CAMO Discusses New Music, What She’s Learned, and Epic Collabs

INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW ✦

Rapper-singer CAMO, hailing from South Korea, is swiftly ascending the global music scene – and with the release of her highly anticipated EP Yours Truly, CAMO continues her pattern of creating playlist-worthy tracks following the success of her critically acclaimed debut album Pressure Makes Diamonds in 2023.

Yours Truly specifically marks a new chapter in CAMO’s career, showcasing her versatility as she moves beyond her trap-heavy roots to share her own interpretation of various genres like pop, drum & bass, and electronic. The EP features standout tracks like “K-PACK,” which boasts CAMO’s fierce lyrical prowess and distinctive style, or another notable track, “Only You,” featuring Leellamarz, which offers a fresh take on a beloved classic, blending CAMO's unique vocal delivery with innovative production elements. Additionally, Yours Truly explores a range of more reflective and soulful songs such as “Waterfall” and “Wings,” highlighting her expansive range and emotional depth as a rising artist.

Having established a solid foundation for her future, CAMO is now opening up to us about Yours Truly and the messages embedded within this particular body of work. 

Your new EP Yours Truly marks a bold new chapter in your career. Can you talk about the creative process behind this EP and how it differs from Pressure Makes Diamonds?

CAMO: While Pressure Makes Diamonds was made under a lot of pressure, my new EP Yours Truly was a project that I actually had a little fun making it. Think I’m getting more comfortable making music as time goes by, so I’m just excited for my next project because I feel already ready for my new chapter and I think this new EP was a bridge for that progress.

The track "K-PACK" is comprised of powerful lyrics and a bold attitude. What inspired this song, and what message do you hope to convey through it?

CAMO: I just wanted to make a song that shows the strength that a little Korean girl can have. That’s why I put a little K-vibe in the lyrics, hoping to show the audience a little spice of ‘kimchi’ which represents Korea.

The music video for "K-PACK" features a cameo from Hong Jin-kyung and a unique kimchi factory setting. Can you share the concept behind the video and what it was like working with her?

CAMO: Hong Jin-kyung is one of the biggest celebrities out here in Korea and she does her own kimchi business as well and it was a huge honor for me to be with her in the video. She was too busy, but luckily her daughter knew about me which led her to be in the video. It still feels like a dream and since she has her own kimchi business, thought it would be a great collaboration for the track. She’s the sweetest, the coolest!

On the other hand, "Only You" offers a playful twist on a classic JYP anthem. How did the collaboration with Leellamarz come about, and what was it like reimagining this iconic song?

CAMO: Our team always wanted to sample old classics, so when I first heard the beat, I just slid on it. And I sent it to leellamarz and he was so down to be a part of it. Easy Peezy.

Songs like “Waterfall” and “Wings” showcase a more emotional and acoustic side. What inspired you to incorporate these elements into your music?

CAMO: I made these songs at the beginning of 2024 when I was having my personal hardships, and I think it really showed what I had in my soul at that time, and I was able to blend what I was feeling into these songs through the lyrics and the melody and the beat itself.

Overall, your new EP explores a variety of genres beyond your trap-heavy roots. How did you approach this almost experimental sound with pop, drum & bass, and electronic music?

CAMO: I wasn’t really experimenting, I was just being true to myself on the beat, but I’m happy to hear that I’m showing a variety of genres. I’m willing to do more and show more. Stay tuned.

Your breakout hit "Life is Wet" initially brought your music into the spotlight. How has your life changed since then, and what have you learned from your rise in the music industry?

CAMO: My life has changed a lot, but I think I’m still figuring s**t out like everybody is. I just learned that I can’t trust anyone, and I have to stay loyal to my creativity and my day ones.

Looking ahead, what are your goals for the future, both in terms of your music and personal growth as an artist?

CAMO: I just want to make more music and ideally get to make timeless music. I think I’m still far from that so I got to figure that out but I’m slowly learning more about myself and what I really want and I hope to just show you guys.