SAAY is Okay with Being Different
If you haven’t heard of SAAY, settle down, because this stylish Korean R&B singer is our latest obsession. Formerly a member of girl group EvoL, she debuted as a soloist in 2017 and is now signed to Universal Music. The former Soundcloud gem is slowly breaking through to the mainstream and has been grinding with constant releases to establish her own sound. On July 2, SAAY released her third U.S. single, “I’m Okay,” meant to be an ode to the single ladies in the world and a breakup anthem. With the release, she also provided a simple live video of her belting out the tune for fans to enjoy, coupled with a skyline view to die for.
Prior to this new jazzy R&B single, SAAY had released other songs this year including the slow and cozy “Winter” featuring Woo and the groovy “DON’T KNOW” featuring punchnello. She also sang an OST for the drama Nobody Knows, titled “Happiness.” SAAY has become known for her honest and raw persona, which can be heard in her music and is also reflected through her social media. This singer is not afraid to be relatable and take the time to interact with her fans, while showcasing her keen fashion sense, making it easier to appreciate her hard work.
Though she has consistently provided new music, SAAY’s most notable and popular song is “ZGZG,” a sassy and catchy bop released last summer that you’ll be hooked on after the first listen. The accompanying music video is filled with fabulous outfits and dance formations you’ll want to recreate yourself. With a combination of rap, swag, and of course, her enviable singing ability, this single really shook the table and raised SAAY’s performance bar up a notch while also providing something different and fresh from other K-pop releases.
While she continues to bless us with new songs to curb our thirst, Saay’s previous projects have already successfully established her distinct sound. She released a full album in 2018 entitled Claassic, with features from Crush, punchnello, and Tish Hyman, which showcased her vocal range and flows well with soothing beats, crooning tunes, and equally groovy verses. Her sound is a crisp blend of throwback and contemporary R&B, coupled with an encapsulating pop flare and a splash of hip-hop. Her combination of unique choreography, confidence, positive energy and unique fashion sense demand attention, and will surely help her receive the credit she deserves as a budding artist.
If you’re late to the SAAY train, don’t worry, because it’s never too late to discover someone new. The solo singer is creating her own lane, oozing confidence, and bringing her favorite musical genres to center stage. Whether it be about love, life, or simply fun, SAAY knows how to captivate an audience while pushing the boundaries of performance and creativity.