Qymira – the evocative, genre-defying force, has had quite the year. Touring with the legendary Boyzlife, collaborating with celebrity favourite luxury brand VERGEZ, and releasing her anthem of spiritual awakening ‘Labyrinth Of Life’ are just a few impressive milestones. We caught up with the artist on her rising trajectory, musical evolution, and symbolic healing journey ahead of her vibrant next single, ‘Melodrama’.
‘Labyrinth of Life’ marks an evolution in your sound. Where do you see your music heading next?
I feel that my music is always evolving because life is evolving. I’ve always been a bit of a chameleon and love being one with my environment, so the previous tracks like “Wait for No One” was influenced by my time in Brazil with its Latin feel. Actually “Labyrinth of Life” is closer to my original sound, to my heart, what naturally comes out of me. In a way, I have gone back to my roots, with the orchestrations and darker tone. From my film works, it’s all about the story. And I love a good thought-provoking story with heart-tugging soul-stirring moments complete with its epic highs and bittersweet lows, which can be dark and take the audience on a journey. The whole “Labyrinth of Life” album is a cinematic experience that tells a single story from top to bottom, with each song scoring the rollercoaster ride of life.
You’ve already conquered charts, orchestras, and international tours. What’s left on your bucket list?
I wouldn’t quite say “conquered”, more like “experienced”. To be honest, I’ve been so blessed with the various opportunities on the music side in different countries across different genres and audiences that I am already pinching myself whenever working with orchestras or on these tours. But this year I am absolutely thrilled to also have several upcoming projects on the movie front in which I will be acting and scoring which has always been my dream. Eventually I would love to combine all of the above in a multi-media show complete with a live orchestra.
You’re been touring with Boyzlife on their UK and Ireland tour – can you share any favourite memories or standout performances?
The whole tour was absolutely unforgettable. We did 18 shows from Ireland to the UK, almost a show a day in a new city, so there are loads of beautiful memories throughout. From being with my team on the road talking stories on the tour bus for hours and straight to a new venue for sound check before stepping on stage to a different roaring audience every night to hanging out with the boyz… every memory was a favourite. One of the most memorable performances was when the music stopped playing at the London O2 Indigo and I did A Capella of “Wait for No One” and the audience sang with me, that was electrifying! And sharing the stage and singing with Boyzlife and their amazing band in York, Glasgow and Sheffield were definite highlights as well.
You were recently announced as the new face of celebrity jewellery brand, VERGEZ! Can you share more about this collaboration and how it reflects your artistry?
It’s a really exciting and special collaboration and I’m really honoured and excited to represent such an iconic brand. Philippe Vergez is a legendary designer and I have always loved his work, especially those for music legends and the iconic looks on Sex and the City movies. We met over shared experiences supporting children in need; me with my One Gaia Foundation and him supporting the House of Affection orphanage in Vietnam. Our collaboration is like what Philippe said, “Where artistry meets compassion”, as we are both strongly committed to social impact. As VERGEZ focuses on storytelling and artistryto celebrate non-conformity and self-expression, it’s a perfect match for Qymira. The custom made pieces that have been specifically designed – a violin bow, lioness choker and earrings, signature Qymira ring – all embody the spirit of Qymira, and I couldn’t be more proud to wear them in my latest movie and perform with the violin bow on tour the last couple of months. One thing is for sure, this collaboration has produced some masterpieces not for the faint hearted!
From Hong Kong to the UK and beyond, your music reflects a truly global sound. How has your multicultural background influenced your artistry?
I feel like a bartender creating colourful cocktail sometimes. I am passionate about contrasts and often enjoy marrying different styles of music and culture that I’ve had the joy to experience in my creations because I feel that fusion creates magic. Having been very fortunate to be born into a musical family in Hong Kong, raised in the U.S. and educated in the U.K. in a musically rich and diverse environment have made me who I am today. My classical training and experience with the orchestra from a young age enables me to express with my piano, violin and compose music that is both melodically and harmonically driven. The RnB influences make me create rhythmic melodies with soulful chords. Add a dash of Latin spice sometimes and you have a fusion menu that’s a bit of a feast for the senses.
You’ve had chart-topping dance hits, but “Labyrinth of Life” has a darker, cinematic edge. Is this a new direction for you?
“Labyrinth of Life” with its darker and cinematic edge actually is closer to my roots. Being classically trained and in orchestras from young meant that I naturally write with the piano and strings in mind. It was spine-chilling to work with a 60-piece orchestra with members of the Philippine Philharmonic on “Labyrinth of Life” where I was able to weave the different instrumentation in and out like a labyrinth. Along with the symbolic lyrics, it’s like scoring a movie, which again is going back to my roots in films. The whole “Labyrinth of Life” album is a movie and soundtrack of songs that tells a story, which will give a sense of where my music is headed – cinematic and thought-provoking, straight from my heart.
