Check out the team from Musical Touch, who did a compilation of NDP Songs till 2024!
Welcome to our guide to National Day Parade (NDP) songs. These tunes have been the soundtrack of Singapore’s celebrations of independence over the years. Each year, a new NDP song is released, capturing the mood and aspirations of the nation. We've compiled a list of these songs from 1984 to 2024, showcasing the musical highlights that have defined our National Day Parades.
Whether you're here to reminisce or discover these gems for the first time, this list is for you. Featuring songs written by some of Singapore’s brightest stars, this collection is sure to inspire. Join us on a musical journey through the heart and soul of Singapore.
Table of Contents
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A Brief History of National Day Songs
National Day Parade (NDP) songs have been capturing the spirit of Singapore since the mid-1980s. The tradition began in 1984 with Hugh Harrison's "Stand Up for Singapore". This catchy anthem wasn't just a song - it was a rallying cry that set the stage for future NDP songs. From that moment on, themes of unity, resilience, and national pride became the heartbeat of Singapore's musical celebrations.
As Singapore grew and changed, so did its NDP songs. In the early days, these were straightforward, patriotic anthems that got right to the point. Now, there's much more variety. Modern NDP songs mix it up with different musical styles and often feature cool collaborations between Singapore's music stars and up-and-coming talents.
The selection of each year's NDP song is an important process. An executive committee chooses a tune to be the NDP theme. The chosen song gets the star treatment, playing across national media channels. These songs often become part of Singapore's pop culture, bringing people together and boosting national spirit.
In 1984, the National Arts Council launched the Sing Singapore Festival to uncover and showcase home-grown music and artists. This brilliant idea led to some absolute classics, like "Home" by Dick Lee and "Where I Belong" by Tanya Chua. These tunes didn't just top charts - they touched hearts across the nation.
From the tear-jerking nostalgia of "Home" to the sky-high inspiration of "Reach Out for the Skies", NDP songs continue to be the soundtrack of Singapore's journey. They're more than just melodies - they're musical time capsules that capture the nation's hopes, dreams, and spirit.
The complete list of NDP songs from 1984 to 2024 offers a musical trip through Singapore's history. Each song tells a unique story of Singapore's culture and progress, creating a tuneful adventure through the nation's development.
Complete List of NDP Songs
Now, let's dive into the heart of our guide: the complete list of National Day Parade (NDP) songs. Each song on this list has played a significant role in shaping Singapore's National Day celebrations. Presented in chronological order, starting with the most recent, these songs not only highlight the evolution of musical styles and themes but also showcase the talents of our nation's artists.
1. Not Alone (2024)
"Not Alone," performed by Benjamin Kheng, is the theme song for Singapore's 59th National Day in 2024. Interestingly enough, this song is one of the few NDP songs that does not mention "Singapore" in its lyrics. It adopts a first-person perspective and features melancholic yet uplifting lyrics that pay homage to past NDP songs, evoking nostalgia and a sense of belonging. The music video, directed by Koo Chia Meng, Brian Gothong Tan, and Davier Yoon, combines minimalist and introspective visuals with snippets of Singapore’s past and present.
2. Shine Your Light (2023)
"Shine Your Light," the 2023 National Day Parade theme song, showcases a collaborative performance by 53A, The Island Voices, lewloh, Olivia Ong, ShiGGa Shay, Iman Fandi, and Lineath. Composed by Don Richmond, with lyrics by Richmond and ShiGGa Shay, the song embodies unity and aspiration. Directed by Jin Pek, the music video reflects Singapore's journey, celebrating its progress and dreams. The upbeat anthem encourages Singaporeans to shine their light on the world, embracing their collective strength and pride.
3. Stronger Together (2022)
"Stronger Together," the 2022 National Day Parade theme song, was performed by Taufik Batisah. This upbeat anthem aims to rally Singaporeans to unite and overcome adversity through collective strength and unity. The song’s lyrics encourage gratitude and humility, reminding everyone of the importance of community and resilience. The music video, inspired by real-life stories, showcases the spirit of togetherness and the power of unity in building a brighter future for Singapore.
4. Road Ahead (2021)
"The Road Ahead," the 2021 National Day Parade theme song, is performed by Linying, Sezairi Sezali, Shye, and Shabir. This song was created during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it resonated deeply with Singaporeans as it speaks of hope, perseverance, and unity. It highlights the importance of community and collective strength, reminding listeners that no one is alone in their journey. The song's uplifting message is complemented by a visually compelling music video that captures the essence of resilience and togetherness.
5. Everything I Am (2020)
"Everything I Am," the 2020 National Day Parade theme song, was performed by Nathan Hartono and composed by Joshua Wan. This song departs from traditional ballads and embraces a more contemporary pop-ballad style. Its lyrics celebrate unity and the diverse experiences that make up Singapore’s identity. The music video showcases various aspects of daily life, reflecting the resilience and spirit of Singaporeans.
6. Our Singapore (2019)
"Our Singapore," the 2019 National Day Parade theme song, is a dynamic mash-up of two previous NDP songs: "We Will Get There" (2002) and "Our Singapore" (2015). Composed by Dick Lee, the song features an impressive line-up of 27 artists, including notable names like Stefanie Sun, JJ Lin, Kit Chan, and Taufik Batisah. Directed by Royston Tan, the music video showcases an inter-generational cast, symbolising the passing of the nation-building baton across generations. This theme song is part of Singapore's Bicentennial celebrations, emphasizing the collective ownership and contributions of past and present generations to the nation's story.
7. We Are Singapore (2018)
"We Are Singapore," the 2018 National Day Parade theme song, is a modern take on the classic 1987 NDP song of the same name. The updated version, performed by Charlie Lim, retains the iconic chorus while adding new verses that reflect contemporary challenges and aspirations. The refreshed lyrics include lines like "The future is uncertain and everything must change," aiming to resonate with today's generation. The music video features diverse scenes of Singaporean life, including a young hawker family and a multi-generation picnic, showcasing an inclusive representation of the nation. This rendition, featuring artists like Vanessa Fernandez, Aisyah Aziz, Shak'thiya Subramaniamm, and THELIONCITYBOY, emphasizes unity and pride in Singapore's evolving identity.
8. Because It's Singapore (2017)
"Because It's Singapore," the 2017 National Day Parade theme song, was performed by Jay Lim and composed by Lee Wei Song. The song captures the essence of Singaporean pride and unity, celebrating the nation's journey and the shared experiences of its people. The lyrics reflect themes of togetherness and resilience, encouraging Singaporeans to stay united as they build their dreams step by step. The music video features diverse scenes from daily life in Singapore, symbolising the harmony and strength of the community.
9. Tomorrow's Here Today (2016)
"Tomorrow's Here Today," the 2016 National Day Parade theme song, was performed by local band 53A and composed by Don Richmond. The song embraces a futuristic theme, aligning with the NDP's focus on "Building our Singapore of tomorrow." It highlights the aspirations and forward-looking spirit of Singaporeans. The music video, shot in a single take, captures various aspects of Singapore's evolving landscape and the hopeful outlook for the future. This energetic and upbeat song aims to inspire citizens to dream big and work together for a better tomorrow.
10. Our Singapore (2015)
"Our Singapore," the 2015 National Day Parade theme song, was performed by JJ Lin to commemorate Singapore's 50th year of independence. The song captures the nation’s past achievements and looks forward to a bright future. Directed by Eric Khoo, the music video transitions from black-and-white scenes of historical Singapore to vibrant, modern-day images, illustrating the nation's journey and progress. The song encourages Singaporeans to build on their shared history and continue striving for a better tomorrow.
11. We Will Get There / One People, One Nation, One Singapore (2014)
The 2014 National Day Parade featured a medley of "We Will Get There" and "One People, One Nation, One Singapore," performed by various artists, including Tay Kewei, Ann Hussein, Gayle Nerva, Farisha Ishak, Rahimah Rahim, and Tabitha Nauser. This medley was part of the NDP theme "Our People, Our Home," aiming to evoke nostalgia and celebrate the unity and resilience of Singaporeans. The combined songs emphasize the importance of togetherness and perseverance in building the nation's future.
