The first time I heard tracks “Right Hand” and “Chase the Morning” I was instantly mesmerized by this next artist’s powerful soulful voice, skillful songwriting abilities, and enriching colorful lyrics. Singer/Songwriter Hana Kim is an amazing talent that pours her heart, passion, and love into her music. This is what fans will get when they tune in to Kim’s music. Each track from Kim’s album “Until You Believe” is full of Kim’s lovely acoustical soulful voice laced over brilliant songwriting/lyrics full of life lessons. You won’t go wrong when you tune in to listen to Hana Kim’s music. And you definitely won’t be disappointed when you read this spotlight where Kim speaks openly about the plight of the DIY artist and why she loves making music.
Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?
Hana: Being a DIY artist is great. You can do what you want, write about what you want, and sing where and when you want. Although at times, it gives you a load of work you might want others to do for you, it also gives you a personal relationships with your fans and a true identity for your music, because you’re the one at the driver’s seat. What I enjoy most is just getting to know the people who genuinely appreciate the music I, as an artist, make. Being able to freely write and share, then having people enjoy your art is pretty cool.
Isaac: If you had an opportunity to sign with a major label, would you sign now knowing you may have to give up some of what you have build up over the years about you in the process?
Hana: Being a DIY artist has its advantages and signing with a label has its advantages. As much as I enjoy the perks of being independent, I’d also definitely consider the advantages of signing with a label. I’m not sure I’d say “yes” right away; I’d look at the artists signed with the label and if I saw some color similar to mine and some people I’d like to work with, I think I’d sign for the hopes of bigger opportunities in the future.
Isaac: I remembered Simon Cowell from American Idol talking about the “it” Factor that makes a musician/band stand out. What do you think is your “it” factor that makes you stand out from others in the music business?
Hana: I think the “it” factor is an identity of the artist; it’s about asking if the artist has enough identity to stand out and be likeable. My “it” factor is the identity that is brought out by the color of my music. Unlike most singer/songwriters, I feel my voice definitely has a different texture and soul edge that adds to the honesty of my music. Plus, with some quirky instruments and some unique poetry, I think my music definitely has enough “it” to keep some ears open.
Isaac: Why should music fans listen to your music? Describe what they are going to get when they listen to Hana Kim?
Hana: Plain and simple, they are going to get good music. Although I won’t necessarily appeal to the hardcore headshaking rock stars, I’m sure I won’t disappoint for those who just want some honest, good music. Plus, I’m a strong believer that no recording can beat the real thing. So I’m very strong in having live, intimate gigs where I not only perform, but get to know the listeners as well.
Isaac: Briefly describe your humble beginnings that led you to where you are at musically now.
Hana: I think I am still in the place of beginning rather than reaching where I want to be. However, I did start out by writing songs in the corners of my room when my roommates weren’t home. I still write songs in my room, but sometimes outside on roofs, empty parks, or other “inspiring” places. The biggest difference is that I perform for people now. I think as I’ve started performing, I have also opened up as a person, talking to people after shows and sharing stories about songs and inspiration. It’s amazing just how a little motivation can help you sing at places you only used to watch. So I’m continuing on: meeting people, singing wherever I can, recording and sharing some short testimonies in song.
Isaac: You have some strong iconic influences. Of these influences, which artist/band do you relate to the most and why?
Many. But my three top ladies as of now would probably be Norah Jones, KT Tunstall, and Brooke Fraser. I love singing/songwriting ladies with some edge and identity. They all have amazing voices, but it’s the quality of their songs (whether in lyrics/arrangement/instrumentation) that just draw me as a fan. I’d definitely relate with Brooke Fraser because I think Jesus plays a central part in both of our songwriting. My faith is a huge part of what keeps me going strong as an artist in some “not so polite” times and I think we both use it to write about the love, life, and some everyday things.
Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?
Hana: I think the problem is not about respect as much as it is about being known. It’s very rare to find people who disregard indie artist because they indie; however, because the resources of an indie or DIY artist can never compare with a major label, they definitely don’t get as much attention. In my opinion, it’s very unlikely to hit the charts as an indie, but you can still get a good crowd of listeners who appreciate and respect your music. If more people find indie artists and give them a shot in their iPod, I’m sure the popularity will also grow.
Isaac: If you could change one thing about the music business, what would it be and why?
Hana: I’d change the fact that it’s more of a business than anything else. I think it’s hard for artists these days because they spend so much time promoting/marketing, that it’s hard to just sit and get some air to write some quality music. However, it’s about balance, I guess. In time, you find people to help you do the things you aren’t so good and work at the things you are; then hopefully, you can use the business to make a living out of doing what you love.
Isaac: Do you think in the near future that DIY artists/bands will be the norm and big record companies will be very limited?
Hana: Record companies are definitely not as powerful as before; however, like I said before, I think it’s nearly impossible for a DIY artist to hit the charts. It’s just too much to do by yourself at a scale that big. You need people to book your shows if you want to spend time writing quality music. If you’re only looking to please the small niche, record companies are not a big deal; however since the majority is our country, that’s a big crowd to please. You kind of need the help of the label. However, change is always ongoing, so I’m sure the way the label runs or how many exist will definitely change. It’s about waiting to see how they change and knowing that you don’t necessarily need them to make a standard living.
Isaac: What type of feedbacks have you been receiving about your music from fans and music critics?
Hana: Well, as of now, I have been in Paraguay helping some church ministries and singing when I find the opportunity. Sometimes I’ll go out to have street performances in the plazas. It’s amazing how music can draw people, even if it’s not the same language. I even got some nice notes from the butcher at the super market who heard one of my songs before work. Plain and simple, I love performing, because that’s when I get the most feedback. I’m really grateful that at all my shows (both here and back in the states), I’ve always had some good encouragement about my voice and my songs. I usually get noted about my voice first but it’s more exciting when you anticipate followers from the songs. I’m just glad I haven’t had anyone throw fruit yet.
Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.
Hana: Music is apart of me as much as it is a job. I’ll never stop singing or writing songs; however, if I don’t have a buck or two to support myself or future family, I’d probably find another means of support as well. Yet, I’ll never stop making music, and as long as it can give me some sort of stable support, it’ll always be my central profession.
Isaac: How do you handle negative feedback or negative energy about your music?
Hana: I have yet to receive very strong, negative feedback; usually it’s encouragement from new fans or tips from peers about improvement. However, the way I see it, you can’t please everyone. If someone has some strong negative energy about your music, you just realize you are two different people and move on to someone who does relate and enjoy your songs.
Isaac: What role do your family and friends play in the equation of your pursuant of a music career?
Hana: Everything. Without my family and friends, I’d never get the opportunities I’m getting now. My parents are at the forefront of my fan club as they have always been supportive in all that I do. They help me in times of need and I think they promote my CD more than I do. My friends have always been the same. They come to all my shows to keep my draw up for certain venues, they pay for tickets/buy my CD’s, and always send their prayers for me. It’s the people you know first who create your fan club.
Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?
Hana: I have been pretty good about updating my networks so if you go to my website, all the twitter, facebook, etc. are available. Just go to www.hanakimofficial.com and then explore away!
Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..
Hana: To me, music is like anything else, good music requires quality. Quality comes from honesty and that’s probably the biggest thing I can offer. I hope to share that with more of you soon! Cheers!
