Written by Michelle Sy | December 12, 2025

Photos by Michelle Sy

Hailing from Houston, Texas, 23 year old musician HOHYUN is a breath of fresh air in today’s indie R&B space. Despite initially pursuing film, HOHYUN decided to pivot full-time to music in 2019. Largely known for his raw, emotional lyrics, and a sound that pulls from a variety of musical influences and aspects of his Korean-American identity, his latest album Petrichor exemplifies this extraordinarily well.

The word “petrichor” actually refers to the smell of rain following a long period of drought. While there can be multiple interpretations of why he chose this name, HOHYUN has mentioned how his mental health journey directly inspired the album. His musical direction is often tied to and impacted by the experiences of his day to day life.

It’s evident how HOHYUN’s background in film finds its way into his music. His songs feel immersive and all-encompassing, pulling you into a scene with him. The introduction to his album immediately creates an ambiance with the pitter-patter of rain sounds, minor piano progression, and a dramatic strings accompaniment. He takes this effort to his shows on tour as well, opening with one of his vulnerable voice memos: almost as if he is talking to the audience himself.

These voice memos, scattered throughout the album, are all titled after the date they took place. The first is “(04192019)”, where he talks about his aspirations for who he wants to be in five years, more sure of himself and confident. Next is “(06172024)”, a confession that he feels like he is in one of the lowest points of his life. However, near the end of the album, “(04132025)” offers a glimpse of hope and clarity. Just like the relief of the first rain after a hot and dry period, HOHYUN expresses “it feels like the beginning to the rest of my life.”

Another theme in his music is his focus on mental health advocacy; during the show, he spoke openly about how difficult it can be to seek help and support as an Asian American male. It’s refreshing to see a new generation of artists who are choosing to bring awareness to topics that have typically been seen as “taboo” in their communities. One of his ongoing goals is to help people feel seen and heard, he mentions on stage that actively choosing to get help is about “making a change for a more hopeful tomorrow.”

Despite the heavier themes to his newest album, HOHYUN carried a light-hearted, cheerful energy on stage. He encourages the audience to move and groove to some of his ballads, even bringing up someone to dance for his last song “Sunset Boulevard”. The atmosphere of the show feels very cozy, fitting for a frigid San Francisco night. His soothing vocals, dark lighting, and energizing beats definitely make for the perfect date night, setting the stage nicely for Sarah Kang.

Headliner Sarah Kang has a similar style of dreamy, slowed-down R&B. The dynamic between Sarah and HOHYUN is endearing, both artists have a personable and down-to-earth attitude. Sarah also spoke at length about her journey as an artist and a mother, specifically what it means to be both and exist in that space. She and HOHYUN performed “loml” and “bittersweet” together, two mesmerizing songs only amplified by their smooth harmonies and comfortable stage presence. Sarah mentioned that HOHYUN is one of those people where “what you see is what you get, and I love people like that.”

In the quest for authenticity in today’s day and age, HOHYUN is definitely an artist to look out for. He wears his heart on his sleeve and is unafraid to express himself exactly as he wants, and it’s evident that this is well-received. Having such an inspiring journey as an artist, he is a shining example of what hard work and fighting for your passion can lead to. His message is clear, but simple: being vulnerable is brave.