Exclusive

K-EXCLUSIVE SXSW Artist Spotlight: Interview with Crush

April 2, 2018

Crush, the youngest and possibly most versatile artist of Amoeba Culture, recently completed his intense and soulful performance at SXSW ‘Korea Spotlight’ showcase. Most notable for his many collaborations, Crush has worked with fellow ‘Korea Spotlight’ artist DPR Live as well as Dean, Zico and Sik-K. His hits range from Bermuda Triangle, and Red Dress. Officially KMusic reached out for an interview on his personal friendships up to this point, his background interests in Jazz, and the status of his success in his own eyes.

Crush shook the crowd at The Belmont during SXSW with his melodic voice

INTERVIEW:

KMUSIC] : Your debut album “Crush on You” hit #6 on Gaons’ weekly album chart and your single “그 냥” reached #1 on their Top 10 chart. How did you feel being popularized at an early start for your career? Did you feel successful?

[CRUSH] : Not at all, I was definitely grateful to hit the charts early on, but I still believe my career has ways to go. In fact, my next album feels like the real start. I think it’s the mentality I have whenever I make a new single or album; I always believe and prepare myself too think that this is my real start. It’s this constant mindset that helps me go above and beyond and give a 100% to my work.

[KMUSIC] : Who were your confidantes when you first started? Many artists feel like their careers prevent them from retaining long lasting friendships, but was this a factor you dealt with?

[CRUSH] : I think friendship is something that everyone has to deal with, and I’m no exception. But, since relations are important in life, I do my best to resolve with good conversation. I think in general making and retaining relationships takes much effort, time, and dedication regardless of being in the industry or not.

[KMUSIC] : What drives you to continue making music? Is it a therapeutic outlet for you?

[CRUSH] : I try to get away from everything and find inspiration in walking by myself or with my dog at the Hangang River; spending quiet time at my house; or taking a drive with my car. Because I tend to think a lot, I often find inspiration during my daily routines. A driving force for me is in performing/singing on stage, it also starts with producing my own music.

[KMUSIC] : Do you see yourself branching into different genres and styles of music? What is your next step?

[CRUSH] : I think changing style is a natural part of everyone, myself included. I’ve recently taken great interest in jazz music. I’m still learning and trying to understand as much as I can about jazz music, and have started to study the history of jazz artists. The most significant influence on my music and world view right now is jazz musician Chet Baker. Artists who first introduced me to jazz were Ella Fitzgerald, Oscar Peterson, John Coltrane, and Bill Evans.

We would like to thank CRUSH for giving us this opportunity to peek into his life and share his passions with his fans.

Photos by: Allie Norado

Written & Conducted by: Allie Norado