Our interview today features Minhye J, whose debut single, “Blue,” launched her career in 2020. This South Korean independent artist crafts introspective songs with delicate melodies and deeply emotional lyrics, blending R&B with alternative pop and rock influences. “Blue” is just a glimpse into her unique musical talent, and we’re eager to explore more.
Could you share what inspired your artistic journey and motivated you to pursue your music career?
I’ve loved singing ever since I was a child. My interest in music really took off when I discovered the K-pop girl group 2NE1—they opened my eyes to the world of pop music. I started writing my own songs when I turned 20, after my vocal coach suggested I try becoming a singer-songwriter.
At first, I was just making and releasing music for fun. But over time, I’ve started thinking more deeply about the kind of messages I want to share through my music, and the kind of artist I truly want to become.
How would you describe your musical style and the artists or genres that have shaped your creative work?
I grew up listening mostly to pop music, and I was especially influenced by powerhouse R&B vocalists like Beyoncé, Adele, Christina Aguilera, and Mariah Carey. While my music blends different styles—R&B, acoustic, jaz”What are the central themes or messages you aim to explore through your songwriting?”z, electronic—people tend to classify it as R&B because of my vocal style.
Lately, I’ve been paying more attention to really defining that R&B identity in my sound. I want to make sure that the essence of R&B comes through clearly in the music I create.
What are the central themes or messages you aim to explore through your songwriting?
I try to capture my emotions and thoughts exactly as they are in the moment. I’m not a fan of pretending or putting on a polished version of myself. That’s actually why I don’t use a stage name—I want to stay authentic in everything I do.
In the past, I used to write lyrics about how deeply sadness and anxiety affected me. I’d try to wrap those feelings in prettier words so they wouldn’t come off too heavy or dark. Over the past few years, I’ve been slowly finding my own way out of that darkness.
Now, I want to make music that brings comfort to people. One of my songs from last year, “LET’S LOVE!”, carries that kind of message: “Let’s not hate each other. Life’s too short for that.”
What does your creative process look like when writing and composing songs?
I usually jot down little phrases or ideas that come to me throughout the day. Then at the end of the day, I sit down at my computer, play through a simple chord progression I’ve come up with, and start shaping those thoughts into lyrics.
I focus on two questions: “What do I really want to say right now?” and “What kind of music do I want to make?”
Once I’ve written the lyrics and the topline, I listen to it over and over—refining things, changing parts that don’t feel quite right. After that, I move on to the final stages: arrangement, mixing, and mastering. And finally, the song is ready to be shared with the world.
Your debut single, Blue, sets the tonal foundation of your music. Could you share the inspiration behind this song and what it signifies for your artistic journey?
I was so young when I wrote that song. I was drained from depression and overwhelmed by dark thoughts. Back then, I didn’t have the strength to get through it on my own—I just hoped someone would help me. You can feel that helplessness in the vocal delivery.
I never imagined that being single would lead to nearly 20 songs of my own.
Your music blends R&B, alternative pop, and rock. How do you strike a balance among these diverse elements in your songwriting and production?
At the core, I’ve always wanted to make R&B music. From there, I slowly branch out. The genres I blend with change all the time. I don’t really believe in strict genre boundaries anymore—it feels like we’re living in a time where those lines don’t mean much. I just focus on expressing my emotions in the most honest and effective way I can.
Your lyrics are often described as introspective and heartfelt. What challenges and rewards do you navigate when composing such deeply personal and emotional music?”
Sometimes, fans reach out to thank me for the lyrics they are connected with. I think more people resonate with my songs because the lyrics come from a very honest place.
At the same time, it kind of feels like I’m sharing pages from my diary with the world. Haha.
How do you engage your audience and foster a community around your music?
Honestly, I’m not sure either. The world is changing so fast, and I’m still figuring out how to truly connect with listeners. All I know is that the best thing I can do is keep singing—and keep writing lyrics that come from the heart.
What has been the most transformative lesson you’ve learned on your journey as an independent artist?
Doing things my own way gives me freedom—but it also means I can lose my direction sometimes. That freedom pushes me to think more deeply about who I am as an artist, so I don’t lose sight of my own voice.
Could you share what musical projects you’re currently immersed in? And perhaps even offer a subtle sneak peek into them?
Moving forward, I’m planning to be more active—not just online through my YouTube channel, but offline as well. And yes, I have a new single coming out later this year, too.
What are your aspirations for your next project or album, and how does it align with your evolving creative vision?
As I mentioned earlier, I’m working on a track with a stronger R&B vibe this time. More than anything, I want to step away from overthinking—and just create something I’m truly satisfied with.
How do you envision your music evolving as you move forward in your artistic journey?
My style is becoming more and more defined. I believe more people will start to find their way to my music. I’m going to be an artist who lives in that space between sadness and hope—and knows how to share it.
What unique challenges have you encountered as an independent artist navigating the Korean music industry?
I think artists all over the world are struggling with the rise of AI—not just in music, but across every creative field. Art is being consumed faster and more easily than ever, and that changes how we create and connect with our audience.
What guidance would you offer aspiring independent musicians navigating their own paths between craft and the industry’s demands?
Just singing isn’t enough anymore.
Visual elements—like music videos, live clips, and album covers—have become just as important as the music itself. They’re essential in helping the audience connect with the artist and the message
Don’t miss out on more amazing music from Minhye J! Click the icons below to follow her journey and stay connected.
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