[EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW] Meet the Rising Stars Shaping South Korea’s K-Hip Hop and KR&B Scene: Woolenciah, Oddjun, & Willa

By:  Deborah Rodriguez

• Could you please take a moment to say hello and introduce yourself to our MELODY MAGAZINE readers?

• WOO: Hello melody Magazine! I am a South Korean rapper, Woolenciah!

• ODD: Hello! My name is ODDJUN and I am an R&B artist.

• WIL: Hello! My name is WILLA. Nice to meet you everyone! I’m also a South Korean artist, haha.

• What influenced you to pursue music as a career?

• WOO: When I make music, it gives my life a purpose. To me, this is my calling.

• ODD: I’ve been making music since I was so young, so it is something that comes naturally to me. I feel like this is what I meant to do. 

• WIL: I just like to perform for people. I like watching the crowd’s reaction and match their energy.

• Could you suggest a song that would introduce new listeners to your artistic style?

• WOO: Avenue. This song will be part of my upcoming album, so I hope you can listen to it and show a lot of love for this project. 

• ODD: True and Dance with My Angel

• WIL: Nawabari

• Are there any artists that inspire your creative approach for your music?

• WOO: Drake and Travis Scott. 

• ODD: Frank Ocean and Daniel Caesar

• WIL: Travis Scott, and the Mexican rapper OHNO. 

• What message do you want to deliver across to your fans with your music?

• WOO: I hope I can inspire people to find their passion and keep chasing their dreams.

• ODD: Love! I want people to experience love through my music. 

• WIL: I want to transmit synergy and confidence through my music.

• Can you tell us about your latest project or single?

• WOO: My latest song 'Avenue' is really about the journey I’m on to reach my goals and dreams. Over time, I’ve started to feel more confident, and I hope 'Avenue' can help others feel that way too.

• ODD: "'Dance with My Angel' is my latest release. It’s basically me saying all the things I couldn’t tell my ex-girlfriend, so I poured those feelings into the song.

• WIL: I am releasing my new project “Pop It” very soon! Please look forward to it!

• How do you choose the themes or subjects for your songs?

• WOO: It’s different with every song. It all depends on my mood that day and what I'm feeling. Once I step into the studio and open my computer, I just start vibing with whatever the beat and the moment give me.

• ODD: My process is pretty similar, but it’s more based on my emotions and recent events. If I’m reminiscing about a certain memory, I’ll write about that and how it made me feel.

• WIL: Everything is pretty raw for me. I focus on what I am feeling at the moment and on what kind of vibe I want to convey with each song. 

• Are there any artists or producers you dream of collaborating with in the future?

• WOO: Drake!

• ODD: NAV

• WIL: OHNO and Tay Keith

• Is there anything we have left out that you would like to share with our readers and your fans?

• WOO: I have a new album coming out soon. I hope I can create a really fun atmosphere when I drop this album. Please wait for it and show it lots of love!

• ODD: I will be releasing a new song on December 14th. I hope that you all can listen to it and give it a lot of love!

• WIL: I am also working on a new project. I’m really hoping to match synergy with my fans on this one and get the chance to perform it for a lot of you later and have lots of fun!
  

As South Korean artists continue to make waves globally, their talent and unique artistry are propelling them beyond borders, captivating international audiences. From K-pop to K-hip-hop, the influence of Korean music is undeniable, and these three rising stars are no exception. Willa, an up-and-coming KHip-Hop artist, draws inspiration from many well-known artists, and his most recent release, "NAWABARI," is a captivating addition to his growing discography. Oddjun is an emerging

Korean R&B artist who recently released his single, "Dance With My Angel." His music captures a range of emotions, reflecting his depth and versatility as an artist. Woolenciah, a rising name in the KHip-Hop scene, has been featured on the popular Korean rap show Show Me The Money. Just a few weeks ago, he dropped his latest single, "AVENUE."

In our exclusive interview with South Korean artists Willa, Oddjun, and Woolenciah, they opened up about their creative process, the inspirations behind their artistry, and even offered a sneak peek into their upcoming projects.

With their latest releases and upcoming projects, these three artists are ones to watch as they continue to rise on the international stage. Keep an eye out for what’s next—they’re just getting started!