The singer begins his first North American tour on April 24th, and over the past year, has released the most freewheeling music of his career.
Growing up, the Korean musician was taught to never express their emotions. For their forthcoming album, hevel does the exact opposite.
How Orion Song Found His Voice Making Time Machine
Singer-songwriter Orion Song wanted to produce an EP that celebrated R&B’s history and sound. In the process, he found his artistic voice.
the reissues project
A new series offering a second look at overlooked music released by Asian artists.
the rookies
In-depth profiles about leading independent Asian musicians.
The singer-songwriter grapples with how to love and be loved on his debut EP “Yellow”. He hopes you see yourself in his stories.
On “Mediocre At Best”, Pluto Koi Is Packing Up His Insecurities
Pluto Koi used to be known as a hopeless romantic. Now he wants you a more complex version of himself.
Yel Is Turning Her Best Memories Into Works of Art
The California-based singer-songwriter makes dreamy, romantic music that is becoming a smash hit on streaming services.
The multi-faceted artist’s journey from filmmaker to musician was a winding path. For his forthcoming EP, AVENU has found his vision.
critically speaking
Essays from the frontlines of K-Pop and beyond.
Lucas Wong Wants a Second Chance. Will Fans Allow it?
After serious accusations sent the idol on hiatus in 2021, he’s re-emerged with an apology and a documentary. But questions about the truth remain.
The Simmering Politics of (G)-IDLE’s “Wife”
The group’s provocative new single is a sharp missile wrapped inside a bubble gum package.
BoA in Japan: Soft Powers and Teenage Dreams
In 2001, BoA was the first of her kind: a K-Pop star landing number one’s in Japan. Her success transformed K-Pop into a global super power.
Essential reading from the API music scene
infinite scroll
HOHYUN Wants You to Know You’re Not Alone
HOHYUN was plagued by self-doubt for years. “But I’ve realized when you feel like giving up, it's the most important time to not give up,” he says in this interview.
Townewest’s Bittersweet Summer
On their debut album “before it’s too late”, Townewest want you to relive your best — and worst — summer memories.
Beomhan’s Not Afraid of the Future
In his first interview since becoming an independent artist, the singer reflects on his biggest challenge yet: Believing in himself.
RAIN Announces “THE RAIN 2023 Still Raining” North American Tour
For the first time in sixteen years, the K-Pop superstar will hold two concerts in North America.
Key’s Journey Towards Self-Love on “Good & Great”
On his second mini-album, SHINee’s Key reminds us why he’s one of the best artists working today. Period.
Why G-Dragon’s “COUP D’ETAT” Is a Modern Classic
G-Dragon was not the first Korean to attempt to break into the American music industry, but his effort was the boldest. Ten years later, the album is still a force.
On “Running Off The Track (ROTT)”, Bobo.Xx Finds Freedom in the Pain
Rock star, photographer and trailblazer, Bobo.Xx releases a new single that embraces the mess of it all.
Juju B. Goode Wants to Introduce You to Mr. Lee
Korean singer-songwriter Juju B. Goode dug deep into the sounds of K-Pop’s past and his own history to create a new persona: Mr. Lee
How Milky Day Created His Most Honest Music Yet With “Impulses”
Known for his self-affirming singles, musician and producer Milky Day pushed himself further than ever before on his debut EP “Impulses”. In this exclusive interview, he breaks down how he did it.
BZ-Boys Release Their First Mini-album “OUTLAW”
Once believing it was impossible, BZ-Boys have defied the odds and released their debut mini-album following a successful year of “firsts”.
At KCON Day 1, An Icon and 4th Generation Leaders Take the Stage
Several K-Pop groups made their North American debut at KCON, while Taemin performed for the first time as a soloist.
Jimmy Brown Wants To Talk About Love on His “Like the First Time” Tour
In this exclusive interview, Jimmy Brown talks about his upcoming North American tour and why love is such an important theme in his music.
At KCON Day 2, Past and Present K-Pop Collides
Hosted by MC Rain, Saturday nights’ KCON brought together a new generation of K-Pop with the industry heavyweights.
The Future of K-Pop Was At Lollapalooza
After decades of being ignored, K-Pop took over last weekend’s Lollapalooza with performances that will likely change the trajectory of the genre.
eaJ Announces His First North American Tour
Following the best work of his career with the “insomnia” trilogy, eaJ is headlining his first tour.
DPR IAN Announces New EP “Dear Insanity…” and Lead Single “Peanut Butter & Tears”
Ahead of two major festival performances, DPR IAN returns with “Peanut Butter & Tears”.
DPR LIVE + DPR IAN’s Electrifying Lollapalooza Set
DPR LIVE + DPR IAN’s joint set at Lollapalooza felt like a pre-cursor to a major breakthrough coming for both artists.
Rina Sawayama Deserves to Headline Lollapalooza
Meet the pop star with the best set at Lollapalooza: Rina Sawayama
TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s Triumphant, Headlining Return to Lollapalooza
A year after TXT’s career-defining performance at Lollapalooza, the group returns as headliners.
At Lollapalooza, The Rose Gives Fans Their Flowers
The Rose performed two very different, brilliant sets at Lollapalooza Thursday and Friday night.