Seori: From YouTube to Main Stage

Seori, born Baek So-hyun, is a rising South Korean singer-songwriter whose unique blend of alt-R&B and alt-pop has captivated audiences both domestically and internationally. She began her musical journey by uploading song covers to YouTube, testing the waters to see how her voice resonated with listeners. This led to her being discovered by the then-artist-less label, Atispaus, despite their lack of experience in the industry. Seori chose her stage name for its dual meaning in Korean—"frost" and "to steal"—hoping her music would steal the hearts of listeners just as frost elegantly covers windows.

Seori's music is characterized by its smooth, laid-back, and dreamy quality, often drawing on themes of the night. Her songs, like "Running Through the Night" and "Lovers in the Night," are designed to evoke intense emotions while also being danceable. Seori's creative process is deeply tied to her experiences and thoughts, often recorded in the quiet of the night. This nocturnal inspiration has shaped her music, making it atmospheric and resonant with listeners who appreciate the blend of melancholy and beauty.

Her debut EP, ?Depacse Ohw (Who Escaped?), released in May 2020, introduced her distinctive sound to a wider audience. The title, written backward to emphasize its unconventional nature, reflects Seori's exploration of the struggles of modern life and the desire for escape. This theme resonated with listeners, establishing her as a significant voice in the alt-pop scene. Seori has since collaborated with notable K-pop artists like Tomorrow X Together (TXT) and Giriboy, further expanding her reach and influence.

Seori attributes much of her success to her belief in the power of manifestation, a lesson she learned from her mother. She believes that speaking positively about the future helps shape it into reality. Despite the pressures of sudden success, Seori remains grounded, focusing on the joy of creating music and connecting with her fans. Her collaborations with artists like Graphix and her dream of working with Avril Lavigne, who inspired her from a young age, highlight her commitment to evolving her sound and staying true to her artistic vision.

Her journey from YouTube covers to becoming a Grammy-recognized artist is a testament to her talent and perseverance. With her distinctive voice and ability to blend genres, Seori is poised to become a lasting figure in the global music scene, stealing hearts one song at a time.