Kai of EXO Invites Fans to Discover His New Release, *Wait On Me*
Renowned K-Pop artist Kai is ready for you to explore his artistic evolution. The 31-year-old member of the acclaimed boy group EXO has launched his long-awaited solo EP, Wait On Me, featuring seven tracks. This release, which debuted on Monday, is significant as it marks Kai’s return to music after a two-year hiatus due to his mandatory military service.
New Sounds with *Wait On Me*
The pre-release single “Adult Swim” sets an upbeat tone for the album, showcasing a catchy pop sound that resonates with listeners. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, conducted via Zoom from SM Entertainment’s Seoul headquarters, Kai reflected on the personal significance of “Adult Swim.” He stated, “If I was the Kai [of a few years ago], I might not have chosen this track,” highlighting his growth over the past two years.
While “Adult Swim” perfectly complements a swim day, the lead single “Wait On Me” exudes energy ideal for a lively night out. Merging Afrobeats with pop melodies, this track builds upon his past hits like “Rover” and “Peaches,” creating a refreshing addition to his discography.
Embracing the Pressure of Fans’ Expectations
In discussing the album’s creation, Kai expressed a blend of excitement and nervousness: “I feel like there’s butterflies and excitement just like I was debuting, but at the same time, very nervous.” He acknowledges the tight production schedule was driven by his desire to connect with fans after a significant break. “The pressure I felt was due to my concern to show new sides of myself to the audience. What I’ve learned over these two years helped me overcome those doubts,” he shared.
Exploration of New Musical Depths
Reflecting on his musical journey, Kai noted that both *Wait On Me* and “Adult Swim” represent a departure from his previous work while retaining his unique identity. He explained, “The atmosphere is very different – the verse feels refreshing, like you’re swimming, while the chorus takes you deeper into the sea with its layered sounds.” This duality offers listeners a glimpse into his evolved mindset during his hiatus.
“I chose ‘Adult Swim’ as a pre-release track because it serves as a perfect introduction to my new sound,” he elaborated. “It’s a light greeting that invites listeners to dive deep into my inner-self. When you reach the core of ‘Wait On Me,’ you encounter the true essence of my journey.”
The Challenge of Dance and Performance
Kai is widely recognized as an exceptional dancer, and he holds the unofficial title of the king of dance challenges. He addressed the pressure associated with this status, particularly with “Adult Swim.” “While the choreography is tough, I focused on showcasing my strengths rather than worrying about the challenge aspects,” he stated, indicating a shift in his creative process.
As for “Wait On Me,”he invites fans to engage with the music video to fully appreciate the artistic challenges he faced. “With ‘Adult Swim,’ you’re introduced to my world, and with ‘Wait On Me,’ the depth of that world is revealed,” he said.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights and Future Performances
Commenting on the challenges faced during the music video shoots, Kai shared, “I had to film just a month after my service, which was intimidating. I gained muscle during my time away, so adjusting my physique to fit the mood of these tracks was a challenge.” He added that navigating various obstacles during shooting made the process both demanding and enjoyable, helping him integrate back into his artistic role.
As he prepares for live performances once again, Kai expressed eagerness to see his fans in person: “While I’ve connected through videos and live streams, meeting fans face-to-face will truly feel like a comeback for me.” He is enthusiastic about creating opportunities for interaction through upcoming music shows and tours.
Anticipating Future Performances
“I can’t wait to reunite with my international fans during SMTOWN Live,”he said. “It feels like we’re just starting now, almost like a new beginning. My love for my fans surpasses anything else, and I’m eager to show them how much they mean to me.”
Kai’s Artistic Aspirations
Reflecting on how he hopes to be perceived as an artist, whether within EXO or as a solo performer, Kai noted, “My goal since debuting has always been to improve and to find my peak, but I’ve also wanted to connect with my audience on a deeper level.” He expressed hope that through varied tracks, he could find a place in the hearts of listeners, showcasing his versatility as both a group member and a solo artist.
Courtesy of SM Entertainment
Final Thoughts from Kai
Kai ended the interview by reminiscing about his experiences with SuperM in the U.S., expressing his eagerness to reconnect with American fans. “I just wanted to remind everyone that I’m still here, my album is out, and I’ll be seeing you all very soon!”