Aside from the usual National Day Parade (NDP) theme songs like Not Alone and Home, here is our selection of tracks that you can play that emulate the spirit of our Republic.
Munnaeru Vaalibaa by S. Jesudassan
Munnaeru Vaalibaa, which translates to Go Forward Youths, was written by retired teacher Mr S. Jesudassan in 1966. The song soon became a national day staple for its message of Singapore’s constant advancement and progress. A rendition was performed at NDP 2025 brought into the modern era through local artistes like Raffee, Pallavi and Yung Raja.
As a bonus recommendation, rapper Yung Raja also released the song Mustafa, a tribute to the famed shopping centre that is so integral to our culture. Do be warned, however, as the song may not be as family-friendly as the usual NDP track, with edgier lyrics and innuendos.
Singapore Cowboy by Matthew and the Mandarins
What seems like a wildcard entry is actually filled with charm and a familiar soundscape of the past. Singapore Cowboy by local country band Matthew and the Mandarins is catchy with punny lyrics like “Won’t you sing-a-poor cowboy another lonely song”. Additionally, the song was performed at NDP 2025 by Swiss-Indian singer and Singapore Idol alumnus Tabitha Nauser.
All You Really Need (Is Love) by Shazza
Singapore’s pop princess Shareefa Aminah, better known as Shazza, performed at NDP in 2024, serenading the crowd with songs like You Are The Boy by Shirley Nair and the Silver Strings. Her song All You Really Need (Is Love) celebrates diversity and inclusion, with a sense of upliftment that will prime listeners for the Kallang Wave.
Shazza has also thrown her hat in for an NDP song with her original track Way Back Home, written for SG60. The slightly more subdued verses build up to a chorus reminiscent of late-2010s pop anthems, which would be a joy to sing along to in a stadium.
Singai Naadu by Shabir
What NDP Playlist would be complete without Singai Naadu, composed by musician Mr Shabir Sulthan. The title translates to the “Singapore, My Country”, with the song being unapologetically patriotic, with lyrics like “Pala Inangal Sera Orumai Kondaade, En Veedu Enthan Thaai Naadu Endru Sollu”, which translates to “Many races come together to celebrate unity, say that this is your home; your Motherland.” The song has frequently been in NDP setlists and electrifies audiences through its use of Indian instruments.
