Kris, an artist whose sound has continuously evolved since his debut, has always stayed true to his artistic vision. Whether through his powerful rock-infused hip-hop or more experimental takes on traditional sounds, he never shies away from vulnerability or confronting the darker aspects of his journey.

His latest release, Dead Inside, reflects the emotional depths he has traversed throughout his personal and artistic journey. This double single, which includes the hauntingly titled song Dead Inside and the expressive Friends with Benefits, presents a powerful contrast between vulnerability and defiance, isolation and connection. With fierce emotion, Kris opens up a window into his emotional journey, exploring the depths of heartbreak, regret, and the temporary comfort of short-lived relationships.

Through Dead Inside, Kris paints the portrait of a soul scarred by past mistakes, while Friends with Benefits compares the appeal of shallow pleasures against the inner anguish of love unfulfilled. Together, they create a musical and thematic journey that represents the vulnerability of a wounded heart, the pursuit of peace, and the constant longing to escape emotional conflict.

We recently sat down with Kris, just after the release of his single, to discuss the inspiration behind his latest work and talk about the themes of Dead Inside and Friends with Benefits. We explored how these tracks reflect his personal journey, the emotions expressed through his music, and the powerful contrasts that make this release uniquely his.

View of the Arts: You have just released your double single, Dead Inside, which features a titled track of the same name and Friends with Benefits. Your new work presents a fascinating contrast. How do these two songs intertwine thematically and musically, and what narrative or emotional journey do they create when listened to together?

Kris Main: This album tells the story of someone (myself) who left a deep scar on someone they loved with all their heart, resulting in unbearable pain. In an attempt to numb that pain, they then engage in shallow, pleasure-driven relationships born out of curiosity. Everyone has experienced the pain of a breakup for different reasons, but the agony of losing someone I loved due to my own mistakes felt worse than death. That’s the emotion I wanted to express. What follows is the emptiness and the effort to fill that void. I hope listeners see it as the story of an immature and incomplete artist navigating the depths of painful love.

VOA: Dead Inside depicts the themes of regret. What motivated you to explore such vulnerable emotions, and how did you translate them into the song’s intense and dynamic soundscape?

KM: I’ve done things that hurt the other person deeply – things I shouldn’t have done when I was younger. Every part of it is filled with regret. Some people deal with regret in silence, but I’m the type who roars and lashes out, so I expressed it in a raw, aggressive way.

VOA: Rock has been a keystone of your sound since I’m Not Sorry. How did you approach making the distinct rock energy in Dead Inside and Friends with Benefits, and what techniques or influences did you draw upon to ensure these tracks stood out within your repertoire?

KM: I’ve always prioritised fusion and harmony. Even imbalance can be beautiful, and perfect balance can sometimes look dull. That’s why I constantly try to merge familiar yet rough sounds with my identity, which has shaped my musical style.

Read More: KRIS MAIN on “I am Not Sorry”

VOA: When it comes to Dead Inside, what aspects of your personal journey or creative vision shaped the song’s narrative?

KM: I don’t usually express my struggles outwardly, but for this song, I tried to show what’s inside me. Honestly, it feels a little embarrassing.

VOA: Friends with Benefits carries a title that invites listeners to reflect on modern relationships. How did you explore this concept lyrically, and what do you hope the song conveys about the emotional challenges or contradictions within these types of connections? For those who may not speak Korean, could you briefly describe the essence of the lyrics?

KM: The song honestly portrays a relationship that started purely out of fun and curiosity but gradually turned into love. If you watch a teen romance movie and then listen to the track, you’ll feel even more immersed in it.

VOA: Your sound has evolved since your debut with Dior Dream in 2021. How do you think it has changed over the years, and what influences have shaped your music the most?

KM: In 2021 and 2022, I mostly focused on mixing hip-hop with rock. These days, I experiment more – for example, using country-style guitar techniques to create a metal sound or adding live drums to hip-hop rhythms. I’m now approaching genres so creatively that they almost lose their traditional meaning. My biggest influences are my favorite artists and various experiences in life: BIG S/O Nate Sib, BMTH, and The Chainsmokers.

VOA: You’ve worked across multiple genres, from pop-punk to hip-hop and R&B. How do you decide which genre or style best suits a particular story or emotion you want to express?

KM: Rather than deciding on a genre, I try to express my artistic philosophy – ‘beauty in rawness’ – as much as possible through sound. Since rock aligns best with my values, I tend to incorporate rock elements into my work.

VOA: Producing music for shows like Show Me The Money, High Rapper, and Sign Here speaks to your versatility as an artist. How do you balance creating for yourself versus for others, and how do those experiences influence your own work?

KM: I’ve been working as a K-pop producer since high school, so creating music for others has always felt like creating music for myself. That’s why I don’t really see it as balancing two things – it’s all part of the same process for me.

VOA: Pop-punk and rock have seen a resurgence in recent years, but you’ve also infused them with your own flair. What is the key to keeping these genres fresh and relevant in today’s music landscape?

KM: Honestly, I think when a genre becomes trendy, it’s because of increased media exposure. Pop-punk and rock were hugely hyped around 2020–2021 because teen culture and Y2K aesthetics were blowing up on platforms like TikTok. Lately, with so much happening globally and a more melancholic vibe spreading, genres like shoegaze are getting attention. Media plays a massive role. And of course, having standout stars is one of the most crucial factors in keeping genres relevant.

VOA: As a singer-songwriter and producer, what challenges have you faced in maintaining creative control over your work while also meeting industry expectations?

KM: A while ago, when I was working with Warner Music, they suggested I do something other than rock since it wasn’t mainstream. But I stood my ground and said no. After a few back-and-forths, I was able to protect my musical identity. Situations like this make me realise that I don’t really care about compromise or fitting into expectations. If I like something, I do it.

VOA: Looking ahead, what can fans expect from you in terms of new music or collaborations? Are there any specific themes or styles you’re excited to explore further?

KM: This year, I have lots of exciting global activities lined up, and the Lips’ album, featuring artists LAVEEN and TAEBIN, is also coming out. Please show it lots of love and support. Thank you for always loving and supporting me. I exist because of you all.

Written and interviewed by Maggie Gogler

Featured image courtesy of URIUN

_{View of the Arts is an online publication dedicated to films, music, and arts, with a strong focus on the Asian entertainment industry. With rich content already available to our readers, we aim to expand our reach and grow alongside our audience by delving deeper into emerging platforms such as K-pop and Asian music more broadly. At the same time, we remain committed to exploring the vibrant and ever-evolving global landscape of film, music, and the arts, celebrating the immense talent and creativity that define these industries worldwide.}