16-9-2023 (SINGAPORE) The 2023 Singapore Grand Prix commenced with a spectacular start as the first night witnessed an electrifying performance by artists from Asian-American record label 88rising. The Padang Stage came alive at 6:30 pm as approximately 50,000 attendees were treated to captivating performances by a lineup of 88rising artists making their collective debut in Singapore.
The star-studded roster included Hong Kong-born rapper-singer Jackson Wang, Japanese girl group Atarashii Gakko!, Indonesian singer-songwriter Niki, Indonesian rapper-singers Warren Hue and Rich Brian, Thai rapper-singer Milli, South Korean rapper-singer Bibi, and the multilingual girl group XG.
Drawing immense anticipation from the crowd was Jackson Wang, a member of the renowned South Korean boy band Got7, who had previously sold out a solo concert at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in December 2022.
On Tuesday, fans caught a glimpse of the 29-year-old artist at Changi Airport, dressed in a dark-coloured loose-fitting top, sweatpants, and sporting red headphones. His distinctive hairstyle featured center-parted hair tied into two little buns, with one side dyed blonde and the other sporting a dark hue.
Later that evening, Wang made an appearance at the popular restaurant and bar, Ce La Vi, located at Marina Bay Sands. Clad in an all-black ensemble and donning sunglasses, he grooved along to dance tracks, including The Weeknd’s hit song “Can’t Feel My Face.”
Prior to the event, clips surfaced on social media, showcasing Wang rehearsing for his Singapore Grand Prix performance. Dressed in a black singlet, pants, and sunglasses, he was accompanied by six backup dancers. The fiery backdrop during the rehearsal hinted at the inclusion of “Blow,” a sultry English-language song from Wang’s second studio album, “Magic Man,” among the numbers to be performed.
Among the thrilled spectators was 23-year-old Singaporean Awena Yan, who arrived at the venue with a friend at 3:30 pm to fully immerse themselves in the entertainment and ambiance. Having purchased a single-day Padang Grandstand ticket for $138, Yan was particularly impressed by XG’s performance. She expressed her delight, saying, “I discovered their music on YouTube, and it was truly amazing to see them in person. I especially enjoyed their performances of ‘Left Right’ and ‘New Dance,’ and their dance moves and coordination were simply awesome.”
Yan’s friend, 23-year-old Puah Siew Wen, was captivated by the funky and fun-loving energy displayed by South Korean rapper-singer Bibi. As a fan of Jackson Wang and Got7, Puah expressed her excitement at finally being able to witness his performance. She eagerly shared, “I missed the opportunity to attend his solo concert last year, so I’m thrilled to see him perform today. I hope he sings ‘Papillon’ and ‘100 Ways’ – it’s going to be an unforgettable experience.”
The Singapore Grand Prix festivities will continue until Sunday, featuring an array of captivating performances. On Saturday, attendees can look forward to American quartet Kings Of Leon and American rapper-singer Post Malone taking the stage at Padang, while British band Culture Club will evoke nostalgic memories at The Wharf Stage.
Sunday promises to be the pinnacle of entertainment as British band Madness, British singer Robbie Williams, and more take center stage, ensuring a grand finale for the exhilarating Singapore Grand Prix weekend.
