AIDEN Talks “Unbreakable” and Inspirations

AIDEN talks about the artists who have shaped him and his new single!

Photo credit: Instagram

For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence “AIDEN is ___” or “AIDEN’s music is ___”? 
“AIDEN is just like you, a human who shares emotions through music and art.” I believe I’m not yet at a stage where I can describe my music simply and clearly. However, with every song I release, I try to pour in my voice and emotions at that moment as honestly as possible without overthinking. I hope listeners can enjoy my growth and the journey of discovering a unique color that only AIDEN can create. 

Who or what first inspired you to pursue a music career? 
I was born in Korea and, like many others, I was a boy who loved K-pop. Watching TVXQ! inspired me to fall in love with dancing, and seeing Michael Jackson left a deep impact on me. I walked the path of a dancer for more than ten years, and during that time, I began to wonder who created the music I was dancing to, how it was made, and what emotions it carried. That’s when I realized that while I loved dancing, it was my love for music that truly made me dance. This realization led me to start my journey in music. 

Please talk about your new single! 
This is the third track in the “Color Project,” titled “Unbreakable.” The song tells the story of a protagonist whose entire life was centered around their loved one, now facing a cold and harsh breakup. Unable to accept reality, they imprison themselves in the past. Through desperate cries and clinging to the traces left behind, the song reveals the inner pain and yearning that come with the refusal to accept the end of a relationship. With straightforward expressions like “Why you tell me it’s over?” and “Never let us break up,” the song powerfully conveys the sorrow and the heartbreaking inability to let go despite overwhelming loss.

What made JISEONG the ideal collaborator for this song? 
The themes of this song can be simply described as “obsession” and “a misguided form of love.” I think this type of love is often seen [among those in their] late teens [and] early twenties. Since JISEONG is in his early twenties, I believed he could accurately interpret and convey these emotions, which is why I asked him to feature on the track.

How is “Unbreakable” similar to and different from your previous singles? 
For this new track, I wanted to create many differences compared to my previous songs. From the theme to the tone, I thought it would be great if listeners who are familiar with AIDEN’s music found it somewhat unfamiliar. During the production process, I challenged myself by trying new approaches rather than relying on the skills I usually use. 

If “Unbreakable” had a music video, what would you choose as the concept, and why?
The music video concept would depict a lone figure wandering through an empty space where shadows and light intersect amidst dark tones. This setting visually expresses the internal conflict and turmoil, while simultaneously amplifying the restrained cries and desperation embedded within the song. 

What are your short-term and long-term career goals? 
My short-term goal is to release as many songs as possible and engage in various activities like performing. I don’t have any long-term goals yet; I want to think about that once I can make a living through music. Right now, it feels like I’m just trying to survive. 

Where can people follow you on social media to stay updated about your new music? 
You can find me on Instagram and YouTube! Please follow and subscribe to watch my growth and journey! 

Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music? 
I hope to be a fun friend! Don’t hesitate to come say hi!

Check out AIDEN’s new single here!

View the Substack version of this piece here!

Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.