Singer Frances Tan Swaps Law for Music, Represents Singapore in Commonwealth Song Contest Finals

Singaporean singer-songwriter Frances Tan, at 25, is making waves on the international stage as one of seven finalists in the Commonwealth Song Contest 2026. Her original song, "Just Me," represents Singapore in the competition, which features entries from countries including Australia, India, Nigeria, the United Kingdom, Saint Lucia, and South Africa. The public has until May 31 to cast their votes.

Tan's journey to the music world is a testament to following one's dreams. She graduated with a law degree from the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science and even interned at top local law firms. However, the allure of music proved too strong. Tan wrote her first song at 13, a passion she initially kept secret due to her parents' dismissal of music as a mere hobby.

Inspired by Justin Bieber's concert at age 11, Tan dreamed of a music career, but her parents' reaction led her to suppress this ambition. "In my last year of law school, as I reflected on what I wanted to do after graduation, I realised that the little voice inside me, which I had ignored for 10 years, never went away," Tan shared. This realization prompted her to pursue a master's in songwriting at New York University (NYU) last year.

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In my last year of law school, as I reflected on what I wanted to do after graduation, I realised that the little voice inside me, which I had ignored for 10 years, never went away.

"Just Me" was born from a moment of daydreaming about living in New York City and pursuing her lifelong dream of music. Tan wrote the song in a single sitting. It previously won the singer-songwriter category at the UK Songwriting Contest in 2024, paving the way for her entry into the Commonwealth Song Contest finals. The contest spans 56 Commonwealth nations, reaching an audience of 2.5 billion people.

"To be chosen as one of the seven Grand Finalists this year, representing Singapore against six other countries on the global stage, is truly such an honour," Tan expressed. Following the public vote, a panel of 10,000 music industry professionals will undertake the next round of judging. Tan is also known for her song "Ride Into The Sun."

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To be chosen as one of the seven Grand Finalists this year, representing Singapore against six other countries on the global stage, is truly such an honour.