Azad and Vali of Emotional Oranges spilled some behind-the-scenes stories that emphasize spontaneity and simplicity, with their music resulting from a blend of raw, genuine reactions and meticulous refinement.
In a media conference that felt more like a catch-up session than an interview, Emotional Oranges, the enigmatic R&B and pop duo, discussed their craft and the unique methods that shape their sound. With a creative process as eclectic as their music, the duo provided an intimate look into what it takes to produce a track that connects with fans while remaining true to their unmistakable vibe.
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Emotional Oranges explains their songwriting process
When asked about their songwriting process, Emotional Oranges revealed a method that is as organic as it is experimental. Vali casually referred to Azad as “Dr. Frankenstein,” indicating how he crafts beats in isolation, only to spring them on his partner once the mic is on. The first listen is raw and unfiltered, perfectly capturing the duo’s genuine reactions.
Tracks infused with authenticity resonate deeply with listeners due to this spontaneous approach. “He’ll produce a track, and he won’t play it for me. He’ll tell me to go to the booth and play the song for the first time.”
“It’s like my natural, innate reaction to that song and what’s going through me organically,” Vali shared. The duo’s chemistry is evident, with one member guiding the other through different parts of the track to bring out the most potent emotions.
They also shared how the creative journey varies from song to song. Some tracks are immediate hits, like their song “Slide All Night,” which came together in just 45 minutes. Others, like “She Got A Man,” took years to perfect, waiting for that final spark of inspiration to tie everything together. It’s a process that balances patience with spontaneity, proving that outstanding art often takes time—or sometimes, it just needs a quick, fiery burst of creativity.
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Emotional Oranges on what makes a great track
Simplicity, it turns out, is at the heart of Emotional Oranges’ music. The duo believes that the sign of a great track is its ability to feel familiar yet fresh. “It feels simple enough that people who aren’t musicians can identify with it,” they said, emphasizing that their goal is to create music that is accessible without being simplistic.
This philosophy extends to their overall brand, in addition to their music. Emotional Oranges have cleverly intertwined their sound with a visual identity centered around the color orange. This isn’t just a random choice but a strategic move to ensure their music—and their brand—sticks in the minds of listeners. “When you think about, when you smell, when you feel, when you see orange, you think of us,” they declared, setting their sights on long-term ubiquity in both sound and sight.
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Emotional Oranges: “Filipino fans are passionate”
“We have a fanbase here. There was a request for us to come here; it’s a place we’ve never been. We just want to experience that with you guys and see if we could build a relationship,” Vali said when asked about their connection with Filipino fans.
When it came to dedicating a song to their Filipino fans, Emotional Oranges chose “Built That Way,” a track that celebrates resilience and community. “You are built that way; you are amazing, and so are we,” they shared, highlighting a mutual admiration between the duo and their audience. It’s a fitting tribute to a fanbase known for its passion and loyalty.
For those unfamiliar with their music, the duo recommended starting with “Wrong Hands,” a song that encapsulates everything they love about the 90s. With its flirtatious yet sexy vibe, “Wrong Hands” serves as the perfect gateway into the world of Emotional Oranges—where nostalgia meets modernity, and every note is crafted with intention.
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What’s Next for Emotional Oranges?
Looking ahead, Emotional Oranges teased an upcoming collaboration with NCT 127‘s Jaehyun. Emotional Oranges both produced and wrote the track “Flaming Hot Lemon” for Jaehyun’s solo album, which was released on August 26.
Azad reflected on the experience, noting how cool and amazing Jaehyun was as an artist. “He was eating a bag, and I wrote it. It’s ridiculous. So that’s where the song came from, and I was shocked that a K-pop artist wanted me to write about Cheetos.”
Moreover, their dedication to creating music that is both simple and profound, paired with their distinctive branding, ensures that they will remain a fixture in the music scene for years to come. As they continue to craft songs that connect on a deep emotional level, fans can look forward to more of the duo’s signature blend of soulful melodies, catchy hooks, and that unmistakable orange hue that ties it all together.
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Photos: Charie Navarro
