Blank Canvas: A Conversation with Yura
"Don't equate your output as a measure of your success"
Yura has a distinct sound that makes you want to click the replay button a million times.
I'm not even kidding.
We are elated to have her join us for Blank Canvas!
This is our exchange:
We're so excited to have you join us! How’s life been treating you so far?
Hiya! Thank you so much for having me.
Life’s been a bit full on but I feel like I like to keep myself occupied. Lots of big changes happened towards the middle of the year but I feel like I’m coming out the better end of it. Excited to end 2024 strong!
Hope all of you are doing well too :)
Could you give a little introduction to who you are?
My name is Yura which is also my stage name. I’m a Sydney-Korean artist.
Media provided by Yura
I was born quite late into my family. I have a big age gap between my parents and two brothers. I feel like I inherited all their different music tastes and it inspires my creative process today.
My goal is to enjoy making music that is true to myself! My vision, on the other hand, is to connect with as many people as I can.
I want people to feel healing, happiness, or even just companionship through my songs. If I can make even one person feel something, then I’ve done enough.
I’m curious about your journey as an artist. When did you find this calling?
Media by Brad Kim
I’d say my love for music was fostered within my church. I was the leader and main vocalist for the church band. There were many moments of pure joy that clicked during the time.
I started releasing songs on SoundCloud which were quite terrible but people seemed to really enjoy them. That's when I decided to make a proper track: “Pearl”. Everything else just fell into place after that.
On a side note, I love Wii Music so much and I legitimately feel like I grew my love for music just trying to perfect the songs (if anyone has a spare Wii, please give it to me so I can play again).
What’s your favourite song so far?
Definitely “All You” with my good friend, goyo. It's my favourite because I had so much fun making it!
I was incredibly happy and fulfilled during that period in life. Being a part of a collective called ‘aisleland’ at the time, the bulk of my growth as a musician emerged from this creative group. “All You” packages that whole era perfectly to me.
Media provided by Yura
Plus, we made a dope music video with Videohead. Just remembering how hard we worked during the 4 day shoot also makes me feel motivated. I also think it’s one of the tracks where I feel like I’m showing my most authentic self.
Where do you find inspiration from?
Media by Brad Kim
I find inspiration in my creator and creation foremost!
I also feel inspired seeing other creatives working hard on their craft.
We talk a lot about creative burnouts. How do you deal with yours?
You can't combat burnout.
You need to give into it. Let go of your ego and ride with it. It is also important to surround yourself with people that you love and can uplift you.
Don't equate your output as a measure of your success.
It is okay to put your passion on hold whilst you get back on your feet.
I’m a firm believer in accountability and support within the industry. What are your thoughts on this?
Yes! Accountability is huge. Humans are not supposed to do life alone.
My biggest motivators are other creatives that evidently show that they are consistent in their own practice. These are the people that I can also bounce ideas off of.
I think everyone, not just creatives, can flourish in their ideation and execution through the help of others.
What's something new you would like to try in the future?
I’d love to do an indie/alt rock or shoegaze album.
Media by Brad Kim
What is your dream? :)
Be a light in this world to make as many people as I can feel loved and leave a legacy that points back to the one who created me.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be loud and unapologetic when you’re doing the things you love.
What can we expect from you at the Blank Canvas event?
I hope you guys can expect a giggle or two from getting to know me on stage
I also hope everyone can have a wonderful time seeing the awesome stalls prepared as well as the other great musicians we have lined up!
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