Singaporean singer-songwriter WHYLUCAS is set for his debut festival stage in the upcoming WATERBOMB SINGAPORE 2025, joining the line-up of notable global stars such as MINHO, TAEMIN and 2NE1. After his return as a finalist from the Chinese-Thai reality talent show Chuang Asia, the 22-year-old artist is ready to make a splash for the highly anticipated summer festival. Ahead of his performance, we spoke with WHYLUCAS to find out more about his experience, his growth as an artist, and what we can expect from his stage.
Please introduce WHYLUCAS
Hi everyone, WHYLUCAS here. Hello大家好我是来自新加坡的为什么LUCAS. Sawadeekrap Pi Pi Nong Nong, Pom Chi WHYLUCAS from Singapore. Apa kabar, nama saya WHYLUCAS from Singapore!
I’m a singer-songwriter, and was also a finalist on Chuang Asia Season 2.
Describe yourself as an artist
For me, WHYLUCAS is a dynamic pop artist defined by his relentless authenticity, magnetic energy, and bold fusion of sounds and styles. At my core, I am a storyteller; one who aims to blend singer-songwriter intimacy with the electrifying presence of a performer. Armed with a guitar and with the dance chops I picked up as an idol trainee, I hope to defy expectations with my ever-evolving sonic experimentation. My music is a testament to the idea that artistry isn’t about fitting into boxes, but about creating my own.
Welcome back to Singapore! How does it feel to be back? What are parts of Singapore that you’ve missed while you were in Thailand?
It definitely feels very heartwarming, because while I feel as if I’ve changed a lot, my home has remained that very same comfortable place that I can come back to.
First and foremost, I definitely miss my grandma! She is the first person I had to hug after I entered my house. I definitely miss my family as well, especially my parents because they were the ones who showed undying love and support, and are the ones who watched every episode of the show and supported me in every comment section.
Beyond that, I guess I really miss school as well! While I had spent the majority of my first 3 semesters at National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School doing music, at heart, I actually really like going to school and being a student. There is something about friends and waking up for 8AM classes that makes me feel really young and nostalgic!
Congratulations on making it to the finalists of Chuang Asia. What was the experience like?
Being a finalist on Chuang Asia was truly transformative. Beyond the obvious growth, like mastering dance routines and refining my vocals, the experience taught me the power of intentionality. I learned to present myself with greater purpose, while forming invaluable connections with fellow trainees and industry mentors.
That said, the journey wasn’t without its challenges. The intense competition and 24/7 filming made me confront moments of self-doubt, especially being cut off from my support system back home. There were times I questioned why I was there, but that isolation ultimately became my greatest lesson. It forced me to dig deeper and realise that authenticity is my compass, even under pressure. Now, more than ever, I’m committed to being the same WHYLUCAS the world met on day one: unapologetically energetic, passionate, and driven by the belief that staying true to yourself is the most powerful way to inspire others.
In the first half of 2025, WHYLUCAS has charmed people globally in Chuang Asia. What’s next for you for the rest of the year?
The first half of 2025 has been surreal; from my Chuang Asia journey to making my festival debut at Sundown Festival. Performing back-to-back nights was exhausting in the best way possible, but seeing the crowd’s energy and knowing they were there for the music reminded me why I do this.
The momentum continues: I’m thrilled to open for Thailand’s Three Man Down in August; my first concert opener slot followed immediately by WATERBOMB Festival.
Beyond the stage, I’ve been deep in the studio crafting new music, including an EP dedicated to my incredible WHYNOTS (the fanbase) across the region. They’ve been with me through every step, and this next chapter is for them; there is also a bigger plan in motion – think of it as my love letter to the regional fans who make it all worthwhile.
This would be your debut festival performance in Singapore. How do you feel? What do you look forward to the most?
It’s an incredible honor to make my festival debut in Singapore; equal parts exhilarating and nerve-wracking, if I’m being honest. The stakes feel higher now, but that pressure fuels me. I’ve been working tirelessly with an amazing team of choreographers, dancers, and producers to create something special for the crowd.
Finally seeing my WHYNOTS face-to-face again excites me most! Their energy is what drives my performances, and I can’t wait for that magical moment of connection during the set. Plus, witnessing their reactions when they see… Well, let’s just say I’ve been working on some surprises. This is just the beginning of what we’ll build together.
What can fans expect from your WATERBOMB performance?
Fans can expect a full growth—sonically, visually, and energetically. I told my team, ‘I want to watch this performance later and barely recognise myself!’ It’s not just a set; it’s a live documentary of my artistic DNA. Imagine a singer-songwriter’s intimacy colliding with my experience as an idol trainee! It’s a fusion of every chapter that shaped me; the busker, the Chuang trainee, the artist discovering new sounds, all while aiming to deliver a show that leaves the crowd breathless.
I hope that every moment will feel undeniably WHYLUCAS. We’re bringing new songs, new arrangements, less clothes and yes… plenty of water. There might even be some wardrobe evolution mid-show. Most importantly, come ready to dance, scream, and leave soaked in every way, musically and physically.
How would you describe your festival style?
Actually, I am really inspired by outfits from Coachella! If it were up to me, it would be a tank top paired with beaten-up lightwash denim and a pair of cowboy boots.
Describe your WATERBOMB performance in three words
Energetic. Wet. Singaporean.
WATERBOMB Festival Singapore 2025 will happen on 30 and 31 August 2025 at Siloso Beach, Sentosa. Find more information here.
