NYLON NINETEEN
The R&B artist on sleep paralysis demons, McDonald’s breakfast, and Korean reality television.
Emerging R&B artist Audrey Nuna celebrated her 22nd birthday a little differently than her peers, using the day to drop her first track of 2021, “Space.” The track about needing some — wait for it! — space features stripped down, contemplative instrumentals that really let Nuna’s delicate vocals shine bright, making us stoked on what’s to come from the Korean-American singer-rapper.
The video for “Space” is also a sight to behold, and Nuna amped up the artistry with palatial living rooms, miles of braids, and towering gowns. She’s clearly got the taste to back up the talent, and she let NYLON into her brain to get to know her better. Below, Nuna offers her takes on ghosts, the importance of hyper-deep sleep, and why she never gets a hangover.
1.
What’s your astrological sign (and do you believe in it)?
I’m an Aries, which is a fire sign, but to be honest I feel like I’m more an earth or water sign.
2.
Do you believe in ghosts, (and have you ever seen one)?
I do... I get sleep paralysis pretty often and the same dude visits me every time.
3.
What’s your go-to drink order? (And if it's boozy, what’s your go-to hangover cure?)
Whiskey neat. I like Basil Hayden’s. I don’t really get hungover because I rarely overdo it.
4.
Who would be the three headliners of the music festival of your dreams?
MF DOOM, rest in peace. Sade. And Radiohead.
5.
What's the weirdest snack that you make?
My grandpa taught me how to make Dalgona, which is basically burnt sugar and baking soda. Sounds mediocre, but it hits.
6.
What was the last internet rabbit hole you went down?
Immortal jellyfish.
7.
Describe your worst date in three words.
A bit boring.
8.
If you could be in any music video, what would it be?
The next music video that the Safdie Brothers direct.
9.
What was your favorite movie as a kid?
Spirited Away, no doubt.
10.
What was your teenage AIM screen name? What lyrics would make up your AIM away message today?
Solidsinger101. The lyrics would be “Pretty Boy Swag.”
11.
What's your favorite meme/internet joke and why?
Anything Casey Frey. He gives me joy.
12.
What's your go-to breakup song?
“Just Before The Rain” by Dutch.
13.
What is your favorite red carpet look of all time worn by someone else?
Rihanna at the 2014 CFDAs. the Swarovski crystals look.
14.
What is one thing everyone should buy that is under $10?
McDonald’s breakfast.
15.
What piece of clothing from high school do you wish you kept?
My sunshine yellow Stussy bucket hat. I tragically sold it on Depop.
16.
What is your go-to sad song?
At the moment, “Borderline” by Baby Rose. Anything Radiohead, too, although they’re amazing at making songs that are sad and euphoric at the same time.
17.
What reality show would you most like to appear on?
Running Man, it’s this South Korean reality show my mom used to watch when I was a kid.
18.
What is your best beauty tip or trick?
Deep, deep, deep sleep.
19.
What is your favorite fast food place, and what’s your order?
Popeye’s spicy chicken sandwich. Period.
