Interview by Denise J. Mallabo

The rise of Asian representation in music around the world is unstoppable.  It should not come as a surprise, as Asian talent is exceptional. Sohyun a.k.a. WVVE is the latest addition to K-pop artists that you need to watch out for. Even though she’s an up and coming as a solo artist, WVVE is no stranger when it comes to singing. She started singing when she was 16 but after seeing the Grammy performance of Rihanna and Bruno Mars, she got motivated to be successful as a singer. “When I saw that, I thought, "Oh my God, this is crazy!" I realized that I wish to be like them,” admits WVVE.

WVVE released her first single “Sweet Like Sugar,” which was produced by Jordan Lewis (Travis Scott, Drake, ASAP Ferg) and engineered by Thomas Ross Johansen (Elton John, Bruno Mars), and Jack Omstead. When asked how it was like working with international producers and engineers, WVVE said that it was a very comforting and pleasant experience. “I was very grateful and comfortable because everyone was so encouraging and open,” she adds.

A Book Of caught up with WVVE to get to know her more. Read on while listening to her latest single.

Hi WVVE. What were you doing before this interview?

It's already 11AM here in Korea. I woke up, drank some water and got ready for the interview. After this interview, I'm going to meet my professor in the Seoul Institute of the Arts.  

Can you remember the first album that you bought that made you wanted to sing?

The first album that I bought was Maroon 5's "Songs About Jane." Honestly, when I was a teenager, I want to be married to Adam Levine [laughs]. I love their music.    

Could you briefly describe what it was like to participate in the reality program K-Pop Star and what you've learned from joining the show?

It was my first time to be in front of so many people. Everything was very fresh. It was a very good experience because after that show, I got so many friends in the industry. I learned so many things, especially not to be afraid, to just do it. Nothing will change, it's just a stage and a recording. 

You’ve worked with other musicians there in Korea, one of which is IU. How was it like being part of her team and what have you learned from the experience? And has she given you any advice when it comes to your music?

I feel very lucky to be working with them. They are passionate and warm-hearted. Every performance is enjoyable for us. In the team, we support one another. We inspire one another. Because it was my first time visiting Los Angeles and working with several music engineers and producers, IU wrote me a message expressing her encouragement for my project. It was also my first experience acting in a music video. I was nervous but she assured me, "No, you can do it!" And I'm grateful for her support.  

What inspired you to pursue a solo music career?

My college, Seoul Institute of the Arts, provided me with the opportunity to release my first single. And this opportunity proved clearly that I can pursue a solo career. Their encouragement inspired me to strive really hard to achieve my goal.   

What’s the story behind the song “Sweet Like Sugar”?

It's about a girl who is fascinated with a boy. She adores him in every way. The objective is that she is persuading him to fall in love with her. We shot the music video in Los Angeles. It was tough since I was acting like a robot at first. But in the video, my partner directed me very well. We'd count to three and then glance up at the sky.       

What can you say about the Asian presence on the international music market, particularly the rising popularity of K-Pop?

K-pop is expanding, and while I'm still promoting myself as an artist and have no idea how huge my name will be, I'm striving to be a wave in the K-pop industry. Because it's difficult to determine now that it's huge, but I picture myself as big and as much a part of the scene as I possibly can be. 

In terms of music, what are you most looking forward to this year? What should we expect from you?

This year, I want to release another single and perform on numerous stages. I believe there is no distinction between being a backup vocalist and being a solo artist; both perform music. If we get the chance to tour again, I want to be there.