MonoTree: The Visionary Producers Shaping K-Pop
In the heart of South Korea’s vibrant music scene, MonoTree stands out as a powerhouse production company. Founded by renowned producers Lee Joo Hyung, Hwang Hyun, and G-high, this trio is often hailed as the "fathers of K-Pop." Over their illustrious careers, they’ve teamed up with iconic groups like KARA, Girls’ Generation, LOONA, and ONF, crafting hits that resonate with fans both locally and globally.
In a recent interview with ReacttotheK, the producers delved into their unique production styles and how collaboration with different companies influences their creative process.
"Working with artists isn’t one-size-fits-all," Lee Joo Hyung explained. The team adapted their approach depending on the specific needs of the artists or labels they collaborate with. For instance, Hwang Hyun enjoys a level of creative freedom when producing for ONF, allowing him to explore various sounds and concepts.
Yet, when working with a giant like SM Entertainment, he noted that his contributions are often guided by the company’s existing demos and requests. “There’s a structured way we handle things when working with established brands,” Hwang shared.
The producers emphasized how the nature of the artist plays a pivotal role in shaping the song’s production. When reflecting on past collaborations, Lee Joo Hyung specifically cited Wendy from Red Velvet as a standout vocalist. "Wendy has a wealth of experience in recording," he remarked, noting her ability to tackle any song with excellence.
In a thoughtful exchange with the interviewer, he expanded on Wendy’s prowess:
“Actually, she has sung a lot in my works. With her vocal directing experience, she’s well-versed in navigating different musical challenges,” Lee Joo Hyung stated.
The interviewer pressed further, asking about how she executes vocal techniques. Lee answered with enthusiasm: “There’s really no limit to her creativity; she knows how to play with her range.”
G-high joined in, echoing Lee’s sentiments about Wendy’s versatility, underscoring how she can effortlessly dive into any musical style.
As they discussed the nuances of directing her, Lee opened up about his process: "When recording with Wendy, my feedback is usually more about conveying the song’s emotions than anything technical."
He elaborated that aside from guiding emotional delivery, he often finds he doesn’t need to give her specifics on technique because her skills speak for themselves.
As the K-Pop industry continues to evolve, the insights from the MonoTree team highlight not only the changing landscape of music production but also the incredible talent that drives it. With each beat and melody, they’re not just creating songs—they’re shaping the future of K-Pop.
