u p you r s ilh ou et t e w it h c h ic m i d i s kir t s , f la r e p a n t s a n d c on t r a s t in g t r im s .
Cropped Suit Vest, $159, H&M
Blazer Midi Wrap Dress, $46.25, Topshop
Ruffled Shirt With Contrast Trims, $55.90, Zara
Wide Hem Culottes, $45.90, Pull & Bear
Red Seam PU Mini Skirt, $33.92, Dorothy Perkins Camel Topstitch Utility Jumpsuit, $77.08, Topshop
STREET TALK
text: chew hui ling photography: chino sardea
retro revolution TOUTED AS SING APORE’S MOST PROMISING YOUTH COLLEC TIVE YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF, RETRO G ATE IS THE NEWEST (AND COOLEST) KID ON THE STREETWEAR BLOCK.
“Streetwear has never been
about clothes. It’s about the community and the stories that paved the way for the streetwear landscape we see today.
“
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There’s no doubt that streetwear is huge right now. What used to be a niche, underground subculture reserved for skater kids and sneakerheads, has evolved to a burgeoning Hypebeast movement for the masses – and it shows no signs of slowing down. While OG brands like Supreme and Stüssy are still major players in the game, a handful of homegrown labels are quickly making their mark on the local street style scene. Enter Retro Gate, a JapaneseAmerican inspired vintage streetwear haven that looks straight out of the ’90s. First started out as a passion project between millennial founders Ryo Yamamoto, 26 and Paul Low, 24 – both university students with an ardent passion for street culture – the brand has grown from a humble thrift store into a whopping 3,000 square foot space at Golden Mile Complex. Evidently, the guys at Retro Gate do things a little differently. More than just a retail space, they also aim to position themselves as a one-of-akind collective that celebrates the urban youth culture in Singapore. “We want this space to be one where creative individuals can freely express themselves,” says Ryo. “Our goal is to become Singapore’s largest streetwear cultural hub, and as of now, we’re having a blast pursuing this dream.” Intrigued by the brand’s creative ethos and authenticity, we
chatted with Ryo to find out more about the story behind Retro Gate. How did you get started on this passion project?
“Being half Japanese, I’ve been a huge fan of vintage streetwear in Tokyo. Paul, on the other hand, developed an interest in streetwear through his love for breakdancing. We’ve always felt that the local streetwear scene had a lot of potential and thus decided to bring vintage streetwear into Singapore.” What do you think sets Retro Gate apart from the rest?
“We are more than an apparel store. We host various events – such as dance competitions, acoustic sessions and rave nights – that champion various aspects of the streetwear culture, from dance to music and art.” Did you guys face any creative differences when you first started out?
“Definitely. When we work with other people, there’s bound to be creative differences. But
one thing’s for certain is that we both know we have the business’ best interests in mind. As co-founders, we have this philosophy to ‘poke’ as many holes as we can to the other party’s ideas. This does two things: it tests whether the idea is feasible and if the person behind it has a sound grasp on the strategic plan. Ultimately, communication is key which is why I see Paul more like a brother than a colleague.” What are your thoughts on the streetwear culture in Singapore?
“I think the streetwear culture is picking up, and this is clear from the increase in vintage stores in recent years. To us, that’s amazing because there’s a demand for it. We hope to see more Singaporeans getting involved in the local streetwear scene, because it’s a pretty exciting space to be in.”
day, is all about the people. It’s about the community you serve, working with people from all walks of life, and understanding why the company exists.” What’s a piece of advice you’d like to give youths who wish to start their own businesses?
“It’s more important to execute an idea than to keep thinking of one. To quote Walt Disney, ‘The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.’ Because the experience you gain from starting your own business, outweighs anything you learn in the classroom. I think school is important because it teaches you the fundamentals, but when it comes to the execution, that is where the real learning begins.” Retro Gate is located at
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a young entrepreneur?
Golden Mile Complex
“That business at the end of the
@retrogateofficial!
#04-16, Singapore 199588. Check out their page at
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BEHIND THE # GRAM
text: chew hui ling
young, wild and free HOW THIS BUDDING PHOTOGRAPHER TURNED HIS INSTAGRAM SUCCESS INTO A PIXEL-PERFEC T C AREER AT THE AGE OF 23.
