Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Madison Park

2019 has been a momentous year for Madison Park. The Seoul-based DJ and producer has dropped three new singles, which have had music lovers up on their feet. Collectively, they’ve been streamed over 100,000 times, and represent an artist putting her stamp on the industry. Pop Culturalist caught up with Madison to chat about her exciting career.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Madison: At a young age, I started learning classical piano and vocals. I don’t remember when I discovered my passion for music, but I feel like it developed naturally as time went by.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Madison: I would say my dad. He’s the one who introduced me to different kinds of music genres. He keeps me inspired all the time in every aspect: music production ideas, the business side of my career, etc.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “better w/o you”. What inspired the track?
Madison: The track just came to my mind naturally. It wasn’t like I was inspired by something specific and decided to make it. For me, all the tracks that turn out great just happen naturally at a studio full of great energy and people.

PC: How has your classical training prepared you for this next stage in your career?
Madison: I start all of my songwriting and production with my piano. My classical piano skills really come in handy when it comes to the actual production process. It allows me to be more creative with trying out different styles of chords or melody lines. I’m planning on incorporating more piano to my tracks by adding a short piano solo part in it, and I’m also going to have a live-piano session along with my DJ set when I’m performing live.

PC: What’s been the biggest lesson you’ve learned being a part of this industry?
Madison: I learned that no artist should take advice from anyone who tells you to modify your brand or change your music style. At the end of the day, you’re your own brand. Authenticity is the key. People can tell if you’re not being your genuine self. In other words, if you’re an artist, do whatever you want and be the most authentic version of yourself no matter what.

PC: What does the rest of the year hold for you as we look ahead in 2019?
Madison: I will be performing more and releasing more collaborations with artists from various backgrounds. I’m also planning on collaborating with some of my favorite K-Pop acts as well, so stay tuned!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Madison: Enya

PC: First album you bought?
Madison: The debut album of a K-pop group, 2NE1.

PC: First concert you attended?
Madison: Elton John

PC: Someone you’d love to collaborate with?
Madison: Martin Garrix

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Madison: The Very Best of Enya (vinyl record) by Enya. It inspired me the most musically and listening to this album made me realize I want to pursue music for the rest of my life.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Madison: Madison Square Garden

PC: A must-have on the road?
Madison: Barley tea

To keep up with Madison, follow her on Instagram and pick up “better w/o you” on Amazon Music, iTunes, or stream it on Spotify.