Rapper, producer, vocalist and songwriter JOOHONEY delivers a seamless combination of explosive energy and honest emotions on his debut solo mini-album, LIGHTS, which comes to life as a culmination of the all-rounder’s past eight years as a strong creative force in MONSTA X.
In conversation with Earmilk, JOOHONEY explores the creative process for the six-track album, his current “Joohoney style” sound and how he keeps himself motivated as he unveils his endless sonic potential we’ll get to discover on his musical journey.
1.What can we expect from your solo debut mini-album in three words?
Three words would be JOOHONEY, FREEDOM, and LIGHTS.
2.What was the creative process for the album and where did the first sparks of inspiration for it come from?
I get inspiration for my music anywhere and anytime. Throughout the day even during my schedules, I’m always wondering how my fans would like this type of music or genre. I write down ideas for lyrics or record demos on my phone when I feel inspired, and then develop those ideas with my production team to create tracks.
3.Though it can be difficult to choose, what’s your personal favourite track off the album and why?
All the tracks are so special to me, but my favorite is “Don’t Worry Be Happy” because it is dedicated to my fans, MONBEBE. The message of the song is to not worry because we can do anything if we’re together, and that our love for each other will last forever. I made the track while thinking of MONBEBE and this is the message that I want them to always remember.
4.The album is set to unveil new sides of you that your fans may not have previously had a glimpse of. What are you most keen for them to discover about your artistry that you’ve yet to show them?
I want to show my fans that as an artist, I have endless potential and I always have a message to express.
5.Speaking of your artistry, how would you describe your current sound and where do you see it going from here?
I think my current sound can only be described as “JOOHONEY style”. I’m not restricted by genres and I mixed many different sounds in each song of the album. I wanted to express freedom in that way as well. In the future, I just want to keep doing music that is true to myself so I think my sound will keep evolving.
6.Support from fans must be a huge factor in keeping you creatively motivated, how else do you keep yourself motivated and enthusiastic?
I am my own source of motivation. I always try to think positively about myself and that helps me to keep working passionately.
7. Speaking of fan support, are there any particular comments or gestures from fans that you look back on fondly?
I love to read all the comments that MONBEBE write, and I feel happy whenever I read that they’re happy. The best gesture is to express and say what you feel.
8.Finally, what's the most challenging part of the music making process and what’s the most rewarding part of it for you?
I think the hardest and also the most rewarding part of making music is the challenge of creating something new.
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