Ask any shutterbug worth their salt on what drew them to photography, and most of them would probably share their experiences of picking up their first DSLR camera. 23-year-old Lee Yik Keat – who started out with just an iPhone – has a different story to tell. Like any other person who grew up in the era of social media, Yik Keat has always been curious about photography, but it was only when he discovered Instagram that he began to take it seriously. What started out as a casual mobile app that he used to document everyday moments in life, turned into a lucrative visual journal that went far beyond the grid. With over 300,000 followers on his page @yk, the self-taught photographer has successfully carved a niche for himself thanks to his clever use of lighting, accents and mood. Think epic landscapes and sprawling architectural shots, accompanied by thoughtprovoking captions that present a refreshing take on street photography. They say that a picture can speak a thousand words, but Yik Keat did just that and more.
Besides his massive social media following, Yik Keat has also built an illustrious portfolio spanning fashion, lifestyle, travel and even music. His work even got noticed by American pop singer Lauv recently, who then enlisted him to shoot for his Asian tour. He may be young, but one thing’s for sure: he’s definitely going places. How would you define your photography style?
“Determined, carefree and focused. I enjoy showcasing places and attractions that people often visit, but in a way nobody has ever seen before. I’d like to think of it as storytelling through visual, narrative pieces.” Where do you get your inspiration from?
“At the exact spot I want to shoot at. I would usually spend some time exploring the streets to feel the vibe of the place.” Tell us more about your Instagram journey. How does one go from zero to over 300k followers?
“Hard work and determination! I treat my Instagram like how I would run a company, with 101 per cent of effort. One huge factor that contributed
to my following, is probably consistency. I realised that I started gaining more traction when I found my own style and kept to it.”
that very moment onto a picture that lasts forever, is a phenomenal feeling.”
Where do you draw the line between being an Instagrammer and a professional photographer?
“I would love to shoot for Post Malone one day.”
“It’s a fine line indeed. In fact, I don’t even know which category I fall under sometimes. But I think what sets a professional photographer apart, is their ability to get a grasp of the real world out there. In reality, being a photographer also requires you to learn how to effectively manage your shoots and be quick on your feet whenever problems arise.” How was it like shooting for Lauv when he was in town?
“I was so stoked! Initially, Lauv’s team reached out to me only for the Singapore show, but I ended up shooting for most of his Asia tour. It has been a dream of mine to document artistes both on tour and behind the scenes. I always get goosebumps when the crowd erupts into cheers as the singer belts their hearts out – being able to capture and immortalise
Which artiste would you like to shoot for next?
What are your best photography tips for someone who’s just starting out?
“It’d be helpful if you could get a mentor who is experienced in this industry. You can learn so much from them and that’s something you can’t really get online.” Any upcoming projects we can look forward to?
“Currently, I’m planning to set up a small team to handle bigger projects and fine-tune my brand. On a long-term scale, I hope to give back to the community by conducting workshops to teach people how to get a visually compelling shot that can best convey the story – not just in technical terms, but also on the human aspects.” Follow Yik Keat’s photography journey on @yk.
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COVER STORY
text: chew hui ling photos: warner music singapore
J unmasking
asmine Sokko
HOW DID AN ENIGMATIC POP STAR WHO NEVER SHOWS HER FACE, BECOME THE NEW FACE OF ELEC TRONIC MUSIC IN OUR LITTLE RED DOT? IT’S OBVIOUS: SHE LETS HER MUSIC DO THE TALKING.
Take one glance at our mysterious cover girl and you might wonder: “What’s up with the visor?” Aside from her haunting vocals and futuristic styling, rising EDM singer-producer Jasmine Sokko is borderline anonymous. For one, you’ll never catch her without her signature visor – “the girl with the mask”, is what most people call her. We gotta admit, we couldn’t help but feel intimidated when we first got to know her. But as soon as she entered the room with her mask off, what we see is the elusive girl-nextdoor who simply enjoys reading and watching documentaries. “I’m actually a very boring person!” as the self-proclaimed “full-time nerd” nonchalantly puts it, but we certainly didn’t mind seeing this side of her. Contrary to popular belief, her decision to stay hidden wasn’t a calculated one. “It all started
with the music video for ‘1057’,” the songstress tells us, where she recalls donning a mask in order to tie in with the narrative. “I was supposed to take off the mask at the end, but we decided to cut out the last scene. We just did it for fun and ultimately, I realised that this whole mask identity is very close to me as a person because I’ve always been an introvert. I prefer being lowkey. If people get to experience me, I’d like the first touch point to be my music instead of my appearance.” Her dedication to anonymity worked wonderfully in her favour. Not only was she able to successfully craft an artistic persona that is distinctly her own, the 23-year-old has also built a burgeoning solo career thanks to her sheer vocal talent. And as much as we’re curious about the face behind the mask, her achievements
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COVER STORY
How different is your visor-wearing persona from your actual personality?
