[EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW]: VAHN of NINE.i Takes Us Behind the Scenes of His Passionate Rock Anthem “I Swear”

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Get to know VAHN as he breaks down the creative process behind his latest single and shares what drives his passion for music as a multi-talented artist.

VAHN, a talented rapper, singer-songwriter, and producer, has made significant strides in the K-pop industry as a member of the boy group NINE.i, which debuted on March 30, 2022. Known for his versatility and charisma, VAHN recently showcased his artistic evolution with his first digital single, “Crush On You,” released on July 20, 2024. This song marked a new chapter in his career, allowing him to experiment with different sounds and express his individuality as an artist. Following this, he released his first EP, Come&Go, on September 14, 2024, further strengthening his reputation as a rising star in the music scene. His second digital single, “I Swear,” released on October 9, 2024, has already garnered attention for its catchy hooks and relatable lyrics, making it a fan favorite.

Beyond his work with NINE.i, VAHN’s songwriting and producing talents are evident in his collaborations across the industry. He has lent his creative touch to tracks for various K-pop groups, including ATBO, iKON, and Golden Child, showcasing his ability to craft songs that resonate with a wide audience. With a growing discography and a reputation for delivering engaging performances, VAHN is poised for an exciting future. In this exclusive interview, VAHN shares insights into his latest single, “I Swear,” his journey as an artist, and the creative process behind his music, offering fans a closer look at the man behind the microphone.

Hellokpop: Hi VAHN, it’s great to meet you! Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey as an artist? What sparked your passion for music?

VAHN: Hello, this is VAHN. I grew up during the golden age of music, a time when many great artists like Maroon 5, Justin Bieber, and Bruno Mars released amazing music. I pursued music because I loved creating and listening to it, and I wanted to evoke the nostalgia of that time in my work. I still have that passion, but now I want to feel a bit more freedom of expression and evolve into an artist who expresses myself more freely.

HKP: Congratulations on the release of your latest single, “I Swear”! How are you feeling about it, and what does this single mean to you personally?

VAHN: Thank you! I really love rock music, and since I listened to a lot of teen pop when I was younger, I wanted to reinterpret that feeling in a modern context. I think my future endeavors will likely reflect that as well, expressing the emotions I felt when I listened to those songs back then.

HKP: If you could describe “I Swear” in three words, what would they be and why?

VAHN: Nostalgia, confidence, and deep orange.

I usually describe the feeling of music with the color orange, but I want to convey that it is strong and individual. I want to infuse nostalgia with emotions from the past and confidence because the song was written to express my inner conviction.

HKP: What themes or messages do you hope to convey through “I Swear”? Are there any personal connections to the lyrics?

VAHN: I want to express, ‘I am not wrong.’ This sentiment applies to both myself and the world, and I hope that the anxiety I feel will cease, as I see that as a source of comfort. Overall, I want to embody the emotions I’m feeling these days and, as always, have confidence in myself on this path full of anxiety.

HKP: How does “I Swear” differ from your debut single, “Crush On You”? What do you want listeners to feel when they hear this new track?

VAHN: “Crush On You” is a song meant for someone else, whereas “I Swear” is different because it’s a song directed at myself. Additionally, musically, it can be seen as a preview of how I will express myself in the future. I hope listeners can feel a sense of nostalgia and find comfort while listening to this song as if they are returning to the 2010s.

HKP: You’ve had a busy year with your solo debut, first EP ‘Come&Go,’ and now this new single. How do you balance your time between group activities and solo projects?

VAHN: I think VAHN as a member of NINE.i and VAHN as a solo artist are a bit different. Since both allow me to express myself in different ways, I need to stay energized, even if it means drinking a lot of coffee (laughs). It’s something I love, so it’s not difficult at all, and I’m actually looking forward to it.

HKP: How does your artistic vision evolve with each new release? What can fans expect from your music in the future?

VAHN: I don’t know how I will change in the future, but everything comes from my experiences and life. As I grow one year and two years older, won’t the area I can express further expand? As I said before, the direction I pursue is to give back what I received in my childhood, so I also want to become an artist who evokes nostalgia for a certain era.

HKP: With your extensive credits for writing and producing across various artists, do you find that collaborating with others enhances your solo work? How so?

VAHN: Since we do not live alone in this world, meeting and interacting with various people helps my music a lot. For me, life is sublimated into music, so I think what I see, feel, and experience becomes great nourishment for me.

HKP: When you’re writing a song, what typically comes first for you: the melody or the lyrics?

VAHN: I think it’s different every time. In the past, I usually started with the melody, and I was very obsessed with it, but these days, I try to focus a little more on the lyrics.

HKP: Can you share any behind-the-scenes stories or memorable moments from the filming of the music video for “I Swear”?

VAHN: The video was planned to be recorded in one take, so if anything was wrong, we had to start over from the beginning. I have a funny memory of having to come out of the studio and put on my shoes, but I fell and had to start over.

HKP: Do you have any fun or unique habits when you’re in the studio? Any snacks or beverages that get you in the creative zone?

VAHN: If work doesn’t go as smoothly as I’d like, I usually play games or watch cartoons. I think of this as a time to gather energy and prepare to pour it out all at once. I usually brew coffee in the studio and drink it with ice and water. About 3 or 4 cups a day?

HKP: What do you enjoy doing in your free time when you’re not making music? Any hobbies or interests you’d like to share with your fans?

VAHN: I watch movies, enjoy animations, play games, and read comics. I mainly like to experience the works of others. Since it’s indirect experience, I feel it helps in a life where I can’t experience everything firsthand. I also enjoy putting on karaoke on YouTube and singing whatever I like.

HKP: What’s one thing you hope fans take away from your music? Any specific emotions or thoughts you want to evoke?

VAHN: When I listen to certain artists’ songs, I am reminded of those times. Music, like memories, can be a powerful reminder to a person. I want to become an artist who enjoys happiness and makes music that can become memories in the future.

HKP: What’s next for you after this single? Any upcoming projects or performances that fans can look forward to?

VAHN: I have several singles that are being prepared for release in the near future, and I’m considering creating an interesting album that allows me to reflect on myself a bit more. If possible, I am also thinking about touring various countries overseas.

HKP: Lastly, please leave a message your fans.

VAHN: Thank you for making me happy with your unwavering love. I will become the kind of person who can give back to you all.