1 Out of 7 Billion
The world is getting smaller everyday but a lifetime is not enough to explore it. My adventure starts in Singapore.
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Good Enough
December 14, 2009
Heard this twice in the cab. Easy listening while cruising along the highway.
“Good Enough” by Dodgy
I’ve got an aching in my bones,
I’ve been exposed to what I want to see
The fuse is burning somewhere
it’s drenched in heat, it’s where I long to be
There’s always two sides you don’t have to suffer
If this is heaven then send me to hell
So stay in the light, don’t take your eyes from the prize
Hey, there goes the bell
If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me
It’s good enough for two, it’s what I want to see
If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me
It’s good enough for two, it’s what I want to see
Sing a song as the sun does rise,
if you don’t ask questions and you don’t know why
There’s a bridge to the other side,
Don’t take your eyes from the prize
There’s always two sides you don’t have to suffer
If this is heaven then send me to hell
So stay in the light, don’t take your eyes from the prize
Hey, there goes the bell
If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me
It’s good enough for two, it’s what I want to see
If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me
It’s good enough it’s true, it’s what I want to see
[Bridge]
There’s always two sides you don’t have to suffer
If this is heaven then send me to hell
So stay in the light, don’t take your eyes from the prize
Hey, there goes the bell
You’d like me to buy you mind,
The situation may you never find
If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me
It’s good enough for two, it’s what I want to see
If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me
It’s good enough for two, it’s what I want to see
If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me
It’s good enough for two, it’s what I want to see
If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me
It’s good enough for two, it’s what I want to see
F1 Rocks (Singapore)
September 27, 2009
“F1 Rocks” rocks. At least, that’s what I can say for Day 3 which I bought tickets for shortly after I learned Beyonce and Black Eyed Peas were coming to town.
Arrived at Fort Canning at around 630pm. Hassle free entry. We bought food good enough to last til midnight when Beyonce was expected to appear onstage. We were also prepared – with small plastic chairs and picnic cloth in tow.
After not going out for one-too-many Friday and Saturday nights, such weekend was truly an awesome way to get back to partying.
Arriving early has its benefits - we sat a few meters from the stage - a distance my digicam's 10x zoom can bear.
BEP at 9pm, Beyonce at 12midnight
Also saw Daryl several meters away. He trooped over to chat and take a photo. (Photo courtesy of Daryl Pan)
Now with my sister who is an expert in pop music, among other things... (Photo courtesy of Daryl Pan)
Now the main event …
Black Eyed Peas
Beyonce
Recommended Team/Staff for Idol Hopefuls
September 21, 2009
After having watched Idol shows of at least 3 countries (US, Australia, and Singapore) over the past several years, I believe each “hopeful” should have people who will assume the roles listed below. Some jobs roles can be combined as appropriate.
It’s tough to be in a competition so always good to seek assistance from the experts who can stay focused in making the individual successful.
Vocal coach – assesses vocal range of the individual, determines potential vocal range, helps individual select the appropriate songs based on weekly theme, works with individual in improving voice quality which includes but is not limited to diction, phrasing, breathing, putting emotion into the performance
Instrumentalist – as necessary; has a high level of competency on guitar, keyboards, and other instruments; rearranges the composition based on individual’s preferred approach (as approved by vocal coach)
Dance instructor – also doubles as fitness and well-being instructor ; works with individual in developing and improving stage presence either through appropriate gestures or dance steps; looks after nutrition and stress management; can be held responsible for security if contestant becomes exceptionally popular during the competition
Stylist – covers hair & makeup, clothes, grooming on and off cam ; provides guidance on how to project on screen and on camera (i.e. photo for publications); if competent enough, job holder can look after finances since majority of the expenses will likely be on clothes
Researcher – liaises with vocal coach on weekly themes and recommends songs that appeal to voting public (including background on the song); also considered an expert in what judges’ preferences are including capturing of feedback during competition itself; reviews performances of other contestants (strengths/weaknesses) and translate these for the benefit of the individual
Media relations – also acts as legal adviser if things get of out of hand; manages generation of good publicity for the individual in the local and overseas press; leads new media to expand voting/fan base (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, websites, forum); works with fan clubs (if any) on materials, participation in events; responsible for creative (yet legal) means of increasing votes
Not sure if the above makes sense but that’s my opinion. :-)
Happy Birthday Singapore!
