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It will soon be the day where we affirm that “this is country, this is our flag”. Where we stand and sing proudly that “this is home, truly”. A time where we come together as “one Singapore, a nation strong and free”.
If you haven’t yet put it together, it’ll soon be National Day!
Nothing like the classics from National Days past to inspire that warm feeling we call Patriotism! So, to help that feeling along, we compiled the full list of National Day hits! This list features the work of Singapore’s best artists. You’re sure to know a name or two.
But, before we dive in, how about a brief history lesson on NDP Songs?
A Brief History of National Day Songs
A lot of Singapore’s culture is rooted in the traditions of the generations prior. Thus, a lot of the traditional songs aren’t in English. They can be found in languages such as Mandarin, Bahasa Melayu and Tamil.
Comparatively, this list has the more modern songs that are directed at an English-speaking crowd.
Since 1985, an Executive Committee designates one song as the National Day Parade theme song. This song is usually blasted over the airwaves, broadcast on radio and television. For this song to gain traction, it is normal to hear this designated song a month before the 9th of August.
Many of Singapore’s acclaimed artists have been a part of this tradition. To name a few, we had Tanya Chua, Kit Chan and Taufik Batista! As of late, the Committees’ approach has been to gather an ensemble or to recruit Singapore’s fledgling musical talent.
The Definitive List of National Day Songs
Now, for the moment you’ve all been waiting for. We’ve compiled this list in chronological order; starting with the most recent. For the young amongst us, this might be a trip down memory lane. For the young-er amongst us, this is a chance to see how things have changed.
Now, without further ado, it’s time to celebrate!
Complete List of NDP Songs
1. Shine Your Light (2023) by 53A, The Island Voices, lewloh, Olivia Ong, ShiGGa Shay, Iman Fandi, Lineath
NDP 2023 Theme Song.
Kicking this list off is the most recent NDP Song to come out. Shine Your Light calls upon Singaporeans to put in their best in pursuing their passion and dreams. Through this song, we hope to reaffirm the “can-do” and “go-getter” spirit of Singaporeans, to continue chasing your goals, overcoming adversities and helping others along the way. In doing so, we shine our light and inspire others to give their best too.
2. Stronger Together (2022) by Taufik Batisah
NDP 2022 Theme Song.
Stronger Together aims to rally Singaporeans to come together, inspiring everyone to overcome adversity by unifying everyone together. Music is arranged in an upbeat manner to reflect a bright shared future while having its lyrics reminding everyone to be humble and grateful for the things we have. Inspired by real-life Singaporeans, this music video focuses on the community and resilience of our people, reminding us of the power of unity, and how everyone can overcome challenges and celebrate victories, striving toward a strong future!
3. The Road Ahead (2021) by Linying, Sezairi Sezali, Shye and Shabir
NDP 2021 Theme Song.
In these strained times under lockdown and uncertainty of the future, we have this gem to lift out spirits. This song describes that the hope of a future starts with something small.
More than that, it encourages persistence in the face of adversity and strength in unity. It is important to remember that no man is an island and that we have each other. Home is not just about the place, it is also about the people!
4. “Everything I Am (2020)” by Nathan Hartono
NDP 2020 Theme Song.
This song features the new blood in Singapore’s growing arts and music scene. Nathan Hartono is an Indonesian-Singaporean singer-songwriter and actor. As for the theme song, it was composed by Joshua Wan and performed by Nathan Hartono.
Despite some mild controversy by a vocal minority, this song brings the “come together” vibes. A remarkable switch up from the ballads that were our National Day anthems, this has a more pop feel to it. Turn this on and raise a glass "to your home, to your homeland"! This certainly makes one of the great NDP Songs!
5. “Our Singapore (2019 Remake)” by Rahimah Rahim, Jacintha Abisheganaden, Stefanie Sun. JJ Lin, Dick Lee, Kit Chan
NDP 2019 Theme Song.
Call this a remake of the original ballad of yore or call it a version 2.0. Regardless of what you call it, we called it amazing. Instead of the artist of a single generation, this song features 3 generations of artistic talent.
