Cy

Epik High

We Do ‘Epik High’: An Interview with Epik High

It wouldn’t be a stretch to call Epik High legends. For over 15 years, the hip-hop Renaissance Men have enraptured audiences with their alternative perspective of the genre. With a penchant for creating music that digs into the insecurities and frailties of human nature, Tablo, Mithra Jin, and Tukutz have paved the way for a generation of artists who express themselves without fear.

Following the release of their second EP, “sleepless in __________,” the trio have embarked on a world tour. Before their stop in Austin, TX, they took some time out to answer some questions for HiphopKR.

XXX Korea Spotlight at Austin City Limits

XXX Are Understated Yet Powerful: SXSW Korea Spotlight

There’s a certain amount of pride in seeing artists you’ve watched grow get the recognition they deserve, even in small ways. XXX debuted at SXSW performing at the ScratcHouse, a medium-sized venue that houses a stage big enough for a DJ table and a back patio. Fast forward two years. They’ve matured in both sound and musical vision. Their growth doesn’t go unnoticed by the organizers. They land a spot on the largest stage for any Korean act at the festival: the Korean Spotlight hosted by Austin City Limits at the Moody Theater.

Owen Ovadoz

“I’ve Finally Found My Way”: An Interview with Owen Ovadoz

Owen Ovadoz is one of those artists who know how to spark a conversation and keep himself at its center. His forward and opinionated nature brings a unique dynamic to Korea’s music scene. That same critical eye he turns on himself in his music. Four years after his first interview with HiphopKR, he answered some questions about himself, his music, and what makes him the artist that he is.

Colde at ERR;OR Showcase, SXSW 2019

The Next Wave: A SXSW Interview with COLDE

SXSW is perhaps my favorite part of the year. There’s a certain amount of craziness that goes into covering the festival. But in the midst of all the madness, I have the unique privilege of getting to make connections with artists I respect. Despite mutual hectic schedules, HiphopKR got the opportunity to send some questions to R&B/hip-hop artist COLDE.

SXSW 2019: Who We're Excited to See

SXSW Spotlight: Who We’re Excited to See

South by Southwest has invited a number of Korean hip-hop and R&B artists to spotlight. The likes of Epik High, MFBTY, and Crush have all left their unique stamp on the festival. In 2019, the range and diversity of hip-hop and R&B acts has only broadened. Here I give a sneak peek into who I’m really excited to see (and who you should probably check out as well).

Core.Low

Enthusiastic Ambition: An Interview with Core.Low

One of the more satisfying aspects of what I do is being able to talk to an artist just as he’s getting his feet wet in the industry. Oftentimes, there’s a bit of reluctance to be too forward or open. They are, after all, just now stepping into an industry that can be quite unforgiving to those who make a little too much noise. However, many artists are just eager to get themselves heard. More, still, are willing to open themselves up to scrutiny for the sake of appealing to an audience who really doesn’t know who they are. Thus is the case with Core.Low. This young man has a heart for his music that is obvious in the way he talks about it and himself as an artist.