August 2, 2009 — 4 Comments
Singapore turns 44 on Sunday, 9 August. Since the holiday falls on a Sunday, there won’t be school/work on Mon, 10 August. Long weekend!
A few weeks ago, I downloaded the first photo (see below) and used it as my Mac wallpaper. Consider me nationalistic even if I’m not a Singapore citizen.
The theme/slogan for this year is “Come Together : Reaching Out, Reaching Up” .
I also like this year’s theme song “What Do You See” , English version sung by Electrico, a local band.
You can download the video and MP3′s (including Chinese version) at http://www.ndp.org.sg
I moved to Singapore in 2006 and the theme song then was ”My Island Home“, sung by Kaira Gong. Believe it or not, I know the lyrics by heart !
The weekend prior to the actual National Day Parade, an NDP Preview Show is held. I was very lucky to have seen the NDP 2006 preview show especially since tickets are not sold (only raffled off or if one can get invites through a participant).
It was an important event as it convinced me that Singapore will be my new and permanent home.
Before I end this entry, let me share with you a very popular NDP song (1998) — “Home” sung by Kit Chan. I first heard it on Singapore Idol some time ago when Kit Chan was a guest there. Have since become familiar with it, I guess since I consider it as my personal theme song while in Singapore…
See the video (with lyrics)
Human
July 12, 2009
I seldom feature a song on my blog but this one caught my attention recently.
Check out the video here (and maybe sing along too!!) :
“Human”
(The Killers)
I did my best to notice
When the call came down the line
Up to the platform of surrender
I was brought but I was kind
And sometimes I get nervous
When I see an open door
Close your eyes, clear your heart
Cut the cord
Are we human or are we denser?
My sign is vital, my hands are cold
And I’m on my knees looking for the answer
Are we human or are we denser?
Pay my respects to grace and virtue
Send my condolences to good
Give my regards to soul and romance
They always did the best they could
And so long to devotion
You taught me everything I know
Wave goodbye, wish me well
You’ve gotta let me go
Are we human or are we denser?
My sign is vital, my hands are cold
And I’m on my knees looking for the answer
Are we human or are we denser?
Will your system be alright
When you dream of home tonight?
There is no message we’re receiving
Let me know, is your heart still beating?
Are we human or are we denser?
My sign is vital, my hands are cold
And I’m on my knees looking for the answer
You’ve gotta let me know
Are we human or are we denser?
My sign is vital, my hands are cold
And I’m on my knees looking for the answer
Are we human or are we denser?
Are we human or are we denser?
Are we human or are we denser?
Happy Birthday to Me
June 4, 2009
Another birthday has gone by and I feel truly blessed a lot of people remembered. Received calls, SMS, emails and Facebook wall posts/messages.
The celebration started shortly after midnight/ crossover to June 4. I arrived home with mom and Auleine surprising me with a birthday cake and balloons upon entering the house. Whoa, have never held balloons in a long time (not that I had been hoping to all this time). For age confidentiality reasons, I am only publishing the photo with the balloons. The birthday cake had big and small candles. :p
Happy Birthday to me!
Spent 4 June on one day leave from work and went running around town the whole day before heading to Kallang …
1) for dinner with the family (Dad was busy celebrating my birthday while overseas; he also kept calling or asking mom for my whereabouts !) …
Thai and Teochew menu
Cereal prawns - one of my fave Singapore dishes
Thai Village (5 Stadium Walk, #01-50 Leisure Park Kallang; Ph 6440 2292)
Link : http://www.thaivillagerestaurant.com.sg/
2) The Pussycat Dolls — Doll Domination World Tour in Singapore
Watching this show fulfills my promise post-SingFest in August 2008 that I will catch their full-length concert should they visit Singapore again. Learned about their world tour via Sistic and booked seats immediately.
