by martina rexrode
photo courtesy of alexa
With an impressive list of achievements already under her belt, rising superstar AleXa is ready to channel her 2000s pop-punk roots in her latest single “sick.” Prior to this release, AleXa saw success by winning NBC’s American Song Contest in 2022 with her song “Wonderland,” and performing as the first solo Korean artist at iHeart Radio’s Jingle Ball back in December. “sick” taps into the complications of being with someone who appears to be the perfect partner but who also makes you feel undeserving of their love, but it also holds space for dozens of different interpretations. This spring, AleXa will embark on the first part of her tour in the US. Stay up to date with future tour and music announcements by following her on social media (@alexa_zbofficial).
I have to start by congratulating you on your new single! How does it feel to have “sick” out in the world for fans to listen to?
AleXa: “Thank you! I’m happy to be releasing new music after a long while — I hope the fans anticipate my upcoming album.”
Can you tell us a little about the inspiration or the meaning behind this single?
AleXa: “While I didn’t write the song myself, I like to think the lyrics are open to interpretation based on individual personal experiences; the way I read into the lyrics is the opposite of the surface meaning. My personal interpretation of the lyrics are the complete opposite of its initial intent; I see the story of ‘sick’ as the person you’re with/you love being so self-centered with a god-complex that it makes you sick.”
How does “sick” set itself apart from your past releases? Were you able to tap into any new sides of yourself as an artist for this release?
AleXa: “It’s one of my first fully English songs that is meant for a more Western audience. I’m just happy to try out different genres.”
What made you choose “sick” as your first single of the new year?
AleXa: “We had received a handful of songs for the first single pitch, but the team thought that the easy-listening vibes of ‘sick’ would make a good starting point.”
Can fans expect more of the 2000s pop-punk sound from you? Are there other genres you want to explore in the future?
AleXa: “I want to stay in the pop-punk/emo genre as long as I can; my next single is reminiscent of the music I grew up listening to, and I’m excited to share it.”
You’ve already announced part one of your “sick of you” US tour dates. Which aspects of touring are you the most excited for? Can you share anything about what you’ve prepared without giving too much away?
AleXa: “I’m excited to go to my hometown and to the historic venue of Cain’s Ballroom! There will be never before seen stages and new songs!!”
How has your experience as a dancer and a performer on Korean survival shows bled into your career as it exists today?
AleXa: “Everything I’ve experienced within the world of performing, from childhood till now, has helped shape me into the performer that I am today. I’m grateful for every dance teacher I’ve ever had and for the support I’ve had from my peers.”
After being the first Korean solo artist to perform at iHeart Radio’s Jingle Ball in December, you’re already breaking records and making a name for yourself globally. What goals do you have for yourself this year both creatively and personally?
AleXa: “I’m hoping for a mini album release in summer and to tour globally!!! I want to feel accomplished at the end of the year. I also want to write more music for myself and other artists, as well. Hopefully my personal works can be shared with the world.”