Calvert Tay is a multi-talented Singaporean artist who has transitioned from the world of acting to a vibrant career as a singer-songwriter. Calvert’s passion for music led him to make the daring decision to pursue it as a full-time career. He is also the son of established actors Hong Huifang and Zheng Geping and acknowledges the pressures and joys that come with carrying their family name.

When it comes to music, Calvert shares that he draws inspiration from diverse genres, incorporating elements of Pop, Ballads, R&B, and even Hip-hop and House into his compositions. The singer has recently released a new single called Hold You Close which explores the themes of perfect love and longing. 

With a nod to his cultural roots, Calvert emphasises the significance of representing his heritage through his music, while also venturing beyond Singapore’s borders to expand his career and collaborate with artists he admires. As he sets his sights on future goals, including solo concerts and album releases, Calvert remains dedicated to making a positive impact through his music. 

In our recent interview with Calvert, we spoke to the singer about his latest release, Hold You Close, his journey of becoming a singer, and the importance of music in his life. 

I hope that everyone who listens to “Hold You Close” can feel energetic and lively, at the same time feel a heartwarming sense of belonging.

You started your adventure in entertainment as an actor, however, you are currently more involved with music. What role did music play in your life that made you want to become a singer?

Calvert Tay: Music has always been a part of my life from a young age, from learning the piano to constantly listening to new songs. I have always been fascinated by how people can write good lyrics too. That said, I didn’t dwell deep into it until the circuit breaker [COVID-19] in 2020. I had a lot of time to myself and was feeling a bit lost in my career direction. That’s when I started to write here and there and very quickly, I got drawn into it. I found myself writing more and more, exploring and learning new skills and sounds. I felt that music was a place I could get lost in my own world and express my inner thoughts. I [truly] loved that feeling.

You have just released Hold You Close. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the song and what it means to you? 

CT: Hold You Close is a depiction of a feeling everyone will experience [at some point in their life]. The song talks about the feeling whereby everything is perfect with your other half and all you can do is think about him/her[/they]. I was inspired by my friends and their personal relationships. Seeing how happy they were, I was intrigued and decided to write about those feelings.

As the son of a well-known actress, Hong Huifang and actor, Zheng Geping, how has growing up in a family involved in the entertainment industry influenced your own journey into the industry? Did you have any other dreams besides acting and singing?

CT: To be honest, I never had any intention of entering the industry when I was young. But, as I grew older, I started exploring this industry and subsequently, I went into it with the best of my ability. Having celebrity parents did help me get an easier footing into the industry, however, I always felt that besides just carrying my own name, I’m carrying my family’s name as well, so there is a certain kind of pressure and stress that I face. Having said that, it’s been a fun journey so far and I don’t regret anything.

How would you describe your musical style and the unique elements that set you apart from other emerging singers?

CT: I would say my music style really is drawn from many different genres that I listen to. You may hear Pop elements, ballads, R&B, and sometimes even Hip-hop or House inside my tracks, but overall my logic is, if it sounds good, it probably is. I just want to have fun writing and I’m excited to share with everyone my next few tracks!

What is your creative process like when it comes to writing and composing music? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the right mindset?

CT: I found out that I can’t actually sit down and force myself to write, usually it ends up being a few hours of nothing. [I have to admit that] most of my inspiration comes at weird times, be it driving, showering, watching movies, or just randomly walking in a mall. I remember the top-line melody I came up with for Hold You Close was when I was with my friends eating outside; and when the melody popped [into my head], I [had] to excuse myself to record it down on my phone [laughs].

What message or emotions do you hope listeners will take away from your music, particularly from your latest single, Hold You Close? 

CT: I hope that everyone who listens to Hold You Close can feel energetic and lively, at the same time feel a heartwarming sense of belonging.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an emerging singer, and how have you overcome them?

CT: I would say this is a learning curve, music has been a [continuous] journey of learning, and does take a lot of time to be at a skilled level. Sometimes I get a bit impatient and try to rush things, however, they don’t work out well in the end, [therfore] I’ve been telling myself to feel and enjoy the process and to give my heart to the craft and respect it.

This question is related to your past and present releases. How much of your personal experience influences the creative process of your songs? Lyrically speaking, of course.

CT: I would 50%, as most of the inspirations for the storyline have been from other people’s experiences or just imaginative thinking.

Are there any particular artists or musicians who have had a significant impact on your musical style or career? If so, how have they influenced you?

CT: I would say over the past few years, I met so many great musicians and artists, all contributing little by little to my learning experience, be it good or bad, I grew from them. If you’re talking about music artists that I admire, I would say artists like Lauv, LANY, Charlie Puth, Eric Chou, YoungCaptain, and many more.

I would say my music style really is drawn from the many different genres that I listen to, you may hear Pop elements, Ballads, R&B, and sometimes even Hip-hop or House inside my tracks.

How does it feel when you release music in general? Personally, I feel like when an artist releases their work it’s like revealing their soul to the public. I have major respect for that and I’m curious how you feel when putting your music out there for people to judge.

CT: Wow! You’re very spot on. Before releasing this single [Hold You Close], I was actually very nervous about how the response would be. You know, if people were going to like it, or would people judge and say it sounds basic. [But at the end of the day], it is my work and my feelings, and it is me in general. If people like it, I appreciate that [and] if people don’t, I respect that and learn to improve myself even more.

What are your future goals and aspirations as a singer? Are there any specific milestones or accomplishments that you’re working towards?

CT: A solo concert definitely, collaboration with the artists that I admire and respect, but in between different goals to hit, [I would] like to release an album and perform in a stadium.

Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations that your fans can look forward to?

CT: For now, collaborations are still in the talks, but all I can say is exciting things are coming, and definitely more music to showcase to y’all!

As an emerging Singaporean artist, how important is it for you to represent your culture and heritage through your music? 

CT: I feel like going overseas to expand your career and knowledge is important and very beneficial, but one must always remember to honour their roots, and not forget those who have stood by you from the start. That’s how I feel, if I were to make a name for myself out there in the world, I want to be able to help pave the way for my fellow Singaporeans.

When you are not working and writing songs, what do you do to get away from it all and relax?

CT: My hobbies are sports and martial arts. Basketball, tennis, badminton, whatever sport it is, I’m always down to do it. I love martial arts as it helps me release any pent-up frustration [at times].

Is there anything else you’d like to share with your fans and our readers?

CT: Thank you to everyone who has supported me from the beginning until now, I will never forget it and I hope to make you all proud, and show you guys that you have been supporting the right person. For anyone reading this, my name is Calvert Tay, and I’m chasing my dreams to be a successful singer-songwriter. Let’s strive together!!

Written and interviewed by Maggie Gogler

_{View of the Arts is a British online publication that chiefly deals with films, music, and art, with an emphasis on the Asian entertainment industry. We are hoping our audience will grow with us as we begin to explore new platforms such as K-pop / K-music, and Asian music in general, and continue to dive into the talented and ever-growing scene of film, music, and arts, worldwide.}