NCT Ten is making a comeback today (24th) with the new mini album 'STUNNER.'
The second mini album 'STUNNER' includes Korean and English versions of the title track 'STUNNER' and is composed of a total of 7 tracks with different appeals. All tracks will be released on various music sites at 6 p.m. today, and the music video for the title track 'STUNNER' will also be opened simultaneously via the SMTOWN YouTube channel.
The title track 'STUNNER,' in the R&B pop genre, blends groovy rhythm instruments and synth sounds, showcasing Ten's rhythmic and delicate vocals, as well as chic-toned rap and whispers. The lyrics express growing feelings toward someone with unexpected charm, while the English version conveys the message of 'I' being a shining presence, adding to the fun of listening with different messages.
Additionally, Ten will begin his first concert tour in Seoul on April 12-13, hosting performances in Bangkok, Shanghai, Osaka, Fukuoka, Tokyo, and Nagoya, and is expected to solidify his title as an 'artistic performer' with sophisticated music and unique performances.
Following the release of the second mini album and the comeback activities, Ten is set to showcase greater activities as a solo artist through his first concert tour, sharing various stories about the new release 'STUNNER' in a Q&A session.
Next is Ten's Q&A regarding the second mini album 'STUNNER.'
Q. This is your comeback about a year after the release of your first mini album 'TEN' in February 2024. How do you feel?
A. After gaining a lot of experience with my first solo album, I spent the year thinking about what I wanted to do and what I needed to improve while preparing for this album. While 'TEN' was an album that considered what genre of music I wanted to pursue, 'STUNNER' feels more organized genre-wise. I believe a good album has been created, and I hope the fans who have been waiting for my new album will enjoy it.
Q. I’m curious about what aspect you focused on the most while preparing this album.
A. I felt that the previous title track 'Nightwalker' had a minor feel. This time, I wanted to strike a balance between minor and major without being too light, and I wanted to bring out my color while trying something new. I needed a bit of courage to challenge a fast rap with 'BAMBOLA,' a singing rap with 'Sweet As Sin,' and a Korean ballad with 'Butterfly,' but I think it has turned out wonderfully.
Q. Please introduce the most 'STUNNER' part (appealing aspect) of the title track 'STUNNER.'
A. Since 'STUNNER' has both Korean and English versions, you can listen to my various vocal tones in different languages. The different lyrical contents of the two songs are also interesting. There’s a behind-the-scenes story about 'STUNNER': originally, it wasn’t supposed to be the title track! Another song that didn’t make it to this album was intended as the title track, and 'STUNNER' was meant to be a couple song, but as I kept listening to it, I felt 'STUNNER' was closer to being the title track. Feeling that 'STUNNER' was the song that strikes the balance between minor and major, I suggested changing the title track.
Q. When mentioning Ten, we can't overlook the performance aspect. What are the highlights of the performance for the title track 'STUNNER'?
A. The choreography for 'STUNNER' includes many intense and hip elements that also appear relaxed. The dance team and I thought a lot about the performance, continuously sharing ideas and making modifications regarding the choreography, movements, gestures, and overall atmosphere. I believe collaborating led to a better performance than just working individually.
Q. Was there anything memorable during the making of this album?
A. It took a long time to gather all the songs for this album. I listened to a lot of demo tracks and paid close attention to the track order, so there were many differences between what the staff and I initially talked about and the final product. (Laughs) In particular, the members of the A&R team listened to my opinions a lot and supported what I wanted to do but also candidly pointed out areas where improvements could be made, for which I am really thankful. And 'Butterfly' is the first ballad where I sang complete Korean lyrics. Since there were challenging pronunciation parts, the recording time for this song was the longest among the tracks in this album, but I feel I have gained a better understanding of Korean ballads. I learned a lot from the challenging recording process!
Q. Which song from this album would you recommend the most?
A. All the songs are good since I chose them while contemplating a lot, but the one I listen to the most is 'Waves.' When I listen to 'Waves,' I feel the free and relaxed atmosphere of a beach I love, and everything flows slowly, which soothes my mind. Also, after finishing the recording of 'Waves,' I thought for the first time, 'Oh! My vocal tone is pretty?' so I think the fans will like it too.
Q. You are planning to start your first concert tour in Seoul on April 12-13. Can you give us a little spoiler about the tour?
A. When I released my first solo album, I immediately went on a fan concert tour, and I'm excited and looking forward to being able to hold my first concert tour right after releasing the new album again. I can't share details yet, but we plan to change the choreography of the songs showcased during the fan concert tour and prepare stage equipment and lighting in a way that allows fans to enjoy the performance more. Feel free to look forward to it!
Q. What significance do you hope this album will have for your fans?
A. Lately, I’ve been thinking it's important to enjoy each day happily and pleasantly, so I hope that when fans listen to this album, it lifts their spirits and allows them to feel new emotions. I also want us to create good memories and have happy times through this comeback activity. Oh, and new fans are also welcome! If you come to like me through this album, I will take good care of you. (Laughs)
[Photo] SM Entertainment
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