SOMI. Photo courtesy SOMI.
This is Nice to Meet You, for all your need-to-know information on the need-to-get-to-know new voices in pop culture. Think of it as a blind date, if the date were cooler than anyone you’ll ever go out with. Allow us to break the ice— we promise you’ll fall in love.
SOMI’s path to fame is not novel—in fact, it’s a time-honored tradition in the pop world—but her unique approach to stardom certainly is. The Ontario-born, Seoul-raised musician got her start by winning a TV talent competition, joined a musical group, and, as we’ve seen, easing the pains of young heartbreak with a record-shattering solo career. At 20 years old, SOMI is the embodiment of everything that the world loves best about her two homelands— a sugary sweetness that is distinctly Canadian, combined with the winking charm that is a must-have for any K Pop artist. In the midst of her jam-packed schedule, the singer-songwriter-actress-model (her endorsements include the likes of Nintendo, Fanta, and Shiseido) took a moment to talk to Interview about her latest single “Dumb Dumb” and the joy of digging into a big, cheesy helping of lasagna after a long day in the studio. — MEGAN HULLANDER
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On her latest single “Dumb Dumb”: We came up with the song spontaneously on the spot— actually first in English. We left it at that for a while. Then, after finishing up my album, we went back to that song and decided that we needed to add a drop—to make it more dance-y. Fun fact, the original lyric was “Imma say it like it is/ cut the bullsh*t/ you dumb dumb.”
On the inspiration for “Dumb Dumb”: I really wanted a song that had a plot twist that could inspire some signature choreography. Because my two previous singles were about storytelling, I wanted to have my own dance. That was the approach.
On staying active, even during her time off: I go out shopping, driving, skydiving, and I love any outdoor activity.
On her childhood favorite musicians: It has to be Cyndi Lauper, Rihanna, and 2NE1.
On making the music video for “Dumb Dumb”: I was there from the first meeting with the director. I thought it would be fun to go blonde. We wanted to come up with scenes to match the innocent but confident girl described in the lyrics. I also participated in the casting with the director, and I think it turned out perfectly— from the male lead, to the girl who plays the young SOMI, to my friends.
On her favorite meals: Big, fat, cheesy lasagna and Chung Gook Jang.
On what she’s listening to: “Dumb Dumb.” I get so much joy out of watching all my fans doing the dance challenge, and seeing all the content they’re making with the song.
On cheese: The older the better.
On embracing her special-ness: I used to get called some names growing up. I struggled to get over it, and finally I started to embrace who I am. If anything, I feel special now.
On her Canadian dream team: Drake, The Weeknd, Justin Beiber. All Canadians.
On playing dress-up, but making it fashion: I like to dress up for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions. Last year I dressed up as a Christmas tree! I like to have fun with my outfits! Just for myself… I get a kick out of it. People say it’s too much sometimes but I know they love it on the inside.
On her latest splurge: Vintage beads. I like making my own bracelets.
On the longstanding cats versus dogs debate: I have a black cat named ZORRO but I can converse better with dogs.
