IN CONVERSATION WITH TOKiMONSTA
Interview by Samo Šajn
Grammy-nominated producer, artist, and label-head TOKiMONSTA discusses her seventh studio album Eternal Reverie, set to drop March 7th on her label, Young Art Records, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024. This highly anticipated album is a deeply personal journey, shaped by both creative renewal and personal loss. She also touches on her latest single, “Lucky U” with Gavin Turek, including the release of its music video, collaborations with artists like Anderson .Paak and Cakes da Killa, and her plans for the future, including an upcoming tour and a special 10-year anniversary event at Miami Music Week.
Eternal Reverie took four years to complete. What was the most rewarding or challenging part of the creative process for this album?
Eternal Reverie was a marathon and a labor of love. The most rewarding part was seeing each track evolve into a full body of work. The challenge, however, came from life itself. My best friend became terminally ill, which led me to postpone the album and cancel a tour to care for her until her passing. This experience deeply influenced the album’s emotional depth and made its completion even more meaningful.
You mentioned that creating this album helped you rediscover joy in music. What specific moments or experiences inspired that creative renewal?
I found myself at a crossroads, feeling lost despite knowing how fortunate I was. I revisited music I made 15 years ago, before limits and expectations took hold. That reminded me of a version of myself that was free, and I tapped back into that energy, collaborating with fresh artists to reignite my passion for music.
The album features a diverse range of collaborations. How do you choose your collaborators, and what was it like working with artists like Anderson .Paak, Gavin Turek, and Cakes da Killa?
Collaboration is about genuine connection and mutual respect. Reuniting with Anderson .Paak on "On Sum" was special, as it marked 10 years since our first track together. Working with Gavin Turek on "Lucky U" felt like rekindling a strong creative chemistry. Cakes da Killa brought electrifying energy to “Switch It,” adding a unique flavor to the album.
Your upcoming single “Lucky U” with Gavin Turek drops on February 7th. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the track and what it was like working with Gavin again?
“Lucky U” is about recognizing your worth and feeling like a prize. Working with Gavin is always effortless. We have a long history of creating soulful, dance-inducing tracks, and our sessions are always filled with laughs, life updates, and mutual respect.
Your music has always explored different genres and influences. How did your travels and cultural experiences, like your time in Thailand, impact the sound of Eternal Reverie?
Travel has always inspired me. My time in Thailand exposed me to rich musical traditions and vibrant landscapes, setting the perfect mood for the album. Eternal Reverie blends personal experiences and global sounds I’ve encountered over time.
You’ve spoken about the emotional highs and lows that influenced this album, from personal loss to industry challenges. How did those emotions translate into the music?
The emotions I experienced shaped every track. The contrast of melancholy and uplifting melodies reflects grief and hope. Personal challenges brought resilience and raw emotion to the music, making this album a testament to overcoming life's complexities.
Young Art Records is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this year. How has running your own label influenced your approach to music and artist development?
Running Young Art Records has taught me the inner workings of the music industry and reinforced my commitment to nurturing emerging talent. It’s helped me understand the importance of creative freedom, influencing how I approach both my music and the artists I support.
Many of your fans connect deeply with the emotional and cinematic qualities of your music. What do you hope listeners take away from Eternal Reverie?
I hope Eternal Reverie offers comfort and connection. My music is meant to be immersive, guiding listeners through both joyful and introspective moments. Ultimately, I want it to resonate personally, acting as a soundtrack for their own stories and emotions.
You’ve worked across various creative mediums, from commercials to film collaborations. Do you see yourself expanding further into visual storytelling or other artistic spaces?
Yes! Visual storytelling has always been a passion. I’ve created my own album artwork, edited music videos, and styled myself. Exploring fashion and art more deeply is the next step as I continue pushing creative boundaries in new ways.
With the release of Eternal Reverie and a renewed sense of passion for music, what’s next for TOKiMONSTA? Any exciting plans for the future?
With Eternal Reverie’s release, I’m excited to share this new chapter. A North American tour is next, along with new music and collaborations. I’m also focused on expanding Young Art Records and continuing to support innovative projects. The future is full of possibilities, and I can’t wait to see where it goes.
