Korean singer-songwriter Seori can hardly wait to be part of On Festival Off: Manila music fest to be held at MOA Arena on November 3, 2023.
Presented by ABS-CBN Global and KAMP, the music fest is bringing together Korean and Filipino artists including Suho, Ben&Ben, Wave To Earth, Moira, Melomance, Darren Espanto, Seori, and Adie.
In an exclusive interview with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal), Seori said she's actually familiar with the Filipino artists who are part of the lineup.
"I’m super excited and thrilled. It's my very first visit to Manila and it's also an honor and a grateful opportunity to be able to meet other artists and Filipino artists while most excitingly, perform in-front of the Philippine audience.
"The lineup includes artists I've been eagerly following, and it's exciting to share the stage with them from a fan's perspective.
"I'm happy to have the chance to share my music at this event and make it known in the Philippines! I'm really looking forward to it."
During the trip, she hopes to get a taste of Manila.
"I'm curious about trying local dishes first. Also, I've heard that Manila has many beautiful places to explore.
"I'm particularly interested in visiting Santiago Fort and Intramuros, which I've seen photos of.
"It's quite chilly in Korea right now. Being in the warm Philippines with its year-round tropical climate feels like a break for me. I'm already excited about enjoying Manila!"
Read: K-pop band Wave To Earth all set for On Festival music fest in Manila
GETTING TO KNOW SEORI
Best known as an R&B artist, Seori was first discovered when she uploaded two songs on YouTube.
She was tapped by record label Atispaus, and then made her debut in the music scene in 2020.
Her original compositions "The Long Night," "Lovers In The Night," and "Really High" have millions of views on YouTube.
She is also popular for her collabs with TXT for the song "Love Song" and with EAJ for the song "Dive With You."
Asked to describe her musical style, Seori said, "I aim to encompass both alternative, rock, and synth-pop.
"I think I can describe my style as a fusion of these three genres, creating a unique blend that captures the essence of all three genres."
Growing up, Seori was influenced by her favorite American artists like Avril Lavigne, and Paramore as well as British rock band Coldplay.
She elaborated, "I draw musical inspiration from various artists and genres, and of course it tends to change time to time.
"Speaking of other genres, I also listen to a lot of New Age instrumental music. New Age music helps me create mental imagery and fosters my creativity, allowing me to paint pictures with sound.
"But recently, I've been enjoying Labrinth’s music. I'm also a huge fan of Harry Styles.
"I've been closely following Harry Styles' recent album, and I dream of collaborating with him someday! It would be amazing to have an opportunity to work together."
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DAY-TO-DAY INSPIRATIONS
The 29-year-old singer also noted that bursts of inspiration come to her in ordinary circumstances.
"These days, you may find it funny but, I often find inspiration while taking a shower.
"I come up with melodies and lyrics, and I make sure to jot them down in my phone.
"This habit has proven to be quite helpful in the songwriting process for me."
Whenever she feels down, Seori added that her fans are her "biggest source of motivation."
She explained, "Recently, I've had long breaks in my career for various reasons. However, knowing that there are fans who continue to wait and support me during these times fills me with immense gratitude.
"Whenever I feel tired or weary, their support reminds me why I keep going. Now, that I am officially back, I look forward to putting out lots of music and also have the opportunity to see my fans more often."
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THIS OR THAT WITH SEORI
- Morning or night: I mainly work at night. I'm a night person.
- Beach or mountains: I enjoy contemplating while walking along the beach, gazing at the sea.
- Coffee or tea: I can't drink coffee. I'm super sensitive to caffeine.
- Horror or romance movie: Romance movie, but my favorite movie genre is crime thriller and mystery!
- Rain or sunshine: My hair is curly. It’s hard to control my hair.
- Cats or dogs: I have a cat. His name is Aeji.
- Soda or juice: Both. Well, I prefer juice because it’s healthier for the voice than soda, but definitely soda with oily or greasy meat.
- Text or call: I prefer hearing a voice over the phone.
- Driver or passenger: I don't have a driver's license.
- Flats or heels: Flats!!! Heels are beautiful but painful.
- Introvert or extrovert: I used to be an introvert, but I think I'm more extroverted these days. Unlike before, I enjoy going out.