On the 16, YUQI will release her first single 'Motivation' across various music platforms. The single includes the title track 'M.O.', as well as '아프다' and its Chinese version '还痛吗'.
The music video for '아프다', released on the 10, features YUQI alongside popular Chinese actor Wang Anyu, creating a buzz in the Chinese-speaking regions. '아프다' is highlighted by its warm guitar sounds, with YUQI expressing raw emotions faced during a breakup.
The title track 'M.O.' is a boom bap-based hip-hop track. It conveys the message that YUQI's intuition-driven confidence is her driving force, free from societal expectations and rules. The track combines vintage drum loops and a heavy bass with YUQI's powerful vocal tone.
The accompanying music video captivates with its vibrant 1990s-inspired concept. From vintage hair salons to offices and surreal spaces, YUQI's dynamic styling and the video's artistic visuals stand out.
'Motivation' marks YUQI's return approximately 17 months after her mini-album 'YUQ1', released in April last year. She participated in writing and composing all the tracks, showcasing her matured musical identity as a solo artist.
Q: It's been about 17 months since your last mini-album 'YUQ1'. How do you feel about releasing a solo album after such a long time?
YUQI: I wanted to give a gift to my fans ahead of my birthday on September 23. I worked hard to create a great album, and I hope the fans will love it.
Q: What was your 'Motivation' while preparing for this single?
YUQI: The desire to quickly share my music with many people and the love from our fans!
Q: You wrote all the tracks on the single. What was the most important aspect you focused on during the process?
YUQI: For the title track 'M.O.', I focused on creating lyrics and melodies that convey a hip vibe since it's a hip-hop genre. For '아프다', I wanted to express fragile emotions accurately, so I paid special attention to the lyrics and the music video's storyline. I hope you focus on these aspects while listening.
Q: Can you briefly introduce the title track 'M.O.' and share the highlights of the music video that reminds us of 90s pop stars?
YUQI: 'M.O.' is a 90s boom bap-based hip-hop track filled with my energy. The music video is truly reminiscent of the 90s hip-hop old school. It captures the essence of that era, making it enjoyable to watch.
Q: Despite your busy schedule with producing for junior groups and attending various award shows and global stages, you prepared various promotions for this single, including pop-ups and pre-release music videos. What was the most memorable part of the process?
YUQI: The deep emotional acting challenge in the '아프다' music video! It was my first acting attempt, and I put in a lot of effort, so I hope you enjoy it.
Q: What goals do you hope to achieve with this release? And could you share a message for your fans, Neverland?
YUQI: I'm really proud to have created the concept and music I truly wanted. I hope our fans will listen to this single filled with what I wanted to do. Thank you.
Choi Ji-ye, TenAsia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr