There are those who dream, those who do, and others who accomplish both. For Lucas Wang, who goes by his stage name WHYLUCAS, the journey to chase his dreams began earlier this year in Thailand, when the singer-songwriter put aside his studies at the National University of Singapore to pursue music full-time. He joined Chuang Asia 2, a Chinese-Thai talent competition modelled after K-pop reality survival shows, where he was the only Singaporean contestant. Though Lucas ultimately placed 18th out of 21, the experience cemented his resolve to pursue music as a career. He recently performed at Waterbomb Singapore, where he shared the stage with 2NE1, SHINee’s Taemin and Minho, rapper Lee Youngji, and fellow Singaporean Estelle Fly.
ON MUSIC
“My passion for music really began in 2019 after I failed my Grade 6 guitar exam; it made me want to get better. It was then that I discovered John Mayer and started practising in my room. During COVID-19, I was bedridden from a torn ankle ligament, so I explored [music creation app] GarageBand and wrote my first song. By 2022, I was busking, and that opened so many doors. I see myself as a newbie who’s hungry to grow. Performing at Waterbomb Singapore was a milestone for me as it was my first time performing a full dance set instead of with a live band. I trained hard with my team, and I want to keep challenging expectations of what a Singaporean artiste can do. Looking ahead, I want to release more music that people can relate to, and one day be recognised the way JJ Lin or Stefanie Sun are.”
ON FASHION
“Before Chuang Asia 2, I was always in just T-shirts and jeans. Now I dress with more intention, and understand what flatters my body. I love Calvin Klein’s clean aesthetic, but I also enjoy discovering niche Asian indie designers who push me out of my comfort zone.”
ON TRAVEL
“My favourite getaway is Johor Bahru. My schedule doesn’t allow for long trips, so JB is perfect. I explore cafés, go go-karting, and always make time for a hot stone massage.”
Stylist NAVIN PILLAY
Make-up Artist RINA SIM using CHANEL BEAUTY
Hairstylist GREGO using REVLON PROFESSIONAL
Stylist's Assistant EVA NATASHA