Get to know independent electronic producer and singer-songwriter Silly Silky in this exclusive interview.
Silly Silky, formerly recognized under the moniker YESEO until 2022, has carved her niche in the South Korean music scene as an independent electronic producer and singer-songwriter. Since her debut on July 26, 2016, with the single “Let It All Go,” she has been a consistent presence, captivating audiences with her unique blend of electronic beats and soulful vocals.
Throughout her almost decade-long career, Silly Silky has maintained a steadfast commitment to her craft, steadily releasing music that resonates with audiences worldwide. Notable highlights include her contributions to the OSTs of popular K-dramas like "Voice2" and "The Witch's Diner," solidifying her position as a versatile artist capable of seamlessly weaving her sonic tapestry into various mediums. Albums such as "Million Things," "Damn Rules," "Try Free!," and "Silly: Episode 1" have served as milestones in her artistic evolution, each offering a glimpse into her multifaceted artistry and unwavering dedication to her craft.
Now, with the release of her latest album, "Silly but Silky," Silly Silky unveils her most ambitious project yet. Released on January 4, 2024, this 20-track masterpiece marks Silly Silky’s first full-length endeavor. With "Silly, but Silky," she showcases her growth as an artist, exploring new sounds and themes while staying true to her signature style that fans have come to cherish. The album is a journey through Silly Silky's musical universe, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in her sonic landscape.
In an exclusive interview, Silly Silky dives into the creative process behind "Silly but Silky," offering fans an intimate glimpse into the mind of this visionary artist. Stay tuned as Silly Silky shares insights, anecdotes, and revelations about her latest album, how she’s evolved since her debut, and invites listeners to embark on a sonic journey unlike any other.
Hello, Silky! Can you introduce yourself to our audience and share a bit about your background and journey into the music industry?
Hello, I am the electronic artist Silly Silky! Please call me Silky (laughs). I have been working as YESEO since 2016, before I changed my stage name to Silly Silky in 2022. Until now, I have presented my music independently through producing, composing, writing lyrics, and arranging, but as Silky, I plan to show interesting steps not only as a singer but also as a producer through collaboration with many people.
What inspired you to pursue electronic music production and songwriting?
I was originally a vocal major and was obsessed with R&B/soul music, but after taking a break from my studies, I spent more time at home. I had an iPad at the time, so I wrote a song in Garage Band and uploaded it to Soundcloud. A friend of mine who heard the song suggested that I try writing a song in Logic, so I thought, ‘Should I try that?’ That was the beginning!
Congratulations on the release of your first full album, "Silly but, Silky!" Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the title and the album itself?
Thank you! This album is not a regular album but a mixtape, so the album title is “Silly but, Silky [mixtape].” (laughs) After changing my stage name, I thought I had to create something great, but when I thought that way, I couldn't write songs well.
So, instead of trying to write a great song all at once, I started writing a song every day, like a diary. This album has been selected from many of the songs that were written since 2022 with this thought in mind.
In the previously released EPs [SILLY] and [SILKY], I included songs that I liked and would like to hear again!
Your album has 20 tracks, and each song likely holds a special place in your heart. Are there any tracks that resonate with you on a deeper level? If so, which ones?
Actually, it’s different every day. (laughs)
The tracks I comfortably listen to for any emotion are ‘MEANT 2 BE’ and ‘4D.’ When you feel cool or chic, ‘BB New Attitude.' When your heart is vulnerable, ‘SuperStar Glow.’ And when I want to be in a fantasy, I listen to ‘Completely Blown Me Away.’
During the process of creating "Silly but, Silky, [mixtape]," were there any unexpected inspirations that influenced the music or lyrics?
I often get inspiration from content, but these days, I mostly get inspiration from observing or talking to other people. When I feel an interesting point or personality, I often reinterpret it in my own way and write it into a song. It can be said that more interesting inspiration comes when you are not conscious of it.
