Before becoming the global cultural phenomenon it is today, hip-hop was a subculture that thrived on diversity. Thanks to the advent of technology and access to information, this once defiant belief to celebrate differences managed to infiltrate some of the most uptight societies in the world, propagating the growth of new communities that continue to colour the movement with many new personalities and perspectives, broadening the sentiments its music could capture as a means of expression.
One of the artists responsible for driving the love of hip-hop in the Korean scene is Korean-American rapper and producer Bryan Chase. The latest to debut on the esteemed YG Entertainment affiliate THEBLACKLABEL — also home to TAEYANG, JEON SOMI, LØREN, Zion.T and Park Bo-Gum — is a staple presence of the Seoul underground scene who is well-known for his dynamic and crispy-clear vocals, and was most recently featured on TAEYANG’s outro track “Nightfall”. Formerly a member of esteemed hip-hop crew The Cohort or the “Underwater Squad”, he brings to the table a more introspective focus in his solo work, which manifests in his debut EP “2U” and a title track of the same name.
We speak the artist to learn a little bit more about how growing up in the birthplace of hip-hop has influenced his music made after coming to Seoul, his inspirations, what it was like working on this EP, and working with TAEYANG, one of the biggest names in the South Korean music scene.
Hi Bryan! Could you tell us what you do for a living in 10 or less words?
Chasing good music.
What was your first contact with hip-hop culture like?
My first morning, riding the bus to school after moving to Dallas from Korea. Everyone was shouting, free-styling and banging beats on the windows. It was unforgettable.
What led you to pursue music?
When I moved to Seoul, I got interested in music. The hip-hop scene was still super new then, but there was an incredibly special energy. A good friend of mine, who is an artist, showed me around and taught me how to make music. It’s an exciting experience, making music, and I’ve just kept at it and have never stopped.
You were born in Seoul but you actually were brought up in Texas and Virginia. How do you think growing up in America has shaped your artistry?
One of the best things about growing up in the States is how you’re surrounded by cultural diversity. Growing up in the South is a very unique experience on its own and it’s how I came to love hip-hop and artists like Lil Wayne, Chamillionaire and Slim Thug. Learning about various cultures and backgrounds expanded how I think and helped show me the possibilities of what I can express through my music.
What songs or albums were big influences on your music style?
Michael Jackson was the first artist to have a huge influence on me. I’ve been listening to his music ever since I was really young and he plays a big part in why I love music so much to begin with. How he approaches his artistry and gives it his all inspires me to do the same.
Since joining THEBLACKLABEL, you’ve released your debut EP “2U.” What was the process of preparing for this EP like? How is it different from preparing for a single or collaboration project?
It was a learning experience. Making the EP was different from what I was used to, just making a song and putting it out. Instead it took careful consideration and a high level of attention to detail to make sure the music and visuals fit together. It was a new challenge that pushed me to grow as an artist.
What was the most memorable song that you worked on from the EP?
“2U” is the most unforgettable song from the EP for me. The making of it was a huge learning curve for me. I spent endless amounts of time thinking about what I wanted to convey, from the hook to the verse. There were times I doubted if I could even start or complete it. But then, one night, just before I fell asleep, the words and melody just poured into my mind.
How was your experience working with A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie?
Coincidentally, while I was working on “2U,” I was listening to a lot of A Boogie’s music and drawing inspiration from him. I would never have imagined getting him on the track, but he jumped on as a guest feature and it felt meant to be!
The accompanying music video features groundbreaking animation from the creators of the first virtual human, Imma. How did this idea come about?
When the “2U” track was completed, we knew the video had to be animated, because we wanted to pay homage to the anime culture we grew up with. When I learned that AWW.TOKYO, Takayuki Moriya, and YKBX were going to be behind the visuals, I was so excited, because they’re the best at what they do. They elevated the “2U” experience to a whole new level. I’m really grateful that I had the chance to work with them.
Speaking of collaborations, we have to talk about “Nightfall” with TAEYANG. What was the biggest thing you’ve learnt from working with an artist like him?
Collaborating on “Nightfall” with TAEYANG was an amazing experience. It’s not lost upon me that to work with an artist of that caliber is a once in a lifetime type of opportunity. Being in his presence alone taught me so much, and it was really special to witness his talent and work ethic first hand. It was truly an honour to have the chance to work together with him.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome as an artist over the past years of activity?
Learning to be patient and trusting the process. I have to be my biggest motivator in order to push myself to reach my fullest potential.
How about a challenge you are still trying to overcome now?
I would say an ongoing challenge is to keep raising the bar.
Lastly, what’s a song you’d like to recommend that’s been on your heavy rotation of late?
“Fe!n” by Travis Scott.
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