Singapore’s next wave of musicians is not just playing the game, they’re rewriting the score. Bold, genre-blurring and unapologetically themselves, this year’s Bright Young Things are changing the way we hear—and feel—music. Together, these six musicians represent the pulse of a generation: Regina Song, Joyy, Layyi, Estelle Fly, Jasmine Sokko, and Jean Seizure.
Born to veteran ’70s Mando-pop singers, Jean Seizure was practically raised onstage. They made their first foray into entertainment at just five years old, appearing in numerous Mediacorp productions as a child actor. But it wasn’t until 2017 that Jean officially stepped into the music spotlight with their debut single We’ll Be Okay. Nearly a decade later, the singer-songwriter has become one of Southeast Asia’s most recognisable voices in contemporary music—earning a coveted feature on New York’s iconic Times Square billboards. This October, the 34-year-old returns with a brand-new EP titled POV.
GRAZIA Singapore (GS): Was there a defining moment when you knew music was your calling?
Jean Seizure (JS): Once, when I was 13, I sang an A-Mei song on our home karaoke system in the living room. I remember my mother and her childhood friend—both singers who left their villages and tribes in Taiwan to pursue music—crying and hugging each other because they were moved by how my voice sounded that afternoon. As confused as I was by their reaction, it eventually became one of the defining moments that paved the way for me to create music.
GS: Who do you make music for—and who are you speaking to?
JS: First and foremost, I make music for the many versions of my inner child growing up—who would have wanted someone like me to relate to. I also speak to people who share similar emotional experiences, regardless of their background. I hope to bring different communities together through my work.
GS: Do you ever feel underestimated because of your age—or empowered by it?
JS: I feel empowered by my age, having lived through many chapters of my life while creating art. From acting in Mediacorp productions as a child, to starring in indie films, to representing Asia and Singapore on billboards in the U.S. through Spotify—I’ve led a fulfilling journey. The highs and lows have allowed me to channel those experiences and emotions into my work.
GS: As one of Singapore’s most established young musicians, how do you balance artistry and passion with your long-term career goals?
JS: I spent much of my childhood immersed in the film industry, focused on crafting one role at a time. While this helped me develop impactful characters and songs, I gradually became more aware of the bigger picture. Now, I approach my career with greater intentionality. I believe that achieving long-term goals and exploring artistry can go hand in hand.
GS: What is one theme or topic you’ve yet to explore in your music but would like to in the future?
JS: One theme I’ve yet to explore fully is familial love. Many of my followers haven’t had the luxury of experiencing unconditional love from their families. It’s a topic I’d love to dive into in future work.
GS: What are your thoughts on the visibility of Southeast Asian artists in the global music space—and where do you think we’re headed?
JS: I believe the world is opening up, and Southeast Asian musicians are gaining ground in the global scene. Take Yung Raja collaborating with Jay Park, or Regina Song and WhyLucas gaining attention both locally and internationally. I hope more opportunities emerge for Singaporean musicians to shine—and for Singaporeans to appreciate the breadth of talent across Southeast Asia.
PHOTOGRAPHY ZANTZ HAN
CREATIVE DIRECTION KELLY HSU
PRODUCER CHERYL LAI-LIM
STYLING TOK WEI LUN
HAIR & MAKEUP KAT ZHANG / THE SUBURBS STUDIO
VIDEOGRAPHERS JAYA KHIDIR AND SHERMAN SEE-THO
STYLING ASSISTANT CRYSTAL LIM
HAIR & MAKEUP ASSISTANTS NICOLE ANG AND SVETA KLYN / THE SUBURBS STUDIO
PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANTS MICHELLE YAP AND PENG SHENG
READ MORE
Joyy Is Exploring The Many Dimensions Of Music