Group VVUP brightly illuminated the music scene and announced a new beginning.
VVUP (Kim, Fan, Suyeon, Jiyun) released their first mini album "VVON" on the 20th.
"VVON" is a title born from the combination of the three words "VIVID", "VISION" and "ON", meaning "the moment the light turns on." Drawing inspiration from its pronunciation resembling "Born" and its spelling similar to "Won," VVUP developed a narrative of being beings who are born, awaken and overcome.
In particular, VVUP drew attention by presenting a teasing promotion themed on birth dreams ahead of their comeback. Critics say VVUP reinterpreted Korean elements with their own trendy sensibility, once again imprinting a distinctive presence on fans around the world.
The following is a Q&A with VVUP after releasing their first mini album "VVON."
Q. You released your first mini album "VVON." How does it feel?
Kim: I'm really excited. As our first mini album since debut, I think it most clearly expresses VVUP's identity. I actively participated in the production process, so I think my story naturally blended in as well. I'm really happy to be able to share an album made with all my heart, full of effort and sincerity, with our fans.
Fan: I'm so glad we could show VVUP's new music and visuals through "VVON." As a foreign member, it was a particularly special album because I felt I could learn many Korean elements during the preparation process.
Suyeon: As our first mini album released one year after debut, it feels meaningful and precious. Through this album, I want to clearly show the public VVUP's unique charm.
Jiyun: Because we prepared so hard, this album is even more precious. In particular, the title track "Super Model" has a different atmosphere from the pre-release song "House Party," and "INVESTED IN YOU" being our first fan song makes it especially meaningful.
Q. Please give a brief introduction to the first mini album "VVON."
Suyeon: The word "VVON" contains several meanings. It signifies being newly "born" as a team, and like the similarly spelled "WON," it also expresses the will to continue a new journey successfully. The album consists of five songs — the title track "Super Model," the fan song "INVESTED IN YOU," "House Party," "Giddy Boy," and "4 Life" — plus the instrumental (inst.) versions of each, making 10 tracks in total. Each song has distinct charm, and I'm confident it will be an album listeners want to play again and again.
Q. What are the listening points of the title track "Super Model," and what aspects did you focus on most in expressing the song?
Jiyun: I think the point is the part in the verse chorus where the four members sing the same lyrics, each expressing them with their own charm. Unlike VVUP's usual bright and energetic mood, this song has a dreamy and mature atmosphere, so we focused on conveying that difference. Also, imagining ourselves as super models as the lyrics suggest, we practiced so that confidence and composure would come through in the music and performance.
Q. You chose the theme of birth dreams, a topic that might be unfamiliar to foreign members. Why did you choose it for this album, and are there any memorable behind-the-scenes moments?
Kim: Although the concept of a birth dream doesn't exist in Indonesia, I first heard during preparation that it rained heavily on the day I was born and an old coconut tree in front of our house fell down. I found it amazing to ask my mother about that day in person and hear it for the first time.
Q. Korean elements such as dokkaebi and tigers were reinterpreted in VVUP's style and generated buzz. Did you put in any special effort to embody the concept?
Fan: I thought it was important to understand the Korean elements, so the members and I studied them together a lot. We also researched dokkaebi that exist in Indonesia and Thailand and prepared diligently.
Suyeon: To better understand Korean elements and incorporate them into the concept, I researched dokkaebi and tigers and created a PowerPoint. Thanks to that, our understanding of the album and concept definitely improved.
Q. Through "VVON," how do you want VVUP to be remembered by fans and the public?
Suyeon: I want to be remembered as a group that can pull off any concept like chameleons and a team that shows harmonious teamwork because each member's charm and strengths blend well together.
Q. On the songwriting credits for the track "Giddy boy," the Thai member Fan was listed. Was it difficult to write Korean lyrics, and what story did you want to convey?
Fan: It was my first time participating in songwriting, and I chose words that fit better when singing or expressions that could convey the speaker's attitude. There were many words I didn't know yet, so it was difficult, but after much thought I used simple but impactful words so anyone can easily sing along, which I think is an advantage.
Q. Your first fan song "INVESTED IN YOU" is included. What was your mindset during recording, and is there anything you want to say to Beanie (the fandom name)?
Kim: I thought first and foremost of the love and strength fans give us. With this song I wanted to convey that we cherish and keep the love we received from fans. Since fans' faith and support give us great strength, I hope this song feels like our promise to Beanie. We'll continue to grow, work hard and be with you. Thank you so much.
Jiyun: As our first fan song, I was nervous and excited. While recording I tried to imagine Beanie in front of me and reflect on the emotions of each lyric. I sang sincerely so anyone who listens can feel warm consolation or love. Thanks to the fans, each day is happy and precious. I'm always grateful and I love you.
[Photo] EgoiEnt
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