“People tend to think that I’m cool if they don’t know me, but once they meet me in person, they’re like… ‘Oh.’ I have a rather high-pitched voice and I actually smile a lot in real life, which doesn’t really go well with the colours I’m currently portraying as an artiste.”
are just as worthy of recognition. In addition to penning chart-topping hits like ‘HURT’, ‘600D’ and her latest tour de force ‘TIRED’ – which solidified her status as one of the most-streamed local female musicians on Spotify – she has also been making major waves across Asia. Earlier this year, she concluded a successful stint on China’s hottest electronic music reality programme Rave Now, where she came in fourth place and made history as the only Singaporean contestant to compete at the finale. And it’s safe to say her popularity in China isn’t slowing down anytime soon, having gained over 65,000 followers on Weibo in just six weeks following her debut on the show. With her second EP in the making, her new banger ‘TIRED’ making its rounds on the airwaves and tons of gigs lined up, it’s only a matter of time before Jasmine Sokko blows up the pop world. Read on for the rest of our interview. Hi Jasmine! So tell us – what first got you hooked on music? “I’ve always liked music since young. I started playing in rock bands when I was 13 when punk rock was all the rage. Then, I realised I was bad at instruments but I still wanted to make music. Around the age of 18, I discovered electronic music. During that period of time, I guess it was a form of escapism because it was everything the society told me not to do. The kind of environment I grew up in was very pragmatic – my folks expected me to study hard and get a corporate job. Ideally, they wanted me to become a doctor or a lawyer, but #Nope.” So what were your parents’ reactions when you decided to become a musician? “To them, it was just a hobby – but it was something I wanted to do seriously. I’m the kind of person who likes doing things that people don’t want me to, so I found my parents’ resistance as one of my biggest motivations. I
wanted to be bad. (Laughs). Because at the end of the day, I want to look back at my life and not regret anything.” When it comes to EDM, there’s a lack of female representation. What inspired you to take the plunge? “I think that in the electronic music industry, it’s mostly the males who are doing most of the producing job. However, I once read a book by Michelle Obama titled Becoming, where she had a quote that said something along the lines of, ‘Don’t let where you come from or what you are, define where you will be going.’ And I feel like just because there aren’t many females doing it, doesn’t mean I shouldn’t pursue it.” And now, you’re one of the most streamed Singaporean artistes on Spotify! How did you feel when you first heard the news? “It felt so surreal. The fact that I have a digital existence, just seems so cool to me ’cause we used to listen to music through CDs back in the days. But fast forward to present day, everything can be found online and you can even have people halfway across the globe listening to your music, even if they don’t know you.” Is there anyone you’d like to thank for supporting you thus far? “I have a friend who’s been supporting me since the very beginning. She once wrote a letter to me and there was a part where she said, ‘I like it that your eyes sparkle when you talk about music’. But the ironic thing is that I wear a visor now, so you can’t really see my eyes. (Laughs)” Speaking of the visor, we’re curious: will you ever take it off in the future? “I will if there’s a good enough reason to do so! Something like... you know, there’s this Instagram account that created the fictional character Lil Miquela? Yeah, that.”
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CHAPTERS UNLOCKED
text: megan cheah
road to fame WHEN ONE CHAPTER ENDS, ANOTHER BEGINS. THESE VETERANS IN THE MUSIC SCENE EACH HAVE THEIR OWN TALES TO TELL – WE CHART WHERE EACH OF THEM BEG AN AND HOW THEY GOT FROM THEN TO NOW.
