FROM SELF-TAUGHT TO SPOTLIGHT: HOJEAN’S JOURNEY OF MUSICAL DISCOVERY

Hojean has transformed his bedroom into a studio for a musical journey that challenges expectations. A self-taught producer, songwriter, and performer, he’s amassed over 110 million streams with his introspective blend of indie pop and alternative R&B. His debut EP, Swing, released in late 2022, was a result of his electrifying performance at the Head in the Clouds festival in Los Angeles, followed by a sold-out headline tour. His latest single ‘I Could Be Forever’ released in August 2024, captures heartfelt lyrics and amazing melodies that showcase his unique voice. Hojean continues to prove his talent for creating timeless, music that resonates deeply with his growing fanbase.

For Hojean, making music is all about connection. He has a personal bond with his fans, wishing he could chat with everyone who reaches out. As his music grows, so does he, exploring new sounds and discovering more about himself along the way. In this interview, Hojean talks about his creative journey, the challenges he faces, and the artists who inspire him.

How would you describe your relationship with your fans? Do you have any memorable interactions?

"I’d say we’re really close. It’s at that level where, if they happened to see me somewhere, they’d feel like they could just come up and chat. When people DM me saying, 'I saw you here but was too scared to say hi,' it honestly breaks my heart because I would’ve loved to talk with them! I used to be much closer to the listeners of my music, but as I started diving deeper into my projects and realizing there’s more to life, it’s been harder to keep up with every conversation, especially in the DMs. But every time I bump into someone, it’s always memorable. I’m just a regular dude, so when people interact with me because they love my music, it makes me feel mad famous—it's kind of fun to let myself feel big-headed sometimes."

Is there any other music genre that you’ve wanted to try that you haven’t yet?

"I’ve always wanted to try rock. Growing up listening to Prince, and then getting into Lenny Kravitz in high school, it’s hard not to want to create music like that. That genre is so liberating. While I’ve worked on side projects in different genres, I’ve never released anything publicly that’s considered 'rock.' It’s tough for me to stick to just one genre. I want to try it all, so I’d definitely be down to make rock music one day."

Are you working on any music? If so, can you tease anything?

"I’m working on a bunch of new tracks right now! I’m currently crafting what could be my first album, but I’m also open to the idea of it just being an EP because it’s tough to do most of the work solo. With all the sleepless nights I’m having right now, it’s probably not the healthiest creative process, haha. I’d love to tease something, but my mind just doesn’t let me until I’m really proud of it—and so far, that’s been a challenge. I think I’m a confused perfectionist."

How different is your music writing now to your older projects? What’s changed?

"It’s definitely evolved a lot, and it’s still changing. We’re probably not even 40% of the way to figuring out who I am as an artist or what my writing style really is. The best part of this musical journey has been the self-discovery. I used to focus so much on making music that would appeal to a specific audience because I thought that’s where I fit. But I wasn’t making music I was proud of. If you listen to my music from 2017 until now, you’ll hear a shift in genre around 2019 to 2021. There was pressure to maintain a certain identity, and I made music to fit that image, even though it wasn’t truly me. I was just creating music for the sake of it—without depth. Now, as I continue my journey, I’m learning so much about myself through my writing. It’s been a confrontational, emotional, and therapeutic process."

If you could describe your upcoming music as a mixed drink, what would be in it?

"As someone who doesn’t drink much, this is a tough one! Can it be a non-alcoholic drink? Right now, I’d say my project is like 70% water and 30% Coke—it’s a bit of a work in progress. But I’m working on it, and hopefully, it’ll turn into a drink that everyone can enjoy one day."

Do you take any inspiration from other artists when writing? Who have you been listening to recently?

"I definitely take inspiration from other artists. Prince, Jamiroquai, Duran Duran, Lenny Kravitz, New Edition, Genesis, A$AP Rocky... it’s a mix of genres, and I can’t seem to settle on just one! These artists have been huge influences on my music."

How do you stay inspired when you hit creative blocks?

"Creative blocks are the worst. It feels like a black hole, and once I’m in it, it’s tough to get out. Right now, I’m in a bit of a block, still figuring out how to move past it. The one thing that’s been helping me is the rooftop of my apartment. I love going up there to watch people or just lay down and look at the sky. It’s simple, but it works wonders."

Hojean’s journey is one of constant growth and self-discovery. As he continues to push musical boundaries and connect with his fans, his authenticity shines through. With every new release, he proves that his music is more than just sound—it's a reflection of who he is and where he's headed.