For Korean R&B star SAAY, her art is her everything. Since her debut in 2017 and her aptly titled, 2018 debut album CLAASSIC, SAAY has embodied the true nature of what it means to be a well-rounded artist – from conceptualizing every intricate aspect of her work, to pouring out her darkest secrets into her lyrics across self-produced music.
SAAY’s latest output, the vulnerable “DOMINO”, is a striking new entry to her impeccable catalogue. Navigating the fluid R&B sounds she’s building her legacy on into new territory, the production’s snappy hotbed of rhythms gives SAAY the space she needs to lay herself bare: “I’m a mess, so no one help me out / this is so useless but I say it loud / I forgot how to feel, how to treat my own weakness / am I existing?” SAAY calls out during the pensive lyrics for “DOMINO”. “Anyone who yearns for success can experience conflicting emotions in the form of anticipation and anxiety,” the R&B pioneer shares with us of the song’s meaning.
Proving that she is an artist unafraid to push herself to the limits, “DOMINO” is the start of a thrilling new phase for SAAY, one of Korea’s most versatile, authentic and truly beloved R&B stars.
We are honored to have caught up with SAAY, who talked us through “DOMINO” and shared the secrets of her process in turning complex themes into catchy musical moments. SAAY also talks to us about the pitfalls of pursuing perfection, as well as learning valuable lessons in life and work – read on for more.
SheBOPS: What inspired you to use “DOMINO” as a metaphor for your life’s journey and career?
SAAY: “DOMINO” represents the complicated feelings that have accumulated over the span of my life and career: anyone who yearns for success can experience conflicting emotions in the form of anticipation and anxiety. Working step by step towards perfection increases the excitement, but the fact a single mistake can make everything crumble also increases apprehension, just like a domino. I felt I needed to express these emotions, for us; for me. It’s a medium tempo R&B hip-hop song that combines classical and hip-hop. Starting with the a cappella from the intro, it’s an interesting song that opens up all possibilities for the development of the second half of the song! It’s not limited to a specific genre, but it’s a song that embodies my unique musical position.
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your pursuit of perfection?
I draw from my own experiences. As a musician, I infuse my real-life experiences, straight from my diary, into my music. It’s a lot of fun recalling happy memories, but it can be really challenging to confront and share my painful traumas. However, despite the hardship, I endure it for the sake of my music. When my songs are finally out in the world, I feel an immense sense of pride.
How do you stay motivated when faced with setbacks?
I always practice mind control. To maintain a balanced life and a healthy mental state, I exercise regularly and watch or listen to music and videos by musicians I truly respect. This motivates me and reminds me why I pursue art and music. I believe that experiencing setbacks is necessary for personal growth and becoming a stronger person.
In what ways do you cope with the pressure of high expectations?
It’s similar to what I mentioned earlier. I always strive to maintain balance in my life, and I regularly listen to music and watch videos to keep myself motivated.
How do you translate your complex emotions into your work?
I often keep a diary. Whether the experiences are good or bad, I write them down first. Then, without rushing, when I feel ready to express something through music and share it with others, I slowly go through the process of transforming those diary entries into music.
Can you share a story of a time when a mistake turned out to be a valuable lesson?
In my early teens, I auditioned and sent demos over 100 times, facing rejection and failure in 90 of them. The process was really hard and frustrating at the time, but looking back, it became an important stepping stone for me. Even though it was painful, I got back up and continued on my path. It will always be this way. Life is worth it. When you feel like it’s too late, that’s actually when you’re at your quickest.
What has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?
Despite having many albums, I didn’t feel like I had a solid career. Looking back, I realize that the albums and paths I’ve walked have supported me in ways I didn’t fully appreciate at the time. I’m reassured knowing that even if I were to pass away now, my artworks and albums would remain as a proud legacy.
How do you stay inspired and maintain a positive outlook?
As mentioned earlier, I maintain control over my mind and body through exercise and taking real breaks when needed. I stay inspired by regularly watching videos and listening to music from musicians I admire, reading books by great people I respect, and connecting with fans through social media. My fans are precious beings who energize me when I’m having a hard time.
Can you describe some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in the music industry?
I handle every aspect of my work—creating and producing my albums, designing album covers, and managing scenarios, concepts, hair, makeup, styling, and choreography for my music videos. Literally, I’m a true self-made female artist. Not many female solo artists participate in every part of the process. This is the part that I’m most proud of myself, and it helps me grow the most. Although these processes are always challenging and experimental, I embrace them because I know myself the best and so these processes allow me to express myself fully and grow.
What changes would you like to see in the music industry to better support women in music?
I plan to continue challenging myself and evolving through my work, which I believe will address this question in its own way. I hope to see more female solo artists in the industry who can freely express themselves and contribute to the music scene with greater authenticity and reliability.
How do you envision the future of women in music?
The future will be truly prosperous and unlimited. The power of women is infinite. As a female artist who manages every aspect of her work, I hope the music industry evolves into a space where everyone, regardless of gender, can make significant progress and thrive together.
Lastly, how do you define success in your music career?
For me, success means being able to continue creating music until my physical strength is exhausted. Winning awards or receiving compliments is temporary, but if I can leave behind a legacy of albums that reflect my soul, that would be my definition of success. While this definition might change over time, it feels right to me for now.
“DOMINO” by SAAY is out now. Some responses have been edited for clarity.