Welcome to London! What was the first thing you did arriving in London?
Jooyoung: I visited ‘RAK STUDIO’ and Greeted the founder and had an impressive time looking at various equipment.
Tell us about RAK STUDIO.
Jooyoung: It’s both a recording studio and an office. I’d love to record there one day, but it will be quite an investment. It’s probably because The Rolling Stones also recorded there. The equipment is still maintained in its original state. London has a long history of music, so I feel like there are many long-standing studios like Abbey Road.
We must ask - have you tried the famous Fish and Chips?
Jooyoung: Not yet but to be honest, I don’t really like fish. I will be more than happy to have some lamb. I’m a meat lover.
What does performing in London mean to you?
Jooyoung: I’ve never imagined I’d be performing in London, so it was amazing. And I really appreciate that so many fans came to see me, more than I expected.
London is one of the capitals for rock. Is there a specific lyric that comes to mind right now?
Jooyoung: Now? ‘London Calling’ comes to mind.
What song is on repeat these days?
Jooyoung: I don’t listen to music a lot especially when working on my music. I tend to enjoy silence, even when I’m driving after listening to mine all day. I only listen to music when I’m taking a shower in the morning or having a meal.
Was there any song you listened too much until you couldn’t listen anymore?
Jooyoung: I do definitely have those songs, but they change all the time. When one song gets stuck in my head, I listen to it repeatedly. Hmm… I guess, as someone who really loves music, it’s hard to pick just one. But by the way, could you let me know what was played at the end of the shoot?
The album for today’s set was by Bauhaus. By the way, the music video of My Soles Worn Out was impressive. It’s something that everyone can relate to - about life and death.
Jooyoung: While working on the Sphere album, I thought a lot about life and death. I had left my agency, started as an independent artist, and had friends who were either unwell or had passed away. At that time, I delved deep into those thoughts, but after that time, my mindset has become much simpler. My thoughts, honest and raw emotions from these experiences are reflected in the music. Sphere was a mark of the beginning, when I was at a crossroad of my life and focus being on blending various genres smoothly.
Do you have a routine before performing?
Jooyoung: I always bring a humidifier to take care of my voice, and meditate for 5-10 minutes in the morning. Meditation helps improve my concentration. I take medication for ADHD, but on the days when I don’t take it, I focus more on the meditation.
I’ve also considered taking medication.
Jooyoung: It has been really helpful for me. I think getting help from it while working is a good approach. I think it’s okay to rely on it when needed. So, I take it when I’m working or performing, but I don’t take it every day to avoid tolerance. It has to be managed properly.
I wonder what keeps your self-esteem strong?
Jooyoung: I just believe in myself. In the end, trusting myself is the most important thing. I don’t think there’s a need to rank myself because it varies from person to person. I live with a relaxed mindset.
What’s the next goal or dream you want to achieve?
Jooyoung: Actually, it’s not an exaggeration to say that my music career started just last year. I used to barely perform, but last year, I started to take the stage properly. So, after giving my best as a singer, I will think about my next steps. I’m the kind of person who lives for today rather than setting big goals. This is my way of living - doing my best every day.
What kind of person is Jooyoung?
Jooyoung: I’m an honest person. To anyone… I think I was just born this way. Being very honest has clear pros and cons, but it’s easier for me to face things in a healthy way and work through them in my own way. Maybe that’s why I like honest people.
It was a pleasure to hear Jooyong’s honest thoughts today.
Jooyoung: Now, I will go and have some lamb!