A song that was truly Singaporean injected with a whole new energy and harmony. This is an unabashed power ballad featuring a plethora of Singapore’s top talents. If you want something in recent history that inspires nostalgia, this is it!
6. “We Are Singapore (2018 Remake)” by Charlie Lim, Vanessa Fernandez, Aisyah Aziz, Shak'thiya Subramaniamm, Joanna Dong and THELIONCITYBOY
NDP 2018 Theme Song.
We hope you aren’t tired of the remakes yet! You surely couldn’t be with this hit right here! This is a 2018 remake of the original with updated lyrics courtesy of Charlie Lim. The song was also arranged and produced by Sydney Tan and Evan Low.
What really brings the feels of this video is Charlie’s smooth pipes and artistic direction by Boo Jun Feng! The video really reminds us of Singapore through the annuls of time and the music is superb. Above all, the song reminds us that "we are Singapore, Singaporean."
7. "Because it's Singapore (2017)" by Jay Lim
NDP 2017 Theme Song.
Reminiscent of the older NDP theme songs, this song was a timely tribute to the Singaporean Dream. Composed by Lee Wei Song and written and performed by Jay Lim, the 2 work closely together to this day! Jay Lim is managing director at Lee Wei Song Music Pte Ltd.
The song talks about working on the collective identity of Singapore. This nation is characterised by hard work, determination and togetherness; this song reminds us of that. Lest we forget that we’ve come as far as we have because of this.
8. "Tomorrow's Here Today (2016)" by 53A
NDP 2016 Theme Song.
Completely unlike NDP theme songs of old, the song is almost nothing without the video! Performed and composed by 53A, they bring an energy that is both refreshing and lively. But this describes more than just the song, the video was uniquely executed.
Leveraging a one-take style, the video is one massive flash mob. As the band moves from sound stage to sound stage, whole sets are reimagined and shifted. Featuring dancers, other musicians and bright colours, one word comes to mind with this song; kinetic.
9. "Our Singapore (2015)" by Dick Lee and JJ Lin
NDP 2015 Theme Song.
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll know Dick Lee and JJ Lin! They are 2 of Singapores’ foremost vocal and compositional talents; with awards and accolades to boot. Both of them played a part in making this song what it is!
As the lyrics suggest, we shouldn’t take what we have for granted. Every brick laid and every road built brought Singapore closer to the metropolis it is today. More than that, every Singaporean should endure in that pioneering spirit!
10. "We Will Get There (2014)" by Farisha Ishak, Fauzi Laili, Tay Ke Wei, Rahimah Rahim and Tabitha Nauser
NDP 2014 Theme Song.
For the uninitiated, the songs in this medley aren’t new. Each song was showcased as an NDP theme song nearer the turn of the millennium. Even though this is a “newer” song, it packs a mean nostalgic punch.
The song reminisces the times when Singapore was talked about in terms of its potential. There was so much room to grow and so much doubt. This medley reaffirms that by sticking together, we will get there!
11. "One Singapore (2013)" by Elaine Chan
NDP 2013 Theme Song.
This particular song got mixed reviews. Actions to an NDP theme song was a concept that quickly gained steam and this tune latched to it. Whether you loved it or hated, it surely made you go “wooaahh-wooahhh”.
Students nationwide were encouraged to learn the choreography and perform it on the 9th. This was the cause of the mixed reception. Despite having 2 left feet, this was still a tune back in the day and it was fun to dance along to!
12. "Love At First Light (2012)" by Olivia Ong and Natanya Tan
NDP 2012 Theme Song.
Love at First Light is a clever reimagining of the saying “love at first sight”. Composed and written by Iskandar Ismail and Paul Tan, this tune reminds us of the Singapore we wake up to. One full of the things and people we love.
The tune is reminiscent of the NDP theme songs of old. It sways gently as the lyrics recount the many things we appreciate or perhaps take for granted. On the whole, Love at First Light is a gentle reminder to wake up grateful.
13. "In a Heartbeat (2011)" by Sylvia Ratonel
NDP 2011 Theme Song.