The song “Bounce Back” is a song I created while watching Gordon Ramsey's 'Hell's Kitchen.' The pronunciation of the expression "Bounce Back,' which is often used when participants try to overcome difficult situations, and the situations in which they say 'Bounce Back' were very impressive, so I liked it. It was a song created by interpreting it in a certain way.
How has your music evolved since your debut single, 'Let It All Go' in 2016?
I wrote songs every day, and I was steadily growing! If I write a song in the A genre, I'm the type of person who wants to write a song in the C genre next time. However, it is difficult to write a song in a genre that you have not written well from the beginning. After writing 2-3 songs, it becomes a little more familiar, but now I wonder if I studied it that way.
Your stage name, Silly Silky, is quite unique. Is there a story behind how you came up with it, and what does it signify for you as an artist?
It's a combination of the two traits I have. There are times when my personality is mischievous, and I believe that I should write songs in a fun way so that the listener can also have fun. So I think my voice, which is an important point in Silly's music, is Silky, so I call it Silly Silky! The reason why I asked to be called Silky is because I thought that as an artist, my personality and direction are Silly, and I myself am Silky, and Silky is Silly. (laughs)
Visuals often play a significant role in electronic music. Do you have a vision for the visual aspect of your music, whether it's through music videos, stage design, or other mediums?
Yes, of course! I'm still thinking about various ideas.
When I write a song, I think of visuals, and when I plan a music video, I want to project that image. I'm thinking about whether there is a way for listeners to stay in that fantasy through the process of writing the song or by deconstructing this song more directly! I also want to film a lot of live videos. I like doing sets by myself, and I really want to film a video with a live band.
These days, the flow of content is so fast that I feel that art that combines music and visuals is relatively easy to reach the public, so I would like to try it if I have many opportunities.
As both a producer and a singer-songwriter, which aspect of the creative process do you find most fulfilling, and why?
It's really fun when I make a song that feels like what I had in my head and listen to it or when I create a unique song with a combination that doesn't have the feeling I had in mind but is almost like a coincidence.
I feel truly happy and honored that my music becomes a memory in my fans' time, such as when they listen to my music before going to bed or when they dance to my songs.
When you're not creating music, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? Any hobbies or interests outside of the music world?
These days, I'm thinking that I should keep trying to capture things on camera, like writing songs, so I'm trying many things. I used to play games like PS, chess, and Nine Men's Morris, but I'm not good at them these days because I don't have time. It's not a hobby, but I sit in front of the computer for a long time, so I try to do some light exercise for my health.
"Silly but, Silky [mixtape]" marks a significant milestone in your career. Looking ahead, what are your goals or aspirations for the future, both musically and personally?
I have reached a point where I need to show my capabilities as a producer. I've been producing songs, but when I sing, I tend to be recognized as a singer first. Now, I want to make songs featuring various artists or perform collaborations. I want to do a lot of performances where I can meet my fans in person.
At the same time, as a vocalist, I'm thinking, "Let's study rap!" I have one voice, but if I can sing multiple styles, my songs can also shine in a new way.
My goal and ambition is to deliver music that is fun enough to shake the earth. I also want to make songs without losing my joyful and grateful heart. It won't be an easy journey, so I have no choice but to enjoy it. Luckily, I can make a living doing what I love. I'm going to keep making music anyway.
For fans who have just discovered you, what message or feeling do you hope they take away from your music?
It may vary from year to year, but first of all, I hope you enjoy it. It may be relatable or fun, but the fact that my music is part of my fans' precious time is meaningful to me. Please enjoy it the way you feel and the way you want.
Lastly please leave a message to your fans.
Thank you always! Recently, I thought that you like my music because you are similar to me, and I'm really glad that we met through music. I truly believe that my music can shine even brighter because of my fans. I will continue to try to play a lot of fun things for you in the future.
Listen to her discography on Soundcloud, Spotify, or Apple Music.
*Special thanks to Silly Silky for this exclusive interview.
Image and Video Credits courtesy of Silly Silky.