LIU KOI: “Music reminds me how big the world is”
The independent artist explains his approach towards messaging through music.
For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence “LIU KOI is ___” or “LIU KOI’s music is ___”?
[“LIU KOI’s music is] mellow and soothing.” You can listen to it easily but also find it interesting.
How did your music career begin?
I had friends who wanted to rap, so I started making beats for them. Later on, I began releasing my own music.
How did you first get interested in being a producer?
I enjoy meeting and getting to know different artists; you can feel their personalities through their music.
Who do you look up to in the music industry, and why?
Pharrell Williams. I admire his creative philosophy and strong work ethic.
How have your music tastes changed over the years, and how has that influenced your own music?
My taste changes from time to time. Music reminds me how big the world is, and it encourages me to keep exploring and doing more.
Please talk about your latest single, “everything feels sad when you’re sad.”
It’s a song about being around someone who’s sad or depressed. You love them, but you don’t know what to do. It’s that kind of helpless feeling.
How do you decide when to sing and/or name a song in Chinese or in English?
Language is culture. Those two languages have very different personalities to me, so I choose whichever one best serves the song’s purpose.
The cover art for your songs is often photography, rather than computer imagery or illustrations. Is there a particular reason for that? And what is your thought process behind choosing which photographs to use as cover art?
I enjoy taking pictures. I want the cover art to feel like it’s from my point of view, so I’m open to any method that helps with that. When I choose the cover, I scroll through my photos while listening to the song and pick the one that feels right.
Which of your songs has the most interesting story behind it?
I can’t think of a specific one. There’s usually no full story in a single song, [so] maybe that’s why. Some are inspired by real people or events, but I often change [details]. What matters most to me is the message and emotion. Also, I want to leave space for listeners to interpret [them] in their own ways.
What are some of the proudest moments of your career so far?
The moments when I finish - or help finish - a song.
What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
Improve my skills and find a good space for myself, both physically and mentally.
Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music?
Everything I want to say right now is already in [my] music. I really appreciate everyone who listens!
Check out LIU KOI’s newest single here, and keep up with him on Instagram here!
Answers have been lightly edited for clarity. Photo courtesy of LIU KOI.