Global pop star KUN (Cai Xukun) has carved out a space for himself with his distinct musicality, drawing inspiration from the likes of icons like Prince, Bowie, and Elvis. Rooted in an honest and unfiltered style that looks past genres, KUN's music evolves and changes along with him.
The former frontman of China’s Nine Percent, KUN has established his presence as a powerhouse solo artist led by his creative instinct as well as wide ranging influences. Speaking of what inspires him, he says, "I listen to a bit of everything — old classics that remind me how emotion lasts, and new music that shows where we are right now. But honestly, my biggest inspiration is making something I truly believe in, even if it’s not what’s popular."
With new music gracing us back to back, KUN speaks to Earmilk, diving into everything from recent singles "Deadman," and "Jasmine," as well as his upcoming album.
On "Deadman," he says," It came from this feeling of getting killed over and over — not in a literal way, but in the sense of killing my old self. Every time, I start again, a little different. It’s about those moments where you let go of who you were, so you can step into something new. That’s why it felt like the right place to begin this chapter."
Meanwhile, with its dreamy, retro-soul groove, "Jasmine" comes to life with touches of surrealism and nostalgia, accompanied by choreography and visuals that showcases a new side of him. Unveiling new sides to his craft is something that KUN looks forward to with experimentation seems to be a natural cornerstone of his artistry.
Reflecting on trying new things in his music, he says, "I’d love to make music that doesn’t sit in one category, but still tells a deep, layered story. I’m always thinking about how to twist sounds, mix ideas, and make them feel personal, fresh, and kind of cinematic."
Though change and evolution seems to be something he enjoys, KUN admits that keeping up with the changing tastes of audiences can be challenge, adding that he's learned to trust his sonic instincts and stay close to whatever comes to him. This instinctual approach was palpable at his recent showcase at Henry Fonda Theater. On the experience, he says, "Honestly, it was such a raw and real experience. The energy was fresh, and I felt connected to everyone there. Music goes beyond language — being able to share it in different countries, in that exact moment, means a lot to me."
Looking ahead, KUN is focusing on his upcoming album, which he describes as "a whole universe that really shows my world and where I’m at creatively."
Besides making sure his music is a true reflection of him in each current moment, there is also a deeper thought going into his future. Contemplating on what he'd like his music to leave behind, he says, "For me, it’s not just about the moment — I want my songs to hold up years from now, for someone to listen and still feel something real. That’s the kind of legacy I’m chasing, even if I don’t always say it out loud."
An artist who has broken the mold of what one can expect from an East Asian pop star, KUN has set himself up as a talent whose allure stretches beyond genres and language to cultivate a massive international following – without any signs of slowing down.
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