[EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW] iiso Discusses the Soulful Sound and Deep Emotions of “Ash”

3 weeks ago 9

Get to know singer-songwriter iiso as she shares the inspiration and personal meaning behind her powerful new single.

Since her debut on July 3, 2022, with the digital single “Signs,” iiso has been steadily building a name for herself with her emotive storytelling and ethereal sound. Her first EP, Comi, released on November 23, 2022, showcased her ability to craft haunting melodies paired with introspective lyrics. With each release, iiso has continued to evolve, captivating listeners with her unique blend of vulnerability and sonic depth.

In 2023, iiso released two striking singles that revealed different facets of her artistry. “Salad Days,” released on May 16, captured the bittersweet beauty of fleeting youth, while “Black Diamond,” which arrived on October 24, embraced a more mysterious and moody tone. Both tracks reflected her growing versatility and willingness to experiment with new sounds and themes.

Now, iiso takes another step forward with her latest single, “Ash,” released on November 24, 2024. In our exclusive interview, she opens up about the creative process behind “Ash,” the emotions she poured into the song, and how it represents her ongoing artistic journey. Dive in to learn more about iiso’s world and the inspiration behind her newest release.

Hi iiso! First, can you introduce yourself to our readers and share what drew you to music? What made you realize this was the path you wanted to take?

iiso: Hi, I’m iiso, an independent singer-songwriter based in South Korea. I’m a bit concerned this might sound like a dark story to start with, but honestly, it was a time when I felt deeply powerless as if I couldn’t do anything at all. Music was the only thing I felt I could still do. My mother was a piano teacher, so the piano was always present in my life. Thankfully, the piano doesn’t make a sound unless I choose to play it. It’s the most non-violent yet beautiful noise I can think of, and it was incredibly comforting to me. Even when I wasn’t playing, I often found myself sitting on the piano bench, zoning out. I think it was during those moments that I began pressing one key at a time, expressing the emotions trapped inside my heart, almost like writing in a diary. I wanted it to flow naturally, like music. Before I knew it, those moments led me to where I am today.

Congratulations on the release of “Ash!” Can you share the inspiration behind the song and its lyrics?

iiso: Thank you so much. This song is about the fear of losing someone you love and being unable to say, “I love you” because of that fear. In a beautiful moment when love should flourish, I was trembling with fear. I felt foolish and envious of the person who had the courage to love me unconditionally. I also felt guilty, and that’s what inspired me to write this song.

The title “Ash” evokes powerful imagery. What does it symbolize in the context of the song? Was there a specific moment or event that sparked its creation?

iiso: “Ash” symbolizes my journey through pain and healing. While ashes might seem like mere remnants of something that has burned, to me, they represent the space for a new beginning. After releasing the song, I feel a great sense of liberation, as if I’ve been healed from those emotions.

The song has a distinctive vibe. How does it connect to your overall artistic identity and evolution as an artist?

iiso: I enjoy breaking the rules and trying new things, which makes me feel incredibly free when creating music. I don’t set any specific structure or genre before starting a project. I simply go with the flow and spontaneously record whatever message comes to mind.  From beginning to end, I never know what the song will turn out to be. After finishing a track, I often think, “Oh, so this is what I was thinking,” or, “This is what I wanted.” It’s like seeing my music from a third-person perspective, and I learn a lot about myself in the process. It feels like I’m constantly interacting with and discovering new parts of me through my music.

Looking back at your EP Comi and your previous singles like “Black Diamond” and “Salad Days,” what lessons or experiences have shaped your approach to “Ash”?

iiso: I’ve always loved and cherished my music deeply, so I used to feel hurt when people criticized it without understanding the stories behind it. “Black Diamond” was born out of that pain—it’s a song filled with anger and rebellion. Even though many people loved my music, I was more focused on the negative feedback at the time. This song, however, reflects the journey of learning to love even those who misunderstood me.

If my way of expressing myself didn’t resonate with them before, I wanted to work harder to create something that could reach them. That’s why this album holds such deep meaning for me. It’s about sharing the energy I’ve felt with as many people as possible.

Can you tell us about the production process for “Ash”? Did you try anything new or different this time?

iiso: I love incorporating new elements when I produce, and I added the sound of a flute for this song. My mom used to play the flute after I was born, as her fingers didn’t move as easily for the piano anymore. I’ve always been familiar with its soft, delicate sound, and I thought it would work beautifully as the lead instrument for this song. I chose a contrabass for the bass, and the pads were created entirely from repetitive sampling. I wanted to blend acoustic and digital elements in a way that felt sophisticated, layering them seamlessly.

Was there a particular moment during the creation of “Ash” that felt especially meaningful or pivotal for you?

iiso: This song was actually written a year ago. At that time, I felt so lonely and overwhelmed by a deep sense of helplessness that I didn’t have the courage to release it. After taking a year off to prepare, I realized that more people than I had expected were waiting for and supporting me. That realization gave me the strength to finally release this song and share the energy I had been holding onto. It became such a precious and meaningful moment in my journey.

Since your debut with “Signs,” how has your music grown or evolved, particularly with this release?

iiso: When I wrote “Signs,” I was dreaming a lot, and those dreams left such a deep impression on me that I couldn’t stop thinking about them, even during my daily life. The lyrics of that song represent a version of me from the dream world talking to my real-world self: “You can live forever in this world you dream of. You can do anything here. Stay with me forever.” It was a story of escape, a very avoidant message. At the time, I didn’t have a deep understanding of myself. I hadn’t quite found my identity yet.

Over time, I’ve learned to express more honest stories in my lyrics. Now, I feel no shame or hesitation in sharing my emotions—whether they’re positive or negative. I really enjoy being this open now. When I compare the lyrics of “Signs” with “Ash,” I can see how much I’ve grown. It’s like flipping through old diary entries and reflecting on how far I’ve come.

With “Ash” now out, what’s next for you? Are there plans for a new EP, album, or tour in the near future?

iiso: There are so many things I’ve yet to share with you all, and I can’t wait to reveal them. The next big project coming your way is the full Ash EP, set to release early next year. Plus, I’m working on connecting with you even more—I’m preparing content for YouTube! Stay tuned!

Outside of music, what’s something you’re passionate about or a hobby that inspires your creativity?

iiso: Pilates, boxing, and going for walks really help me mentally. Maintaining a healthy mindset is very important to me, so I try to stick to these routines whenever possible.

Lastly, please leave a message for your fans.

iiso: To my angels, thank you for patiently waiting and being my strength. I draw so much inspiration and comfort from you as well. I’ll make sure to give back even more positive energy. Until the day we finally meet, xx.