The most prominent community music engagement I have witnessed in my lifetime is the resident’s recreational room with its full karaoke set up at one of the HDB blocks. Singing songs in various vernaculars, it was an essential part of my playground experience, situated close to the room.
Like many other Singaporeans living in HDB towns, I often avoided programmes or events planned by the community centre or town council, perceiving them as tacky – even when they weren't. But what if I told you there's a community music event featuring some of Singapore's biggest names?
MYBEATS MUSIC FEST: A GAME-CHANGER
Organised by Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC, MYBeats Music Festival engages residents in the North with household names like Benjamin Kheng, Yung Raja, and Xena Giam. The 2024 lineup includes rising star Shazza, Hongjoin, YAØ, MRTNS, Haven, Boon Hui Lu, and DJ Kiara. If you haven't attended a community arts and culture event before, MYBeats Music Fest might be the perfect starting point.
A FESTIVAL FOR ALL
MYBeats Music Festival is a melting pot of genres, generations and even cultures with performers like ALYPH taking the stage. Whether you're a fan of indie bands, hip-hop or pop music, the festival's diverse lineup ensures there's something for everyone. This inclusivity is the beating heart of MYBeats, creating a space where different tastes and stories coexist.
By highlighting both prominent and emerging local talent, the festival not only entertains but also empowers. It provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work to wider audiences, amplifying their voices. This focus on nurturing talent underscores the festival team's dedication to cultivating a thriving arts and culture scene that reflects and celebrates its community.
While music takes centre stage, MYBeats Festival also features workshops, art installations, and community-driven projects. These interactive elements invite attendees to engage more deeply, transforming passive spectators into active participants. From learning about sustainable living to trying hands-on crafts, the festival offers enriching opportunities for personal growth and connection.
WHY MYBEATS MUSIC FESTIVAL WAS FIRST STARTED
With origins in a group of passionate youth community leaders, Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC sought to innovate and connect with the younger generation, who are increasingly disconnected from the physical world but heavily connected to the digital one. They believed music and the arts could bring local talent closer to the community, creating awareness of the immense talent from local musicians across multiple genres.
The event attracts over 1,500 visitors each year from the GRC and beyond, primarily targeting youths and young families. While it might sound unbelievable, it seems that the goal of making the arts accessible to the grassroots has been positively received and achieved.
BRIDGING THE GAP
MYBeats is a shining example of how community events can transcend stereotypes. Far from the "tackiness" often associated with grassroots initiatives, the festival boasts high-quality production and thoughtfully curated acts that rival mainstream concerts.
In an age where people often feel disconnected despite being more "connected" than ever, MYBeats serves as a bridge. It creates a physical space where conversations happen, friendships form, and collaborations emerge. By prioritising accessibility—through a free entry, affordable food and beverage options, family-friendly programming, and community outreach—the festival ensures its reach extends to all corners of society.
When asked about the festival, many Singaporeans I’ve spoken to expressed familiarity with the name—even if they haven’t attended, they’ve heard of it. This speaks volumes about MYBeats’ growing impact and its ability to make waves beyond its immediate locale.
THE HEARTBEAT OF CELEBRATION
Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC aims to bridge the arts and culture in the heartlands by creating inclusive and engaging platforms like the MYBeats Music Festival. This event brings music enthusiasts together, providing residents with the opportunity to access and experience the local music scene right within their neighbourhood.
The GRC recognises the importance of promoting relevant and meaningful programmes that reflect its vibrant community, fostering a stronger sense of togetherness in Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC. In some ways, the MYBeats Festival is a celebration of community and the arts, reminding us of the power of music and art to break barriers, spark joy, and inspire unity.
Events like MYBeats set the gold standard for community engagement. By addressing the needs and interests of diverse audiences, they highlight the importance of inclusivity and representation.
If you’ve never attended a community arts and culture event before, let MYBeats Music Festival be your starting point. With its dynamic lineup, inclusive atmosphere, and clear focus on celebrating local talent, the festival is more than an event—it’s an experience that connects people, one beat at a time.
Image credits: MYBeats Music Festival
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