verycoybunny on Authenticity and Getting Out of a Slump

The relatable singer-songwriter talks about keeping her music personal, doing so much on her own, and bouncing back after almost giving up music.

For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them?

I’d describe my music as “authentic.” I create music with a truly genuine heart. It’s hard to define what “authentic music” means exactly, but I believe this term best represents who I am.

What is the story behind your stage name?

“verycoybunny” is a combination of words that describe myself. I have an introverted personality, which led me to the words “very” and “coy,” [and] my friends in middle school called me “Bunny.”

Did any specific person or event inspire you to pursue a music career?

It wasn’t one specific event, but rather my lifelong love [of] music. Since I was very young, I [have] filled my music player with various genres and cherished listening to them. I still remember the sadness of having to delete songs to make room for new ones. I was drawn to lesser-known tracks that my peers didn’t listen to at the time. I think [my] unique emotional connection to music naturally led me to become a musician.

Regarding singing and songwriting, did one interest come before the other?

When I first started [pursuing] music, I took lessons to become a vocalist. However, as I began singing, I realized I didn’t want to be just a singer. I wanted to be a multifaceted musician. That’s when I started writing songs on my own and became a singer-songwriter. Interestingly, I’ve never formally learned how to compose music. It’s something I figured out by myself!

What are the biggest pros and cons of being an independent artist?

The best part of being an independent artist is the freedom to express myself without interference. I can choose who I want to work with, which is incredibly fulfilling. However, the hardest part is that I have to manage everything on my own. From the creation process to showing my work to the public, it requires an immense amount of effort, both physically and mentally.

What was the process like of designing your own merchandise?

Honestly, I never thought I’d end up designing and producing my own merchandise, but as I handle everything independently, it naturally became part of my responsibilities. It’s challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding, because it allows me to level up as an artist. Recently, I created a new logo after much thought and revision. I tried to combine elements that authentically represent me. You can check it out on my Instagram!

Please describe your latest single, “Red Flag”!

It’s a refreshing alternative band sound that blends pop and rock elements. With relatable lyrics and a catchy melody, I wanted to evoke a sense of nostalgia in listeners. You’ll understand what I mean when you listen to it. Please give it a try!

How is “Red Flag” similar to or different from your other 2024 singles?

I think “Red Flag” carries my unique emotional touch while feeling distinct. This year, I released three singles with different vibes. It’s been both a challenge and an opportunity to understand the preferences of my listeners.

Please talk about each of these songs and albums! Fun facts, behind-the-scenes stories, descriptions… anything you want to share!

“Joking”: My debut track! It has a sound that’s quite different from my recent works. Since it was created before I started playing the guitar, it leans more toward electronic elements.

“Billy Song”: This song is about my cat, Billy. I adopted him from a shelter three years ago and immediately felt we were meant to be together. Unfortunately, Billy turned out to be very sick, which is why he was abandoned. I went through a lot to save him, and he showed [an] incredible will to live. This song is my way of telling his story, and anyone with pets can probably relate to it.

“walk to the moon” (ft. kim seungyoon): My first collaboration! It’s a love song I originally wrote [as] a duet. I found a vocalist who complemented my style, and we brought the song to life. My favorite line is, “If I dream of you tonight, I’ll even skip washing my face.”

BUNNY: This album was a turning point for me. I was on the verge of giving up [on a music career], convinced that no one appreciated my work. I felt like I wasn’t good enough. After much struggle, I decided to give it one last shot, funding the album through various part-time jobs. To my surprise, the album [led to] my first performance invitation, proving that someone out there cared about my music.

NOW OR NEVER: My second EP [combines] pop’s kitschy vibe with grunge rock elements. The title track was nominated for “Best Song” at the 2024 Korean Music Awards. This album marked another step forward in my journey.

Where’s the Exit?: My first full-length album experiments [with] genres like folk, rock, electronic, and pop. Some listeners loved the new directions, while others found them challenging. I feel the most joy performing songs from this album live, especially the title track, “Don’t get me wrong.”

Some of your singles are collaborations, but there are no features on your EPs and albums. Is that intentional?

It’s not that I dislike collaborations. I just have specific standards for my music. Since my songs are deeply personal, I tend to take the lead in my projects. However, I’d love to collaborate more in the future!

What are your short-term and long-term career goals?

My short-term goal is to be more active and collaborative across diverse fields, as I’m also interested in fashion and trends. I’m working on a new album and want to involve more people in the creative process. My long-term goal is to perform on bigger stages, including outside [of] Korea, and to share my music with a global audience.

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

Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity to share my story! I’ll keep running forward, so I hope you’ll stay by my side. I’m deeply grateful to everyone!

Check out “Red Flag” here!

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