EJAE, the Multi-Hyphenate Music Maven, Drops Evocative New Single ‘Time After Time’ Amidst Oscar Buzz and Groundbreaking Grammy Win.
The musical landscape is once again captivated by the distinct artistry of EJAE, the Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter, who has just unveiled her latest single, “Time After Time.” This deeply introspective track marks her highly anticipated return to solo releases, following last year’s ethereal “In Another World,” and solidifies her burgeoning reputation as a formidable voice in contemporary music.
“Time After Time” delves into the raw, often relentless emotional aftermath of a relationship’s end, presenting itself as an infectious heartbreak anthem that resonates with universal familiarity. EJAE masterfully crafts a narrative that explores the lingering echoes of a former lover, a poignant cycle of thoughts and memories that persist long after the official close of a chapter. Her lyrics, imbued with a delicate blend of vulnerability and resilience, paint a vivid picture of a heart grappling with attachment, even when reason dictates otherwise. The track’s infectious melody, coupled with its profound lyrical depth, creates a compelling listening experience that is both danceable and deeply reflective.
The genesis of “Time After Time” offers a glimpse into EJAE’s authentic songwriting process. Reflecting on the inspiration behind the single, EJAE shared, “The melody of ‘Time After Time’ was stuck in my head for years, just like the person I wrote it about.” This candid revelation underscores the profound personal connection she has with her work, suggesting that her most resonant compositions often spring from deeply held, long-gestating emotions. It speaks to the power of music as a therapeutic outlet, transforming personal experiences into shared emotional landscapes for her audience. This ability to transmute private pain into public art is a hallmark of truly compelling songwriters, and EJAE demonstrates this with striking clarity in her latest offering.
While “Time After Time” marks a significant moment in her solo career, EJAE is no stranger to global success and critical acclaim. Her journey to becoming a household name began in a fascinating and groundbreaking arena: the world of animated film music. EJAE soared to international prominence as the singing voice of Rumi, a key character in the acclaimed Netflix animated film, “KPop Demon Hunters.” This role not only showcased her vocal prowess but also positioned her at the forefront of a unique cultural phenomenon. The fictional girl group from the film, Huntr/X, became an unexpected sensation, defying the boundaries between animation and reality by scoring an impressive four Billboard Top 10 songs. This unprecedented achievement highlighted EJAE’s immense talent and her crucial contribution to the film’s musical success, demonstrating her ability to imbue animated characters with genuine musical artistry that resonated with millions worldwide. The crossover appeal of K-Pop-inspired music within an animated Western production illustrated the expanding global reach of diverse musical genres and EJAE’s pivotal role in bridging these creative worlds.
Beyond her contributions to “KPop Demon Hunters,” EJAE’s recent accolades have been nothing short of spectacular, solidifying her status as one of the industry’s most celebrated talents. This year alone, she has garnered both a Critics Choice Award and a Golden Globe Award for her work on “Golden.” This evocative track, co-written with a formidable team including Mark Sonnenblick, 24, IDO, and TEDDY, has not only captured the hearts of critics and audiences but has also earned a prestigious nomination for an Academy Award. The recognition from these major awards bodies—the Critics Choice Awards, known for celebrating excellence in film and television, and the Golden Globe Awards, a key precursor to the Oscars—underscores the profound impact and artistic merit of “Golden.” Its journey from conception to an Oscar nomination is a testament to the collaborative brilliance of its creators and EJAE’s profound musicality, establishing her as a significant force in the competitive landscape of film soundtracks.
The capstone of her recent achievements, however, arrived in the form of a coveted Grammy Award. This triumph, a lifelong dream for countless musicians, left EJAE in a state of profound reflection and gratitude. In a heartfelt statement, she shared her overwhelming emotions: “I am still trying to process this whole past week, I still can’t believe I was even nominated for a Grammy… Growing up I always dreamed of winning one, but it felt so impossible.” Her words capture the surreal experience of achieving a dream that once seemed unattainable, a sentiment many aspiring artists can intimately understand. The Grammy, often considered the pinnacle of musical achievement, represents not just recognition from peers but also a validation of years of dedication, sacrifice, and relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.
EJAE’s acknowledgment of the Recording Academy and her gratitude extended beyond mere professional thanks; it carried a deeper, more personal resonance. “Thank you to the Grammys and the whole recording academy for this insane honor…this means so much to me as a musician, and even more as an Asian-American woman.” This powerful statement underscores the multifaceted significance of her win. For EJAE, the award is not just a personal triumph but a beacon of hope and representation. In an industry where diversity and inclusion are still ongoing battles, her success as an Asian-American woman sends a potent message of possibility and inspiration. It highlights the breaking of barriers and the increasing visibility of underrepresented voices, reminding countless young women, particularly those from Asian communities, that their dreams are valid and achievable. This recognition serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of music, celebrating talent irrespective of background and paving the way for future generations. Her win becomes a symbol of resilience, a tangible reminder that perseverance in the face of perceived impossibilities can lead to historic achievements.
She further elaborated on the broader implications of her journey, stating, “This award is a reminder to never give up, to not be afraid to take risks, and to stay resilient.” These words encapsulate a philosophy that has clearly guided her remarkable career. From transitioning between different musical roles to embracing new creative challenges, EJAE’s path exemplifies the courage required to navigate the often-unpredictable currents of the entertainment industry. Her ability to pivot from a celebrated songwriter behind the scenes to a captivating solo artist, all while maintaining her integrity and artistic vision, speaks volumes about her inner strength and unwavering commitment to her craft. This message of resilience is particularly empowering for her female audience, who often face unique obstacles in professional pursuits.
Her impact and growing influence have not gone unnoticed by leading industry publications. *Variety*, a benchmark of entertainment news, recently recognized EJAE as one of its “10 Artisans to Watch in Songwriting.” This prestigious list highlights individuals whose creative contributions are shaping the future of music and film, acknowledging her exceptional talent and foresight. Further cementing her status, EJAE is slated to be honored at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival Variety Artisans Awards, where her work on “Golden” will be specifically celebrated. This recognition from a respected film festival underscores her versatility, demonstrating her ability to craft music that not only stands alone but also elevates cinematic storytelling, proving her prowess extends beyond traditional pop and into the realm of acclaimed film composition.
Before stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, EJAE had already established an impressive legacy as a prolific and sought-after songwriter for some of K-Pop’s biggest names. Her credits read like a who’s who of global music sensations, showcasing her profound understanding of crafting chart-topping hits. She lent her songwriting talents to AESPA’s electrifying tracks “Drama” and “Armageddon,” contributing to the group’s reputation for innovative and powerful soundscapes. Red Velvet’s iconic track “Psycho” also bears her creative imprint, a song celebrated for its sophisticated production and enduring appeal within the K-Pop canon. Furthermore, EJAE has collaborated with a host of other leading artists, including Le Sserafim, TWICE, Taeyeon, NMIXX, and FiftyFifty, solidifying her reputation as a hitmaker behind the scenes. Her ability to consistently deliver captivating melodies and insightful lyrics for such diverse and successful groups highlights her versatility and deep musicality, demonstrating a keen ear for what resonates with a global audience. This rich background as a foundational force in K-Pop has undoubtedly honed her skills, providing a robust foundation for her current solo endeavors and allowing her to transition seamlessly from crafting hits for others to forging her own unique artistic path.
“Time After Time,” a testament to EJAE’s evolving artistry and deeply personal narrative, is released by Universal Music and is now available to stream on all major platforms, inviting listeners worldwide to immerse themselves in her latest emotional journey.
