You have collaborated with various artists like MAX, Rich Brian, keshi, Valorant, and Safari Riot. How do these collaborations influence your music, and what have you learned from working with such diverse artists?
Every time I’m able to collaborate with an artist I think I always learn valuable lessons. Some artists stack harms in an interesting way, or some people crank the AT super high in parts because of the sound that it makes as the notes fall and use that as a texture etc. Every collaboration is a learning lesson.
Speaking of collaborations, “Visions” is a beautiful song. Can you tell us a bit about this song and how it came together?
For visions I had no part in the writing or production. I got a call from my agent one day and was asked for a demo so I went to work and if anything made a few different vox choices.
Transitioning from being part of a band to a solo artist can be a big shift. How has your creative approach evolved since your days with Day6?
I think the biggest thing that’s changed is how I start a song. I used to be a bit of a believer in track -> topline-> lyrics but now have found track-> topline + lyrics together sticks better.
As someone who is transitioning from the K-pop scene to the international pop world, what challenges have you faced? Is it a big difference?
The structures are different. It’s definitely not easy, but I feel like my formative years in Korea have given me a decent tolerance for workload.
Having lived in different places like Buenos Aires, Cerritos, Korea, and LA, how have these cultural experiences shaped your identity and music?
I don’t necessarily feel like I have a specific place I call home yet. I think all those places have been the building blocks of my music now.
You are about to go on tour! What are you most excited about?
Seeing the fans! All the studio time, practice, etc is for these nights imo.
