On March 17, during the 2017 SXSW Conference and Festivals, I had the pleasure of catching AOMG artist Hoody perform live in Austin, Texas. Following her exclusive showcase at MU:CON Industry Party (held at The Belmont), I sat down with the artist for a quick interview. We discussed topics such as her experience at SXSW, and what it’s like working as an artist under AOMG.
Is this your first time in Austin, Texas? How do you like the city?
Hoody: Yes, this is my first time in Austin, and I really enjoyed my time here! The city is peaceful and laid back, and I love that the residents [of Austin] seem happy. Also, the food here is very delicious! My favorite has been fried chicken and waffle, which seemed weird at first but I instantly became a fan of the combination!
How did all three of your shows go this week at SXSW?
Hoody: I love playing music for people. The Fader Fort event was only my third time performing as a DJ, so I prepared a lot for the event. I was a bit nervous because it was my first international performance, but I had a lot of fun that evening!
- March 15, 2017 – Fader Fort
- March 16, 2017 – Mad Decent
- March 17, 2017 – MU:CON Industry Party (Official VIP Event)
Back in 2013, you opened for Kelela in Seoul during her Korea and Japan Tour. Earlier this week, she came out to support you at one of your showcases!
Hoody: Yes she did! I wasn’t expecting her to be at the show, so I was pleasantly surprised and touched by her support.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BSAJvujjVBm/?taken-by=hoodykim
Translation: “Reunion in 4 years. On March 16, [with Kelela] during my showcase at SXSW. She entered the venue as soon I performed “The Light” (a track I performed when I first met Kelela four years ago)… like a miracle. I can’t tell you how much I was touched.”
What inspired you to pursue music as your career?
Hoody: I first picked up music as a hobby through club activities during high-school and university. Right before graduating from University, I came to a realization that I wanted to take music seriously, and begun creating my own music.
You joined AOMG in 2015. What’s it like creating music under AOMG? Is it much different than before joining the label?
Hoody: When I first joined AOMG, I felt like I had a sense of belonging within the label. I also developed a sense of responsibility, which was different back when I was making music independently. The part that remains the same is that I am still able to create music freely, while being able to collaborate with artists and producers I want to work with.
What makes the label AOMG different than the rest?
Hoody: I can’t comment on whether or not other music labels do this too, but AOMG is a label that supports the artist in whatever direction they wish to take. Each [AOMG] artist is able to create their own style of music under their own terms. And the artists support each other by creating music together. For example, I worked with Loco on different arrangements for his music, and he helps me out on my own music. We support each other in many different aspects. It’s a very cool, organic process.
Your latest EP [On and On] features contributions by a handful of producers: GRAY, Cha Cha Malone, and PEEJAY. Are there any international artists or producers you want to work with this year?
Hoody: There’s too many! If I had to choose three, I would work with Blood Orange (Devonte Hynes), Thundercat, and Kelela. I am a huge fan of each of their music and would love to work with them in the future!
Can you tell us about any upcoming projects this year?
Hoody: I challenge myself to create music different than the ones I’ve released in the past. I’m the type of person that dislikes doing the same thing over again, so I would like to try something new for my next project. My fans would sometimes leave feedbacks like “I wish she could have done it this way instead of that way.” And I tell myself, “I can do that too!” If the feedback is constructive, I don’t mind it.
We are already at the end of the interview. Do you have any closing remarks for your International fans?
Hoody: I would love to visit and perform in front of my international fans in as many cities as possible. I was blown away by the number of fans that supported me throughout the week at SXSW. I am truly grateful for my fans and am excited to visit other cities to see their reactions.
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