Olivia Ong is famous for her beautiful English-language renditions of bossa nova classics, but most people don’t know that the multilingual singer began her career at age 15, after winning a singing contest and being awarded a recording contract in Japan!
From 2001 she toured and performed as a member of the J-pop group Mirai, an experience that made her schedule extremely busy, but never too busy to sleep, eat, and study properly.
Whenever she felt things got out of hand she could always rely on her parents’ advice to put her on the right direction.
That’s why even today, as a recognised artiste who has released several critically-acclaimed studio albums, she seeks her family’s guidance and support whenever she feels like she’s overwhelmed.
Read on to find out more about Olivia Ong!
Breathe.sg: Thank you for taking time off from your busy schedule to accept our interview! How was your recent “Romance” album promotion trip to China?
Olivia Ong: It was positively good! I'm excited to bring this whole new sound to my fans and to new listeners as well.
Breathe.sg: What do you do to keep yourself in top-form and looking good amidst your busy schedule?
Olivia Ong: I actually don't really focus all that much on what I eat, but I've realised, with a tighter schedule, you need to take care of yourself.
Sometimes, I don't even have time to exercise, so the easiest way to take care of my body is to eat healthier, drink lots of water and take vitamins.
Breathe.sg: You started singing at a very young age… Some of our readers dream of becoming performing artists, but they’re not sure on how to get ahead in the industry. Would you have any tips for aspiring young singers/performers?
Olivia Ong: I think that, if you love singing, just do what you love. If you don't overthink things everything else will fall into place. Like the saying goes, "Just Do It"!
Breathe.sg: The entertainment industry can be a tricky environment. Were you faced with peer pressure to pick up smoking or alcohol when you first entered the industry at a tender age of 15?
Olivia Ong: No, not at all, I kind of kept to myself, mostly, and I never really felt the need to try those substances.
Breathe.sg: How have your loved ones supported you through the highs and lows of your life and your career?
Olivia Ong: My family has always supported me right from the beginning. I'm very fortunate to have that - we always talk to each other.
The thing about my parents is they're very straightforward; I really like that about them. We have really honest, open communication, and we keep in touch with each other all the time.
I think that their honesty, and advice, helps me to stay strong, and feel grounded when things are not so simple.
Breathe.sg: We read that you love rollerblading! How often do you go rollerblading?
Olivia Ong: I taught myself how to rollerblade, and I would do it almost every day. It was my favourite childhood past time!
Unfortunately I don't have much time to do it much anymore.
Breathe.sg: What activities would you encourage our readers to do to make themselves look as good as you?
Olivia Ong: Eat fruits, take care of your skin, get full nights of sleep.
Breathe.sg: Continue this sentence: “Live it up…”
Olivia Ong: ....and shake your bon-bon! (I mean, have fun with life!)
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Photo courtesy of HIM management