Scan me for the latest celebrity buzz!
taylor swift
chapter
While Swifties have easily embraced this fierce new form, it seems that she has not entirely shed her older personas. Her new album Lover is a clear sonic testament to Taylor moving on to yet another stage of her musical career. Take a look back at the colourful chapters of Tay-Tay’s pop culture domination so far.
1
the country girl from pennsylvania
Having been interested in music since young, Taylor was heavily inspired by Shania Twain when she began writing her own songs and released an eponymous country album under Big Machine Records at the age of 16. While singles ‘Teardrops On My Guitar’ and ‘Tim McGraw’ were received favourably, it was her sophomore album Fearless that put her on the map – ‘Love Story’ sold more than eight million copies worldwide and peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100. Thanks to the global acclaim of Fearless, Taylor successfully established herself as the next big starlet to watch. chapter
2
rise of the pop princess Her third album Speak
Now delved deep into the pop genre, but retained its country roots.
However, people were beginning to feel that her music was formulaic, thus she began experimenting with pop-rock tunes in her fourth fulllength album Red. It was praised for being genre-spanning, although it kept the romantic undertones from her earlier discography. It was, however, more mature and somewhat darker, going for a more cynical perspective of the world than just that of finding love and a happily ever after. Country music made a full departure with 1989, where straightforward pop hooks made an appearance when Taylor collaborated with established producers Max Martin and Shellback. Synthesizers, percussion and background vocals made appearances in tracks such as ‘Bad Blood’, ‘Style’ and ‘Shake It Off’, indicating that she would be leaving her well-known country style for good.
3
the old taylor can’t come to the phone right now
It’s hard to say for sure, but the drastic change in T-Swift’s image might have stemmed from the constant public scrutiny, highprofile breakups and feuds with other celebrities (most famously the one with Kanye West and Kim Kardashian-West). Gone was the pop princess who would sing about white stallions and prince charmings – on Reputation, we saw a Taylor Swift who was ready to fight back and her music video for ‘Look What
You Made Me Do’ showed just that, as she readily accepted the snake moniker given to her by a hateful Internet audience.
4
chapter
The country-pop style was fast becoming a signature of hers, which led to the album receiving a Grammy nomination for Best Country Album.
chapter
Mention Taylor Swift and it may be difficult for non-fans to recall the sweet country girl that started out with a guitar in her arms and her heart on her sleeve. After all, the singer’s musical image underwent a full-180 with the release of 2017’s Reputation, where she casted away her softer demeanour for a more rebellious look.
embracing her inner lover
Everyone from diehard fans to critics seemed to have embraced the dictator snake queen she portrayed with Reputation, but it seems that Taylor is going to let all of that go with Lover, her seventh studio album and arguably her most romantic effort to date. One of the most pre-ordered records by a female artist at the time of writing, Lover appears to signify that she’s turning over a new chapter in her life. The music video for ‘ME!’ featured a particularly symbolic scene of a snake disappearing in a flurry of butterflies, and there was also a long-awaited country music collaboration with the Dixie Chicks on her tracklist, indicating that we are indeed coming full circle with her latest release. A second music video for ‘You Need To Calm Down’ was also released from the Lover album, with pro-LGBTQ imagery and a whole entourage of celebrities making cameos. Our favourite part might have to be the scene where Tay-Tay and longtime rival Katy Perry (whom she called out in her ‘Look What You Made Me Do’ music video) hugged it out in a fries and burger costume respectively. Not only was it utterly adorable, it appeared they’ve finally made up and decided to stand together – after all, as Taylor sings, “And we see you over there on the Internet, comparing all the girls who are killing it / But we figured you out, we all know now we all got crowns”.
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REPPING THE 65
text: chew hui ling
singapore represent WHAT DOES A FILMMAKER, A DESIGNER AND A MOTION GRAPHICS ARTIST HAVE IN COMMON? BESIDES THEIR ARTISTIC TALENTS, THESE YOUNG TRAILBL AZERS ARE PUTTING SING APORE ON THE WORLD MAP.
Scan here to read more inspiring stories of today’s youths!
