[Interview] 10 Questions about 10cm You May Not Have Known

In Singapore to hold his first ever concert for local fans, South Korean acoustic-folk indie singer-songwriter 10cm will be performing at the Esplanade Annexe Studio on coming Monday, 18 November 2019.

The long-awaited concert has been much anticipated by fans, proven with the sold-out status for the VIP ticket tier that comes with a solo photo opportunity with the singer after the concert.

Since breaking into the indie music scene some 9 years ago, 10cm has released numerous chart-topping hits like ‘Americano’ (2010), ‘Fine Thank You and You?’ (2012), ‘What The Spring??’ (2016) and more, making a name for the (now) one-man band in this genre.

Over the years, 10cm has gone on to record more songs under his extensive discography, including contributing his melodic vocals to popular OSTs for K-dramas ‘Goblin’ and ‘Hotel Del Luna’.

His unique sound and music has won over the hearts of many fans, including Chen from EXO, who is known to be a huge fan of 10cm since high school. The pair of singers eventually made a dream collaboration in 2017, releasing a co-written mid-tempo, feel-good track ‘Bye Babe’ that blends their sweet vocals well with the beautiful harmonies produced. (Check out the song below!)

With his upcoming concert in Singapore, we’re delighted to sit down with Kwon Jung-yeol from 10cm to find out more about him and his future plans.

Q: Why did you name your Singapore concert ‘We Are Close Enough’? Any special meaning or significance?

Since I wasn’t able to meet my Singapore fans often, I thought about the concert name and felt that ‘We Are Close Enough’ gives off a meaning that I am being brought closer together with my fans through this concert.

Q: On your latest release, “Do You Think of Me”, what was the inspiration behind the lyrics?

I got bitten by a mosquito and that’s how the idea sparked off. (laughs) I wanted people to be reminded of me whenever they see a mosquito. Likewise to my fans, I hope they can think of me whenever a mosquito appears in front of them.

Q: What’s a typical day like for you?

My day basically revolves around work. I spend a lot of my time in the studio. Even when I do step out of the studio, I’ll still be out somewhere thinking of ways to create songs.

(On average, how long do you spend at the studio a day?)

Uhm… I’d say it’s usually above 10 hours.

(What was the longest record then?)

18 hours. (laughs)

Q: What type of traveler are you? Are you a foodie, an adventurer, a detailed planner, or the ultimate tourist?

I’m definitely not an adventurer. Maybe I’m more of a foodie? In general, I just like having my own free time to enjoy the holiday.

Q: Is there anything you’d like to experience here in Singapore?

I’d love to go shopping and try various types of local food, especially Chilli crabs! (laughs)

Q: What is something that you have a lot of interest in these days?

As I am preparing for my concert, I have been looking up other people’s concert videos for reference. That’s what I’ve been doing these days…

Q: Now that you’re in your 30s, what is different for the Kwon Jung-yeol now, and the one that you imagined when you were in your 20s?

Wow, there were lots of differences… For instance, I had not imagine being able to visit Singapore to hold my own concert, and even doing interviews like these… I didn’t expect myself living such a happy life now. (laughs)

Q: Name a Korean dish that goes well with your character.

Ramyeon (instant noodles). The reason why I chose ramyeon is because I wanted to be seen as someone who is simple and easy-going on the outside (with reference to the packaging). Whereas on the inside, there are also my own charms and charismatic side.

Q: If you were not a musician, what would be your next dream job?

I was studying to become a teacher, that was actually my major. (laughs) I wanted to be a Korean language teacher.

Q: So what’s next for 10cm?

I want to release a full album next year! Just like now, I will continue working hard to produce music for my fans, and I hope to visit Singapore with a concert again in the future. I really like Singapore and I feel apologetic to my fans who’ve waited a long time for me to perform here. In return, I’ve worked hard to prepare for this concert so you guys can definitely look forward to it.

Limited standard tickets to 10cm ‘We Are Close Enough’ Live in Singapore are still available for grabs via APACTix channels. Be there on coming Monday (18 Nov) to enjoy a night of great music together with 10cm!

10cm To Perform in Singapore with Live Concert on 18 November