Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month: Spotlight on Softest Hard
In recognition of AAPI Heritage Month, we turn our attention to an artist making waves in the electronic music scene: Softest Hard. This Vietnamese-American producer is breaking boundaries and merging genres, especially with her recent collaboration on the track “CELEBRATION” featuring K-pop sensation LE SSERAFIM. With her unique sound that combines nostalgia with high-energy production, Softest Hard is poised to be one of the most exciting rising names in music today.
From Personal Project to International Release
Softest Hard’s journey to this prominent collaboration began with a personal record that took an unexpected turn. Initially, it was merely an idea she was working on until her manager, Dannie Fite, decided to share the demo with HYBE, the powerhouse behind K-pop giants like BTS and LE SSERAFIM. What was once an unreleased track quickly garnered international interest.
“When they heard the demo, they exclaimed, ‘This is exactly what we’re looking for,’” Softest Hard recalled, emphasizing the importance of that moment in her career.
The collaboration blossomed organically, involving both Bang Si-hyuk, HYBE chairman, and the members of LE SSERAFIM, who all connected with the sound and spirit of the song. This experience highlights how music can bridge diverse cultures and genres, especially when creativity is at the forefront.
Navigating Different Musical Landscapes
For Softest Hard, working in K-pop was a transformative experience that highlighted the creative contrasts between electronic music and K-pop production. In the electronic dance music (EDM) scene, tracks often revolve around lengthy drops and dance breaks, making the music all about the anticipation of those explosive moments. However, in K-pop, the songwriting focuses more on vocal performance and the overall structure of the song.
“In EDM, it’s more about the drop. But in K-pop, the emphasis is on singing and the song’s narrative,” she explained, showcasing her adaptability as an artist. This evolution in her songwriting approach underlines her versatility and willingness to learn.
Mentorship that Shaped Her Career
Long before she stepped into the global K-pop arena, Softest Hard was building her reputation in the electronic world. An influential moment came when Skrillex discovered her music during the early days of SoundCloud and invited her to his studio shortly after she moved to Los Angeles.
“I literally thought it was fake,” she laughed, recalling her disbelief at receiving a message from the DJ who had inspired her love for electronic music. The studio sessions with Skrillex became pivotal in her artistic development, introducing her to new production techniques and inspiring her to push boundaries.
Additionally, her role as a resident DJ on Diplo’s Revolution SiriusXM platform challenged her to explore new music, further refining her skills as a selector. The mentorship from established figures like Skrillex and Diplo has been instrumental in her growth as an artist, allowing her to craft a distinct sound.
The Influence of Heritage
Softest Hard’s Vietnamese heritage deeply influences her musical identity. Growing up in an environment rich with classic dance records played by her mother, she found herself surrounded by nostalgia-laden tracks.
“My mom used to play songs like ‘Better Off Alone’ and ‘Blue’ all the time,” she reminisced, highlighting the significance of these tunes in her development as an artist. This connection to her roots plays a crucial role in how she crafts her music today, allowing her to infuse her productions with cultural depth.
Evolving Sound and Future Aspirations
As Softest Hard continues to evolve, she feels she has struck a balance between the melodic elements of her music and the heavier energy reflective of her stage name. The next phase of her career is focused on experimentation and unexpected collaborations.
“I feel like I’ve perfected that sound, and now it’s about exploring it deeper,” she shared, emphasizing her desire to delve into new creative territories. This commitment to innovation reflects her dynamic approach to music-making, promising exciting developments ahead.
Inspirational Journey for Future Producers
Having spent over a decade honing her craft, Softest Hard aims to inspire younger producers, particularly women in the industry, to persevere despite challenges. “It took me ten years to get something this big. You know you’re fire, but other people won’t know unless you put yourself out there, so just keep going,” she urges aspiring artists, embodying a spirit of resilience and determination.
With her ever-evolving sound and commitment to pushing artistic boundaries, Softest Hard is not just carving out her lane in the music industry; she’s paving the way for others to follow.
