[Exclusive Interview] YY Talks “Skippy,” 88rising, and Her First Festival Stage in the U.S.

New Faces, Real Energy

YY might be a newer name to international fans, but she’s already carving out a lane of her own. Her latest track “Skippy” with YOUHA is gaining momentum fast, and with her debut at Head In The Clouds LA 2025 around the corner, there’s even more reason to keep her on your radar.

Her music blends pop, R&B, and electronic elements, but at the end of the day, it’s more about mood and feeling than sticking to any one genre. We caught up with YY to talk about this new collab, her mindset going into her first U.S. festival stage, and how joining 88rising is helping her grow.

Who is YY?

YY is a Korean singer and songwriter who leans into curiosity, emotion, and sound exploration. Now part of the 88rising family, she’s teaming up with artists like YOUHA while staying true to her own voice. Her goal is to create music that feels like a space you can step into and stay a while.

The Interview

“Skippy” just dropped with YOUHA and it’s already turning heads. What was the creative process like behind the song, and how did this collaboration come together?

“It all started with the demo. As soon as I heard it, I was like, yup, this one’s special. YOUHA and I had been wanting to work together for a while, and this felt like the perfect moment. The session was super chill. We just played around with ideas and let the energy guide us. It came together really naturally.”

This will be your first time performing at Head In The Clouds LA. How are you feeling about the upcoming stage, and what are you most looking forward to sharing with the audience?

“I’m honestly so excited and a little nervous in the best way. It’s my first time performing in LA, so that already feels big. I’m just looking forward to sharing some real moments with the crowd. I hope people can feel what I’m feeling up there.”

What does the name “YY” represent for you, and how does it reflect your identity as an artist?

“YY is part of my name, but it also plays on 'Why Why' — always questioning, always exploring. That’s kind of how I approach music too. I like to stay curious and follow where the sound takes me.”

You’ve recently joined 88rising. Has this new chapter changed how you view your music or how others see you as an artist?

“It’s been really cool. 88rising gives you space to be your full self, which I really appreciate. I feel like I’ve gotten more confident in what I want to say and how I want to say it. I think people are starting to see a clearer picture of who I am, both on and off stage.”

Who are some of your biggest artistic inspirations, and how have they shaped your sound or creative direction?

“Definitely Summer Walker. Her honesty and softness really hit me. She reminds me to keep it real. And Molly Santana — she’s just fearless and raw. I love how she doesn’t try to fit into anything. She just makes what she feels. That’s the energy I try to carry too.”

When you hit a creative block, what helps you get back into your artistic flow?

“Usually I just step away for a bit. Go outside, watch something random, or hang with friends. Sometimes the best ideas come when I’m not even trying. I’ve learned not to force it too much. It always comes back when it’s ready.”

For new fans discovering you through “Skippy” or HITC, how would you describe your style and the story you want to tell through your music?

“My sound’s kind of a mix of things. Some pop, some electronic, some R&B. But I’m more about feelings than genres. I want my music to feel like a little world you can step into. Honest, dreamy, sometimes messy. Just human.”

Last one. Do you have a message for the fans who are cheering you on and getting ready to see you live for the first time in LA?

“Thank you so much for riding with me. I can’t wait to share this with you. It’s gonna be loud, soft, sweet, weird — all the things. Hope it feels like something real for you too. See you soon.”

What’s Next

YY hits the stage at Head In The Clouds LA 2025 for her U.S. debut. Between her growing discography and new collabs, her set is one to watch. Don’t sleep on it.

Big thanks to 88rising for helping bring this interview together.

Follow YY: [Instagram]
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[Exclusive Interview] YOUHA Talks 88rising, Festival Firsts, and What She Wants Fans to Feel at HITC LA 2025