Photos Courtesy of YY ; Written by Deborah Rodriguez

Emerging Korean singer-songwriter YY is steadily carving out her space in the music world, and she’s doing it on her own terms. On February 7th, YY made her official debut with the dreamy single “laundry,” released in partnership with 88rising. The lo-fi-inspired track blends soft synths, a mellow guitar melody, and YY’s smooth, emotive vocals creating a sound that feels intimate and ethereal.

Just a month later, YY revealed another side of her artistry with “slower,” an R&B-leaning follow-up that features sultry vocals and a surprise rap verse in the bridge. This track truly highlights YY’s versatility as a rising artist..

In a recent interview with Sworn by Sound, YY opened up about her creative process and what fuels her music. 

“The music I’ve released so far has a dreamlike, emotional quality. I want listeners to feel the depth and intimacy in each song,” she shared. 

Rather than drawing directly from personal experiences, YY imagines stories and perspectives, placing herself in scenarios others might face to create vivid narratives.While she prefers working solo, finding inspiration in books, films, and the stories of others, YY is always thinking about the global reach of her music. 

“I’m still discovering my sound,” she admitted. “But I know the kind of music I love, and that’s what I focus on. At the same time, I care deeply about how international fans connect with it.”

Now, YY is preparing for her first-ever live performance at the renowned Head in the Clouds festival. 

“Since this is my debut performance, I’m spending a lot of time preparing the setlist and making sure every detail is just right,” she said. 

As for what fans can expect, YY hinted at trying a rocker or smooth R&B vibe, adding, “I want to show every side of me because this will be my first time making real contact with fans.” It is evident that this first impression is truly important to her. 

With a growing fanbase and a clear artistic vision, YY is a rising star to watch—balancing delicate soundscapes with bold ambition, and breaking through in her own beautiful way.

Make sure to check out YY’s latest single “slower” available on all streaming platforms, and stay tuned for her highly anticipated debut at Head in the Clouds!

Full Interview Below

Disclaimer: Responses have been revised for clarity.

1. Hi YY, thank you so much for chatting with us at Sworn by Sound. You’ve released two songs so far—how would you describe your music or overall theme?
   1.  The music I’ve released so far has a dreamlike, ethereal, and emotional quality to it. When I approach my audience, I want them to feel the depth and intimacy I aim to convey in every track.
2. Is your music based on personal experiences?
   1. Not directly. The current songs aren’t drawn from personal experiences, but rather from imagined scenarios. I put myself in the shoes of others and create stories based on what those experiences might feel like.
3. Do you prefer working alone or with a team?
   1. For the most part, I prefer working alone. I draw inspiration from books, films, and other people’s stories. Instead of collaborating with a full team, I enjoy having the freedom and space to develop my ideas independently.
4. How do you balance making music that’s meaningful to you while also thinking about a global audience?
   1.  I’m very mindful of my global listeners and how they receive my music. What matters most to me is creating songs that feel authentic to me. I’m still discovering my own sound, but I know the kind of music I truly love and that’s what I want to focus on.
5. Congratulations on your upcoming set at Head in the Clouds! How are you preparing for the festival? Do you have any new music you’d like to share?
   1.  Thank you! Since this will be my very first live performance, I’m dedicating a lot of time to preparing. I’m carefully curating the setlist and making sure every detail is in place. I want to give fans a memorable experience.
6. Are there any artists you hope to collaborate with in the future?
   1. Lately, I’ve been really into Bobby Santana (?). That’s the kind of music that I like, and the vibe that I want to go for.
7. For your HITC performance, what kind of vibe are you aiming for? Is there anything different you’re excited to try?
   1.  I’m thinking of a rocker vibe or a smooth R&B style. Since this will be my first time performing in front of fans, I want to showcase all sides of me. 

Catch YY and many other notable names May 31st and June 1st for the two day festival this year at the Los Angeles Rose Bowl!