The Rise of Softest Hard: A Unique Journey in Music
Roots and Background
Hailing from Florida, Softest Hard is a Vietnamese American DJ and producer with a transformative journey that began in North Carolina. At just 17, she made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles, the epicenter of the music industry, to chase her dreams. Immersed in the vibrant LA club and festival scene, she initially cultivated her skills as an open-format DJ, meticulously studying the craft before defining her own unique sound.
A Self-Defined Sub-Genre
Softest Hard has ingeniously coined her own sub-genre termed “softest hardstyle.” This innovative soundscape is a captivating blend of emotive melodies intertwined with powerful hardstyle beats. Her ability to meld these contrasting elements has not only set her apart but also created a niche that resonates with diverse audiences.
Building Momentum Through Collaborations
Over the years, Softest Hard has gained significant traction in the music industry, thanks to high-profile collaborations and endorsements from prominent figures in dance music. Her journey has been propelled by early support that opened doors to connections with industry giants like Skrillex, DJ Snake, and Diplo. She has also worked alongside artists such as Kali Uchis and T-Pain, further enriching her artistic endeavors.
Breaking into K-Pop
Softest Hard recently marked a significant milestone in her career with her production work on “Celebration,” the latest release from the K-pop girl group LE SSERAFIM. This track represents her first venture into the K-pop industry and underscores the growing influence of EDM sounds within this genre. Collaborations with K-pop projects have become increasingly common, indicating a vibrant cross-pollination of musical styles.
The Genesis of “Celebration”
In an insightful conversation with JoySauce, Softest Hard shared the story behind “Celebration.” Initially, the track was part of her own catalog and had been penned during her early creative phases. Her manager, well-connected within HYBE, recognized its potential and passed it along. Surprisingly, despite it not being a conventional K-pop composition, HYBE saw the track’s commercial viability, affirming the importance of innovative sounds in the K-pop realm.
Transformations in the Final Version
In discussing the transformation of the song, Softest Hard revealed that her original demo featured vocalist Icona Pop with entirely different lyrics in English. The final K-pop version, however, underwent significant changes, including the introduction of Korean lyrics and adjustments in the song’s structure to better align with K-pop sensibilities. Despite some fans calling for a longer drop, Softest Hard expressed her understanding of the necessity for different pacing in K-pop, especially considering the genre’s emphasis on lyrical storytelling.
Understanding the Collaborative Process
Notably, “Celebration” credits an extensive team of over 15 writers. This extensive collaborative process is not unusual in the music world, especially for K-pop, where multiple perspectives and skill sets converge. That said, Softest Hard emphasizes that even if many contributed at various stages, the essence of collaboration is about acknowledging everyone’s input in crafting the final piece.
Fandom Experience
Softest Hard’s entry into the K-pop space has introduced her to a passionate community of fans known as FEARNOTs. She expressed her amazement at the fervor displayed by K-pop fandoms, highlighting the lengths to which they will go to support their idols. This experience has deepened her appreciation for the loyalty and energy characteristic of K-pop fans compared to more traditional electronic music audiences.
Admiring the Visuals and Message
With the release of the music video, Softest Hard eloquently described her emotional reaction. Engaging with the LE SSERAFIM’s artistic visuals and themes, she found herself resonating with the underlying messages of empowerment and mental health. The innovative storytelling in their music video, including the character that symbolizes internal struggles, reflects societal issues and fosters empathy, inviting listeners to engage on a deeper level.
Future Endeavors in K-Pop
Looking ahead, Softest Hard is keen on exploring more collaborations in the K-pop genre. With her focus shifting from being primarily a DJ to being recognized as a producer, she is excited about the possibility of producing more tracks that bridge various musical styles. Her ambition to contribute more in this space reflects her desire to continuously evolve as an artist and make a lasting impact in the music industry.
Lessons in Resilience and Identity
Throughout her journey, Softest Hard has learned invaluable lessons about resilience and self-advocacy. With a decade immersed in the music scene, she has developed a tenacious spirit and a conviction to keep pushing forward despite challenges. Her reflections reveal a deep-seated belief in her capabilities, an unwavering commitment to her craft, and a determination to break boundaries—qualities that embody the essence of her artistry and fortify her future aspirations.
