It’s no secret that Singaporeans aren’t exactly very open and welcoming towards the LGBTQ+ community. It can get awkward really fast especially if you’re trying to explain to your traditional parents about your sexuality. How do we even begin to approach the subject?
Well, this Singaporean rapper decided to come out to his parents about his sexuality through a hip-hop single.
Who Is The G3sha?
Singaporean rapper, Joshua Su aka The G3sha, hopes to change Singapore society’s perceptions of the LGBTQ+ community and also come out to his parents through his upcoming single “I’m OK”.
“I have not officially come out to my parents. Through this song, I hope to let them know.”
When interviewed, the rapper comments that “our country is a first world city, but we are so backwards in terms of fundamental issues that directly affect our fellow countrymen/citizens.”
Both the full song and music video will be released 5 July on his YouTube and Facebook pages. Here’s a sneak preview from his Instagram page:
A Song About Growing Up Gay In Singapore
The G3sha grew up in a staunch Catholic school in Singapore and tells of how he would be laughed at for being different. From personal experience studying in a Catholic school as well, I can totally relate to this rigid upbringing.
The G3sha described his pre-teen and teen years as “experimental”.
By the time he was 15 years old, he knew that he was attracted to boys. Being young is hard enough without trying to come to terms with one’s sexuality without any support or guidance. Years of self-hate led to him developing depression and two suicide attempts. It wasn’t until he turned 27 that he came to terms with accepting himself and expressing this acceptance through music.
The music video for “I’m OK” was shot in Singapore and features the artist and his childhood friends who have recognised that it’s ok to be gay.
This is The G3sha’s 2nd song, the first one being “Pei Pa Koa”(枇杷膏), that was released in April 2019 . In the song “I’m OK” , he describes how he felt throughout his childhood years, and shares how he turned to substance abuse.
Homophobia is still prevalent in this country. Derogatory terms like “gay”, “faggot”, “bapok” or “ah gua” are thrown around as though they mean nothing. It’s imperative to educate people, young and old on the meaning of these words, and why using such terms are offensive.
Yes, the song and video appear to be lighthearted with its bits of humour. However, it does its job of addressing such a serious issue that many kids face. The message behind his song is crystal clear: It’s okay to be gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, or any sexual orientation despite what society says.
I truly admire this artist’s insane bravery for not only coming out to his parents but to the world as well. Major props to The G3sha for his strength and perseverance!
The full song and music video for “I’m Ok” by The G3sha is available on all his streaming platforms on 5 July. You can save the song via this link. Click here for the music video!
The G3sha: Youtube | Instagram| Genius | Facebook
P.S: For those who are struggling, please know that you are loved. Being homosexual is absolutely not a sickness that requires a “cure”. You matter and you’re amazing for being you.
24-hr Suicide Helplines: Samaritans of Singapore (SOS): 1800 221 4444 | SAF Hotline (For SAF Personnel): 1800 278 0022
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