Truth means a variety of things, but to the Singaporean artist ShiGGa Shay, it defines simply as being true to oneself. Pek Jin Shen aka ShiGGa Shay dropped his first mixtape in 2010 and was quickly dubbed as ‘one to watch.’ Now, the artist is onto new spheres by partnering up with HUGO for the launch of #HUGOLouder, a new music platform that gives voice to new generations of inspiring artists.
Through #HUGOLouder, ShiGGa Shay shows his passion for music, shouts out to his homeland of Singapore and brings awareness to mental health.
Photography by Vitali Gelwich
What was it like to grow up in Singapore? Are there challenges to pursuing a career in music?
Growing up in Singapore you get exposed to many different cultures as a kid. It’s one of the smallest countries in the world but with a huge melting pot of ethnic cultures and traditions. I think there are challenges in pursuing a career as a musician and creative no matter where you’re at.
What is the music scene like in Singapore?
It’s pretty vibrant with plenty of emerging talented musicians. It’s a small city with so many different sounds.
Photography by Vitali Gelwich
How does your environment shape your music?
I draw inspiration from my environment all the time. From the people I meet, to the sounds of the traffic junctions, to the rumbling of railway tracks. I feel like inspiration can come from anywhere.
What is the inspiration behind your new track ‘Passive Aggressive?
It’s about how we spend too much of our time dwelling on the past and worrying about the future that we forget how to be present. It was really introspective for me to write. I wrote it in dedication to anyone who’s ever been through any type of mental struggle.
Photography by Vitali Gelwich
You rap in several languages. What makes you feel that certain lyrics should be sung in one language over another?
I feel like different languages have different forms of expression. There is something unique and special in every language. I think it boils down to the message and mood of the song you would like to convey to people.
HUGO Louder promotes young artists in music and gives you a platform to express issues that are important to you. What’s an issue most important to you?
I really appreciate the platform that HUGO has given to young artists like myself to express. I chose the topic of Mental Health for my #HUGOlouder episode, as I felt that there is still a lot of stigma surrounding mental illness in Asia. I want people who are struggling with mental health to know that help is available and they are not alone.
Photography by Vitali Gelwich
“I think facing your fears head-on is the best way to deal with them.” How does music play a part in dealing with your fears?
Music allows me to process my fears, pain or trauma. When I put my own stories into music, it’s a process of healing for me. It gives me purpose.
The topic of our current issue is “truth.” What does this mean to you?
Being true to yourself.
Tell us one fact & one lie about yourself?
I am shy. I can speak German.