Welcome back to Fan Chant, a weekly column for K-pop fans, followers, and newbies. This week, something a little different: Indonesian vocalist Afgan is here to chat about his new album. Sounderincluding the fun collaboration with soloist JESSI. If you haven't already, do yourself a favor and subscribe Head over to my complimentary newsletter to get Fan Chant delivered straight to your inbox every week!
Afghan describes his new album, Sounder, like an emotional roller coaster. With a title that references the epiphany that every stranger around us is living their own rich and fully realized life, Sounder goes from “insecurities and pain” to “fun and happy” moments.
The album’s title track, “Escape,” definitely lands in that second category. To achieve the glossy nature he felt the single demanded, Afgan teamed up with JESSI and the two flew to Bali to film the music video. “JESSI was super spontaneous,” she recalls of their time together on set.
Watch the music video for “Escape” below and read on for the full interview with Afgan.
“Escape” is so much fun! How did this collaboration come about? How did JESSI get on your radar?
I completed the song in London with some British producers and “Escape” was originally supposed to be my own song. But I felt that since the song has a summer vibe, it needed an extra touch. I ended up contacting JESSI, who I had met before in Jakarta at a show we both performed in together. I'm so glad you said yes because I think “Escape” is perfect for us.
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