Aaron Young: “I want to create a brand that represents cross-cultural R&B”

The multilingual musician shares the globe-spanning stories behind his songs and long-term vision.

Photo credit: Instagram

For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them?
I think my music is a melodic R&B blend of different cultures and emotions. I grew up between China, Korea, and the U.S., so my sound naturally carries bits of all three worlds. Even though my songs are mostly in English, I often include Korean or Chinese lyrics. I’d describe my music as intimate, soulful, and honest. I like to capture nostalgic memories and document them through my music!

How would you describe your career evolution in just a few words or phrases?
“Reinvention. Growth. Alignment.” I started in a boy band, where I learned discipline and performance [skills]. Then I found my own voice, which was more raw. Every stage has brought me closer to the sound that truly represents who I am.

How have your music tastes changed over time?
I used to chase perfection - clean melodies, structured vocals. Now I’m drawn to feeling over precision. I’ve learned that imperfection can sometimes deliver a more powerful message. I listen with emotion now, not just with my ears.

Photo credit: Instagram

Please describe your latest release!
“Ma Jia Xian” is a song about confidence and chemistry! You know that spark when you meet someone who matches your energy? The title came from my good friend and producer, Mello K, and it’s where the whole project began. I wanted the song to feel like that: grounded [and] familiar, but with a modern, seductive twist.

What are some things people would be surprised to learn about the making of Ma Jia Xian?
I actually recorded most of it at home, late at night, just with a mic and headphones. The vocal take that made it into the final version was almost a freestyle. I didn’t overthink it; I just let the emotion lead and went with the flow. Also, the part everyone talks about wasn’t planned; it was a placeholder that ended up becoming the vibe of the whole track.

What were your first impressions of DIAMOB, and do you plan to continue collaborating with them in the future?
DIAMOB immediately felt like family. We respect each other’s craft, and they’re a fun group of people to hang out with, too. So yes, hopefully there’s more to come.

Which one of your songs…

 … was the most fun to record, and why?
“Ma Jia Xian - Oppa Ver.” for sure. HWAN [and I] mostly recorded it late at night at my apartment. We had to keep it quiet because of the neighbor but still make it sound bold and sexy. That balance made it fun.

… seems to be a fan favorite, and why?
“No More.” It took me by surprise when the EP dropped in China [and] I received so much love [for] that song in particular. My Chinese fans commented things like, “Who hurt you?,” and I could tell they really felt the energy of it.

… took the shortest time to make, and why?
“Starlit Confession.” I used a beat my producer gave me for another song and completely transformed it based on how I felt in the moment.

… took the longest time to finish, and why?
“Ma Jia Xian - Oppa Ver.” Since it was the first song [made for] the album, there were a lot of moving parts, like choreography, planning, [and] scheduling with HWAN. It took time to set everything up, because it was the foundation for the whole EP.

… has the most interesting backstory?
“California Drive.” I shot the visualizer in my hometown, Shijiazhuang. Since the title is “California Drive,” I had to find places that looked similar enough to recreate that California vibe. It was challenging but fun and meaningful to pull off.

Aaron Young's recent collaborator, HWAN. Photo credit: Instagram

What’s on your playlist these days?
A mix of SZA, Frank Ocean, Kehlani, my friend RYAN… I love artists who blend sensuality with storytelling. And honestly, I’ve been listening to a lot of my own unreleased demos and just vibing while I prep my next drop.

What are some of the proudest moments of your career so far?
Hearing my R&B version of “Magnetic” being played live by the Korean Army was surreal, and “Like JENNIE (Soft Spoken Ver.)” becoming a dance challenge done by so many beloved celebrities was unforgettable. Also, the moment I started writing and producing my own music from scratch felt like freedom. And every DM or comment from someone saying my music helped them through something. Those are the moments that stay with me.

What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
Short-term, I’m focused on releasing more singles and visuals and building a consistent world around my sound. Long-term, I want to create a brand that represents cross-cultural R&B, something that connects people no matter where they’re from. Eventually, I want to write for and collaborate with global artists while keeping my own identity strong.

Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music?
I’m still evolving, [and] every song is a reflection of where I’m at in life. I just hope when people listen, they feel something real. Whether it’s love, pain, or confidence, I want my music to connect and empower.

Check out Aaron Young’s music here!

View the Substack version of this piece here!

Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.