What was the first image or feeling that came to you when “Don’t Depend” started forming in your head?

I was thinking about how I love owning who I am and what I am capable of. This track is badass, sexy, groovy, and euphoric. My personality and brand embody and champion all those characteristics and encourage people to be exactly themselves.

What is something you always return to in your creative process no matter where your sound evolves?

I will always return to my love for melodies, emotions, and vocals. When I started as a dance music lover 12 years ago, something about tech house and progressive house always stuck with me. I think being classically trained on the piano from a young age has a big influence on my love for melodies.

Are your lyrics a direct reflection of your personal experiences or do they take on a more abstract, emotional form?

Most of the time my lyrics are a direct reflection of my personal experiences, and that can definitely be said about this track. To me, lyrics in a song are powerful. Dance music is versatile, but just because some sounds are more “underground” doesn’t mean there can’t be lyrics. If lyrics provoke emotion and share that with the audience, then they belong in the song.

You’ve spoken about moving between cultures and cities. How do those shifts still shape your music now?

I have moved between America and China my whole life, from childhood into my adolescent years. Those shifts shaped my personality into an empowering, individualistic, and independent force, which has molded my artistic vision and taste. As an artist developing a sound, I am not afraid to get experimental, take risks, or be unique. It’s easier said than done, but I let my intuition lead the way.

At Kappa FuturFestival this summer, what went through your mind as you stepped on stage? What feelings take over in moments like that at such big festivals?

It was a surreal moment. I have wanted to go to Kappa as an attendee for years, so performing there this summer was a dream, even though I played an early slot on one of their smaller stages. I always practice gratitude and remind myself to give myself more credit for the hard work I am putting into my goals. That feeling guides me through the whole process.

If you could archive one night from this summer exactly as it happened, which night would you keep?

It would be the Friday of Kappa Futur Festival, which was also the day I played. That day was one of the best of my life. After my set, I spent the day watching all my idols play at different stages and just took it all in. At night, I got to witness Meduza’s live set closing out the main stage, and it was a special moment. Meduza have been huge supporters of my work since we met a year ago, and now I have a song coming out on their label. I will never take these moments for granted.