eaJ - Music, Rhythm, and Health
What was initially meant to be a brief visit to a Korean TV show unexpectedly transformed into a deep dive into the music world for artist eaJ. His latest track, “Right Where You Left Me,” is a reflection of his artistic evolution, striking a delicate balance between hope and melancholy. This song encapsulates eaJ's unique ability to create music that resonates with listeners on an emotional level, and as he transitions from his days with Day6 to a flourishing solo career, eaJ is delving deeper into his sound, exploring new musical paths with his upcoming EP "1/9." However, he is not only writing music but also gearing up for an exciting tour that includes the opening for Imagine Dragons at the iconic Hollywood Bowl. To learn more about his journey and what inspires his music, read on.
Where are you based?
I am currently in Los Angeles.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the music industry?
I think it was a spur-of-the-moment thing. I went to a Korean TV show thinking it would be a short trip and woke up in the industry one day.
How would you characterize your music style, and are there any artists who inspire you?
I feel like I’m alt-pop. I really have been enjoying 1975, Jeff Satur, feast, and a few other bands.
"Right Where You Left Me" has such a unique blend of upbeat rhythms and hopeful yet melancholic lyrics. Can you walk us through the creative process behind this track and how you balanced these contrasting emotions?
The song started with the idea that we wanted to make something that caused everyone listening to it to bob their head subconsciously. So a great groove on the song was what we were chasing. And then on top of that was the idea of someone being willing to wait for you through whatever circumstance you were in.
“Burn” is also a powerful song. Can you tell us the story behind it?
Burn was a song that I was attached to after finishing. Usually, I go in with some kinda concept but the only substantial thing I went into the room with was the phrase “burn baby burn” and a simple topline. In hindsight, I feel like it may be from the perspective of God talking to me at 22. Giving me everything I’ve ever wanted. Watching me get taken over by ego and telling me I have to learn the hard way.
You have collaborated with various artists like MAX, Rich Brian, keshi, Valorant, and Safari Riot. How do these collaborations influence your music, and what have you learned from working with such diverse artists?
Every time I’m able to collaborate with an artist I think I always learn valuable lessons. Some artists stack harms in an interesting way, or some people crank the AT super high in parts because of the sound that it makes as the notes fall and use that as a texture etc. Every collaboration is a learning lesson.
Speaking of collaborations, “Visions” is a beautiful song. Can you tell us a bit about this song and how it came together?
For visions I had no part in the writing or production. I got a call from my agent one day and was asked for a demo so I went to work and if anything made a few different vox choices.
Transitioning from being part of a band to a solo artist can be a big shift. How has your creative approach evolved since your days with Day6?
I think the biggest thing that’s changed is how I start a song. I used to be a bit of a believer in track -> topline-> lyrics but now have found track-> topline + lyrics together sticks better.
As someone who is transitioning from the K-pop scene to the international pop world, what challenges have you faced? Is it a big difference?
The structures are different. It’s definitely not easy, but I feel like my formative years in Korea have given me a decent tolerance for workload.
Having lived in different places like Buenos Aires, Cerritos, Korea, and LA, how have these cultural experiences shaped your identity and music?
I don’t necessarily feel like I have a specific place I call home yet. I think all those places have been the building blocks of my music now.
You are about to go on tour! What are you most excited about?
Seeing the fans! All the studio time, practice, etc is for these nights imo.
While on tour some of your stops you are opening for Imagine Dragons! So cool! What are you most excited about that? Any cities you are most excited about seeing?
It is such an honor to be allowed to open for a band I've admired for so long. The Hollywood Bowl has long been on my bucket list so that one forsure!
You have been vocal about mental health over the past couple of years and even worked with the Jed Foundation. What motivated you to advocate for mental health awareness?
After being frustrated for a few months thinking I was having a heart attack and going to the ER and having them tell me I’m fine, I was directed to a psychiatrist who gave me medication. After being able to feel normal and breathe properly I thought there just had to be more information available. I never knew that was what a panic attack felt like and had I known, I could have handled it properly.
What would you like the lay population to know about mental health?
That it’s okay. Needing a helping hand isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of understanding one’s self.
How has your advocacy work influenced your music and personal journey?
I’ve been working on myself and by doing that I have come to admit more fault I think. And in turn that allows me to be a bit more honest I think.
In 2019 you launched an apparel campaign that aimed to spread awareness about mental health. What was the inspiration behind this initiative, and what impact did you hope to achieve?
The inspiration was what happened to me, and I was hoping to just spread awareness. I think it did well, and most importantly spread more information.
Imagine Dragons are also known for their expansive humanitarian work. Do you have any plans in the future to team up with them on any humanitarian work?
I would love to!
How do you balance your time between music, gaming, and your humanitarian work?
I’m the type of person that just keeps working till we burn out; so, I’ll probably have a better answer for you next burnout haha.
Looking forward, what are your goals and aspirations for the future of your music career?
I would like to search a bit deeper and find my sound even more. I feel like I'm scratching the surface now and am excited to see what is still left under there.
Are there any upcoming projects you would like to share?
My next ep is called 1/9 and based on the 9 lives cats have.
It has been a crazy past few years, how have you been staying positive?
This one’s been a bit difficult. There's always ups and downs and some of the downs in the early part of this year felt pretty bad. But we're back!!
What is your motto in life?
His will be done.
To learn more about eaJ, please follow the link below:
Instagram: @eajpark
Photo Credit: Lucas Mumm - @astral.grove.