This is another NDP theme song that you cannot listen to without the video. With music by Goh Kheng Long and video directed by Brian Gothong Tan, this is a visual masterpiece. Not to mention it being performed by Sylvia Ratonel, a Singapore Idol Season 3 Runner up!
The video tells the story of risk. Moving to a different life, for better or worse, is never easy. There are odds that one will scrounge a living or that one may thrive. This music video tells the story of that risk every Singaporean takes. Of that, we should be very proud.
14. "Song for Singapore (2010)" by Corrine May
NDP 2010 Theme Song.
One thing that truly stands out about Song for Singapore is the voice of Corrinne May. A Singapore born talent, Corrine May is based in Los Angeles as a musician, singer, and songwriter. She graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston and proved her chops in this song.
Her voice carries the deep and meaningful message in this song; one of appreciation. With each passing day, Singapore forges ahead and gets better. Song for Singapore is a reminder of each step we took in that direction.
15. "What Do You See? (2009)" by Electrico
NDP 2009 Theme Song.
For the uninitiated in Singapore’s pop rock scene, Electrico was one of the first to reach mainstream success. They are a pop rock and indie band originally formed in 1996. Originally headlining as Electric Company, they changed it to Electrico in 1997.
They’ve come a long way since! They composed and performed 2009’s What Do You See NDP theme song. This poetic rock ballad encourages us to go from strength to strength and to keep a vision for the future.
16. "Shine for Singapore (2008)" by Hady Mirza
NDP 2008 Theme Song.
Hady Mirza is arguably Singapore’s foremost singing competition talent. Not only did he win the second season of Singapore Idol, but he also won Asian Idol in 2007. This was no mean feat and definitely got him the opportunity to perform Shine for Singapore.
The song delivers a message of hope and fortitude; that your dreams and desires are not just yours. They belong to the rich tapestry of the Singaporean identity. As such, when you believe and achieve your dreams, you shine for Singapore.
17. "There's No Place I'd Rather Be (2007)" by Kit Chan
NDP 2007 Theme Song.
Besides the fact that Kit Chan is very well-traveled, this song highlights that home is where the heart is. Many question what makes a house a home; this song has the answer. It’s friends, family and where your ties are.
The grandeur of the comparisons made serve to remind us about the value of home. If Singapore is where you grew up, you’ll find your past here. In your past, you’ll find a part of you that makes you Singaporean.
18. "My Island Home (2006)" by Kaira Gong
NDP 2006 Theme Song.
Mandopop fans need no introduction to Kaira Gong. Signed to a Taiwanese label, a protégé of David Tao and affiliated to S.H.E, her credentials are solid. More than that, her rendition of My Island Home only proves she has the chops to carry an NDP theme song.
As if you couldn’t endear yourselves more to her, she claimed to be homesick on a TV show called Love 9.30. Later that year, she would gift us My Island Home as an NDP theme song. This reminds us Singapore is as much a part of us as we are of it.
19. "Reach Out for the Skies (2005)" by Taufik Batisah and Rui En
NDP 2005 Theme Song.
Taufik Batisah and Rui En were staples of Singapore’s mainstream media in 2005. Taufik was the Season 1 winner of Singapore Idol and Rui En is one of the Seven Princesses of Mediacorp. Their star power joined forces in this NDP theme song about the Singapore Dream.
Reach Out for the Skies is a song about strength in the face of uncertainty. It is an anthem for those with the desire to do bigger and better things! This song served as a reminder to hold fast and work for what you want!
20. "Home (2004)" by Kit Chan
NDP 2004 Theme Song.
Truthfully, we needn’t say too much about this song. Almost every Singaporean born before the 90’s remembers this iconic hit by Kit Chan. Composed expertly by Dick Lee and performed brilliantly by Kit Chan, this is one to remember.
Although this is the second iteration of the song, it’s still a trip down memory lane. Enough said.
21. "One United People (2003)" by Stefanie Sun
NDP 2003 Theme Song.
