KYXORA and the Bedroom Control Room, An Interview –

Born in Hong Kong and now based in the UK, KYXORA operates at the intersection of discipline and curiosity. Classically trained to Grade 8 across piano and vocals, with percussion and theory in her toolkit, she has channelled that grounding into a self-built electronic practice shaped entirely within her own bedroom studio. This interview traces how early cultural shifts sharpened her ear, how formal study gave her the confidence to take full control of songwriting, mixing, and mastering, and why imagination sits at the centre of everything she creates. From sci-fi narratives and retro-futurist atmospheres to the quiet doubts that surface before a final master, KYXORA speaks candidly about independence, creative pressure, and the private rituals that guide each track before it leaves her hands.

You were born in Hong Kong and trained in the UK. How did those early shifts in environment shape the way you relate to music and sound on a personal level?

The music scene in Hong Kong is predominantly shaped by pop and R&B ballads. This limited exposure to a broader spectrum of musical styles has fostered my appreciation for diversity in music.

When I moved to the UK for my studies, I discovered the exciting world of EDM. Learning music production from scratch became a pivotal experience that broadened my musical horizons. I found the process of creating electronic music to be not only fascinating but also deeply fulfilling. The freedom and time I had for self-development in music technology during this period proved invaluable.

Before university, you clocked Grade 8 in piano and singing, plus percussion and music theory. How did that formal grounding change the way you now approach electronic production from your bedroom studio?

Having a solid foundation in classical music is a significant advantage for me as a music producer. It enables me to compose melodic hooks by drawing on my expertise in piano and vocals. My skills in percussion allow me to craft enticing rhythms and innovative beats, while my understanding of music theory provides a framework for song structure and arrangement.

By blending this knowledge with various mixing techniques, I create unique works within my catalog. However, I find sound design for electronic music to be quite complex, and I am continually learning and growing as I navigate this path in music production!

You create everything yourself, from songwriting through to mixing and mastering. What first pushed you to trust your own ears and take full control of the process?

Studying music and music technology, along with learning various instruments, has empowered me to trust my ears and expertise while developing essential skills for every aspect of the music production process. My ambition is to become a versatile music producer, and by taking full control of the entire process, I can convey my creative vision to the audience. This approach allows me to communicate the message, imagery, and mood within my tracks effectively.

When you’re starting a new track, what usually comes first for you: a melody on piano, a rhythm idea, or a feeling you want to sit inside?

Most of the time, a riff or hook is the first idea that comes to mind. I input it using my MIDI keyboard and then envision the overall vibe for the track. From there, I select the appropriate sounds, construct the beats, and consider how to layer each section. I also decide on the effects I want in the mix and outline the song structure. Finally, I jot down all these elements in my plan.

However, I am eager to challenge myself by creating tracks across a variety of music genres. There are times when I simply want to craft a track that captures a specific vibe or atmosphere!

Sci-fi imagery and retro-futurist moods appear naturally in your work. What pulls you towards those themes when you’re shaping a track?

For “Sci-Fi Wonders,” I envision it as a journey of exploration through the galaxy in a spaceship. The eccentric yet captivating beats represent the ship’s navigation, while the FX sounds depict objects moving past. Softer synth tones evoke the beauty of stars and planets. The track transitions between these two distinct sections, contrasting in mood. The climax signifies the convergence of both themes, creating a euphoric sensation.

I aim to create music that encourages listeners to think and imagine specific scenarios, feelings, or situations. My goal is to depict emotions, evoke subtle memories, and convey a message or story through my compositions.

Working independently can come with its own pressures. What have been the toughest moments so far, and what’s helped you push through them?

When I first began creating electronic music, I often found myself struggling with sound design, trying to nail the precise sounds I wanted in my tracks. With limited resources, I focused on doing my best in every aspect of the production process, even though I lacked confidence in certain areas. Additionally, I often wonder whether people will appreciate my next track or if it aligns with their tastes. Before I distribute my music, I take a final listen with my eyes closed, reflecting on whether all the elements I envisioned—such as imagery, audio effects, and mix levels—are effectively present.

Being an independent music producer, without the pressure of relying on it as my primary income, allows me the freedom to work without rigid timelines or deadlines. This flexibility provides me with ample time to unleash my creativity and refine my tracks to perfection.

Outside of music, what parts of your life quietly feed into your sound, whether that’s films, late-night habits, or how you unwind after a long session?

It may be the emotions and moods shaped by my life experiences that I wish to translate into my music. Inspiration can strike in various places—whether in the bathroom, in my dreams, at pop concerts, or simply by gazing up at the sky!

When someone listens to your music for the first time, what do you hope they walk away feeling or thinking about themselves?

I want listeners to engage their imagination and fully absorb the mood and emotions conveyed in my music. I also hope my compositions inspire them to recall memories they may have tucked away in the back of their minds.

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Stream KYXORA’s latest release on Spotify. 

Interview by Amelia Vandergast