Join me as I go behind the music in this exclusive interview with Juju B. Goode.
Meet the musical magician Juju B. Goode, who kicked off his epic journey from the cozy confines of his bedroom. His debut EP, Future Boy, released in 2020, was like a nostalgia-packed K-R&B rollercoaster that sent the world on a wild ride, racking up millions of streams and Spotify shoutouts. But that's just the warm-up act!
Next up, he dropped 'Garden' (2021), joined forces with some big-name artists, and even lent his voice to Netflix's latest binge series, "XO, Kitty." With a creative spark that never quits and a dedication that's as solid as a rockstar's riff, Juju B. Goode is ready to leave an unforgettable mark on the music scene, and fans from every corner of the globe can't wait to groove along with his artistic evolution. His highly anticipated debut studio album, slated for release later next month, masterfully infuses his work with a rich blend of diverse musical genres, drawing inspiration from rock, disco, electronic, and hip-hop, all while allowing his Korean heritage to shine through.
To commemorate the pre-release track "Mr. Lee," Hellokpop caught up with the one and only Juju B. Goode. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the creative process behind this electrifying song and explore his musical journey and more.
Congratulations on your upcoming debut album, "Smile! You're On Camera!” Can you tell us about the overall theme or concept behind the album?
Thank you! Of course. I see “Smile! You’re On Camera” as a fusion of various colors and shapes, much like the vibrant tapestry of a bustling metropolitan city. The eclectic blend of people, cultures, and neighborhoods is translated into the diverse styles, energies, and musical genres like disco, rock, reggae, salsa, 90s Korean music, and more within the album. Lyrically, I aimed to embrace the experiences of myself and the diverse people I've met in NYC, capturing our journeys.
What do you hope listeners will take away from your music and this album in particular?
I hope they can have some fun, take a little break, and groove to the music. While the lyrics are mostly in Korean, if you understand the language, you can connect on a more intimate level and catch the subtle nuances. However, I've put a lot of effort into making the music communicate its essence independently of the lyrics through the production and vibe. I hope everyone can feel that, as music is a universal language.
How did you select the album's title, and what does it represent in the context of your music?
It's a sign you see everywhere, from your local grocery stores and Uber rides to parks and streets. I love drawing inspiration from pop culture and everyday things. 'Smile! You're On Camera' carries a hint of optimism, but it also addresses the important issue of surveillance, with everyone constantly being observed, from social media to offline relationships. It serves as a reminder to smile no matter what, but also, can we really do that?
Are there any specific tracks on the album that hold special meaning to you, and if so, why?
All of the tracks on the album are like my babies, and each one carries a unique emotional resonance. But if I really have to choose, maybe Ending Fairy? It was one of the first songs I wrote for this album, and it essentially gave me the blueprint for the album's concept. I invite you to check it out for yourself; I won't spoil too much.
You recently released the song “Mr. Lee.” How does this song fit into your overall musical journey and style?
"Mr. Lee" is probably the most pop-esque song in my repertoire, but it also goes through a lot of transitions and moods within 4 minutes. This song was born during the pandemic, and it took nearly two years to release. It underwent numerous edits and versions, but this particular version feels like it belongs to 'Smile!' with its dynamic changes and colorful approach.
How do you balance the personal and emotional aspects of songwriting with the need to connect with your audience?
I love this question because this is something I think a lot about. In short, I don't have all the answers, but I'm doing my best to maintain my pure, youthful, creative energy and not overthink every step. Most importantly, I believe in having fun throughout the process. Gotta have fun most of all.
Read the full interview on Hellokpop.