Discover DAMI's Solo Journey with 'Chequered Flag'

DAMI. A name familiar to many, and yet still waiting to be discovered by others. Yes, you guessed it, I’m talking about Dreamcatcher’s DAMI, who just released her first solo single on October 31.

Written by Lucie Gougeon

After seven successful years in Dreamcatcher filled with numerous EPs, albums, singles, and even a solo track named “Beauty Full” allowing us to get a glimpse of her individual colors, DAMI has returned to delight her fans with the self-produced single “Chequered Flag”.

Inspired by the Formula 1 documentary series “Drive to Survive”, “Chequered Flag” presents a new version of DAMI. One that feels more personal, sharing her vision and talent as an independent artist. Having been interested in music production for a while, this release marks the first step of an exciting new journey for her.

DAMI posing for a promotional photo for her single 'Chequered Flag', featuring vibrant lighting and a stylish outfit. — Courtesy of DAMI Official

In this interview with SLR Magazine, DAMI shares her journey on this new path, the making of “Chequered Flag,” and her growth as a solo, self-produced artist.

SLR: You recently released your first solo song “Chequered Flag” inspired by F1. What message did you want to express through this track?

I want to share a message of encouragement: ‘Let us transcend our limits and push beyond for dreams and growth, seeing it through till the very end.’

SLR: What’s your favorite line or lyric in the song, and why does it stand out to you?

I’ll say my favourite part is ‘엔진은 두 번째 심장’ (The engine is my second heart). It’s a brilliant expression that shows if you have passion and the drive within yourself to achieve your goals, there’s no place you can’t go and nothing you can’t do.

SLR: The concept and sound feel very unique, bold and EDM coded. How did you develop your solo identity and artistic direction? Is EDM a kind of music you enjoy a lot ?

I spent a lot of time thinking about what kind of music would suit the F1 vibe and match my voice, and I ended up choosing EDM. I actually listen to it quite often, and whenever I go through EDM playlists, I find myself completely lost in the mood.

SLR: What was it like working on a solo project compared to Dreamcatcher’s group activities?

I really felt the absence of the members. There was no one to react and say things like “You did a great recording!” or “The photos look great!”, so it felt a bit empty. While recording and shooting nonstop on my own, I truly realized that I had to lead everything myself, and that gave me an even stronger sense of responsibility.

SLR: Yoohyeon was featured on your single this time. Do you plan to release more songs featuring other members in the future?

I think it would be exciting. It would be interesting to explore a new concept or feeling that the members haven’t experienced before, and I believe we would have a great time working on it together as well. If a good opportunity arises, I would like to take part in it with all the members.

SLR: Are there any artists, genres, or themes you’d like to explore next as a solo artist?

I enjoy music that I can share with my fans and enjoy together. So, I would love to work on energetic songs which during concerts, my fans can sing along with me and spend a great moment together.

SLR: What part did you enjoy the most while working on your release?

It was truly delightful to see that the plans I had imagined in my head were starting to come to life, one by one. Each time something was achieved – whether it was my voice filling the music the way I had envisioned, or the amazing photo shoot expressing the music – I felt a deep satisfaction and joy.

SLR: You’ve often mentioned how much you care about your fans. How did they inspire or support you while preparing for your solo debut?

When I asked my fans, ‘What kind of songs do you want to listen to? Which songs are you listening to lately?’, many of them replied they still and always listen to Dreamcatcher’s music. Then I realized how much they truly love us for who we are, and it gave me such confidence to prepare my solo debut even more thoroughly.

SLR: If “Chequered Flag” was a race, what kind of driver would DAMI be?

I think I’m the kind of driver who never misses an opportunity. I maintain a steady pace throughout the race, and when the right opportunity comes, I would push all the way to reach the finish line and win.

SLR: You’ve achieved so much with Dreamcatcher and now with your solo debut Looking ahead, what’s one dream you’d love to accomplish next?

As Dreamcatcher and as a solo artist, I constantly want to meet our fans. I hope to continue connecting with fans all around the world and see my music spread worldwide. I hope to be an artist who produces music that many people enjoy and love.

SLR: Finally, what message would you like to share with your fans who are cheering for your solo journey?

Thank you so much for waiting and always cheering me on. I’ll promise to share lots of various and awesome songs with you. Let’s have fun together and go wild!!