HEYNE Opens Up
A wide-ranging discussion with HEYNE about some of her proudest moments, her new charity single, coping with anxiety, and much more.
For those who have never heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence, “HEYNE is___” or “HEYNE’s music is ___”?
I think my music is like lemonade: sweet and it has a little sparkle. But those who have never heard my music before can be as sour as a lemon.
What is your new song, “Lovely Lonely Island,” about?
It’s a duet song. The song is about love and loneliness. In Korean, “island” is “섬” which is very similar to “썸.” “썸” means it's not a relationship yet, but very close as dating. The push-and-pull relationship description is very realistic and cute. Some of the proceeds from the song are donated to low-income children and orphans, so I listen to it a lot.
What is the story of the “Lovely Lonely Island” music video, and were there any specific sources of inspiration for the story?
The music video was intended to capture the process of lonely people, including women, men, adults, children, and [people of different] races, slowly accepting each other, creating relationships, and building friendships in a cute and dynamic [way]. Grocery shopping with a baby mermaid is my favorite scene. I love it.
If you could sing an OST for any show that you have not yet, which show would you pick?
I’d like to sing an OST [for a] Pokémon animation. I did once in 2018 [for] Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us, but I really really wanna work with Pokémon again! I also [like the] Nintendo Switch game Brilliant Diamond, and Sword and Shield. I play Pokémon games with my nephew, and we’re having a great time on weekends.
Next year will mark ten years since your debut! Congratulations! Looking back, how has your music changed since 2013?
Thanks! Wow, I can’t believe time flies this fast. In 2013, I made an effort to show what I [have] and who I am, and I danced! I still like to dance, but over time I [focused on singing and songwriting], so I am more free to express my feelings [now].
How have you personally changed since your debut in 2013?
I feel more comfortable, psychologically and physically. I always care what people say and think, but now I'm focused on how I can be happier every single day. [And] I think I'm old now, OMG…
What are three of your favorite memories from your career so far? What moments stand out to you the most?
[Being on] King of Mask Singer. Although I couldn't go [to the second] round, it was a precious experience, and I was so happy that I put everything [on] the stage. I sang wonderful songs, 언제쯤이면 - 윤현상 and 고백 - 박혜경 [“When would it be” by IU and Yoon Hyun-sang and “Confession” by Hye-Kyoung Park].
[Having the] chance to meet so many people. People who make good music, and some friends who always support me, including my fans.
I did a mini concert on my own in 2019 and 2018. [I was in charge of] tickets, recruiting the band, music arrangements, everything! The audience was only 50, but it was worth it.
What do you hope the future looks like for your music career? Are you pursuing any specific goals for your music?
I love 90's city pop, and my goal is to release music consistently until I'm 60.
Can you give any spoilers about what music you are currently making or what kinds of projects you hope to work on in the near future? What does your schedule look like for the rest of 2022?
Last year, I moved to Jeju Island and wrote many songs influenced by Jeju. This year, I will make an effort to release my album and the songs will be based in synth pop.
I would like to thank you for your honesty about dealing with panic disorder. I deal with anxiety disorders too and really appreciate knowing I am not alone! How are you doing these days?
I had a rough time sleeping and eating because of difficulty with breathing. I was afraid that I couldn't control my body. I thought having panic disorder was because I didn’t love myself [enough], but I realized that it was [the] reaction [to nerves] that hurt me. So I quit blaming myself. I think about what I have, what I like, and I eat well and sleep well. [The panic still] happens to me sometimes, but I know that I'm not alone, so it's okay. I'm good. Youngsoo (my dog) always stands by me.
Lastly, do you have a message for your fans, especially those who have been here since 2013?
Thank you for supporting me. Even if it's slow [for new music to come out] I will sing. And thank you for the great interview, I had a great time with 17 Carat K-Pop. :)
Check out HEYNE’s new single here, and keep up with her by following her on Instagram!