Xiumin, a member of the group EXO and a solo artist, is releasing his solo album after 2 years and 6 months.
The title track 'WHEE!' from Xiumin's mini album 'Interview X' (to be released on the 10th at 6 PM) is a dance song based on UK Garage, combining synthesizers and Xiumin's vocals to create a trendy and stylish energy.
Additionally, the album features a pop genre song 'Can’t Help Myself' that depicts an irresistible attraction to an unavoidable counterpart, 'Make You LaLa' with its lively guitar riffs and diverse sounds showcasing Xiumin's refreshing vocals, 'Switch Off' which creates a dreamy atmosphere with soft guitar melodies and emotional melodies, 'Lost Paradise' expressing a mature mood based on bass and synths, and 'Love is U' where Xiumin's sweet vocals blend with Chen's beautiful lyrics over delicate piano and string melodies. Through these six diverse tracks, listeners can discover Xiumin's new and varied charms that have not been seen before.
Xiumin shared his thoughts on releasing a solo album after a long time through his agency INB100.
1) This is your solo album being released after 2 years and 6 months. It must feel special; what are your thoughts?
Both I and the fans have been waiting a long time for the second solo album. While filming a drama, I was contemplating the release timing, and since this is my first album in a while and my second album, I wanted it to be more complete, which extended the preparation period. I have a lot of affection for this album, and thinking about enjoying it with the fans brings back memories of the days when I was actively promoting, making me very excited and nervous.
2) The album is titled 'Interview X'. What does the title mean, and what do you want to show the most through this album?
It means discovering the hidden aspects of Xiumin. Through this album, I want to share not only myself but also the musicality I pursue.
3) The four teaser images released earlier were impressive, showcasing various charms with different concepts. Which concept is closest to the current Xiumin?
I can't answer with just one. I want to show more diverse aspects, including the four concepts, so I can say that the current Xiumin is in a blank state, ready to accept anything.
4) The title track is 'WHEE!'. What made you choose this song as the title track, and what are its highlights?
All the songs in the album are great, but if I had to assume that I could only listen to each song once, 'WHEE!' has a clearly memorable part that stands out, and I thought it would create a fun visual when considering the choreography, so I chose it as the title track.
5) The last song 'Love is U' features lyrics by Chen. What message did you want to convey with this song, and did Chen give you any special advice while recording it?
'Love is U' is a song that I put a lot of effort into for the fans, wanting to convey the story that I have created with the fans and my feelings towards them. Chen, who has seen that story up close for a long time, worked on the lyrics and is good at singing ballads, so I asked him to help, and he gladly contributed beautifully, which I am very satisfied with.
6) What is a special goal you want to achieve with your mini album 'Interview X'?
The biggest goal is to satisfy the fans, and through that, I want to create happy memories together by holding a fan concert tour.
7) Starting from the 22nd, you will hold the '2025 XIUMIN FAN CONCERT 'X Times ( ) ASIA TOUR' in six cities across Asia. Although you held a fan meeting to celebrate your birthday last year, this is your first fan concert. What have you prepared?
Like the title of this mini album, I will show everything I can. The highlights will be that the talk, games, and performances flow continuously with a story.
8) You will hold fan concerts in other countries starting from Seoul. This is your first overseas tour as a solo artist. How do you feel, and do you have a message for overseas fans?
I am so happy to finally meet EXO-Ls abroad through a standalone fan concert, not just an event, and I want to keep running so that this tour can lead to more concerts. Let's create it together!!
9) With the release of this mini album and the fan concert tour, as well as the drama 'Heo Sik-dang', you have various activities planned. What is your goal as a solo artist Xiumin?
I still have a long way to go and need to study more, but I want to become a versatile and multi-talented artist. Ultimately, I want to do everything that fans want to see.
10) Please say a word to the fans who have been waiting for the album release and always supporting you.
The album for EXO-L and me has finally been released. Now that only enjoyable days are left, I hope you are ready to be with me in 2025. Thank you for always waiting, and I will work hard to meet your expectations as much as you have waited! I love you.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