If you’ve seen the credit roll at the end of Avengers: Endgame, you might’ve noticed a familiar name flashing across the screen. 20-year-old Akshya Rameshkkumar was one of the crew members who worked on the Marvel blockbuster, and that was just one of the many major Hollywood productions she was featured in. A recent graduate from Nanyang Polytechnic’s Diploma in Motion Graphics & Broadcast Design, Askhya had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to intern at Cantina Creative last year, which is one of the most renowned design and visual effects studios in Los Angeles. “It was simply a dream come true,” she exclaims. “I still can’t believe I had such an opportunity – and at 19. I had to pinch myself a couple of times to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.” Even though Akshya was only a motion graphics intern, she was tasked to come up with original design assets for some of the biggest movie franchises. However, Avengers: Endgame was the most memorable project for her. “Working on such huge movies was nerve-wrecking, but it was where I got to learn many skills. I told my creative director that I was willing to try everything, so he introduced me to a variety of jobs from 3D modelling to animating and compositing. These were small details in the movie that many might miss, but I’m still immensely proud of my work.” Life in Hollywood was surprisingly pleasant for Akshya. “It was a lot of fun! It wasn’t as strict as I initially thought it would be – we work hard and play even harder. People there aren’t afraid to speak their thoughts, which helped me to become more expressive at the workplace. Through this experience, I also got a better insight into the working world and how each person contributes to different roles in the company.” Currently working as a motion graphics artist with a local creative design agency, Akshya hopes to continue honing her craft and gain more exposure in the field before deciding what’s the next step for her. When asked if she would consider pursuing a career in the States, she seemed open to the idea. “I may return to Cantina Creative in the future, but for now, I will continually train myself to be good at what I do.” We wish her all the best!
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IN PURSUIT
text: jasmine ong
living the hallyu dream THE ROAD TO FAME IS NEVER AN EASY ONE, ESPECIALLY IN THE CUTTHROAT WORLD OF K-POP. WE SPEAK TO FOUR YOUNG SING APOREAN HOPEFULS WHO TOOK A SHOT AT STARDOM AND ARE HERE TO TELL THE TALE.
akif halqi, 23 best known as: singer, dancer, contestant on kbs k-pop world festival fun fact: he performed a vocal cover of taeyang’s 2014 hit ‘eyes, nose, lips’ during the kbs k-pop world festival. the bigbang member must be proud!
Not only did he get to share the stage with global sensation BTS, Akif was also the first Singaporean to be featured at the KBS K-pop World Festival 2017 in Changwon, where he walked away with the Best Vocal Award. In addition to his vocal prowess, the talented charmer – who’s also part of local dance crew STARREseconds – possesses equally solid dance moves that has made him the all-rounded performer he is today. On his childhood aspirations: “I started listening to K-pop
when I was around eight years old and fell in love with TVXQ and Fly To The Sky. As I grew up in a musically inclined household where family time meant karaoke nights every weekend, I’ve always dreamt of becoming a performer since I was young.”
On his brief training stint in Korea: “I know it sounds cliché, but I actually enjoyed every second of the training period because I got to improve on my singing and dancing skills. One of the most memorable moments was when I received feedback from Koo Taeryong, a renowned YG Entertainment vocal coach who has taught many idols. He specifically highlighted my weak points – which may have seemed a little harsh, but it was definitely the push I needed which got me the award [during the competition].” On the lessons learnt throughout his journey:
“To believe in myself and make sure that I keep working hard no matter how much I’ve progressed. To not compare myself to others and always focus on my end goal. And lastly, to never forget my humble beginnings.” On his goal five years from now: “Musically, I wish to become
a successful singer one day. I want to be someone who can write and compose my own songs, while inspiring others who have a similar passion. On a personal level, I hope to pursue my studies and get a degree. I want to make my family proud, not just in performing but also in my studies too.”
tasha low, 25 best known as: former member of k-pop girl group skarf fun fact: you may recognise tasha from her stint on the 2017 survival show idol school, where she competed for a spot in the nine-member girl group fromis_9.
Prior to her idol days as part of the now-defunct girl group SKARF, Tasha was just like any other teenage girl with a passion for performing. Her inbuilt tenacity spurred her to take all the audition experience she could get, which was how she ended up at one that changed her life. Despite leaving her K-pop roots behind, the 25-year-old is now a budding actress and YouTuber in her own right – and she’s only getting started.
meal. I’ve also discovered that I still have a lot of passion for performing, which was why I stayed on for so long. It made me realise that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life, so after coming back to Singapore, I’ve been trying to find more opportunities to stand on stage again – but it hasn’t been easy. However, I do enjoy acting as well, hence I’m trying to venture into that department.” On whether she would choose to be an idol again:
“It’s a tough question because I would have said no initially. But thinking back, I realised I’ve learnt a lot and it has changed me for the better, so I think I would be an idol again. If I hadn’t left for Korea, I would have become a very different person from who I am now.”
