'Our Story' Song and Music Video: A Glimpse Behind the Scenes

To celebrate 10 years of building an inclusive Singapore, we commissioned Our Story, an original song on what inclusion means, to rally everyone to share in this vision of how we can all play a part in building an inclusive society.

This song was first performed at our 10th Anniversary Dinner in May 2023, then made into a music video involving over 500 people, and even performed at the Gardens by the Bay and Mediacorp National Day Concert attended by 30,000 people!

We went behind the scenes and spoke to Dr Darius Lim, Artistic Director of Voices of Singapore (VOS), who composed the song, and Klassen Christie Annabelle Xue Ying, a VOS member with autism. Hear what a few concert attendees also had to say about the song performance!

Dr Darius Lim stood on a block so everyone could see his conducting during the filming of the Our Story music video at Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade.

Dr Lim, could you share more about the process behind composing Our Story?

When SG Enable initially approached me to write Our Story, my focus was on embodying the concept of an inclusive society, aligning closely with SG Enable's mission and vision. The core message of the chorus mirrors SG Enable's impactful work. The process essentially began with crafting the lyrics, followed by tailoring the music to complement the text.

What was your inspiration / the meaning behind the song item and lyrics of the piece?

My inspiration revolved around the vision of 50,000 individuals uniting in a stadium, collectively singing the song. I wanted to ensure that the melody remained easily singable, accessible, and memorable. The lyrics maintain a universality that tugs at emotions – it's meant to resonate with anyone who listens, conveying the importance of inclusivity.

How has your experience of working together with SG Enable, the choir and persons with disabilities been?

It has been incredibly eye-opening. I've come to appreciate the myriad perspectives that enrich our community. I hope that this song ignites a greater sense of social awareness and acceptance.

A line from the verse, "look around us, let us realise we are part of the same side," resonates deeply with me. I don't think we actively realise that while we all come from different walks of life, we’re all actually part of the same body. We are all Singaporeans – with different lives and different experiences, but still one community.

Christie (extreme left) was one of over 500 people featured in the Our Story music video.

Christie, can you tell us more about your role in the item and music video (MV)?

I’m singing the song Our Story – singing out loud for the performance and MV, and doing some actions too.

Why did you decide to join this and be a part of the song item and MV?

It’s very exciting! And all the people are watching us. 

How do you feel about the experience so far, and having a platform to showcase your talents?

I feel very happy. When it gets too loud, I cover my ears. (She’s explaining how she overcomes challenges.)

How has the rehearsal and performance experience been so far? What is your favourite moment?

It’s my first time singing with people outside of VOS Starlight Voices (VOS’ choir for persons with special needs). I forgot to walk for the last take, but it was still okay and the people were kind.

What are your well-wishes for Singapore in her 58th year and ahead?

I hope everyone will enjoy the National Day celebrations. I wish that Singapore can have more performances. I hope I can see you again next August.

A sea of thousands of people in red, with picnic mats and foldable chairs, took their seats at The Meadow in Gardens by the Bay to watch the National Day Concert and sang along during the performance of Our Story.

It really touched me that not only do they sing well, but there's the diversity of people onstage. You have people of different abilities together, singing a song that means a lot to us as Singaporeans.
– Ivan

I think the Our Story performance was amazing. It brought everybody together and the lyrics – “I am strong, I am different, unique in every way” – really relate to Singaporeans as a multicultural society, and we ought to listen to it.
– Jayce

Watch the music video, and as you sing “let’s create a future where every voice takes flight​”, partner us to build a more inclusive Singapore!