JoySauce Radio: Range is all the rage
Whether you're in the mood to slow dance or turn it up for the rest of the summer, we got you
From left, cover art for “Picasso” by EPEX, “Sweet Satin Boy” by hannah bahng, and “Say” by Johnny Huynh.
Photo illustration by Ryan Quan
Words by Anjana Pawa
JoySauce Radio: Consider JoySauce Radio our own personal song recommendations—from the tunes and videos our writers love to DJ-produced mixes of dance floor bangers—all from Asian and Pacific Islander artists around the world.
This month’s JoySauce Radio roundup is all about range, whether it’s emotional, sonic, or visual. From the vulnerability of rising alt-pop voices, to the high energy of a fourth-gen K-pop group, and the shimmery sounds of disco revival, each of these tracks each brings something distinct to the table from artists from the Asian diaspora, who are looking to make their mark. Whether you’re looking to slow dance with your feelings or turn the volume all the way up the rest of this summer, there’s something for everyone.
“Precious” by ROHAN
Melbourne and San Francisco-based artist and producer ROHAN explores the power of unconditional love on his latest single, “Precious.” The feel-good track was inspired by his dog, Kosta, but the artist explains that it expands to honor love in all its forms, whether that’s between friends, family, or us and our pets. In the lyrics, he reflects on the kind of love that asks for nothing but gives everything and the ukulele and synth beats create a dreamy and unique sonic backdrop.
“Sweet Satin Boy” by hannah bahng
Songwriter and composer Hannah Bahng, who you may know as the younger sister of Stray Kids’ Bang Chan, is forging a path that’s entirely her own. Her latest release, “Sweet Satin Boy” is a swoon-worthy alt-pop tune that features her soft vocals and lush, lo-fi instrumentals. The accompanying music video leans fully into Bahng’s dreamy aesthetic—it’s vulnerable, soft, and a little bit sultry. “Sweet Satin Boy” doesn’t just sound like a daydream, it is one.
“Say” by Johnny Huynh
Seattle-based, Vietnamese American artist Johnny Huynh delivers a high-energy, emotional punch with his latest track. First gaining traction on TikTok through his covers, the rising pop artist now has a growing catalog of soulful original songs. “Say” explores the longing and miscommunication that can haunt many relationships. The heavy emotions are effortlessly expressed through Huynh’s breathy vocals and the pulsing beat that accompanies them.
“Cut & Rewind” by Say She She
Brooklyn-based trio Say She She are bringing back disco and soul with a modern flair. The three-piece girl group, which includes members Piya Malik, Nya Gizelle Brown, and Sabrina Chunningham, have been praised by some of the best in the industry, including Questlove and Nile Rodgers. “Cut & Rewind” is a retro-inspired tune with silky harmonies, funky guitar, and synths straight out of the 1970s that pay homage to the golden era of disco. These cool girls are not afraid to be loud, proud, and authentically themselves.
“Picasso” by EPEX
EPEX is a rising fourth-gen K-pop boy group known for balancing energetic choreography with interesting and narrative driven concepts. “Picasso” continues that thread, exploring themes of identity, and finding beauty in times of darkness, while melding sharp beats and dynamic rap verses. The accompanying visuals are equally as stunning as the song. The seven-member group is releasing the third installment in their trilogy of albums this month.
Published on July 29, 2025
Words by Anjana Pawa
Anjana Pawa is a Brooklyn-based culture reporter who regularly covers music, entertainment and beauty. You can find her on Twitter at @apawawrites.