On how being an idol has changed her as a person:
“I think it has changed me completely. Before moving to Korea, I was very shy and reserved. I didn’t dare to talk to people and I hated having conversations. But after becoming an idol, it taught me how to open up and be more comfortable with being myself.” On the things she has learned from the experience:
“Being grateful for simple things in life, such as going out for a
On advice for young hopefuls: “I think you need to find the reason why you want to become a K-pop star. If you want to be one just because you want to meet your favourite idols, then you won’t be able to pull through the hard training. But if you are really passionate about performing and genuinely like the Korean culture, then that will become the reason that will motivate you for the long run.”
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IN PURSUIT
cheris lee, 22 best known as: a member of k-pop girl group gbb fun fact: she was scouted by sm entertainment while on vacation when she was 15
At the young age of 15, Cheris packed her bags for Korea where she trained for a total of seven years before making her debut as part of the five-member girl group, GBB. And the rest is history. Though she may be living the K-pop life now, her journey was not one without hardships. In the midst of her hectic schedules, we caught up with the idol for a short chat. On her arduous trainee journey: “I trained for seven years and four months. As a foreign trainee, I was worried about the countless debut delays and couldn’t shake off the feeling of being an outcast. I got paranoid and felt lost, often feeling like I had to work extra hard in order to gain recognition. The training process was quite tedious, to say the least. Practice starts at 7am and runs all the way till midnight, so I usually only get about three to four hours of sleep daily.”
On the misconceptions of an idol: “Firstly, being a trainee doesn’t guarantee you a chance to debut. You wouldn’t get to do things freely and there are a lot of rules to obey, such as reporting your whereabouts even if you’re just heading to the washroom. Everyone thinks that being an idol is easy, but in reality, it takes a lot of hard work, endurance and a strong mindset to work in the K-pop industry.” On dealing with the pressure: “I definitely feel stressed most of the time, but I will always make it a point to talk to my brother or close friends about it. Despite the hardships, my mother is one of the main reasons why I’m still persevering. Although she had concerns about me working overseas at a young age, she still supported me regardless. That really motivated me to work harder and I hope to make my family proud.” On advice for K-pop hopefuls: “If that’s what you really
want to do, go for it! But always remember to work smart and not be gullible. Also, keep in mind that making improvements, having endurance and building a great source of moral support are especially important in the life of an idol.”
alfred sng, 28 best known as: singer, dancer, contestant on the voice fun fact: he first met tasha when they both competed on teenage dance challenge in 2009. what a small world!
It all started when an accidental opportunity arose for Alfred at an audition held on our tiny red dot, where he was eventually selected to be a trainee alongside fellow contender Tasha. Although things didn’t work out as he had planned, that didn’t stop him from pursuing his dream in other forms. We couldn’t be more proud of how far he has come! On his life-changing audition experience: “During the
auditions, I was told to sing and freestyle to a dance track, which was what got me shortlisted. After going through two more rounds of auditions, I was offered a trainee contract and made the move to Korea to begin my training. And that was when I realised how potentially life-changing this decision could’ve been. Looking back, I was really stoked at the opportunities I was presented and how my career path was able to do a 180-degrees turn from what I expected it to be.”
On the reality of being an idol trainee: “The schedules were very tough. I had vocal, dance and language classes all day, but what surprised me the most was how strict everything was.