Show ran for 1.5 hours. Just right though I expected it to have a much longer encore. Stage was simple — they made up for it by using most of it during the night.
One doll was missing (forgot who as I only recognise Nicole, the lead singer) due to a fractured rib (ouch) and her absence was noticeable because there seemed to be space for another person while they danced on stage. Talk about being there in spirit!
Photos
L-R: me, Fanni, Kristy, Wee Siong
The fam
The most expensive section was free standing. Don't think I could last standing for 2 hours or so.
More photos on my Zenfolio site (link on right side of the page — Leo’s Photos)
Aaron Kwok De Show Reel Live Concert (Singapore) 2009
May 31, 2009 — 8 Comments
I watched Aaron Kwok’s concert this weekend with Marlene. I almost didn’t get to catch this show because I thought I had accidentally thrown the tickets away when I disposed my unused Singapore International Filmfest tickets a few weeks ago. Luckily I had not claimed the tickets yet from Sistic so I didn’t need to be overly anxious.
Marlene & Me (sounds like a title of a movie)
Stunning show with elaborate production design — 450 degree revolving stage, costumes similar to Chinese adventure movies, awesome choreography. Aaron Kwok’s singing ability isn’t as great as Jay Chou or Wang Lee Hom but I’d forgive him as most of the time he was strutting on stage. I don’t understand Mandarin nor Cantonese anyway!
This is the 4th Mandarin (or Cantonese) show I’ve seen since moving to Singapore. It’s really fantastic that Singapore is usually one of the stops in a world tour for many artists. It’s just a matter of whether one has the time, money, or group of friends to actually catch concerts.
Aaron Kwok is the first every Chinese pop artist I knew and I remember first seeing him on Channel V or MTV many years back. The setting of the MTV was in a waterfall, etc. That’s all I can recall. The next Chinese artist I knew was Jacky Cheung — when he sang a duet with Regine Velasquez (Philippine artist).
Aaron Kwok and Jacky Cheung are regarded as two of the four (4) heavenly kings as they dominated the Asia music industry in the 90′s (the other two being Leon Lai and Andy Lau). That’s just some trivia I picked up somewhere.
Here are some photos from the concert :
Glittery start
Monkey bar action
450 degree revolving stage - one of the features of the concert
And just when people thought it was over, he comes out splashing water to the audience for the sake of art!
American Idol
May 23, 2009
Kris Allen wins American Idol (2009)
I was only able to watch a few of the “Top 13″ shows this season but I’m really happy that Kris Allen won. He may not have a voice that could break shopping wall windows but he is steady. I can also relate to his type of music.
While Adam Lambert seemed on his way to clinch the crown, his style eventually annoyed me. I think I will feel dizzy listening to his CD if he sang that way in all his tracks. He’s talented and I’m sure a lot of people will buy his album.
Out of the 3 seasons of American Idol I had time to catch during the past few years, my picks were chosen by America twice — Carrie Underwood and Kris Allen. The other one, David Archuleta, finished runner up in 2008.
Happy is he who does not expect, he shall be rewarded. I know Kris didn’t expect to win over Adam. Now that he has finished top of the list, he needs to realise he won for a reason and his job is to live up to everyone’s expectations, especially those who voted for him.
Heard the finale was awesome. I recorded it but haven’t had the chance to watch yet.
Coming soon : Singapore Idol Season 3. Maybe I’ll watch that show too.
Just saw the website and here are the audition guidelines. I like guideline #9 though I pity those who will queue as early as 8am and have their audition late afternoon given the weather here in Singapore.
- You must be in line by 8a.m. at the Audition Venue. Registration for the Auditions closes at 6p.m.
- You must register online, then print out the online application form and bring the signed application form (photo included) with you on the day of Registration — 6 June to the Registration Venue. You must also bring your letter of Confirmation with your reference number on it.
- You MUST bring along a piece of ID that includes a Recent photo. The information provided in the Application Form should correspond with the information provided in the ID. For Singapore citizens please bring along your NRIC. For non-Singapore citizens (including Singapore PR), please bring along your passport.
