New York City has long been a breeding ground for artistic talent, nurturing countless musicians, writers, and artists. Among its native talents, Jiwon stands out as a young artist with a unique and inspiring musical journey. Born and raised in the bustling heart of the Big Apple, Jiwon, now 22, is currently completing his final semester at Harvard University. His major in Philosophy and minor in Music reflect his diverse range of interests, but it’s his deep connection to music that truly defines him.
Jiwon’s musical journey began at a tender age, influenced by his multicultural upbringing. His mother, an immigrant from South Korea, introduced him to the world of music by having him learn the piano at the age of 5. Meanwhile, his father, a businessman hailing from the north of England, brought back suitcases full of vinyl records from his trips, sparking a musical awakening in young Jiwon. The records of iconic acts like the Smiths, Joy Division, the Clash, and Iggy Pop would lay the foundation for his future creative endeavors.
Initially, Jiwon received classical training, honing his skills on the cello and piano. However, the allure of his father’s punk and post-punk vinyl collection led him to explore the realm of songwriting. Jiwon’s journey took a pivotal turn as he traded his cello for an electric bass, and soon, he added the guitar and drums to his repertoire. By the time he reached high school, Jiwon had become a talented multi-instrumentalist brimming with musical ideas.
However, it wasn’t until he began experimenting with GarageBand and other digital audio workstations (DAWs) that Jiwon could breathe life into his creative visions. This newfound ability to translate his musical ideas into recorded songs marked a turning point in his life. Jiwon began releasing his creations on SoundCloud during high school, a period characterized by a more casual and spontaneous approach to music.
Central to Jiwon’s musical philosophy is the preservation of childlike wonder and naivety in his creative process. He strives to channel his most basic and authentic creative impulses into his music, ensuring that he never loses sight of the joy that first drew him to the art form.
Jiwon’s transition from casual musician to serious artist took place during his time at Harvard. Surrounded by exceptionally intelligent peers with a strong work ethic, he felt motivated to elevate his music career to a professional level. Every spare moment was dedicated to honing his skills as a songwriter, vocalist, and audio engineer. He continued to release songs while studying the works of his favorite artists and producers, such as Jai Paul and Sebastian Paul, meticulously analyzing their techniques.
The COVID-19 pandemic, which forced much of Jiwon’s college experience online, inadvertently provided him with more time to refine his craft. As his friends pursued high-paying corporate careers, Jiwon remained steadfast in his pursuit of musical excellence, navigating the tension between his personal aspirations and the expectations of those around him.
Jiwon’s motivation to create music is deeply rooted in the belief that his emotions and ideas, when translated into song, can resonate profoundly with his audience. He strives to make music that not only entertains but also connects with listeners on an emotional level, often drawing inspiration from his own life experiences.
Throughout his journey, Jiwon has been fortunate to have unwavering support from his close-knit circle of friends. Whether during his early days as a budding musician in high school or throughout the trials and tribulations of his college years, their encouragement has been invaluable. Jiwon acknowledges that their support has been a cornerstone of his success.
As Jiwon’s time at Harvard draws to a close, he looks forward to returning to his beloved NYC and continuing his musical journey. His story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the unwavering belief in one’s creative vision. Through his music, Jiwon seeks to bridge the gap between his emotions and those of his listeners, fostering a unique and profound connection that transcends boundaries. In a world often defined by conformity, Jiwon’s musical journey serves as a reminder that staying true to one’s passions can lead to a life rich in artistic fulfillment and meaningful connections.
