UNMEEK

Unmeek debuted in 2018 under Vlacksquad Records with the single ‘First Time’ and recently released the singles ‘Sorry’ and ‘W.Y.W.S’. Unmeek composes his own music by combining elements of various genres and he plans to continue to push the boundaries of genres to give us a new taste of music. We sat down with the up-and-coming artist in his studio and got to know more about his music style, upcoming projects, and what we can expect from him as an artist.

Firstly, can you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello, I’m hip hop and R&B artist Unmeek. I’m twenty-eight in Korean age and I’m from Seoul. Seoul is my hometown and I’ve always lived here. It hasn’t been very long since I’ve started music but I’m determined. Before doing music, I was an athlete (soccer player), so I’m a little older now. I like to include both singing and rap in my music, combining elements of different genres!

What led you to pursue a career in music?

For a long time now I’ve enjoyed making songs. I’ve always wanted to make music. But it was when I had to go do my military service that I actually started making music.

Which of your songs would you recommend to first-time listeners?

I would like to recommend my newest single which just came out, it’s called ‘Design’!

How would you describe your music style?

I don’t just limit myself to one style, I want to try all kinds of styles. My music combines various genres.

If you could collaborate with any artist (Korean or international), who would it be?

In Korea, I would be happy to collaborate with any other R&B artists.

Where do you get inspiration for your songs?

Because I’m not that young, I’m twenty-eight, I get inspiration through living life and my own stories. Particularly things like my previous experiences with love or sad events that have happened. I mostly write about the times I’ve been through and experienced in my life.

In 2018 you released your first single and music video, ‘First Time’, can you tell us about the meaning behind this song?

For this song I didn’t really plan to write it, the idea just suddenly came to me. It’s about my first love, the lyrics are about a person who didn’t particularly like me back or return my feelings so it’s kind of a sad song.

Who has been a major role model in your life, how have they influenced you both musically and personally?

Musically, I can’t choose only one person. I love all kinds of music but if I had to pick someone it would be someone who makes the same genre of music as me, like DEAN or Crush. They are both role models for me musically. As for personally, my Dad. The reason why he is someone I look up to is that he built up his life, home, and family all by himself.

So your parents supported you wanting to make music?

Actually, they didn’t. When I was younger, before doing music, I was a soccer player so they had a vision about my future in that career path. But I quit soccer to do music so they were kind of sad at first.

Can you talk about some of the musical projects you are currently working on? Or is it a secret?

Definitely not a secret! I’m glad to talk about my projects with other people! In a month I’m planning to release an album; I am trying to make music that includes various genres.

Do you have any upcoming performances?

I want to announce an upcoming performance but right now I have nothing officially set. I will definitely announce it when there is!

What do you like to do when you aren’t making music?

Hanging out and drinking with my bro Yellopumpy (laughs), we’re with the same label. Oh and I also really like soccer!

Nice! Who is your favorite soccer team?

Well, there isn’t just one soccer player or team I like the most. Since I used to be a soccer player, I love soccer so much that I couldn’t pick just one.

If you had to live in another country where would you go?

I just want to live in Korea! Although for traveling I would like to visit Europe, Russia, and America. Ah, also Uzbekistan.

What’s your go-to late night snack?

Ah, that’s really hard to answer. There’s so many but it’s gotta be chicken. Chicken!

Do you have any words of wisdom for aspiring musicians?

I’m also quite scared about doing music still. But I guess you have to get rid of your fears and just start. The most important thing is starting.

Any final words?

I simply would like to say that I would really love and appreciate it if you check out my songs. Also, to any other artists: If you would like to collaborate then please don’t hesitate to contact me!

Follow Unmeek:

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Interviewed and photographed by Amy Benham
Translation help from Donghoon Lee
Edited by Lena