For many people, pursuing a creative career remains a dream. For Cliff, it became a life philosophy. Better known by his stage name, OFFTHECLIFF, he left behind certainty to pursue music full-time, believing that sometimes the most important step is to leap first and figure out the rest along the way.
A self-taught musician, songwriter and busker, Cliff has spent more than two decades using music to inspire hope and encourage others to follow their dreams. His journey is a testament to resilience, faith and the courage to live a life aligned with one’s heart.
Can you share your journey into music and why you chose the name OFFTHECLIFF?
My journey into music began in church at a very young age. That was where I first discovered how powerful and creative music could be. As I committed my life to my faith, I also committed myself to music, and that journey has continued for more than 20 years.
The name OFFTHECLIFF came after about a decade of making music. After graduating from university, I decided to pursue music full-time. To me, “OFFTHECLIFF” means taking the leap first and figuring things out along the way.
Many people spend too much time thinking about why they should not pursue their dreams. I believe that if you know in your heart what you are meant to do, you should take the first step. The path becomes clearer as you keep moving forward.
Looking back, what were some of the biggest challenges during your early years as a musician?
Unlike many musicians, I was not naturally gifted. I loved music, but I had to work hard to improve.
I am entirely self-taught and have never taken formal music lessons. Everything I know came through practice, persistence and countless hours of learning on my own.
That journey taught me that talent is helpful, but dedication and consistency can take you much further than people often realise.
What inspires your songwriting?
Songwriting came much later in my career. I have always been a busker, and performing on the streets remains one of my greatest passions.
I have always enjoyed writing, having studied journalism, so I regularly write down my thoughts, reflections and ideas whenever inspiration strikes. I believe inspiration can come anywhere, so it is important to capture it when it does.
During COVID-19, when live performances stopped, I began recording and releasing my own songs to encourage both myself and others. Those motivational songs unexpectedly became one of my main sources of income during that period.
What advice would you give someone who loves music but lacks confidence in their abilities?
I lacked confidence too. Nobody starts out feeling completely comfortable on stage.
That is why I love busking. It pushes me out of my comfort zone and gives me the opportunity to perform for different audiences every day.
The more you perform, the more confidence you gain. My advice is simple: get your music out into the world. Share your passion whenever you have the opportunity because confidence grows through experience.
What can Singapore do to better support homegrown artists and singer-songwriters?
I have always believed that musicians should create their own opportunities rather than rely on the system.
Singapore has its own priorities, and while organisations such as the National Arts Council do support the arts, I believe support naturally follows those who consistently create value and inspire others.
Rather than waiting for opportunities, musicians should focus on building their own path and letting their work speak for itself.
What is one risk you took that initially felt like the wrong decision but became your biggest breakthrough?
I do not believe there are many wrong decisions if they are aligned with your heart.
The biggest mistake is knowing what you want to do but never taking action. Many people reach retirement with regrets because they never pursued the dreams that mattered most to them.
For me, taking risks and following my heart has always been the right decision, even when the outcome was uncertain.
If you could perform with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would choose Wang Leehom. I have always admired his voice and his musicianship, and performing with him would be an unforgettable experience.
What is your vision for Singapore in the next five years?
My vision is less about Singapore and more about people.
I hope more musicians, creators and dreamers will have the courage to pursue work that aligns with their passions and inspires others. If more people live authentically and follow what truly matters to them, the world will become a better place.
If you could have a superpower for one day, what would it be and why?
I would love the ability to understand people’s deepest passions and dreams.
If I could help people reconnect with what truly excites them and encourage them to pursue it, I believe many more people would live fulfilled and meaningful lives.
Connect with Cliff: OneGoodCard.
