Singapore-based artist TASHASAN shares her journey in the independent party scene and how she balances her role as a designer, promoter, and DJ.
Before TASHASAN ever learned how to use turntables, she designed gig posters for local shows in Singapore and immersed herself in the city’s grassroots music scene. She spent countless nights at BluJaz, a cultural hotspot for independent music, where the energy of small DIY parties sparked something deeper within her.
Drawn to the fierce do-it-yourself ethos, she witnessed firsthand how resourcefulness can build the community and culture from the ground up. “Those were the spaces that shaped me. They weren’t glamorous, but they were honest,” she said. “It gave me a glimpse into DIY culture early on, and that whole energy of making something from nothing really stuck with me.”
Over time, I realized I didn’t need permission to create things. That mindset of just starting where you are and building your own platform still drives everything I do now, whether it’s through music, design, or community projects.
TASHASAN
As a dynamic force in the creative world, TASHASAN wears many hats. Besides bringing bold ideas to life as a designer, she co-founded North East Social Club, an event curator and organization dedicated to supporting Singapore’s independent party scene. She originally set out to create a space where friends could come together to play music and connect.
What started as a casual, DIY gig series quickly found deeper roots in the post-COVID era, when she began to lean into her passion for electronic music. “As I was going through my emo, punk, indie phase, I was also into people like Mala, Skream, Loefah — basically UK dubstep. And I wanted to bring that energy into the work I do. That’s why I moved from being a local band promoter to an international and regional DJ-promoter.”
The whole idea was to create a bridge from the UK to Singapore. I’ve always loved the soundsystem and dub culture, and I figured UK garage is the most accessible way to slowly introduce that. So I started by booking Interplanetary Criminal and Main Phase, who, at that time, were just beginning to rise. I’m glad I was there to help kick off the first wave of something bigger.
TASHASAN
When discussing the electronic music culture in Singapore, TASHASAN is not one to label it carelessly. She said, “I’d say it has ebbs and flows. I hate using the word ‘underground,’ but I guess we’re still a struggling city when it comes to dance music.”
Despite Singapore’s often conservative reputation and strict laws, a new generation is paving the way to reshape the cultural landscape. Great growth periods may be followed by quieter times, but there is always a pulse of activity brewing beneath the surface. “They’re scrappy, fearless, and they just go for it. Whether it’s polished or messy, they’re creating their own scenes, and I respect that,” she said.
Singapore’s electronic music culture is one of contrasts. While it is vibrant and full of potential, ignoring the realities of operating under heavy regulations is impossible.
Speaking about the challenges of promoting gigs locally, TASHASAN was adamant that there’s no illusion of ease. Venue hunting alone feels insurmountable when space is scarce, and the government exerts a tight grip on legislation. Paired with the lingering suspicion of nightlife culture, it makes it even tougher to find suitable spaces that are inclusive, open, and financially accessible. “You have to be smart and patient,” TASHASAN said of the risk of operating a DIY concept after the pandemic, where flying under the radar means jeopardizing your crew and community.
The logistical grind is only part of the story. What’s harder to weather is the cultural shift in music consumption. Today, music discovery is increasingly shaped by algorithms, and interest rarely seems to stretch beyond the next viral sensation on TikTok.
“Raving feels more performative sometimes. Aesthetics and clout take priority,” she said, not with resentment, but weary honesty. “People don’t really want to pay for anything. You follow what’s trending, you don’t dig. There’s less curiosity.”
Despite the noise and struggles, TASHASAN continues to hustle for those who show up when the lights are dim. Her first DJ set was not planned; it happened out of necessity. Struggling to find an opener for her party, she decided to step up and cut her teeth as a DJ. With just a month to prepare, she taught herself how to use turntables, and the rest is history.
TASHASAN said, “I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by people who take music seriously. I have so much respect for my peers. I know this isn’t something you master overnight. It’s a craft, and I’m still learning. They really showed me the ropes, both creatively and professionally. I’m super grateful for that. Also, I was shameless enough to ask questions and take notes.”
While she credits much of her artistic growth to her peers around her, TASHASAN is also deeply grounded in purpose. Never driven by the idea of making it big, she aims to use music as a platform to raise awareness for what truly matters. Even during her Boiler Room set — knowing it was not live-streamed — she showed up fully and used the moment to reflect on the world as it is. “Whether it’s a small room or a global stage, I treat it the same. I think that’s what’s shaped me the most: staying focused on impact, not optics,” she shared.
Speaking about a proud career milestone, TASHASAN was quick to spotlight the global dance platform Keep Hush. “It was something I had on my mood board since 2022,” she said. “They’ve always felt like an outlet I can trust, one that genuinely champions local and regional music, no matter what city they’re in.”
TASHASAN continued: “They’re not the most commercial, and that’s what I love about them. I wanted to bring it to Singapore to spotlight proper local talent and celebrate bass music with no compromises. That night felt like a real reflection of the community and the sound I’ve been pushing, low-key but deeply intentional.”
Looking ahead, TASHASAN is focused on nurturing a community grounded in authenticity. She said, “I want to build things that are slower and more intentional systems that don’t rely on clout or extractive practices. Whether it’s starting a label, mentoring younger artists, or creating a space that isn’t just about parties but also about archiving and education, I want it to be rooted in care.”
As she continues to grow as an artist, promoter, and creative designer, TASHASAN is determined to move beyond clout and exploitation. “Design led me into music, and music made me want to create spaces,” she said. “Whether I’m curating a lineup or designing a mural, it all comes back to storytelling and world-building. I’d rather build with people who actually believe in something. And yes, financial stability does matter, but I want to get there in a way that’s honest, independent, and with heart.”
I care more about using music as a way to raise awareness and hold space for what matters.
TASHASAN
While TASHASAN was in NYC, she dropped an exclusive set for our This Is Home series. She taps into her South and Central Asian roots to craft a refreshing mix that is rhythmically infectious. Hit play below and dive into all the vibrant sounds from this rising star!
