South Korean musician Q the trumpet talks about an unforgettable encounter with fans and what to look forward to this year.
Q the trumpet is a unique Korean musician who has three musical personas: trumpeter, rapper, and producer. With the full-length album DEVUT, he made his debut in 2018. His distinct manner and sound drew notice from the crowd. Following his selection as the 2021 VANS MUSICIAN WANTED winner, he assesses his album for the list of the top 15 K-pop albums of the year.
Q the trumpet’s latest mini album, Research Daily 2, showcases a variety of musical colors. His intriguing lyrics and attractive melody line add appeal to the album. Jazz fans will be able to appreciate Q the trumpet’s sound even more because of his “HIP” jazz compositions.
He picked the stage name “Q the trumpet” because he wanted to refer to himself as the trumpet itself, and his real name, Park June “Kyu,” has a final word that sounds like “Q.”
Also Read: Felip Introduces 7sins to Japan with Physical CD and Album Concert
Q the trumpet discusses his biggest musical influences and how they have shaped your career as an artist.
Q shares, “I have been influenced by many different people, and I believe I will be influenced by many different people to make future Q the trumpet. Right now, I can think of Korea’s saxophonist and songwriter, my professor Son Sung Jae. I started music in my university years, and before that, music was just my hobby and job.
After meeting and learning from him, I was able to think of music in a different way. I developed a more positive attitude towards music and its spectrum, and my thoughts as a musician became more settled. I appreciate him for making my thoughts change.”
Q the trumpet envisions his perfect musical partnership and the kind of song he aspires to compose alongside them.
“It is not easy to say a musician; however, I would like to say Knower for now. I always think about making new music and look forward to making a creative sound; however, I have limitations in my ability to do this. But he is doing great on making music and looks like he has no limitations on making it.
Also, he is telling me to do whatever I want. It is not easy to make music that people are comfortable with. I hope to make music like him, so I would like to work with them once.”
His latest EP, Research Journal 2, draws inspiration from the trumpet.
According to Q the trumpet, he is not the type of person who becomes inspired by things all of a sudden. However, he usually concentrates on his heart. Even though it’s difficult to focus these days, he made an effort. He also mentioned that he was happy to be able to “zone out” and “gut” in front of the sea.
Also Read: KAVE Appears at Pentaport Rock Festival
Q the trumpet overcame the most challenging part of creating his latest project.
Q stated, “The songs ‘Jealousy’ and ‘DO I HAVE TO DO’ from this album were pre-releases.” Those songs were made quite casually. But that’s when the problems started. After making this song, I ended up getting blocked. That’s why I went to the sea with a friend. I have an old friend named Joon’s Second Life, and we nearly completed this entire album together.”
He also added, “We spent a day just relaxing by the sea. The next day, while I was playing games, he was working on something. Inspired by the sound of his work, I wrote the lyrics right away. It took about 40 minutes, maybe even less. Some of my favorite tracks on this album were completed. As expected, music was created quickly when I worked comfortably. That’s how I overcame it.”
How he manages to balance his personal and music career
Q said, “I’m trying to take it easy. A friend pointed out that I should focus on what I enjoy doing rather than feeling obligated. I love what I do, but I’ve lost sight of that lately. I’ve come to realize that personal time and rest are essential. I believe that if I can balance them well, my music will naturally flourish.”
How he stays creative and inspired during his songwriting process
As he previously stated, he feels more at peace in natural settings like the sea or the mountains, and he believes that’s where he finds inspiration and creative ideas for his work. Of course, he has it all, but nature seems to express it best.
You Might Also Like: Janine Teñoso Poetically Shares Journal Entries Through New EP, Apat Na Buwan
Q the trumpet sends a message to his listeners and shares a memorable encounter with fans.
One of his most treasured interactions with his fans came during his first solo concert, “QUEST1.” He reveals, “For weeks leading up to it, I was so worried that no one would come that I couldn’t sleep. The moment I stepped onto the stage, I realized my worries were unfounded and instead felt guilty for not having prepared better. Seeing the audience’s eyes, I was so grateful that I almost cried. I’m not a famous artist, yet they took the time and effort to attend my concert. I felt sorry for not having prepared enough to give them the best night. It was a night I’ll never forget.”
“I don’t have any big expectations. I just hope people will listen.” He also delivers a message to his listeners, saying, “If they listen to the music comfortably, there’s nothing more I can do. I just hope they’ll come back.”
Meanwhile, we can anticipate seeing him this year at MU:CON and LaLaLa ON. He will also be playing the trumpet on other stages. Q the trumpet also encourages fans and listeners to say hello to him if they have the chance. Although he is a little shy, he will do his best to welcome you.
Pop Journal sends gratitude to OFF THE RECORD for this exclusive interview with Q the trumpet.
Also Read: Rhyu Returns with New Single “But does my love make you feel?”
Photos: OFF THE RECORD
