EJAE
Former SM ENTERTAINMENT trainee EJAE, who was unable to fulfill her dream of debuting as an idol, has overcome her setbacks through music and now returns to the spotlight as the composer of the globally acclaimed track “Golden“.
On October 15, a press conference was held at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in Seoul, where EJAE shared her journey and experience as the composer of “Golden“, the soundtrack for the Netflix animated film “KPOP DEMON HUNTERS,” for which she also participated in singing the main character Rumi’s vocals.
The track “Golden” achieved unprecedented success: it topped the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Official Singles Chart Top 100 for eight consecutive weeks, a historic record for a Kpop-inspired song.
“I still can’t believe what’s happening”
Facing this global success, EJAE confides:
“I still can’t believe it. Two months ago, I was just an ordinary composer, and now everyone is talking about my song. It’s both fascinating and bewildering. I’m still trying to get used to it.”
She explained that she accepted the project for “KPOP DEMON HUNTERS” to help introduce Korean culture:
“In the past, some people knew China or Japan but not Korea, and that made me angry. Today, I’m proud that this project shows our culture to the world. The director insisted on including Korean lyrics in the chorus, and seeing non-Korean singers perform them moved me deeply.”
The birth of an anthem of hope
With impressive high notes, “Golden” quickly became a popular vocal challenge among artists and online users. EJAE explains humorously:
“Yes, I know, everyone asks me why I wrote notes so high! (laughs) That was the director’s request: there needed to be a passage that soars, almost unreal.”
She adds:
“This song is about the struggles of Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, and their strong desire to overcome challenges. I myself was in a difficult period, so I put my emotions into it. The world goes through many trials, and I think the hopeful lyrics and melody offered a bit of comfort.”
From rejected trainee to global composer
Before this success, EJAE spent ten years as a trainee at SM ENTERTAINMENT, dreaming of becoming an idol. She says that this period of rejection and failure shaped who she is today:
“To grow, you also have to know pain. Being rejected is not the end, it’s a redirection. Everything happens for a reason and in its time. I learned to motivate myself, to create beats every day, and that’s how I got here.”
She adds:
“When I was a trainee, people often told me my voice was too low. At that time, clear voices were the norm. So I really felt what Lumi feels, hiding her dark sides to pursue her dream.”
EJAE also wanted to give a message to young aspiring artists:
“‘Rejection is redirection.’ If you’re rejected, don’t take it badly. It just means your path is taking another direction. Always stay active, give 100% to every small opportunity, and never forget work ethic.”
Towards new collaborations
Having already collaborated with numerous Kpop artists, EJAE cites AESPA and BTS as artists she would like to work with. She also mentions her desire to collaborate with Dua Lipa, Sabrina Carpenter, and her colleagues from “Golden“, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami.
Finally, EJAE announced the release of her own song on October 24:
“Many people told me they wanted to hear my voice. Even though I compose for others, I wanted to share my personal story through my music. This new track will be more soothing, perfect for listening while walking or reflecting.”
A new chapter opens for EJAE, moving from the shadow of the studios to the spotlight of the global charts.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: Netflix
