By Honorary Reporter Irina Lavrik from Russia
Photos = Frankie Biggz
Frankie Biggz, based in North America, is an Emmy-winning music producer and DJ whose career spans decades of hits and collaborations with superstars of Western music including Dr. Dre, Kanye West and Christina Aguilera.
In a video call interview via Instagram on June 12, Biggz shared his insights on Suga of K-pop sensation BTS, specifically how the latter combines technical production expertise with profound artistic and emotional depth.
The following are excerpts from the interview on June 12.
Frankie Biggz is an Emmy-winning record producer, musician, singer and songwriter.
What does Suga have in common with the stars you’ve worked with?
The one common thread I observed among these artists was a maniacal obsession with their careers. What united them was their constant drive for development, which also applies to Suga, of course. He was obsessed with his job even before he became a member of BTS.
What is your opinion of Suga as a producer?
Music production and recording have undergone several stages of evolution. And here comes someone like Suga, who can apply knowledge of all these stages alongside music, video and his image. I think that he combines the roles of a producer and artist. That’s what makes him a pioneer in recording and songwriting, as he produces music using tools and sounds that don’t exist.
Screenshots from June 12 interview with Frankie Biggz
Why do you think Suga is an attractive partner for Western music acts?
First, he is an amazing artist, sharing millions of fans around the world and this makes him attractive to any Western label. Moreover, most major artists prefer collaborating within their genre, but Suga is a producer capable of working across styles, making him an outstanding producer. Despite this, he is underrated as an artist and deserves more credit for his talents and what he’s achieved.
What benefits does collaboration offer to K-pop and Western artists?
Korean artists, especially BTS, have shown similar or even greater excellence and dedication in music and inspire many in the American industry. Korean artists have proven what artists should be like, making them appealing collaborators. K-pop is a serious force in the U.S., whether people like it or not, and is coming and going to dominate.
How do you think Suga as a producer will shape the future of K-pop?
Proving he can create and perform wonderfully as a producer and artist, Suga is redefining the role of a producer. His influence has allowed emerging producers in the West to gain visibility and opportunities to work in K-pop. Because of who he is and how well he does it, I believe that he and his music are powerful tools for uniting generations and continents.
msjeon22@korea.kr
*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.