Awich's 'Queendom' Looks to Unite the East and West
We sit down with the Okinawan artist during her Rising Asia Tour with JP THE WAVY.
Shortly after setting the stage ablaze at the POP YOURS 2023 music festival held in Chiba’s Makuhari Messe International Exhibition Hall, Awich set off on the Rising Asia Tour with label mate JP THE WAVY. Heading to Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Taipei, the standout Okinawan artist welcomed local artists and garnered crowds looking to experience the evocative sonics of Queendom, Awich’s fourth studio album.
Born in Naha, Okinawa December 16, 1986, Awich, short for “Asian wish child,” was exposed to American culture at an early age thanks to the United States military bases near her hometown. Idolizing Tupac, Awich pursued to learn English, writing her first lyrics at age 13, and delivered her first public performance the next year. 2006 saw the independent release of her album, Asian Wish Child, eventually joining the hip-hop collective Yentown, serving as the group’s only female member. Her releases under the label would then catch the attention of Universal Music Japan’s sublabel Universal J, signing her in 2020.
Awich’s major label debut album, Queendom, was released last year, solidifying the themes of her music that has led to her being recognized as the “Queen of Japanese Hip-Hop.” Her hard-knocking and relentless sonic outlook of female empowerment has made her a predominant figure of Asian women in rap and a bridge between the musical landscape of the East and West.
During the kick-off of the Rising Asia Tour with label mate JP THE WAVY, we caught up with Awich in Hong Kong to discuss her career, musical sensibility, and style. Awich also took the opportunity to tease new music she has coming with notable collaborators.
Catch Hypebeast’s exclusive interview with Awich below.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in music?
I started when I was 14 in Okinawa. I kinda fell out of it when I got married and had a baby, After my husband passed away, I took about two years to reflect on my life. Ultimately, I decided I would live my life wholeheartedly. For me, that meant devoting myself to making music.
Your music incorporates various musical genres. What draws you to these genres, and how do you blend them together in your music?
My outlook on music comes from working with different producers and experimenting. Seeing what works with the message of the lyrics to deliver listeners something truly impactful.
Your lyrics touch on an array of themes, can you speak to the messages you hope to convey to your listeners through your music?
In all forms of art made by humans, including music, we can understand ourselves. With my music, I strive to express an understanding of myself. Through my art, I hope I can resonate with those listening.
Your music often incorporates elements of your Japanese/Okinawan heritage. How important is it to you to stay connected to your cultural roots through your art, and how do you balance that with your desire to be innovative and push boundaries in your music?
The desire for innovation and pushing boundaries is for me inspired by reflecting on history. That’s something that I’ve always wanted to do, so it comes naturally to me and in all my music.
You’ve collaborated with a number of other artists throughout your career. Is there anyone in particular that you want to work with in the future?
Definitely RZA. I find it so interesting that he has been inspired by martial arts and explored Asia through the lens of Asian martial arts films. I grew up on his music and it would be a full circle moment if we could work together on music. Maybe something like sampling Okinawan traditional instruments.
How do you approach fashion and style, and how does it tie into your music and art?
For me, I like simple and body-conscious clothing. Styles that offer a range of movement, since I am very active, especially on stage!
What projects are you currently working on, and what can your fans look forward to from you in the future?
Stay tuned for a lot of new music. Currently, I am working on many collaborations and touring overseas. So, please look out for Awich near you. Thank you!
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