Daina Arrifin: From K-Pop Fan to Songwriting Success

Daina Arrifin, known online as Dainasaurs, has transformed her passion for K-pop into a successful songwriting career. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Daina, then 25, decided to pursue music seriously after reflecting on her aspirations while in lockdown. She began by posting covers online, utilizing her self-taught skills to study algorithms and rewrite lyrics from various perspectives. This strategic approach allowed her to gain visibility, leading to collaborations with notable artists such as Sana from Twice and ITZY.

Dainasaurs: How This Singapore K-Pop Stan Became the Secret Behind Your Favourite Hits

Daina's songwriting process involves collaboration with producers and lyricists, particularly in the K-pop industry, where she primarily writes in English. Her role as a topliner focuses on melodies and hooks, with lyrics later adapted into the final language. Daina has participated in songwriting camps in Seoul, where she collaborates with other creatives to produce songs for specific artists. She describes these camps as intense, with the goal of creating high-quality music in a short timeframe.

Dainasaurs: How This Singapore K-Pop Stan Became the Secret Behind Your Favourite Hits

Despite her success, Daina acknowledges the challenges of the music industry, including frequent rejection and issues surrounding fair pay for songwriters. She emphasizes the importance of building a strong catalogue, as many songs that do not find immediate success may still have potential in the future. Daina advises aspiring songwriters to network and continuously refine their craft, highlighting that persistence is key to achieving success in the field.

Dainasaurs: How This Singapore K-Pop Stan Became the Secret Behind Your Favourite Hits

In addition to her work as a songwriter, Daina is preparing to launch her own music independently, drawing inspiration from 2000s and 2010s R&B. She aims to introduce herself as an artist, sharing her voice and story with the world. Daina's journey reflects her dedication to the craft and her belief in the limitless possibilities within the K-pop genre, which she describes as a culture that transcends traditional music boundaries.

Dainasaurs: How This Singapore K-Pop Stan Became the Secret Behind Your Favourite Hits

Daina has expressed her belief that "music evolves quickly and innovation matters more than rigid rules," emphasizing the power of instinct in creativity. She also noted the collaborative nature of K-pop songwriting, stating, "My role as a topliner focuses on melodies, hooks, and concepts," which highlights the teamwork involved in producing a final product.

Dainasaurs: How This Singapore K-Pop Stan Became the Secret Behind Your Favourite Hits

While Daina's approach has garnered attention, some critics argue that the K-pop industry can be overly commercialized, potentially stifling artistic expression. However, Daina maintains that the collaborative environment fosters creativity and innovation.

Dainasaurs: How This Singapore K-Pop Stan Became the Secret Behind Your Favourite Hits

As Daina prepares to release her own music, she continues to write for K-pop artists while building her identity as a solo artist. Her journey from a K-pop fan to a successful songwriter exemplifies the potential for individuals to carve out their paths in the music industry.

Dainasaurs: How This Singapore K-Pop Stan Became the Secret Behind Your Favourite Hits