Zior Park: “I’m always searching for something new”
The eccentric artist explains his current vampire-themed storyline and how past eras’ musical characters came to be.
For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence “Zior Park is ___” or “Zior Park’s music is ___”?
“Zior Park’s music is like a TV show.” My music has drama to it. This album also has a story arc, so pay attention to that when you listen. It tells the story of a ruthless vampire transforming through love.
It is interesting that you named the album A BLOODSUCKER instead of THE BLOODSUCKER. Was that intentional and symbolic in any way?
Vampires come in many types, [but] I wanted to create a record focused on one specific vampire.
Can you talk more about the story of A BLOODSUCKER?
This album is based on my real love story. Before this album, I had never experienced true love. I used to take everything lightly, living only for my dreams, and I, being a selfish and cold person, would easily hurt others. It’s about how I met a girl named Chloe, [how I] learned about genuine love and sacrifice through her, and how I grew because of it.
I would love to learn about your creative process! You have such a wide range of music videos and have played so many characters! First of all, how do you come up with the ideas for your music videos?
I mainly draw inspiration from the key words of each song, and I also get ideas from movies that come to mind with those key words. I also use a lot of parody.
Do you often come up with a music video concept before the song is made, or does the song come first?
[It’s] case-by-case. For example, “TWISTED FANTASY” was [filmed] after the song was completed. That music video was inspired by the movie Only Lovers Left Alive. I found an actress similar to Tilda Swinton, who appears in that film, and cast her in the video. That’s also a form of parody. Additionally, when the character is lying in the autopsy room, I wrote the name “Eve” on her foot, referencing that movie’s character.
Out of all of the music video characters you have played, which one did you enjoy playing the most, and why?
“GHOST” is memorable. It’s the easiest one I’ve done, haha!
Are there any characters that you plan to revisit someday, or do you prefer to leave them in the past?
I don’t plan to do the same thing again. I’m always searching for something new.
How long does it usually take to film one of your music videos, and how much time do you have to spend on hair and makeup?!
I shoot most of the videos in a day. However, for some past albums, I filmed multiple types of videos on the same set over two days. I don’t know exactly how long hair and makeup takes, but I think it’s the part I care about the most.
Do you view your personas as completely separate from who you are as a person, or do you have things in common with them?
I think many of my characters reflect my feelings and personality. Some look funny, some are playful and avoid being serious, some overact or appear fake… These are all characteristics of myself. With each song, I try to portray the emotions I felt at the time through those characters.
Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music?
Please continue to join me on my journey as Zior Park, an artist always taking on new challenges. It will be an exciting journey, and you won’t be bored!
Check out Zior Park’s newest album, A BLOODSUCKER, here!
Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. Photo credit: sean.d.no