- Auditions are NOT by appointment, you must come by 8a.m and join the Official Queue.
- Auditions will be first-come, first-seen. It is up to you to decide when to arrive at the auditions. Please anticipate long queues.
- Please remember that the audition process may take up to several hours, so please plan accordingly. Do ensure that you have a hearty breakfast before queuing at the venue, and come prepared for an audition process lasting several hours.
- If you are under 21 years of age as of the date of registration, please ensure that you bring along a letter of approval from a parent or guardian with their signatures. You are allowed to bring a parent or guardian with you, but they will only be allowed into the Reception & Registration Areas, depending on the day’s turnout.
- For those over 21, guests will be permitted based on the day’s turnout. No guests – family or friends-are allowed into the audition room with you.
- PLEASE COME DRESSED TO IMPRESS, but remember NOT to wear clothes with visible logos, trademarks or offensive language.
- Be prepared to sing two songs of your choice a cappella (without music), one of which must be in English. You will be required to sing a verse and a chorus, but it is good to know the entire song. You must provide the titles of the songs, and the original artistes (singers) to the person judging your performance.
Weekend in the East, South, & West
February 9, 2009
Saturday
130pm – Eugene and Veria’s hosted lunch with friends at their new place in Bedok. Their “major project” was truly worth the wait. I found their home bright, cozy, and modern — awesome environment for a newly-married couple.
Food was fanstastic — from the baked mushrooms, pasta, and chocolate dessert!
Also met new friends – Daryl, Shu Li, Rodin. Terence and Sze whom I had the chance to meet in December through Eugene and Veria were also there.
Shu Li and Daryl
Terence and Sze
This is really yummy - great food presentation too
I think this is called molten chocolate cake. Hotel quality, even better!
Our wonderful hosts - caught in the act - Eugene and Veria
430pm (ish) – Met up with Julu in Vivo to prepare for the biggest cookout of his life (which I was hosting). In a few hours, he will be sharing his culinary talent with several of our friends through his signature creations. Learned a fair bit though my contribution was limited to ingredient preparation (peeling skin off the garlic and passing plates/bowls etc) haha.
Fun night – drinks, KTV, and boardgames. Ended around midnight.
Believe it or not, Julu didn't like the first shot so needed a re-take!
Posh Pierre - cutting bacon into decent size - with matching blue kitchen scissors
One of the two pasta sauces created by Julu. This one's was made form scratch (tomato base)
L-R : Julu, Pierre, Jeremy, me ; Back L-R: Desmond, Peiru
Gorgeous women at the Caribbean - Peiru and Valerie
With Desmond and Duncan
Chipmunks haha - Ben, Jeremy, Duncan
Sunday
430pm – KTV with my church choir. Always great to be at KTV with friends who not only love to sing but can also sing really well.
Venue was at Marina Country Club which was somewhere near Boon Lay. Selection was good; likely to go back there if I have extra minutes to travel to the west. Stayed for around 3 hrs before taking a one-hour bus journey from Boon Lay to Harbourfront.
A few photos
Wang Lee Hom Heart Beat Album
January 3, 2009 — 4 Comments
There seems to be people searching for Wang Lee Hom’s latest album being directed to my site probably because of a previous entry I made on his Singapore concert.
I just got a copy of “Heart Beat” yesterday. Not sure if this is what people are looking for but made an entry anyway. Might be of help to them.
It was an impulse purchase as I had originally wanted to buy the DVD version of his “Music Man” concert. The staff from HMV whom I spoke with several weeks back told me one will be made available by yearend, likely the concert held in Taiwan.
The “Heart Beat” album came with a 2009 desk calendar which I gladly offered to give to Marlene whom I went with to the concert in Singapore in November.
Quite impressive packaging. CD mounted on an oversized photo cardboard in contrast with other Chinese albums which are in DVD plastic cases.
Front cover
Back cover
CD
Summary of tracks – ten in all ; have listened to all and found at least half quite nice (and I don’t understand Mandarin)
Well done to the people at Sony Music.