Stephanie Sun had an amazing run at doing NDP theme songs for 2 years back-to-back. Her sultry but strong vocals perfectly delivers this NDP theme songs' message of unity. One United People is an NDP Song about our similarities.
Lest we forget, Singapore is multi-cultural and multi-racial country. We live, work and study with each other; it’s success hinges on us getting along. One United People stands to remind everyone that we are one country, one people.
22. "We Will Get There (2002)" by Stefanie Sun
NDP 2002 Theme Song.
The beginning of Stephanie Suns’ consecutive run at the NDP anthem began here. We Will Get There is a song about the only constant – change. It is a poignant reminder that despite hard times, one must remember what’s important.
This is an encouraging number that focuses on the solution while addressing the trials. It reminds us that where there is risk, there will be reward. But to reap those rewards, we cannot do it alone. Each person must play their part and “in the end, we will get there”.
23. "Where I Belong (2001)" by Tanya Chua
NDP 2001 Theme Song.
Just as Tanya Chua is a recurring name on this list, so too is Iskandar Ismail. He is the composer of this NDP hit that takes us on a journey. Tanya Chua’s vocals also lend themselves greatly to carrying this song with her signature timbre.
The lyrics describe an idyllic island nation as beautiful for both its natural and urban architecture. From streetlights to greenery, they’re familiar sights that signal home. The song is underscored by what makes a place home; it’s where your heart and soul are kept.
24. "Shine on Me (2000)" by Mavis Hee and Jai Wahab
NDP 2000 Theme Song.
Shine on me is a song about how Singapore is a place where your dreams come true. It makes strong references to the stars and crescent moon on the flag as symbols of the future. Mavis and Jai both sing about how these symbols shine down on them with a promise of the future.
Mavis Hee is known for her music career and being the second runner-up in Singapore’s Miss Chinatown Pageant. Interestingly, Jai Wahab doesn’t have a profession in music! He is designer cum creative for MNCs!
25. "Together (1999)" by Evelyn Tan & Dreamz FM
NDP 1999 Theme Song.
From this moment on in the list, there is a distinct feel that is very 90’s. It’s a trip down memory lane for those around then and an eye opener for those who weren’t! Ken Lim, known best as a judge on Singapore Idol, had a hand in composing this number.
Evelyn Tan and Dreamz FM carry this nostalgic number well with their powerful vocals. This song and music video carries a strong message of unity. It tell us that despite different cultures and races, we all feel the Singapore heartbeat.
26. "Home (1998)" by Kit Chan and Dick Lee
NDP 1998 Theme Song.
Many an internet forum and Youtube comment section argue that this was the best NDP Song. To be frank, they have a point! This soulful and heartfelt tune has echoed through the annuls of time. Kit Chan also carried herself gracefully at the 1998 National Day Parade!
This song was performed live with a choir alongside Kit Chan. This was quite the spectacle at the time and it certainly has stuck with us to this day!
27. "Singapore Town (1997)" by The Sidaislers
NDP 1997 Theme Song.
This is undeniably the most upbeat song on this whole list! Steering away from what is and was a balladeer’s choice, Singapore Town is fun! Folksy and feel-good would be accurate descriptors for this tune!
Here are some interesting facts about this song and the group that sang it; it was written in 1960. The groups name “The Sidailers” is pronounced as Side-Aisle-Lers! The song was written slightly differently but it’s still great fun!
28. "Count On Me Singapore (1996)" by Clement Chow
NDP 1996 Theme Song.
We may forget that, despite Singapore having a lot to offer, we have something to offer it too! Count On Me Singapore is a song that reminds one and all to play their part. Country building can be difficult but, it’s something we can all contribute to.
The Song asks that we build and believe in our vision for tomorrow. This means standing together as one people and working hand in hand. All to show the world what Singapore can be with NDP Songs like this!
29. "My People My Home (1995)" by Dr Lee Tzu Pheng
NDP 1995 Theme Song.
My People My Home is a song about the bigger picture. The song poses the question; “Who are you, my country?” This brings about the discussion of what Singapore is and what it could be. As Singapore was settling into its position in Asia, it was poignant.
