Dion has been doing her thing for some time now, we been following her career since like forever. One of the most exciting Korean female rappers out today. We managed to get some time in with her to ask some important questions ... here follows that interview!
Tell us who you are and where you are from?
Hi, I’m DION! I’m from Seoul, South Korea. Shout out to Kang Dong
How long have you been doing music?
It's been about 4 to 5 years now. I started making music when I joined a club in college. I’ve loved hip-hop since middle school, and I always wanted to rap, but I didn’t have the courage to start. Back then, I thought I had to "bet everything" on music. The impression I got from rappers in the States was that they were rapping with everything on the line to escape the hood. So even in college, I kept hesitating, but eventually, I felt like I couldn't put it off any longer! So, I joined the main hip-hop club on campus and finally started making music.
How did you come up with your rap name? And does it have any special meaning?
I tend to assign a lot of meanings to things, so I actually chose a name without any particular meaning on purpose. I did, however, want it to include a "D" or "ㄷ" sound, so I came up with a name with that sound in it. And to give it a more lively vibe, I added an exclamation mark!
Describe your style of music
I want to make bright, light trap music. If you’ve heard my summer release, HEAD 2 TOE, you know what I mean – it’s trap music driven by a light piano sound, with lyrics that use fun metaphors. I want to make music that matches the feeling of stepping outside on a sunny day, looking up at the clear sky, and walking with a spring in your step. My album coming early next year is the start of that journey.
Lately, I’ve been into light and rhythmic Louisiana hip-hop style. You know from Mannie Fresh to Fredo Bang.
What inspires you to write new songs?
Everyday life. The simplicity and solidity of everyday life inspire me; they’re my everything. Routines fuel my creativity. Getting enough sleep, eating proper meals, and breaking a sweat through exercise—these basics provide the energy and stamina I need to create the music I want. And, of course, other rappers’ music! I get motivated, thinking, “I want to make something like this too! I need to get to it real quick.” Recently, Megan Thee Stallion, Fredo Bang, and 41 have been my main sources of inspiration. They each bring something unexpected. For example, MEGAN inspires me through her authentic rapping and as a female rapper; FREDO BANG for his honesty and emotional depth; and 41 for breaking the mold. 41, especially, keeps the core rhythm of drill alive while exploring all kinds of unique sounds. Every time I hear their new release, I’m eager to see what direction they took this time. That anticipation feels amazing.
Besides music what else do you have an interest in?
I enjoy books and Infinite Challnge. Recently, I’ve gotten really into mythology. I read <Circe>, a novel based on Greek and Roman mythology, and loved it so much that I also read <The Song of Achilles> by the same author. I’ve even started buying more mythology-related books. I’m planning to read <The Odyssey> and <The Iliad> properly! As a kid, I only read the cartoon versions, so now reading the original texts feels really exciting. As for video content, I’m a big fan of “Infinite Challenge(무한도전)”. I watch it on YouTube whenever I eat; it’s my “meal companion.” Though it’s no longer airing, Infinite Challenge was an incredibly popular Korean TV show that ran for about ten years. It had such a huge influence that people who loved it are called “Infinite Challenge kids.” I was a fan back in my school days, and I still am. I even reference Infinite Challenge in my lyrics from time to time!
Whats your favorite Korean meal?
I love tteokbokki(떡볶이) and kalguksu(칼국수)! Recently, I went on a trip to Gangneung(강릉) and tried jang kalguksu(장칼국수) which is spicy version—it was so delicious… I’m craving it again. My soul food is my mom’s rice balls, jumeokbap(주먹밥). No cap.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Since I plan to release an album every year, my career should be pretty solid by then. I hope to progress from the hottest rookie to a stable pro in the industry. I just want to be having even more fun than I am now. Hope to fully enjoy it!!! I don’t make very specific long-term plans. Planning is important, but you never really know what might happen. Will I even still be around then?
What city or country do you like to travel to?
If I get the chance, I’d love to go back to London. I went there a few years ago on my first trip to Europe, and it left a great impression. I visited a lot of museums back then, but if I return, I’d love to take my time and just explore the streets. In Korea, I want to visit Gwangju. I’ve never been there. Gwangju is a city with a lot of historical sites. I’d really like to go soon. Gwangju has had some good news recently—like author Han Kang’s Nobel Prize in Literature whose hometown is Gwangju and Kia winning the Korean Baseball Series!
Thanks so much for the interview—it was a pleasure! I hope you enjoy my upcoming single later this year. Stay healthy and take care!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dion.da.boss/
