Of Rhymes & Reason

How did you end up in your line of work?
I studied sociology during university, and that gave me a good understanding and deep appreciation of the work that government networks do in order to ensure everyone’s health and safety. I think this line of work was a natural decision for me.

Where do you hope to see yourself in 10 years’ time?
I hope I’m still making music with my band Cinnamon Persimmon, taking photos, and writing. When I look back on the time that has passed from right now, I want to be proud of the person I have become regardless of paper qualifications and wealth. I hope I’m still working to amplify the positives in society.

As a musician yourself, what’s one thing you’d change about the music scene in Singapore and why?
I would really love to hear more Singaporeans make music that might be considered really weird but still authentic to them. I’d like to see more musicians have fun while contending with real issues and dissecting tensions we face in living our identities and experiences. There’re already awesome people doing this, but we can use more. 

You write most of your song lyrics yourself—where does the inspiration come from?
Who doesn’t write about their own life experiences, right? Inspiration comes in many forms, but it’s always easier to write about things you’ve seen or gone through.

Apart from your home, what’s your favourite place in Singapore?
Tess Bar—feels like home, but pimped out with cocktails, baked camembert, and fat crispy chips. 

Your dream holiday destination is:
A summer road trip through the Scottish highlands with lots of stops for peaty scotch and fried black sausage.