12. One Singapore (2013)
The 2013 National Day Parade theme song, "One Singapore," was composed by Elaine Chan with lyrics by Selena Tan. Unlike in previous years, this song was performed by a choir of 68 everyday Singaporeans rather than by professional artists. The song aimed to reflect its performers' diverse dreams and backgrounds, highlighting the nation's unity and collective spirit. Despite initial mixed reactions online, "One Singapore" received a positive reception during the parade itself, emphasizing themes of inclusivity and national pride.
13. Love at First Light (2012)
"Love at First Light," the 2012 National Day Parade theme song, was performed by Olivia Ong and child actress Natanya Tan. Composed by Iskandar Ismail with lyrics by Paul Tan, the song reflects on the simplicity and beauty of life in Singapore, highlighting themes of hope and renewal. The music video, directed by Aaron Tan, features scenes of daily life and cultural identity, emphasizing the unity and determination of Singaporeans. This song stands out for its soothing melody and inspirational message, capturing the essence of the nation’s spirit.
14. In a Heartbeat (2011)
"In a Heartbeat," the 2011 National Day Parade theme song, was performed by Sylvia Ratonel. Composed by Goh Kheng Long with lyrics by Haresh Sharma, the song is a tribute to the dedication and resilience of Singaporeans. The music video, directed by Brian Gothong Tan, tells the touching story of a mother and son, illustrating the enduring bonds of family and community. This song emphasizes the importance of love and support in overcoming life's challenges, resonating deeply with its heartfelt lyrics and soulful performance.
15. Song for Singapore (2010)
Corrinne May performed "Song for Singapore," the 2010 National Day Parade theme song. Written and composed by May herself, the song is a heartfelt dedication to Singapore, celebrating its achievements and aspirations. The music video showcases iconic landmarks and everyday moments, reflecting the nation's journey and the dreams of its people. With its melodic tune and evocative lyrics, "Song for Singapore" captures the pride and hope of a nation moving forward together.
16. What Do You See (2009)
The 2009 National Day Parade theme song is "What Do You See?" by the Singaporean band Electrico. The song's rock and alternative style, paired with its reflective lyrics, aims to inspire Singaporeans to see the potential and progress of their nation. The music video, directed by Bertrand Lee, features iconic locations such as the Marina Barrage and the downtown core, showcasing everyday life in Singapore.
17. Shine for Singapore (2008)
"Shine for Singapore," the 2008 NDP theme song, was performed by Hady Mirza. Composed by Singaporean songwriter Benny Wong, the song emphasizes themes of hope, pride, and unity. The uplifting lyrics encourage Singaporeans to shine in their respective fields and contribute to the nation's progress. The music video, directed by Royston Tan, captures various heartwarming moments across the island, showcasing the spirit of community and collaboration that defines Singapore.
18. Will You / There's No Place I'd Rather Be (2007)
"Will You," one of the two 2007 National Day Parade theme songs, was performed by various Singaporean artists and composed by Jimmy Ye with lyrics by Lim Soh Hoon. The song is an energetic and inspiring anthem that encourages Singaporeans to step up and contribute to their communities. It emphasizes themes of responsibility and national unity, reflecting the parade’s theme of active participation and collective progress.
"There's No Place I'd Rather Be," the second theme song for the 2007 NDP, was performed by Kit Chan. Originally written for a musical by Singapore Polytechnic, the song was later adopted as an NDP theme. The lyrics highlight the unique beauty and warmth of Singapore, expressing a deep sense of belonging and pride. The music video, sponsored by DBS Bank, features various iconic locations in Singapore, reinforcing the message of national pride and unity.
19. My Island Home (2006)
Kaira Gong performed "My Island Home," the 2006 NDP theme song. This song highlights Singapore's beauty and serenity, celebrating its natural landscapes and the warmth of its people. The lyrics focus on the sense of belonging and pride that Singaporeans feel for their home. The music video features scenic shots of the island's parks, waterfronts, and iconic landmarks, capturing the essence of what makes Singapore special.