Once, I remembered I was in the car chatting with Tasha when our manager reprimanded me for being the ‘noisiest male trainee’ she had ever seen. She went on to cite examples of K-pop groups she used to manage and how well-mannered they were, before telling me that I should talk less even if I was within private premises. Even though it was only the beginning of my trainee phase, I realised that our personalities would be completely shaped by the company.” On getting his voice heard on The Voice SG/MY: “It was nerve-wrecking as The Voice is such a huge franchise and it’s a competition dedicated solely to singing. I consider myself more as a performer as I don’t sing exceptionally well, so there were times when I struggled with self-confidence and felt constantly challenged throughout the six months of competition. However, these struggles were something that I had to learn how to overcome as it was an essential part of my growth.” On his upcoming plans: “I’m taking it one step at a time and seeing where 2019 would take me. I’m currently signed to a Taiwanese entertainment agency and had been filming for a drama series in Taiwan earlier this year, before returning to Singapore in June. As of now, I’m in the stages of discussion to be part of another competition that has a similar structure to South Korea’s Produce 101 series. So if that works out, I’ll hopefully be able to stand on stage by the end of this year!”
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LET’S TALK
text: chew hui ling
ASMR therapy MEET THE 21-YEAR-OLD BRAINCHILD BEHIND ASMR DOC TOR, WHO CREATES TINGLE-INDUCING CONTENT TO SPEAK UP ON THE OH-SO-QUIET TOPIC OF MENTAL HEALTH.
Ah, ASMR. Who would’ve thought the mere act of whispering would become such a huge Internet phenomenon? For the unacquainted, ASMR (short for Autonomous Meridian Sensory Response) refers to the tingle-inducing sensation that people experience through visual, auditory or cognitive triggers. Just a simple search on YouTube will reveal endless pages of ASMR fodder – think slime, soap cutting and mukbang, just to name a few. Amongst the plethora of ASMR enthusiasts is Glory Yang, a Singaporean girl-next-door who has amassed a loyal following on social media for her persona as the ASMR Doctor. Unlike other channels on YouTube that are mainly for entertainment purposes, the 21-year-old uses her platform to raise awareness for mental health. She first discovered ASMR when she was feeling overwhelmed at school, which caused her to spiral down into the pits of depression. It was only after she chanced upon a video by popular YouTuber ASMR Darling, that she became entranced with the trend and was inspired to start her own channel in 2018. She shares in her personal bio, “I felt a true sense of peace within me after watching ASMR videos. It helped me through difficult times by making me focus on something other than my anxious thoughts.”
And now, Glory hopes to continue spreading the wonders of ASMR through lighthearted, engaging content that helps people to relax. We reached out to the ASMR Doctor herself to talk all things ASMR and more. How did the idea of ASMR Doctor come about?
“While scrolling through YouTube one day, I fell down the ASMR rabbit hole and never looked back. Since discovering ASMR, I felt more relaxed and was able to fall asleep more easily. That inspired me to start my own channel to find out more about ASMR and use it as a platform to advocate for positive mental health. As I started exploring the different kinds of ASMR videos I could do, I found out that I enjoyed painting and slime more, thus I began to focus on creating visually stimulating content.” What do you hope viewers can take away from watching your videos?
“Scientific research has found that ASMR can help to ease stress and calm one’s mind, so I hope that my viewers will be able to feel more relaxed after watching my videos. At the same time, I hope to raise awareness about mental health in Singapore as it’s a taboo topic that’s usually swept under the carpet.” How has YouTube changed you as a person?
“Since young, I’ve always been shy to talk to strangers. It took me a lot of courage to step out
of my comfort zone and speak in front of a camera. But through my YouTube channel, I’m glad that I’m able to connect with my audience in a personal way. When people reach out to me on social media, I would try my best to offer advice and answer their questions which made me a more approachable person.” What’s the most memorable comment you’ve ever received?
“When a subscriber told me that she’s excited to watch my videos every week. It made me feel like there are people out there appreciating my videos and that’s what keeps me going.”
Any advice for those who are coping with their personal struggles?
“Find things in life that make you happy! Instead of dwelling on what’s dragging you down, keeping a positive mindset will help you to stay strong during difficult times. Even the smallest thing, such as making yourself a cup of coffee in the morning, can help to set the tone for your day. There are also a lot of people like me in the online community who will always be there for you, so don’t be afraid to reach out!” Get your daily dose of ASMR on www.asmrdoc.com!
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SELF LOVE
text: chew hui ling
good vibes only NEED A DOSE OF # SELFLOVE? FOLLOW THESE INSPIRING ILLUSTRATORS WHO USE INSTAGRAM TO SPREAD POSITIVITY THROUGH THEIR REL ATABLE DOODLES.
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