Amid online discussions about lip syncing at Singapore’s National Day Parade 2026, singer-songwriter Gareth Fernandez and punk rock musician Trevor Wong took to an HDB void deck for a genuine acoustic performance, showcasing live vocals with no editing or autotune.
- Fernandez and Wong performed live without autotune in one take.
- Performance counters recent debate over lip syncing at NDP events.
- Upcoming single “Second Best” debuted in this intimate acoustic setting.
What happened
Singaporean singer-songwriter Gareth Fernandez teamed up with punk rock band member and content creator Trevor Wong for a live acoustic performance recorded at the void deck of an HDB block. The session featured Fernandez’s NDP 2026 song Sparkle, co-written with producer Dru Chen, as well as Fernandez’s forthcoming single, Second Best, slated for release in early September.
This collaboration followed Wong’s social media post questioning whether NDP 2026 performers were singing live during the event. Rather than entering the debate publicly, Fernandez chose to connect directly with Wong, leading to the creation of a genuine live performance video shared online. Wong confirmed the recording was pure and authentic, with no autotune or multi-takes, capturing background ambient sounds like rain.
Why it feels good
The heartfelt performance resonated with audiences craving authenticity in a world where large-scale events often rely on pre-recorded vocals. Viewers praised Fernandez’s smooth, expressive singing and Wong’s musical support, noting the warmth and clarity of their acoustic blend. Local singer Asnida Daud, also an NDP 2026 performer, expressed enthusiasm about the inspiring gesture.
Their decision to showcase live singing illuminated the passion and integrity within Singapore’s music scene. Both artists emphasize that local musicians have the talent and dedication to perform live, offering a relatable and honest alternative to heavily produced performances, which can sometimes feel less genuine to audiences.
What to enjoy or watch next
Fans can look forward to Gareth Fernandez’s new single, Second Best, releasing on September 4, which will likely continue to highlight his soulful style in fresh recordings. Following their acoustic void deck session, both Fernandez and Wong may inspire more local artists to prioritize live vocal performances in their future projects.
For those interested in experiencing authentic local music, watching the acoustic video on Instagram offers a delightful glimpse of grassroots talent thriving within everyday Singaporean spaces. Music lovers may also explore the broader conversation on artistic integrity sparked by this collaboration, appreciating how creativity can flourish when artists choose to connect directly with their audiences.