K-RnB artist Babylon is currently on his first US tour, 'Beautiful Memories', visiting Denver, San Antonio, Kansas City, Falls Church, New York, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Sunnyvale. Babylon debuted as a soloist in 2015, taking a name inspired by the infamous bar in 'Scarface'. He has gone on to achieve success with 'Boys and Girls [with Zico]' establishing him as a strong force in Korea's rap scene. His most recent release EGO 90's PART3 is the third installation in his EGO 90's series and will be highlighted within 'Beautiful Memories' tour.
While on tour, Babylon took a moment to answer some of MIXTAPE 317's questions about preparing for tour and what he's excited to showcase to fans. Read more about what shapes his sound, being on the road and what he thinks Tony Montana would listen to from his discography.
Photo Babylon courtesy The Jack Collective
Congratulations on your ‘Beautiful Memories’ Tour! What has the experience been like getting ready for the tour, and what can fans expect to see?
Thank you so much! Preparing for my first-ever U.S. tour has been both thrilling and a little nerve-wracking. It’s a huge opportunity to connect with American fans in person, and I’m excited to share my music live. The tour will be a blend of classic and new songs, highlighting the EGO 90’s series but also featuring tracks from Hardy, MOOD, and some classic U.S. R&B hits. Fans can expect an intimate performance where I aim to connect with them like a radio DJ, guiding them through the musical journey with sincerity and passion. I want to create a space where our hearts can truly connect.
Do you have a song that you are most excited to bring to the stage and perform for fans?
One song I’m really looking forward to performing is 'Chandelier' from my MOOD album. It’s got this powerful, smooth vibe that resonates deeply with me, and I think it will translate well live. But beyond that, I’m excited to perform tracks from the EGO 90’s series, especially songs that bring back that nostalgic yet timeless feel of the 90s, but with a modern twist. I hope to see the fans enjoy every moment as much as I will.
You have a large catalog of music, EGO 90’s Part 3 alone has 25 songs. How was the experience narrowing down and coming up with the setlist?
Narrowing down the setlist was definitely a challenge, given that EGO 90’s Part 3 alone has so many songs! It took a lot of thought to find the right balance between showcasing newer releases and bringing back fan-favorites. I wanted to create a diverse musical experience that would capture the essence of my journey as an artist, while still delivering the energy and emotions that fans are looking for. It’s about creating a flow that feels natural, so each song blends into the next while keeping the audience engaged from start to finish.
You’ll be visiting [9] cities throughout the US. Going on tour, what is a must-have for you in your suitcase? / Is there anything you’ll be leaving room for in your suitcase to bring back with you?
Comfort is key on a long tour, so my must-haves include good-quality earphones, my favorite snacks, and comfortable clothes for the downtime between shows. I also like to carry something that keeps me inspired, like a journal for writing down thoughts and melodies on the road. As for what I’ll leave room for, I’m definitely looking forward to bringing back memories and gifts from fans in each city, things that remind me of the people I’ve met and the experiences we’ve shared together. Those kinds of souvenirs are irreplaceable.
October also marks your birthday. Do you have anything you want to do to celebrate, or is the tour sort of like one large birthday celebration?
Honestly, this tour feels like one big birthday celebration! Being able to perform for fans across the U.S. and connect with them through my music is the best gift I could ask for. I’m excited to share this special time with fans and create memories together. If there’s a little extra time, maybe I’ll treat myself to some delicious food in one of the cities. Celebrating with the fans and making each show unforgettable will be the perfect way to mark another year.
The name Babylon came from the name of a bar in Scarface. Which song of yours do you think Tony Montana would add to his favorites?
That’s a fun question! If Tony Montana had a favorite from my discography, I’d say it might be 'Body 2 Body' featuring PENOMECO. It’s got that blend of smoothness and intensity, with an edge that fits the character’s vibe. It’s a track that combines strong, detailed vocals with a certain coolness that I think he’d appreciate.
Your music takes on an aspect of storytelling throughout your albums. Being involved in both writing and producing, what is the creative process like when crafting your music, and where do you seek inspiration from?
My creative process is always evolving, but it’s very organic. Sometimes the melody comes first, sometimes the lyrics, but I try to let the music flow naturally, without forcing it. When I’m creating, I draw a lot from my personal memories, especially from my childhood and the music I grew up listening to. I pay attention to the colors, the language, and the vibes of that time, which helps shape my sound. I also like to challenge myself to capture different emotions—whether it’s romantic, introspective, or even a bit nostalgic.
Are there any concepts or themes you’re looking to expand upon or explore in the future?
While the EGO 90’s series is my main focus right now, I’m already thinking about the next chapter. I’m looking to explore a more chill, laid-back sound—something a little “wet,” as I like to say. I want to create music that has a smooth, flowing feel, but with a different energy from my previous projects. I’m also excited about future collaborations with American KR&B artists, which I think could bring new dimensions to my sound.
Photo Babylon courtesy The Jack Collective
Your recent release, EGO 90’s Part 3, brings elements of 90’s music into a contemporary feel. The 90’s was big for both the Korean music scene as well as for pop culture here in the U.S. Do you have a favorite 90’s trend you would like to see come back?
I’d love to see the return of those classic 90’s fashion styles—like the oversized, bold-colored jackets and chunky sneakers. There’s something about that carefree, expressive style that really matched the music of the era. And of course, the music itself—R&B tracks that had this genuine, soulful vibe. It’s timeless, and I think that’s why it still resonates with so many people today, including myself.
Lastly, as you get ready to head out on ‘Beautiful Memories,’ is there anything you want to say to your fans before meeting with them?
To all my fans, thank you for your love and support. I’m so grateful for this opportunity to share my music with you on this tour, and I hope we can create some beautiful memories together. I can’t wait to meet each of you in your cities and to feel the energy of the crowd. Let’s make this tour unforgettable—see you soon, and I love you!
Babylon
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