As a song sang by a school choir, it represents the hope of the future. Much like the lyrics contemplate, Singapore is greater than the sum of its parts. It ends by hoping that the collective good can be shared with the world.
30. "It's the Little Things (1991)" by Patrick Seet and Ivan Chua
NDP 1991 Theme Song.
Contrary to the previous song, this NDP song focuses on “the Little Things”. It is easy to boast the big picture and miss out the small things that make a place home. It’s the Little Things is an important reminder to look again.
Though we weren’t able to find the original song and clip, this re-enactment by Our SG does enough! It warms the heart to see the nuances of everyday Singaporean life. Most of all, how they’ve captured the smaller, more important Singaporean experiences.
31. "One People, One Nation, One Singapore (1990)" by Faridah Ali, Jacintha Abisheganaden, Stephen Francis and Clement Chow
NDP 1990 Theme Song.
It is easy to talk about nation building in grandiose terms. It is another thing to remember exactly how it was done. This song does the latter with an Anthem that delivers a message of togetherness and reverence.
A standout line of the song is “the toil of people from a dozen lands”. Singapore is first and foremost a diverse country. This song commemorates and celebrates the origins of that tenet beautifully.
32. "Five Stars Arising (1989)" by Lim Su Chong
NDP 1989 Theme Song.
Five Stars Arising has lyrics with a poetic take on the symbols and colours of the flag. It describes stars as symbols of youth, guidance and tranquillity. The crescent moon is described as freedom, truth and love.
The colours of the flag symbolise mankind and it’s freedom and purity. The song reminds us that as we bear the flag, we too bear its symbols!
33. "We are Singapore (1987-1988)" by Jonathan Tan, Roslinda Baharudin, Anne Weerapass and Robert Fernando
NDP 1987 - 1988 Theme Song.
There is an overture of happiness and celebration to We Are Singapore. However, the lyrics take it to a place of subtle pride. The first verse doesn’t shy away from lyrics that tell naysayers they were wrong to doubt Singapore!
This isn’t critique, we love it! Unlike the 2018 remake, this version evokes a different flavour of patriotism. It evokes one that is stoic, confidence and unabashed.
34. "Count On Me Singapore (1986)" by Clement Chow
NDP 1986 Theme Song.
As we’ve discussed the song not 6 paragraphs ago, let’s talk about Clement Chow! He is not stranger to the NDP Song stage, he has had the spotlight many times before. Unfortunately, not many remember him as the original singer of Count On Me Singapore.
Like a true patriot, Clement has been involved in many heritage projects. During Singapore’s Bicentennial commemoration, he released “None of This Came Easy”. This would surely have been another NDP Song if they hadn’t planned one already!
35. "Stand Up for Singapore (1984-1985)" by Hugh Harrison
NDP 1984-1985 Theme Song.
Last but not least, we have the OG of NDP Songs. If you take in the lyrics, it reads like a rally cry for progress and determination. As though it requires an energetic ensemble to bring it to life as it would otherwise fall flat.
Composed by Hugh Harrison, he is a Canadian man who was asked by Lee Kuan Yew himself to help! Surely no mean feat, he got the job done and delivered us a gem. Young or old, this tune will have you beaming with pride.
What do these National Day Songs represent?
More than a way to commemorate the day, these songs represent the journey of our island nation. We are a little red dot in a pond with other big fish. We have thrived regardless and forged ahead standing side by side one another.
These songs help us remember that we need a sense of togetherness. Without it, Singapore would not be what it is. A sense of unity has gotten this country through tough times, and it is an attitude that has endured. Upholding this attitude is a duty we owe to those around us and to ourselves.
So, be unafraid to hoist the flag with pride. Be unafraid to stand and say that Singapore is your country. Be unafraid to belt aloud any of the songs from this list on the 9th of August!
After all, “we are Singapore, Singaporean”. We hope you've enjoyed reading our list of NDP Songs!
Lastly, engage your ideal Wedding Live Band for your wedding to make it memorable for you and your guests!