“My Music Belongs to Everyone”: OHDA5N’s Passionate Approach

OHDA5N opens up about the power of music, a song that provokes nostalgia, an eye-opening question from his producer, and more.

For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence “OHDA5N is ___” or “OHDA5N’s music is ___”?

"OHDA5N's music is heard in everyone’s every moment.” I always create music without forgetting my desire to express the emotions and moments of all people.

What career would you pursue if you were not a musician?

I haven't deeply considered any other profession, but I would probably want to become a criminal psychologist. Although these two fields are completely different, they seem to share a common aspect of needing to read the emotions of many people and convey emotions to everyone. I [have] also enjoyed reading Sherlock, hahaha!

Please describe the new single “POPWE”!

“POPWE,” released on May 4, is a song that compares the excitement of [new] love to the burning wick of a firecracker, and the lyrics capture the moment when love flares up and emotions explode. It is a song that bursts like the title and has the meaning of “us.” 

Please share some information about one of your songs that you really want to talk about!

I would like to talk about “Fox you.” I got into music simply because I loved it. I enjoy and listen to various genres. That's why when I released the EP 0000FF, it felt like a challenge to explore multiple genres. After releasing that album, I started contemplating my musical style and the genres I resonate with more seriously. During this process, the producer Dot_5 posed the question, "Have you ever thought about focusing on the music you truly love?" This question prompted me to think about the genre of music I have loved since childhood. Pop-punk has always been my favorite, so I approached my work with the idea of being reborn as a new artist called “OHDA5N.” All the previous concerns vanished, and I was left with only joyful contemplation. That's why the song "Fox you" holds a special place in my heart. As a side note, even though Dot_5 and I are working together as a team, our relationship feels closer than family.

In the future, would you rather release a full-length album or another short project like the 3-song OOOOFF, and why?

I believe that a full-length album is the most beautiful form of art and also the most challenging for an artist. That's why I want to make perfect preparations [to release one]. I am currently in the process of preparing an album that combines multiple episodes, similar to an EP. 

Do you enjoy making solo songs, or would you like to do more collaborations in the future?

I recently realized that I have quite a few solo songs. I have a strong desire to collaborate with artists who can maximize each other's strengths. I can experience and learn so much from them. In fact, I am currently working with several people. Though they may not be visible, they include guitarist session musician Hyunhoon, music video director Bearworks, and, most importantly, producer Dot_5. 

What artists and songs are you listening to the most these days? 

Recently, I've been listening to Green Day's American Idiot album again. I often listen to “Boulevard of Broken Dreams,” and since it was the first song I played on repeat as a child, I can feel the eyes and scent of my childhood [when listening to it]. I want to become an artist like that to someone.

What is next for you? What are you working on for the rest of 2023?

It feels like 2023 is passing by faster than expected. Since music production is my profession, it goes without saying that I have to work hard without taking it for granted. To make the most of the remaining 2023, I want to take care of the people close to me. They are the ones who provide me with the greatest inspiration and support for my music, and they help me deliver good songs to listeners. That's why I also want to become a valuable person to them.

What are your career goals in the longer term?

My long-term goal is always clear to me. The measure of success may vary for everyone, but personally, I want to be someone who constantly [is a] positive influence [on] others.

Is there a dream location where you would love to perform someday?

All concert halls are my dream places, but I want to do performances where the kind of people I am with is more important than where I am. A place where everyone in the audience can be enthusiastic about themselves and enjoy a performance. 

Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music?

It feels like I've been running so hard that I've started saying fewer things to myself. Although it may be the same for all artists in a similar position, thanks to this interview, I feel good to be able to share my story after a long time. As I strive to resonate with and gain empathy from many people through music, I realize that I feel more lonely than expected. However, if my music can comfort someone, I can endure it. That's why I make music, and it seems to be my greatest driving force. I've never considered my music to be mine alone. My music belongs to everyone; it's something we all create together, and it represents our collective stories - a form of music and art. OHDA5N's music and art belong to all of you.

Check out OHDA5N’s newest singles here and here!

Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. Photos courtesy of OHDA5N.