Formerly from the group RIIZE, SeungHan (XngHan, affiliated with SME) is finally making his solo debut today (31st) under the artist brand he launched, 'XngHan&Xoul.'
The first single from XngHan&Xoul, 'Waste No Time,' tells the story of SeungHan, who is ready to step onto the stage, across two tracks, and will be accompanied by the release of the music video for the title track, filmed on location in Mongolia, on the YouTube SMTOWN channel at 6 p.m. today.
In particular, the title track 'Waste No Time' is an electronic dance song that showcases SeungHan's aspirations at this new starting point, featuring bright and clear tones of synth leads and bass, along with an intuitive and catchy melody, and the lyrics reflect the determination of youth to not miss the present moment and to move forward without hesitation.
The included track 'Heavenly Blue,' which SeungHan participated in writing and choreographing, is a refreshing and trendy chill house-based EDM pop song. Despite its fast tempo, it features a soft-textured kick and dreamy synth pads, blending harmoniously with emotional vocals, while the lyrics visually depict the pure emotions of youth, intertwining longing and excitement for someone.
Additionally, at 7 p.m. that day, SeungHan will hold a showcase at the Shinhan Card SOL Pay Square Live Hall in Mapo-gu, Seoul, which will be live-streamed on his YouTube and TikTok channels. He will debut the stages for 'Waste No Time' and 'Heavenly Blue' for the first time and will also appear on various music broadcasts this week, including KBS2TV's 'Music Bank' on August 1st, MBC's 'Show! Music Core' on the 2nd, and SBS's 'Inkigayo' on the 3rd.
The following is a Q&A session regarding the first single from XngHan&Xoul that SeungHan shared himself.
1. What are your thoughts on making your solo debut, and how did the idea for the artist brand 'XngHan&Xoul' come about?
I feel more excited than anything else. XngHan&Xoul is born from my love for new challenges, and while preparing for my solo debut, I discussed with the company staff how to present a fresher image. This idea originated from wanting to keep various possibilities open while working with the crew. Aren't you curious about how XngHan&Xoul will appear in the future? I will show you many good sides, so please keep watching!
2. Why are you collaborating on your debut project with two dancers? How was the experience of syncing with them?
Dance is my biggest interest, so I wanted to showcase a cool appearance through dance at the time of my debut. That's why I ended up preparing the debut project with two dancers who are around my age. (I call them 'Soulmates!') I was really nervous when I first met the Soulmates and remember changing outfits multiple times to look my best. (laughs) We had a lot of matching points, so we quickly became friends and are having fun together.
3. How would you summarize this single in one sentence, and what would you recommend about it?
I would like to describe it as 'a single capturing a day of summer.' The release time is just in summer, and if 'Waste No Time' feels like a summer afternoon, then 'Heavenly Blue' feels like a summer night. If you go on a trip, I would recommend the exciting and refreshing 'Waste No Time' for driving, and the dreamy and emotional 'Heavenly Blue' for winding down at the end of a joyful day.
4. What were your thoughts when you first heard the two tracks included in this single?
As soon as I heard it, I thought, 'Wow! I really want to do this.' They are all electronic dance tracks, which is a genre I've liked. I remember the Soulmates also liked the demo!
5. Do you have any memorable episodes during the production process, from recording the title track 'Waste No Time' to filming the music video?
While recording, I was very attentive since the syllable count is high and the rhythms are difficult. The music video was shot in Mongolia, and what I remember most is running with the Soulmates. It's been a while since I sprinted like that, and I couldn't help but smile and felt cool!
6. Are you good at time management like the lyrics say in the title track 'Waste No Time'? What moments do you feel are worth the time?
Actually, I haven't been focused on time management for long, so it still feels a bit awkward. (laughs) I try to practice as much as I can whenever I have the time. I don't think the time spent monitoring other dancers is wasted, as it motivates me to work harder. Also, I find the time spent taking care of my voice is not wasted. Even when it's hot, I prefer drinking purified water over cold water and have purchased a humidifier that I use diligently.
7. You participated in writing the lyrics for the track 'Heavenly Blue' and also created the performance. How was that experience?
Since the song is for the fans, I thought about what direction it should go in while writing the lyrics and showed them to the staff, and thanks to their support, I got a great opportunity. The choreography matched well with the Soulmates' opinions, so we could produce it fun. Naturally, we wanted to convey the atmosphere of the song, focusing on 'freedom,' giving a comfortable feeling of 'doing our own thing' rather than a rigid vibe.
8. The included track 'Heavenly Blue' describes emotions through colors. If you express your current feelings with a color, what would it be?
Red! When I think of red, 'passion' comes to mind, and even I think my passion is immense these days... (laughs)
9. Is there a project you would like to attempt someday through 'XngHan&Xoul'? What goals do you want to achieve in the future?
I love dancing, but I also like singing, so I want to try a project where I can work with a band as a vocalist! A goal I really want to achieve someday is to create an album filled with songs that I have written and composed! I particularly think lyrics are important in songs, so in my spare time, I read books and listen to various music for my own 'research.' (laughs)
10. Any message you would like to convey to your fans?
If I had to say just one thing, it would be 'You're not the light, but what brightens me is you.' This is actually my favorite part from the lyrics of 'Heavenly Blue,' in which I participated in writing. Thinking of the fans who always cheer for me, the lyrics flowed more easily than I expected. I would like to express my gratitude to those who inspire me. I have prepared hard, so please look at it fondly since you've waited!
[Photo provided by SME.]
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