20. Reach Out for the Skies (2005)
"Reach Out for the Skies," the 2005 National Day Parade theme song, was a duet by Singapore Idol winner Taufik Batisah and singer-actress Rui En. Composed by Elaine Chan with lyrics by Selena Tan, the song's motivational message encourages Singaporeans to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence. The music video includes dynamic scenes of various sporting activities and community events, symbolizing the nation's collective effort to reach new heights and achieve its goals.
21. Home (2004)
"Home," the 2004 National Day Parade theme song, was performed by Kit Chan. Originally released in 1998, the song was brought back due to its immense popularity and emotional resonance with Singaporeans. Composed by Dick Lee, "Home" is an introspective and heartfelt anthem that speaks to the deep connection and love Singaporeans have for their country. The song's enduring appeal has made it a timeless classic, often sung at various national events and celebrations.
22. One United People (2003)
Stefanie Sun performed "One United People," the theme song for the 2003 National Day Parade. Joshua Wan wrote and composed the song. It emphasizes unity and togetherness among Singaporeans, encouraging everyone to come together as one nation regardless of race, language, or religion. Its inspirational lyrics and uplifting melody made it a memorable addition to the NDP song lineup.
23. We Will Get There (2002)
"We Will Get There," the 2002 NDP theme song, was performed by Stefanie Sun and composed by Dick Lee. The song's motivational message and inspiring lyrics encourage Singaporeans to persevere and work towards a brighter future together. The music video features scenes that showcase the nation's development and progress, reinforcing the collective journey of Singaporeans towards achieving their dreams.
24. Where I Belong (2001)
Tanya Chua composed and performed "Where I Belong," the theme song for the 2001 National Day Parade. The song reflects the sense of belonging and pride that Singaporeans feel towards their homeland. The heartfelt lyrics celebrate the nation's growth and the communal spirit that binds its people together. The music video features various iconic locations in Singapore, further enhancing the song's emotional impact.
25. Shine on Me (2000)
"Shine on Me," the 2000 NDP theme song, was performed by Jai Wahab and Mavis Hee. Composed by Jim Lim, the song carries a message of hope and inspiration. It encourages Singaporeans to shine brightly in their respective fields and contribute to the nation's success. The upbeat tempo and positive lyrics highlight the collective effort required to build a prosperous future for Singapore.
26. Together (1999)
"Together," the 1999 National Day Parade theme song, was performed by Evelyn Tan and Dreamz FM. Written by Ken Lim, the song emphasizes unity and the importance of standing together as a nation. Its lyrics reflect the aspirations of Singaporeans to achieve collective success and progress. The song's inspirational message and catchy melody have made it a memorable part of NDP celebrations.
27. Home / City For The World (1998)
"Home," composed by Dick Lee and performed by Kit Chan, was the theme song for the 1998 National Day Parade. It quickly became one of Singapore's most beloved NDP songs, often cited as a favourite among Singaporeans. The song speaks to the deep sense of belonging and emotional connection Singaporeans feel towards their homeland. Its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody have ensured its lasting popularity, making it a staple at National Day celebrations.
Alongside "Home," "City For The World" was also featured as an NDP song in 1998. Performed by various artists, this song was composed to celebrate Singapore's aspirations on the global stage. While it may not have reached the iconic status of "Home," it contributed to the overall theme of progress and unity for the 1998 celebrations.
28. Singapore Town (1997)
"Singapore Town," the theme song for the 1997 National Day Parade, was performed by The Sidaislers. This song marked a lively and upbeat departure from the traditional ballads typically associated with NDP songs. Originally written in the 1960s, "Singapore Town" was adapted for the parade to highlight the vibrant and fun aspects of life in Singapore. Its catchy melody and cheerful lyrics invite listeners to explore and enjoy various iconic locations around the city. The song's folksy feel and easy-to-remember lyrics have made it a beloved tune among Singaporeans, capturing the essence of the nation's spirit in a fun and engaging way.
