In the vibrant world of Korean music, where K-pop idols often steal the spotlight, singer-songwriter and composer Colde has emerged as a unique voice. Known for his alternative R&B style that blends elements from hip-hop to jazz, Colde has cultivated a dedicated global fanbase. His music is characterized by its eclectic and experimental nature, featuring smooth vocals that resonate with listeners worldwide. This article explores Colde's journey, from his early days to his recent achievements, including his first global tour "BLUEPRINT" and his innovative approach to music creation.
A Journey Through Colde's Musical Odyssey
In the heart of Seoul, during the bustling spring of 2016, Colde, born Kim Hee-su, began his musical career as part of the indie R&B duo offonoff. Over the years, he has evolved into a solo artist, releasing his debut EP Wave in 2018. Since then, Colde has collaborated with renowned artists like RM of BTS, Heize, and Baekhyun of EXO, contributing to various K-drama soundtracks. A pivotal moment came when the label he was initially signed to, HIGHGRND, closed down in 2018. Undeterred, Colde founded his own labels WAVY, Layered Island, and PYRAT, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and fearlessness.
Colde's design background significantly influences his music and public persona. He chose the stage name "Colde" for its typographical balance and contrasting warmth in his storytelling. When selecting collaborators, he likens the process to choosing colors for a painting, ensuring each artist complements the song's visual and emotional palette. For instance, his collaboration with RM on "Don't ever say love me" required a deep, dreamy purple hue, leading him to choose RM's low-toned voice to achieve this effect.
This year has been particularly eventful for Colde. He embarked on his first world tour "BLUEPRINT," visiting 20 cities across North America, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. In addition to the tour, Colde released his first all-English single album YIN, which pays homage to his musical influences such as Pharrell Williams, Michael Jackson, and Nirvana. Tracks like "Toxic Love" showcase his versatility, while "Nirvana Blues" offers a nostalgic tribute to the iconic band, blending past and present through striking visuals and heartfelt lyrics.
The Impact of Colde's Artistry
Colde's rise in the music industry serves as an inspiring tale of perseverance and innovation. His ability to blend diverse genres and infuse them with personal experiences sets him apart. By founding his own record labels, Colde demonstrates the power of taking control of one's creative destiny. His thoughtful approach to music creation, using design principles and visual metaphors, adds depth to his work. As fans eagerly await his upcoming full-length album and future tours, it's clear that Colde's influence will continue to shape the landscape of indie R&B and beyond. His story reminds us that success can come from staying true to one's artistic vision and embracing unconventional paths.