Hannah Bussiere Kim, widely known as Luna Li, rose to prominence during the pandemic with her viral video compilations. Showcasing her versatility on an array of instruments, including a harp and her signature J Mascis Squier Jazzmaster, her Jams EP has garnered over 50 million Spotify plays.
Reflecting on her musical journey, the 28-year-old artist credits these early jams for opening doors she never imagined. Her latest album, When A Thought Grows Wings, draws inspiration from contemporaries like Weyes Blood and Melody’s Echo Chamber. The record features intricate arrangements of tender strings and wistful woodwinds, highlighting her genre-defying approach.
In crafting her sophomore release, Luna Li collaborated with Andrew Lappin and 19-year-old Canadian musician Monsune, exploring complex chord progressions and expansive sounds. Her creative process extended to releasing a 22-page illustrated solo tab book to accompany her Jams EP, offering fans a personal and artistic glimpse into her music.
Touring Gear and Musical Innovations
Fresh off a two-month U.S. tour, Luna Li reflected on the unique gear she brought on stage. Her setup included a harp with a new stand for upright play, a five-string violin, and a recently learned flute. Among her guitars, an Art & Lutherie acoustic and a Vintera II ’70s Jaguar stood out. The latter, received through her partnership with Fender, complements her J Mascis Jazzmaster with its striking black finish and tortoiseshell pickguard.
On the acoustic, she shared how its compact size and built-in Fishman pickup made it versatile for live settings. She emphasized the importance of a good front-of-house engineer, crediting Niki for helping achieve the ideal tone.
Collaboration and Creative Goals
In the studio, Luna Li partnered with Andrew Lappin to push her musical boundaries. Together, they aimed for arrangements that felt full without excessive layering. Unlike her loop-based Jams EP, this album sought to explore dynamic chord progressions and modulations.
Her work with Monsune, known for collaborations with SZA and Drake, further enriched the album. Their creative synergy stemmed from shared experiences in the Toronto music scene. The resulting blend of influences from Toronto and Los Angeles added depth to the record.
Artistic Expression Beyond Music
Luna Li’s 22-page booklet accompanying her Jams EP features handwritten tabs, sheet music, and illustrations. Created during her recovery from COVID-19, the project reflects her passion for connecting with fans. Collaborating with her bassist and close friend Sabrina, who provided illustrations, Luna Li crafted a personal, DIY zine to satisfy fans’ curiosity about her guitar solos.
Advice for Aspiring Musicians
Advocating for broader participation in music, Luna Li encourages everyone to pick up an instrument. She emphasizes the importance of community, suggesting lessons or jamming with friends to foster accountability and joy in learning. “Music should be for everyone,” she says, highlighting the beauty of shared musical experiences.
Through her multifaceted artistry, Luna Li continues to inspire both seasoned musicians and those just beginning their musical journey.
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