Deborah Fernando, a third year student from the School of Engineering, was one of the four singers that sang "Count on Me" at this year's National Day Parade (NDP). Let's hear it from Deborah as she tells us what it's like to sing in front of the NDP crowd!
How were you selected to sing at this year's NDP?
Deborah: My sister did backup vocals for a New Year's countdown party a few years back. The music director of NDP was also directing that event. So, he knew we could sing and I guess he thought of us when he needed female vocalists.
Cool! Tell us more about the performance that you were involved in?
Deborah: I was involved in Act3. This was a youth segment that included a young rapper, violinist, beat boxer and singers. The "Count On Me" remix is for the younger generation of today to show the country that we are the future and that we can be depended on hence my part "Count On Me". There were four singers altogether and we represented the youth of our nation who have great potential to continue to build and serve Singapore.
Deborah as seen on the big screen
Great remix! What's the message of this song?
Deborah: Jin "Shiggay Shay" the Rapper, wrote the lyrics to the song which had a strong message that emphasized how much you can believe in us such as, "young eagles don't fly we soar" and "I do it all for ya'll, I do it for my country, I'm down for whatever so homie, just trust me".
We love the song! It must mean something to you as well!
Deborah: The Count On Me remix is a great song and so catchy! The lyrics are amazing and meaningful that when I listen to it, I feel proud to be the future of Singapore because I believe that we do have a lot to offer.
So what was the experience of singing in front of the NDP crowd?
Deborah: Being a part of NDP was an amazing experience and a dream come true! I never thought I'd be singing at National Day in front of the whole country but there I was on that big stage! It was so much fun and I got to meet many artists with mad talent especially Corrinne May! She was really awesome; I had a lot of fun chatting with her! I'm always a little nervous backstage but once I'm out there and I see everyone waving the clappers and cheering, the energy is so high that it kills the nerves and it gets me very excited!
STARSTRUCK! from left: Deborah Fernando, Corrinne May(Singer/Songwriter), Azura Goh (violinist), Samantha Fernando (singer in Act2)
So it'll be an understatement to say that you have enjoyed the experience?
Deborah: Yeah! I'm very happy to have been involved in this year's National Day when Singapore turned 45! It was a fantastic show; I think the best one yet! It's also a very different feeling watching it on TV and being there. I enjoyed every minute of the whole experience, the preparation before the show, hair and make-up, everything!