Every Touching Moment

Every Touching Moment, theme song of the Singapore Pavilion @ Shanghai World Expo is a groundbreaking collaboration between Stefanie Sun, Tanya Chua, JJ Lin and Ah Du. The Mandarin song is surprising refreshing. Inspired by the cosmopolitan way of life in the young Singapore city, the song paints paints a welcoming sunny soundscape. It deftly blends the unique vocals with a strong backbeat.

The lyrics describe four young Singaporeans chasing dreams in different orbits - the curious photographer (JJ Lin), he eco-loving botanist (Stefanie Sun), the free spirited theater dancer (Tanya Chua) and the level-headed architect (Ah Du) - and how life embraces them with its invisible fabric.

Rather than coming off as a commercialised bubble-pop track, Every Touching Moment is catchy yet emotive with a few dashes of drama. The rhythm is at times introspective and wistful, carrying reflective emotions while keeping melancholic at bay. As the tempo quickens, we are elevated to a space of positivity, hope and passion for life.

The soulful lingering notes of the dizi and erhu contrast against the synthetic drumbeat, adding more colours to the beautiful mix. Collaborating Chinese musical instruments is a characteristic trademark of JJ Lin's song compositions and a deja vu for the Singapore Pavilion theme.

Every Touching Moment is true to its title. People may feel jaded and dispirited when happiness does not grow exponentially with success. In this mad paper chase for tangibles, take a breather and look around. Appreciate every moment with your loved ones and every moment can be a touching moment. A smile is more than a memory; it's our sanity check when the going gets tough.

I like the way the song ends on a celebratory and triumphant note. Well done, folks!