-Part of the July issue of the EY Quarterly Newsletter
By Samantha Chui

Bursting into the local music scene as the only female member in Electrico, an otherwise all- male group in 2004, Amanda Ling can easily be considered as one of Singapore’s first rocker chicks. Without a doubt, Amanda’s presence in Electrico set the band apart from the male-centric music scene. With long hair and bright eyes, Amanda brought a unique twist to the line-up with her skills on the ivory keys and her sex appeal that led her to the cover of local men’s magazine, Maxim.

Following fellow guitarist Daniel Sassoon’s departure in May 2008, the kohl lined rocker chick recently left the band, bringing it back down to the original 3-person line-up of David Tan, Desmond Goh and William Lim.

Fans of Amanda, fear not because an insider tells us that Amanda’s side project, The Vibesetters, will soon be taking centre stage. In the meantime, she has served as one of the judges responsible for selecting the new local bands that will be performing at this year’s Baybeats festival. Amanda sits down with Esplanade Youths to share her thoughts about the local music scene and to give us an insight of what we can expect at the 8^th annual Baybeats. 

Questions +Answers with Amanda Ling

Please describe your first experience of performing at Baybeats.          

I was really nervous and excited at the same time. I was a newbie and didn’t know what to expect. Nevertheless, it was an experience that gave me insight to the local music scene because I was able to check out the other bands performing as well. 

Where do you think the local music industry is headed? Where will it be 5 years from now?

It’s headed to a full explosion of a newer and younger generation of musicians packed with talent, skills and knowledge.

Given the rise in popularity of music festivals such as Baybeats and TV shows such as Channel 5’s “Live n Loaded”, do you believe our society has become more supportive of the local music scene?

One thing is certain, there is more awareness geared towards the local music scene. The younger crowd has been more open- minded and receptive to local music. I hope that this awareness will continue to spread. 

In your opinion, what contributes to a band’s success?     

Music that can connect to people, the right marketing strategies to promote the band and the right direction will slowly lead a band to success in different ways.  

Who do you think is the most influential person in the local music industry?           

In my opinion, Leonard Soosay from Snakeweed Studio has been an influential figure in the music industry. Aside from recording many bands from the scene, his approach to connecting with and encouraging bands demonstrates how easy it is for bands to work with him. He is unofficially known as the underground “godfather” of the local music scene.

In your opinion, what is most rewarding about working in the local music industry?        

The constant inspiration that I receive when I share and exchange musical pointers and experiences with other fellow local musicians that I meet along the way. 

Do you have any words of inspiration for aspiring local musicians?    

Never give up your true passion and be true to yourself. Struggles will come along the way, but that will only make you push further and realize your full potential.  

Looking at the bands that have auditioned for this year’s festival, how will Baybeats 2009 be different from previous festivals?          

It will be rocking harder than before. The vibrancy and dynamics will add an extra edge to this year’s Baybeats. 

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