IN CONVERSATION WITH KUN

interview by JANA LETONJA

Global pop star KUN is best known as the former frontman of China’s Nine Percent. Now a solo artist, KUN’s single ‘Deadman’ marks a bold sonic shift in his journey. This fall, he will release his EP, and is also just headlined two showcase dates in LA this summer, LA on 28th July and New York on 4th August. On 8th August, KUN is releasing his newest single ‘Jasmine’.

‘Deadman’ is a major sonic shift for you - guitar-driven, raw, and soul-infused. What inspired this new sound?

I just wanted to try something that felt more real. Not too perfect, just something that feels authentic. I’ve always liked music that feels timeless, the kind that hits you no matter when you hear it. That’s the feeling I wanted for ‘Deadman’.

The vocals on ‘Deadman’ feel especially emotional. Was there a personal story or experience behind the song?

It was actually the first song I wrote during camp about a year ago. This feeling like a part of me was dying and something new was growing. It was about change, letting go, and starting fresh.

The song came together super fast, everything just clicked. That’s why it feels so raw and alive. It’s not just a song to me, it’s a piece of that moment, a moment where I was figuring out who I am and where I want to go next.

This track feels like a departure from the more polished pop you’re known for. Were you nervous about how fans would respond to the change?

Honestly, I didn’t think too much about how it would be received. I just focused on making something true to myself. And I’m grateful that the fans felt that. To me, growing as an artist also means guiding my fans through that journey, letting them see the changes, the risks, the real side of me.

How does ‘Deadman’ set the tone for the rest of the project you’re rolling out this year?

‘Deadman’ is the starting point, both emotionally and sonically. The rest of the project follows that same honest, stripped-back feeling. Each song dives into different sides of me.

You just performed in LA and NY this summer. How did you prepare for this US showcase?

This was my first headlining show in awhile, and it was something I’ve been thinking about for years. It feels like the start of something new, like we’re just ginning a new chapter.

I’ve been trying to make sure the performance really shows what I’ve been working on these past few years, and I couldn’t wait to share it with everyone. It was not just about the music, it’s about showing people where I am right now.

How does performing for international audiences compare to shows in China or Asia?

Every crowd feels different. In China or Asia, a lot of people have been with me for a long time, so there’s a deep connection right away. Performing internationally feels more like starting a new conversation. It’s fresh, and there’s a different kind of energy. Both are special in their own way.

You’ve evolved from being the leader of Nine Percent to a solo artist with a distinct creative voice. What has that transition taught you?

It’s taught me a lot, especially about patience and trusting myself. Being in a group, I learned how to work as a team, and how to lead and take care of everyone. But going solo is different. It’s about finding your own voice and rhythm, and really asking yourself what kind of artist you want to be. That journey made me more grounded. I’ve learned how to follow my instincts, and express who I am without holding back.

How do you define your musical identity today?

I try not to overthink it. I just want to make music that tells my story. I don’t worry too much about genre or labels. If it feels honest, then it’s right for me. That’s the version of myself I want people to hear.

As both a singer and producer, how do you balance personal expression with audience expectations?

I didn’t try to guess what people might want. I just made what I personally thought was cool. Everything started from my own taste and instincts. If I connect with the music first, I believe others will connect with it too.

You’ve been recognized by Forbes and Business of Fashion for your influence. How would you describe your relationship with fashion?

Fashion is just another way to tell stories. It helps me show how I feel, or what a song is about, without saying anything. It’s like a conversation between who I am now and who I’m becoming. It means a lot to be recognized in that space, it makes me think even more about how music and style work together.

How does your fashion identity influence your music, and vice versa?

It’s all connected. I wear what fits the feeling. Some days it’s a suit, other days it’s a worn-out tee. It depends on the mood, the sound, the story I’m telling at that moment. It’s all just ways to show who I am.

You’re releasing your new single ‘Jasmine’. What can the fans expect from this single, what inspired it, and what meaning does it hold for you personally?

With ‘Jasmine’, I wanted to shift the mood a bit. It definitely has a more playful tone. It’s about something that feels real but isn’t. An illusion, but still meaningful in its own way. The sound and visuals feel modern but with a nostalgic touch, and it adds a new vibe to the world I’m creating.

CREDITS

photography SOPHIE WILLIAMS