29. Count On Me Singapore (1996)
Originally composed by Hugh Harrison and performed by Clement Chow, "Count On Me Singapore" was first introduced in 1986 but remained an enduring favourite, often associated with the 1996 National Day Parade. This patriotic song captures the spirit of unity and determination, encouraging Singaporeans to work together towards a brighter future. The song's catchy chorus and motivational lyrics have made it a staple in National Day celebrations, symbolising the collective strength and aspirations of the nation.
30. My People, My Home (1995)
"My People, My Home" was the theme song for the 1995 National Day Parade. Written by Dr Lee Tzu Pheng, the song reflects on the values of unity, belonging, and pride in Singapore. Its heartfelt lyrics and melodic tune celebrate the community spirit and the shared experiences that bind Singaporeans together. This song has been a poignant reminder of the importance of home and the people who make it special.
31. It's the Little Things (1991)
Performed by various artists, "It's the Little Things" was the theme song for the 1991 National Day Parade. Written by Patrick Seet with music by Ivan Chua, the song highlights everyday moments and small acts of kindness that contribute to the nation's collective happiness and cohesion. Its lyrics emphasize the significance of the simple pleasures and shared experiences that define life in Singapore.
32. One People, One Nation, One Singapore (1990)
The 1990 theme song, "One People, One Nation, One Singapore," was performed by Faridah Ali, Jacintha Abisheganaden, Stephen Francis, and Clement Chow. Written by Jeremy Monteiro, this song underscores the importance of unity and collaboration among Singaporeans of diverse backgrounds. Its powerful message and stirring melody have made it an enduring anthem of national pride and solidarity.
33. Five Stars Arising (1989)
"Five Stars Arising," composed by Lim Su Chong, was the theme song for the 1989 National Day Parade. This song celebrates the five ideals represented by the stars on the Singapore flag: democracy, peace, progress, justice, and equality. Its lyrics and melody evoke a sense of pride and hope, highlighting the nation's commitment to these values as it continues to grow and evolve.
34. We Are Singapore (1987-1988)
"We Are Singapore," the theme song for the 1987 and 1988 National Day Parades, was performed by Jonathan Tan, Roslinda Baharudin, Anne Weerapass, and Robert Fernando. Composed by Hugh Harrison, this song captures the pride and unity of the nation. The lyrics emphasize the strength and resilience of Singaporeans, highlighting the collective efforts that have built the nation. The iconic chorus "We are Singapore, Singaporeans" has become a rallying cry that embodies national identity and pride.
35. Count On Me Singapore (1986)
"Count On Me Singapore," composed by Hugh Harrison and performed by Clement Chow, was introduced as the theme song for the 1986 National Day Parade. The song's motivational lyrics and catchy chorus encourage Singaporeans to unite and work towards a common goal. It quickly became a favourite, symbolizing the collective strength and aspirations of the nation. The enduring popularity of this song reflects its powerful message of unity and determination.
36. Stand Up for Singapore (1984)
The 1984 and 1985 National Day Parade featured "Stand Up for Singapore," composed by Hugh Harrison, as its theme song. This was the inaugural NDP song and marked the beginning of a tradition of creating patriotic songs for National Day celebrations. Its message of national pride and unity was designed to instill a sense of belonging and responsibility among Singaporeans. The song's success paved the way for future NDP songs, establishing a musical tradition that continues to this day.
Conclusion
NDP songs have been woven into Singapore's cultural fabric for decades, capturing the nation's values, aspirations, and unity. From early anthems like "Stand Up for Singapore" to modern tunes such as "Not Alone", each song has shaped and mirrored Singaporeans' collective identity. These musical pieces serve as both a backdrop to annual celebrations and a chronicle of the nation's journey. The evolution of NDP songs reflects Singapore's changing landscape, featuring diverse musical styles that resonate across generations. Songs like "Home" and "We Are Singapore" continue to inspire pride and foster belonging. More than mere music, NDP songs stand as a testament to Singapore's enduring spirit, reminding citizens of their shared past, celebrating present achievements, and inspiring hope for the future. Whether revisiting familiar melodies or discovering them anew, these songs hold a special place in Singaporeans' hearts, embodying the nation's resilience and shared dreams.