Singaporean singer Haven is making waves in 2025. In anticipation of the release of her first full-length record HAVEN, the pop star, who turns 22 this year, held an exclusive listening party at Swee Lee Clarke Quay. The enclave is known as a hidden gem for both artists and music enthusiasts, boasting an impressive selection of guitars and records. Beyond that, the store also celebrates local talent like Haven with its immersive sonic experiences. Guests who attended the cosy listening party on 7 February were serenaded with live renditions of the tracks off Haven’s new album, which is set for release on Valentine’s Day.
Haven’s self-titled debut album is an anthology of short stories, told through the singer-songwriter’s eyes. Even at such a tender age, Haven has experienced all sorts of love—romantic or not. With the eight tracks on her new album, Haven opens up for the first time about the pains, joys and complexities of young love.
The singer’s growing discography is championed by her striking vocal prowess and bluesy tonality. Her sultry sound, which has only become more refined through the years, is beyond captivating. In an exclusive interview, Haven shares the inspiration behind her upcoming album, the most memorable live performance of her career to date, and the artists she dreams of collaborating with in the future.
GRAZIA Singapore (GS): Congratulations on the release of your debut album HAVEN! Can you tell us a little about the inspiration behind the album?
Haven (H): My title track, My World, was the inspiration of the entire album. This song taught me a lot about love within myself, and that was when I decided to write about all my love experiences growing up and the hurdles I faced. Growing up, I used to watch a lot of movies, and seeing how love was portrayed in all these films inspired the concept for this album.
GS: Of the eight tracks, which track feels the most personal to you? Why so?
H: I would definitely say My World. I wrote it as a love song to someone who was important to me. Even though the relationship did not last, revisiting the song helped me reflect on what love meant to me. I started asking myself questions that I was too afraid to answer. This particular song healed me more than I could ever have imagined, and I wanted to share the same feelings with my listeners.
GS: You’ve performed at a number of big music festivals in recent years. Which was the most memorable one for you?
H: I would have to say MYBeats (in 2024). It was the first time hearing my songs sung back at me and it motivated me to keep producing music that people would love. The emotions and the feeling I had on stage during that very moment are irreplaceable. I love performing and I will definitely do more live performances in 2025.
GS: What has been the highlight of your career so far?
H: Getting to meet many amazing and talented people along the way, and being able to support my family while doing the job that I love.
GS: You started your career at a young age, how has your sound evolved over the years?
H: More than my sound evolving, I think I’ve noticed how I have grown so much through my music. With my songs now, I realised that my perspective on life has changed, compared to my older tracks.
GS: Who is an artist that inspires your work?
H: Hands down, Billie Eilish. She has never been afraid of being vulnerable with her lyrics and she has such a strong message attached to all her songs. She is truly inspiring, and she gives me the strength to write my truth out to the world.
GS: What does your dream collaboration look like?
H: It definitely has changed throughout the years but at present, I dream of working with powerhouse female R&B artists such as the beautiful Kehlani and the goddess herself, SZA! It would be such an honour if I ever got a chance to work with them.
GS: 10 years into your career, what are some of the greatest life lessons you’ve learnt?
H: Change is the only constant and being able to adapt to new environments is difficult but necessary. I have learnt to have more compassion and empathy, in my outlook of life. Being able to say that “I am enough” is the toughest journey I had to go through.
GS: Do you have any advice for budding local musicians?
H: I know being an artist is not easy, and there will be people who would belittle you and criticise you. But it is important to constantly remind yourself of your purpose and the reason for your craft.
GS: What can your fans expect from you, following the release of HAVEN? Are there any exciting projects you’re working on that you can tell us about?
H: After this album, I will still be writing and growing. You are going to see me everywhere and I hope we continue this journey together!
Haven’s self-titled debut album will be released on 14 February 2025.
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