Colde, the Korean indie artist known for his distinctive blend of alternative R&B, has steadily risen through the ranks of the music industry, carving a unique niche for himself amidst the global K-pop wave. His music, characterized by mellow vocals and a fusion of genres like hip-hop, rock, and jazz, has resonated with a devoted international fanbase. His public persona, both on stage and in his music videos, exudes an effortless confidence and captivating charisma, while in personal interactions, a more thoughtful and down-to-earth demeanor emerges, fostering a sense of connection and genuine engagement. His recent “BLUEPRINT” world tour, spanning across North America, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, is a testament to his growing global recognition and the increasing demand for his unique sonic tapestry.
Colde’s journey began in 2016 with the indie R&B duo offonoff, followed by his solo debut EP, Wave, in 2018. Since then, his trajectory has been marked by collaborations with prominent K-pop figures like RM of BTS and Baekhyun of EXO, alongside the release of numerous singles and albums, and contributions to various K-drama soundtracks. The closure of his initial label, HIGHGRND, a YG Entertainment subsidiary, in 2018 prompted him to establish his own label, WAVY, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and artistic autonomy. He subsequently founded two additional record labels, Layered Island and PYRAT, further solidifying his position as a creative force in the music industry.
Colde’s foray into music began serendipitously during his high school years, sparked by a YouTube video showcasing music production using an Akai MPC sampler. This accidental encounter ignited a passion for music creation, which he approached with a sense of playfulness and experimentation, likening the process to painting or designing with sound. His background in design profoundly influences his artistic expression, impacting his stage name, collaborations, and the very essence of his music. The name “Colde,” a deliberate play on the word “cold,” was chosen to juxtapose with the warm, heartfelt narratives he aims to convey through his music. The addition of the “e” was a deliberate typographical choice, reflecting his design sensibilities.
The design-oriented approach also permeates Colde’s selection of collaborators. He views the process as akin to choosing the right colours for a painting, seeking artists whose voices and styles complement his vision and contribute specific tonal hues to his musical compositions. This synesthetic approach to music – perceiving and creating music in terms of colours and visual elements – is a learned skill honed through his design background. He clarifies that this ability isn’t innate but rather a product of his design-centric thinking, leading him to visualize the sonic landscape of his creations. This intersection of visual art and music is central to his creative process, shaping his collaborations and the overall aesthetic of his work.
Colde’s collaboration with RM of BTS on the track “Don’t ever say love me” exemplifies his synesthetic approach. He envisioned a “dreamy purple” or “deep dark blue” color for the song, seeking a low-toned voice to complement the desired ambiance. RM’s voice, with its deeper register, was a perfect fit for this sonic palette, providing the desired contrast to Colde’s softer, higher-pitched vocals. Looking ahead, Colde expresses interest in collaborating with Asian-American singer-songwriter keshi, highlighting the ongoing evolution of his artistic collaborations and his eagerness to explore new musical landscapes.
2024 has been a year of significant milestones for Colde, marked by his first world tour and the release of his inaugural all-English single album, YIN, a precursor to his forthcoming full-length album scheduled for 2025. YIN showcases Colde’s versatility as an artist, drawing inspiration from musical influences like Pharrell Williams, Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake, and Nirvana. The three tracks on YIN, including “Toxic Love” and “Nirvana Blues,” offer a glimpse into his exploration of vocal styles and his ability to channel the essence of his musical inspirations while maintaining a distinct personal sound. He consciously emulated Justin Timberlake’s vocal tones in “Toxic Love,” demonstrating his ability to adapt and incorporate iconic vocal styles into his own artistic expression. The “Nirvana Blues” music video, filmed in England, pays homage to Nirvana and Kurt Cobain, whose influence significantly shaped South Korea’s indie music scene.
The upcoming single album, potentially titled YANG, and the subsequent full-length album promise further exploration of Colde’s musical vision. The YIN REMIX single album, featuring collaborations with artists like WOODZ, JUNNY, and CAMO, adds another layer to his creative output, showcasing the transformative potential of remixes and the collaborative spirit that drives his artistic endeavors. With a new album and another tour on the horizon, 2025 is poised to be another year of significant growth and continued global recognition for Colde, solidifying his position as a leading voice in the ever-evolving landscape of indie music. His journey, marked by a blend of creative exploration, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep connection with his fanbase, continues to unfold, promising a future filled with innovative sounds and captivating artistic expressions.
