In the first month of 2024, Jooyoung, a well-established figure in the Korean R&B and hip-hop scene, released his much-anticipated first full-length album, [Sphere]. This album, coming after a career spanning over 13 years, marks a significant milestone for Jooyoung, offering listeners an intimate look into his growth as an artist and individual. [Sphere] blends personal narratives with societal commentary, all while showcasing Jooyoung’s rich lyricism and emotional range.
What makes [Sphere] stand out is its musical diversity, merging R&B’s soulful melodies with hip-hop’s dynamic rhythms, and even touches of rock and electronic music. This mix creates a sound that’s not only unique but also reflective of Jooyoung’s journey and the dualities of human experience. The album isn’t just a set of songs; it’s an exploration, inviting listeners to ponder life’s contrasts through Jooyoung’s eyes.
Deep Dive with Jooyoung
In an exclusive interview with HiphopKR, Jooyoung shares insights into the creation of [Sphere], discussing its themes, his artistic evolution, and collaborations that shaped the album.
1. You’ve been a significant figure in the Korean R&B scene for over a decade. How do you feel [Sphere] represents the evolution of your artistry compared to your earlier works like ‘From Me To You’ and ‘Fountain’?
Every beginning is also an end. When it comes to artistic evolution, I’ve gotten a little more convinced that the things I convey through music and other things are a means of self-expression, and if this album is the beginning of a new beginning, it’s a beginning to express more diverse and solid ideas.
2. [Sphere] is described as a “bold, introspective journey.” Could you share more about the primary themes and personal experiences that inspired this album?
Over four years of creating this album with friends, several moments stand out— First, when a friend revealed his cancer diagnosis through tears. This, alongside the loss of a dear friend, family bereavement, and reflections on love and living fully, marks the transformative journey I’ve undergone.
3. The album blends R&B, hip-hop, rock, and electronic music. How did you approach integrating these diverse genres, and what challenges did you face in creating a cohesive sound?
My journey into music began with a USB from my father, loaded with classics from The Beatles, Metallica, Nirvana, Pink Floyd, Deep Purple, and beyond. Creating music has always been a source of joy for me, a seamless blend of inspiration and expression. The only challenge is navigating the complex landscape of this industry.
4. Out of all the tracks in [Sphere], which one is your personal favorite and why? Is there a particular story or message behind it that resonates with you?
Of course, I like all the tracks, yet I find myself frequently returning to “Be”. It may resonate deeply because it evokes memories of a loved one’s passing. There’s a poignant beauty in it that speaks to me.
5. You’ve collaborated with several artists like Kaash Paige, oiaisle, and Garzón Robie on this album. How did these collaborations come about, and what was it like working with them?
Collaborating with other artists is always exciting and joyful. Such partnerships are like exploring new worlds I’ve long been curious about. So it was natural for me to ask people close to me whose worlds I was curious about.
6. : As an artist who has a growing international fanbase, how do you think [Sphere] will resonate with your fans outside of Korea, especially those who are not native Korean speakers?
It’s not like I had any big reason or anything like that in mind. I know we have more international fans than Korean fans, which is great, but I’ve done a lot of work in Korean before and we wanted to try something new. Korean is a bit stiff, but English is much more fluid and free-flowing. I’m grateful that there are people who like my expression and my message, and that love comes from so many other places I never imagined.
7. The lead single, ‘Wonder,’ sets the tone for the album. Can you tell us about the creation process of this song and the message you hope to convey through it?
We are metaphorically entangled in a matrix of societal and technological constraints. My sincere wish is for us all to find our path to freedom, overcoming these barriers. I am on this quest too, striving for liberation and the realization of our fullest potential. It’s a theme that runs through the album and something that I’ve been obsessed with for the past few years. It became the first song on the album in terms of a natural way to bring up the thought, and the sound came along.
8. Who or what has been your biggest influence or source of inspiration while working on [Sphere]?
It’s not a specific person that inspires my creativity, it’s a confluence of my personal state, my surroundings, and the memories in my mind. In the end, inspiration is about how I perceive the myriad of changes happening around me and within me, and how I make them work within me. The world is constantly changing, acting as an endless catalyst that fuels my artistic endeavors.
9. What message do you want to convey to your fans through [Sphere], and what do you hope they take away from this album?
My sole aspiration is that listeners find joy and solace in my music, and if it serves even the slightest aid in navigating the complexities of their lives, there could be no greater reward for my efforts.
10. With the release of your first full album and the upcoming solo concert tour, what are your aspirations for the future? Are there any new directions or projects you are particularly excited about?
After a long hiatus, my goal is to make deeper connections with a wider audience and get closer to many people. And I hope that we can cultivate a timeless and interesting culture through my new label ‘sphere’.
With [Sphere], Jooyoung not only showcases his growth but also challenges genre norms, offering a fresh perspective on Korean music. As he sets out on his first solo tour, fans can look forward to experiencing the depth and diversity of his music firsthand. This album is a testament to Jooyoung’s enduring talent and his ability to connect deeply with listeners around the globe.