ABOUT   Natalie Hiong, banker-turned-singer-songwriter, writes music of poignant beauty. Her songs showcase her soothing vocals, virtuosity and profound musicality while her heartfelt lyrics bring you on a journey from the heights of being in love to the depths of heartbreak. Coming from a family of musicians, Natalie started learning the piano when she was three. She wrote her first song at 12 and won a national songwriting competition at 15. While pursuing her undergraduate degree at the London School of Economics, Natalie found herself without a piano and picked up the guitar, learning original songs by American singer-songwriter, Marie Digby. Natalie's hobby became serious when she composed for a musical, Excess Baggage, staged in London in 2007. She began to explore the possibility of a career in music. However, she decided to give the rat race a shot after being offered a job as an investment banker on graduation. Almost two years later, with the realization that she needed to follow her heart, Natalie took the plunge and left her job to pursue her dream of becoming a singer-songwriter. In 2011, Natalie released her debut EP 'Little Heart', a collection of songs that chronicle a journey of love seen through the eyes of a young lady, evoking real emotions unblemished by cynicism. Since then, she has been featured on The New Paper, Today Paper, 938Live and Power98. Natalie has also performed in various renowned venues including The Bitter End (New York), The Cobden Club (London), Hugh’s Room (Toronto) and Esplanade (Singapore). Natalie’s song ‘Perfect’ was chosen as one of the top entries in the Noise Singapore Competition and was featured in its compilation CD. Another notable achievement was a double-finalist finish in The UK Songwriting Contest with her songs ‘Little Heart’ and ‘Sleepwalking’. With a diverse pool of influences that include Sara Bareilles, Marie Digby, Sarah McLachlan, Snow Patrol, Coldplay, John Mayer, Disney songs, Broadway songs, and classical compositions, Natalie’s songs capture her life experiences in her signature style of music. Press: On Perfect: 'Natalie has delivered a sweet pop confection, embellished sensitively by cello and brightened by Natalie’s poignant vocal.. a genuine highlight..' Kevin Mathews, Power Of Pop blog. ‘Natalie describes the delicate world of a young woman’s longing through the eyes of a romantic. There’s a substance here that stays with you as the quirky tunes ring around your head all day. This is a world of grownup feelings painted into jewelry boxes and love letters. She reminds you of what is great about being young and foolish, and this is a wonderful thing.’ Australian songwriter Davey Ray Moor of Cousteau. ‘Natalie has the uncanny ability of meshing catchy tunes and playful lyrics with fragility and innocence.’ Amanda Colliver, singer-songwriter and vocal advisor for Moulin Rouge and The Lord of the Rings. ‘Natalie has managed to put together all the essential elements of a good pop song. There are nice melodies, easy-to-remember phrases and, yes, that certain familiarity about her delivery. In broad strokes, Little Heart is a very enjoyable offering.’ Chris Toh, Today Paper On Sleepwalking: ‘I liked the song. It has a real confidence in the writing.’ Jez Ashurst of Farrah, who has also written songs recorded by numerous artists including Boyzone, Will Young, Hanson and Cliff Richard.