60s Country & Western Influence: Rocky Wong

Taken from: http://www.modcentric.blogspot.com/ - August, 30th, 2008.

"A recent quirky local 60s find. This EP is best described on its sleeve as for, 'Country and Western Numbers With The A-Go-Go Beat'. Says the sleeve: 'Rocky Wong, the Singapore Hill Billy Singer, also nicknamed as the Cowboy from Pasir Panjang Hills, and whose style of singing resembles that of Slim Whitman, is no stranger to the music scene.

Rocky had competed in the All Malaya Amateur Talentime Competition during the 50s and had since then appeared in many variety shows, nite clubs, the British Forces, Radio and Television."

The EP songs feature four 'cowboy' hits as Singaporeans would express it. They include: Walking In The Sunshine; Rose Marie; I Remember You and Unchain My Heart. Rocky is a great yodeler too, from what I understand.

I met Rocky personally through a great friend, Alfred Wong, if I remember correctly. He was singing at a hotel with a rooftop garden but am uncertain where it is. The lady owner told me he still draws an audience when he sang and played on his guitar.

All the best Rocky. Until we meet again.

Rocky Wong - 'Walkin' In The Sunshine' 

(Roger Miller Cover) YouTube Video by: CoverVerse.