[EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW] iiso Discusses the Soulful Sound and Deep Feelings of “Ash”

Get to know singer-songwriter iiso as she shares the inspiration and private which means behind her highly effective new single.

Since her debut on July 3, 2022, with the digital single “Indicators,” iiso has been steadily constructing a reputation for herself along with her emotive storytelling and ethereal sound. Her first EP, Comi, launched on November 23, 2022, showcased her skill to craft haunting melodies paired with introspective lyrics. With every launch, iiso has continued to evolve, fascinating listeners along with her distinctive mix of vulnerability and sonic depth.

In 2023, iiso launched two placing singles that exposed completely different sides of her artistry. “Salad Days,” launched on Might 16, captured the bittersweet fantastic thing about fleeting youth, whereas “Black Diamond,” which arrived on October 24, embraced a extra mysterious and moody tone. Each tracks mirrored her rising versatility and willingness to experiment with new sounds and themes.

Now, iiso takes one other step ahead along with her newest single, “Ash,” launched on November 24, 2024. In our unique interview, she opens up concerning the artistic course of behind “Ash,” the feelings she poured into the music, and the way it represents her ongoing creative journey. Dive in to be taught extra about iiso’s world and the inspiration behind her latest launch.

Hello iiso! First, are you able to introduce your self to our readers and share what drew you to music? What made you notice this was the trail you wished to take?

iiso: Hello, I’m iiso, an impartial singer-songwriter primarily based in South Korea. I’m a bit involved this would possibly sound like a darkish story to begin with, however truthfully, it was a time after I felt deeply powerless as if I couldn’t do something in any respect. Music was the one factor I felt I may nonetheless do. My mom was a piano instructor, so the piano was all the time current in my life. Fortunately, the piano doesn’t make a sound except I select to play it. It’s essentially the most non-violent but lovely noise I can consider, and it was extremely comforting to me. Even after I wasn’t enjoying, I typically discovered myself sitting on the piano bench, zoning out. I believe it was throughout these moments that I started urgent one key at a time, expressing the feelings trapped inside my coronary heart, nearly like writing in a diary. I wished it to movement naturally, like music. Earlier than I knew it, these moments led me to the place I’m in the present day.

Congratulations on the discharge of “Ash!” Are you able to share the inspiration behind the music and its lyrics?

iiso: Thanks a lot. This music is concerning the concern of shedding somebody you like and being unable to say, “I like you” due to that concern. In a gorgeous second when love ought to flourish, I used to be trembling with concern. I felt silly and envious of the one who had the braveness to like me unconditionally. I additionally felt responsible, and that’s what impressed me to put in writing this music.

The title “Ash” evokes highly effective imagery. What does it symbolize within the context of the music? Was there a selected second or occasion that sparked its creation?

iiso: “Ash” symbolizes my journey by means of ache and therapeutic. Whereas ashes would possibly look like mere remnants of one thing that has burned, to me, they characterize the house for a brand new starting. After releasing the music, I really feel an incredible sense of liberation, as if I’ve been healed from these feelings.

The music has a particular vibe. How does it connect with your general creative identification and evolution as an artist?

iiso: I get pleasure from breaking the principles and making an attempt new issues, which makes me really feel extremely free when creating music.
I don’t set any particular construction or style earlier than beginning a challenge. I merely glide and spontaneously file no matter message involves thoughts.
 From starting to finish, I by no means know what the music will turn into. After ending a monitor, I typically suppose, “Oh, so that is what I used to be considering,” or, “That is what I wished.” It’s like seeing my music from a third-person perspective, and I be taught rather a lot about myself within the course of. It seems like I’m consistently interacting with and discovering new elements of me by means of my music.

Trying again at your EP Comi and your earlier singles like “Black Diamond” and “Salad Days,” what classes or experiences have formed your method to “Ash”?

iiso: I’ve all the time beloved and cherished my music deeply, so I used to really feel damage when folks criticized it with out understanding the tales behind it. “Black Diamond” was born out of that ache—it’s a music full of anger and rise up. Regardless that many individuals beloved my music, I used to be extra centered on the unfavourable suggestions on the time. This music, nevertheless, displays the journey of studying to like even those that misunderstood me.

If my means of expressing myself didn’t resonate with them earlier than, I wished to work more durable to create one thing that would attain them. That’s why this album holds such deep which means for me. It’s about sharing the vitality I’ve felt with as many individuals as doable.

Are you able to inform us concerning the manufacturing course of for “Ash”? Did you attempt something new or completely different this time?

iiso: I like incorporating new parts after I produce, and I added the sound of a flute for this music. My mother used to play the flute after I used to be born, as her fingers didn’t transfer as simply for the piano anymore. I’ve all the time been acquainted with its tender, delicate sound, and I assumed it might work superbly because the lead instrument for this music. I selected a contrabass for the bass, and the pads had been created solely from repetitive sampling. I wished to mix acoustic and digital parts in a means that felt refined, layering them seamlessly.

Was there a specific second throughout the creation of “Ash” that felt particularly significant or pivotal for you?

iiso: This music was truly written a yr in the past. At the moment, I felt so lonely and overwhelmed by a deep sense of helplessness that I didn’t have the braveness to launch it. After taking a yr off to arrange, I spotted that extra folks than I had anticipated had been ready for and supporting me. That realization gave me the power to lastly launch this music and share the vitality I had been holding onto. It grew to become such a valuable and significant second in my journey.

Since your debut with “Indicators,” how has your music grown or developed, significantly with this launch?

iiso: After I wrote “Indicators,” I used to be dreaming rather a lot, and people goals left such a deep impression on me that I couldn’t cease interested by them, even throughout my every day life. The lyrics of that music characterize a model of me from the dream world speaking to my real-world self: “You may reside without end on this world you dream of. You are able to do something right here. Stick with me without end.” It was a narrative of escape, a really avoidant message. On the time, I didn’t have a deep understanding of myself. I hadn’t fairly discovered my identification but.

Over time, I’ve discovered to specific extra sincere tales in my lyrics. Now, I really feel no disgrace or hesitation in sharing my feelings—whether or not they’re optimistic or unfavourable. I actually get pleasure from being this open now. After I evaluate the lyrics of “Indicators” with “Ash,” I can see how a lot I’ve grown. It’s like flipping by means of previous diary entries and reflecting on how far I’ve come.

With “Ash” now out, what’s subsequent for you? Are there plans for a brand new EP, album, or tour within the close to future?

iiso: There are such a lot of issues I’ve but to share with you all, and I can’t wait to disclose them. The subsequent huge challenge coming your means is the total Ash EP, set to launch early subsequent yr. Plus, I’m engaged on connecting with you much more—I’m getting ready content material for YouTube! Keep tuned!

Exterior of music, what’s one thing you’re captivated with or a passion that conjures up your creativity?

iiso: Pilates, boxing, and going for walks actually assist me mentally. Sustaining a wholesome mindset is essential to me, so I attempt to stick to those routines each time doable.

Lastly, please go away a message to your followers.

iiso: To my angels, thanks for patiently ready and being my power. I draw a lot inspiration and luxury from you as effectively. I’ll be certain to offer again much more optimistic vitality. Till the day we lastly meet, xx.

Join with iiso on Instagram, X, and YouTube.

Hearken to her discography on Spotify, Apple Music, or Melon.

*Particular due to iiso for this unique interview.

Picture and Video Credit: iiso