AleXa Gets Real About Her Emotional Single ‘sick’ and Exploring the Pop-Rock Genre

As a singer, the art of reinvention is one of the hardest things to master, but Korean-American artist AleXa has it down to a science. In 2020, she burst onto the scene with her debut single, "Bomb," a high-octane, futuristic techno-pop track. Over the years, she's tried many different sounds ranging from the chill-pop song "Tattoo" to "Back In Vogue" and the poignant power ballad "Juliet." But her discography is just as interesting as AleXa herself. It seems like there's nothing she can't do, whether it's beating out over 50 other contestants to win NBC's American Song Contest, acting in the South Korean film Urban Myths or performing at iHeartRadio's Jingle Ball last December. Now, she's taking on the pop-rock genre.

"sick," AleXa's latest release, is a relatable and raw song that depicts the experience of being in a relationship that's not good for you. The emotion and feeling in the song are nothing short of incredible, but perhaps the most impressive thing about "sick" is the music video. AleXa's acting skills are on full display as she puts on an incredible performance of a heartbroken lover through choreographed fight scenes and even doing most of her own stunts. It's completely unexpected, but that's what makes AleXa so amazing. She's the type of artist who likes to keep her fans on their toes, so while it's not exactly clear what she'll try next, we have no doubt that it'll be fantastic.

In this interview, we learned what AleXa has to say about trying out a new genre, expectations for her upcoming tour and what's next for her.

Sweety High: What made you want to release a pop-punk track? 

AleXa: I grew up as an emo kid, so pop-punk/alternative music is something I've always loved. While I wouldn't quite place "sick" in the pop-punk category, I'd say it's more reminiscent of a soft pop-rock kind of genre.

 

SH: Your previous song, "Juliet," was about heartache, too. Is writing about emotional topics such as love and heartache something that comes naturally to you?

AleXa: Even though I didn't write "sick" (a talented team of songwriters that I'm lucky to work with did!), I do prefer writing and performing emotional songs that feel like an organic extension of myself and my experiences.

 

Also read about: Alt-R&B Singer Rakiyah on Her New Dark Fantasy Single and Singing in Korean

 

SH: How do you find the courage to be so vulnerable with your music? 

AleXa: Music is art, and art is something human beings can relate through, so why not share my very human experiences for others to relate to and perhaps find comfort in?

(Photo Credit: Choi, Jong-in De Leon)

 

SH: The release of "sick" signals a new genre and era for you. What are you most looking forward to with this new era? 

AleXa: Stylistically, outfit-wise, it's 100% me and my niche of clothing.

 

SH: You recently announced a new tour. Is there anything new your fans can expect from you on tour compared to previous performances? 

AleXa: New songs and never before seen stages await!

 

Also read about: Gabi Sklar Finds Closure in the Aftermath of a Breakup on New Single 'Youniverse'

 

SH: Are there any lessons you learned about yourself during the writing process for "sick?"

AleXa: I think while recording it, I tried emulating my interpretation of the lyrics while singing, rather than mimicking the demo.

(Photo Credit: Choi, Jong-in De Leon)

SH: What is something that you think or hope fans will take away from the song?

AleXa: It has a "sick" music video, haha.

 

SH: What's next for you? Do you think you'll stick with pop-punk or continue to explore genres?

AleXa: I'm stoked for the next release, since I co-wrote it with a friend. It's my favorite song I've ever released thus far. I want this whole mini album to be pop-punk/emo.

(Photo Credit: Choi, Jong-in De Leon)

 

SH: Is there anything else you would like to add?

AleXa: I hope y'all enjoy the new music that's coming out and I hope to see y'all on tour eventually!

 

Looking to find more powerhouse female singers? Click HERE to learn about Kacey Fifield's single "Never Reply."