Kai of EXO on trying out new sounds in his new album 'Wait on Me'
The last time South Korean heartthrob Kai was in Singapore, it was six years ago and he was joined by his fellow members as part of EXO's Exploration Tour. Since then, a few things have changed—he gained a sassy moniker of 'Mr. Rover' with the viral release of his solo hit 'Rover' and fulfilled his mandatory military service. Now, returning as a solo artist to our shores, the EXO member is psyched about his upcoming show this week at the Star Theatre. 'Unfortunately, I can't spoil anything but once you see the show, you'll know why I couldn't say more. And once I get to Singapore, I look forward to trying out more of the local food and if I have the time, I hope I get to explore the city more.'
Assuredly, it will be a sizzling show to remember, especially with his recent album release Wait On Me , a comeback that's made even more special after a two-year hiatus in the military. Within the seven-track mini album, lies different facets of Kai. The title track 'Wait On Me', mired with a sensual trance beat, sings of desire and longing whilst the catchy electro number 'Adult Swim' serves up a cheeky bop of the summer. Kai, alone in a crop tee is proof of that.
Below, the EXO member shares more about the making of Wait On Me , trying out different sounds and the reactions his members had to the album.
1 / 5 Tell us more about the concept of this album.
It is the first album after my military service, so it naturally dealt with the theme of waiting–or more precisely, the art of waiting. There are many ways to interpret it, but as I mentioned above, it can be a message to my fans, and the album itself is almost like a gift after the long wait, even for me.
2 / 5 With regards to the name 'Wait on Me', was that intended for your fans who have been eagerly anticipating your return from the military?
Yes, it is definitely a message to my fans who've stayed by my side all this time, but there can also be multiple interpretations. For instance, it could also be about the longing to be back on stage.
3 / 5 The songs within the album seem to have many influences—from afrobeats to trance, tell us what it was like trying this new sound.
I actually got to explore a lot of interesting sounds while working on this album. And as a result, I think every song in the tracklist ultimately has its own unique mood. Working with new sounds opens up my perspective every time, and it can be really inspiring!
4 / 5 Just like past performances from Kai, this album shows off plenty of cool, new dance choreography. Which track had to be your favourite to dance to and why?
I like all the choreography, but I think the title song 'Wait On Me' has to be my favourite. It might be a hard dance for fans to follow, but I think the mood of the song and the choreography go really well together. It gives off a powerful and sexy vibe. Courtesy of SM Entertainment
5 / 5 We're curious to find out how your EXO members reacted to your album and music videos. How were the reactions so far?
They all gave me positive feedback, and they're all really supportive. When they saw the 'Wait On Me' MV, they were like, 'Ah, yes this is the classic Kai!'
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