The music festival season is in full swing in other parts of the world (where summer is a thing), but you don’t have to feel like you’re missing out entirely here. From Aug 17-19, Baybeats will be returning to Esplanade with a diverse mix of folk, pop, metal, post-rock, emo, punk, electro and everything in between.

As the biggest alternative music festival in Singapore, Baybeats will be pushing the envelope even further this year to incorporate a wider scope of genres into their program. If you’re more fond of partying in an enclosed space instead of grooving at open stages, don’t write this festival off yet—for the first time ever, EMONIGHTSG will be holding a late-night party at the Esplanade Annexe Studio. An unorthodox way to reach out to those who can rock the eyeliner, mohawks and tatts, escape the ordinary and party to emo and pop punk anthems. 

It's also highly encouraging that the organizers have decided to include hip hop artists and rappers on their lineup, especially since the festival doesn't typically have a focus on these genres. You can look out for Akeem Jahat, and Singapore's very own Yung Raja and Faris Jabba.

Another highlight that we're always looking forward to is the Baybeats Budding initiative. This year, six bands will be making their debut at the festival after undergoing a three-month mentorship with industry veterans like Geoffrey Low, Kevin Foo, Vandessa Fernandez, just to name a few. Profiles of the bands can be found here.

Sadly, the powerhouse stage we know and love will have its last run at the Esplanade Waterfront as it makes way for the construction of Esplanade’s new waterfront theatre starting in 2019. As one of the four main stages at Baybeats, you know you’ve had some good times moshing and ugly dancing with your friends here. To say goodbye, past Singapore bands who have graced the stage will be returning to perform one last time. This includes Caracal, Wormot and The Full Pledge Munkees. In addition, Indonesia’s Superman is Dead and Hundredth from the US will make an appearance as well.

Baybeats is happening from Aug 17-19 at various stages at 1 Esplanade Dr, and shows are free. More information and full line-up of performances here.