Singing for your supper: Aspiring talents in S'pore's busking scene

The buzz over Cathay singer reflects the changes in the busking scene in Singapore, especially among the young.

A crowd of people gathering ahead of busker Jeff Ng’s performance outside The Cathay on June 25, 2022. PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO FILE
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

Busker Jeff Ng, known for singing popular Chinese melodies in front of The Cathay, has generated much online buzz in the past month. Though his star may be somewhat diminished by recent online revelations, earlier video clips show large crowds listening to him, many waving their smartphones with the torches on.

Perhaps some of the turnout was a pent-up response to the Covid-19 restrictions and the dearth of live music performances, but on another level, it's a great way to announce that busking in public spaces is back.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.