Queer, Romantic, and Happy

Los Angeles musician Jenny Kwon shares the music video to her single, “Honey”. Jenny opens up about her perspective being a Queer Korean immigrant, making connections through art, and how even short relationships can be meaningful and genuine.

Los Angeles, USA

Who is Jenny Kwon and what is your music about?

Hi! My name is Jenny Kwon and I am a queer Korean artist based in Los Angeles. I was born in Seoul, Korea and raised in Orange County, CA. To be honest, I’ve always kind of had trouble answering questions like this because I know that as an artist I should have an established “image” and branding for myself, but I’ve always had trouble putting myself in a box or putting labels on myself. As a queer person who grew up as an immigrant in the US, I think that I have a unique perspective that many people need and can relate to. My goal with this project is to be the most authentic version of myself, to portray my struggles and growth as a human being in my lyrics and art in general. That was the main reason I decided to go with my real name as a musician, instead of coming up with a cool name that is flashy. I want to be me, and I am Jenny Kwon. :) (cheesy I know)

You released your latest single, "Honey". What is the story behind the song?

My best friend/roommate Tyler Crawford and I came up with the chorus for Honey during the beginning of quarantine in our living room. We were both very single and, I’m sure like many other people during that time, were very lonely!! I had just come to terms with my sexuality and hadn’t had a chance to experience dating as a baby gay, so I wanted to write a song picturing a very beautiful relationship that may be short lasting, but is still very meaningful and genuine. I took it to my friends that go by Local Strangers (quick little plug please go check out their music they are amazing) and then Honey came to life!

How has this song shown your growth as an artist since your single "Spoke to Soon" in 2019?

I wrote my album “Illusions”, including “Spoke Too Soon” when I was 18. When I look back at the person I was when I wrote those songs, I just want to give her a hug. I’ve done a lot of self reflection and unpacking of trauma since then, and feel so much more hope for the future, which I think really shows in my newer releases.

Today is the premiere for the music video to "Honey". How does this video represent the mood and story of the song?

This video that I made with a team of the most talented people I’ve met (shoutout to Shay, Luke, Matt, and all the others) is the most proud I’ve ever been of a project. It’s very queer, very romantic, a little steamy, and overall very happy like I want the listener to feel when they listen to the song. We’ve worked so hard on this and I’m so excited for it to be born into the world!!

What were the highs and lows while making the video?

There were so many highs of this music video! Everyone who worked on this project are such talented, genuine, and FUNNY people and it was just such a blast making real connections and making art that we are excited about. It was such a breath of fresh air after not being able to do more collaborative projects during quarantine. I really don’t remember any lows, other than the fact that we were all pretty pooped by the end of it, but it was still such an amazing time.

What's next for you?

I have a bunch more music to release very soon!! I really can’t wait to keep making genuine connections and making an impact on people’s lives through art, it really is the highlight of my life. :)