Inspired by his father’s love of classical music and artists such as Frank Ocean, Hong Kong singer-songwriter Derek Dali blends a variety of genres including indie, alternative, emo, funk and R&B. “Music was a space to explore creativity and escape,” Derek reflects. “It became a way for me to channel my emotions and ideas into something new.”
For Chinese American rapper and hip-hop artist Bohan Phoenix, combining multiple styles is also key. His music journey began when he moved to the U.S.A. at the age of 11 and found inspiration in Eminem’s “8 Mile”, which mirrored his struggles with displacement and identity. This moment influenced Bohan’s entry into rap, using it as a medium for authentic self-expression. “The more I avoid being pressured by social media and what my peers are doing, the more I can create music that I’m truly proud of.” His approach is deeply personal, rooted in his own experiences and emotions. Bohan’s dedication to originality comes through in his raw, unfiltered sound that tells a story and evokes emotion with every bar.