“Let frustrations and heartbreaks fade out and allow new people and things—those that bring you hope—to fade in,” soul/R&B artist Shi Shi tells Apple Music about the concept behind her Lunar New Year playlist. “It starts with something darker and sad but then progresses to a happier mood towards the end.”
For the Korean-born, Taiwan-based artist, the pandemic downtime might have been a blessing in disguise—actually, two blessings. “I bought an apartment, so I finally have my own place,” she says. “And I released an album that I’m really happy about.” Her fifth album, Where Is SHI?, explores womanhood, her shadow self and a sense of belonging while showing off the transition in production from the typical Mandopop palette to a full-bodied, indie-leaning soul/R&B sound—the inspiration for which is featured in this playlist. “Khalil Fong gave me a lot of inspiration writing Chinese-speaking songs,” she says. “And bands like Se So Neon or Sunset Rollercoaster are what I listen to casually.” Meanwhile, BIBI, another young rising South Korean act, is empowering as ever. “She boldly expresses her sexuality. It’s not easy to do that in Asia.”
Looking towards the new year, Shi Shi is ready to step on the gas and take action—including work on a new album and EP. “Instead of wishing for something, I’ll try to be more practical. We don’t always have to chase after dreams blindly. I think the priority is understanding yourself and knowing where you stand, then chase after whatever you want.”
