Subaru Ties Up with Michael Bolton in Search for Next Rising Star

Motor Image announced that global music legend Michael Bolton will return to Asia for the first season of Asian Dream, an all-new reality talent search where he will join hands with Subaru to shine a light on promising singers across the region.

Asian Dream, a seven-episode series that aims to foster emerging musical talent, has scouted six aspiring singers from Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Each week, contestants will be given a specific task designed to sharpen their skillsets, and they must compete to save their place in the challenge round. They will be coached, mentored, and judged by Michael Bolton and special guests. One contestant will be eliminated each week starting from Episode 2. The winner of Asian Dream Season 1 will be named a Subaru Ambassador. He or she will also join Michael Bolton on the Asian Dream tour.

Motor Image remains committed to grooming talents who embody Subaru’s values of being
confident, sleek, and passionate. Motor Image has previously sponsored programs like Asia’s
Next Top Model and Bolt of Talent. 2019 marks a new milestone as Motor Image takes on a more
decisive role in the conceptualization, production, and promotion of lifestyle content.

Mr. Glenn Tan, Creator of Asian Dream, said, “Subaru is pleased to present Asian Dream and provide a valuable opportunity for talented and confident individuals who have the courage to follow their hearts and pursue their dreams. The show will be an excellent showcase for these aspiring talents who display grit, perseverance and commitment — traits that resonate with the Subaru brand. I look forward to seeing them conquer their fears and rise to the challenge on this regional platform.” Mr. Tan is Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of Tan Chong International Ltd, which distributes Subaru cars through its wholly owned subsidiary Motor Image.

Grammy award winner Michael Bolton is Creator and Host of Asian Dream. He said, “I am incredibly excited to be partnering with Subaru with the hope of finding the best and brightest performers in the region, and making their Asian Dream come true. I look forward to seeing the display of talent and drive, and helping these stars rise to their full potential.” Currently celebrating his 50th year in the entertainment industry since being signed at 16, Michael Bolton has sold over 65 million records worldwide, earning nine #1 singles and ten Top Ten albums as well as 25 songwriting awards.

Famed Filipina singer and actress Morissette Amon will be resident mentor on Asian Dream. Since her showbiz debut at the age of 14, she has won more than 30 awards, including Artist of the Year and Pop Song of the Year.

Together, Michael Bolton and Morissette will help shape contestants to become more versatile, well-rounded performers.

They will be joined by guest judges and mentors from across Asia including:

• Singer Sara Wee (Singapore) 
• Actress Tan Kheng Hua (Singapore) 
• Choreographer Alif Archo (Singapore) 
• Singer and Subaru Ambassador Mild Nawin (Thailand) 
• Singer and actress Jannine Weigel (Thailand) 
• Fashion Photographer Yu Tsai (United States of America) 
• Musician Thanh Bui (Vietnam) 
• Singer and actress Ho Ngoc Ha (Vietnam) 

Over the course of every episode, contestants will undergo an array of grueling yet motivational tasks and challenges – themed according to different performance elements such as voice, physicality, imaging, and stage presence. Asian Dream aims to test the ability of these individuals to grow and adapt, and compel them to showcase their acquired skills.

Produced by Refinery Media in association with Passion Films, Asian Dream will premiere in the fourth quarter of 2019.