WOODZ (Cho Seung-youn) is set to make a powerful comeback with his first digital single 'I'll Never Love Again' following his military discharge.
On the 24 at 6 PM, WOODZ will release the digital single 'I'll Never Love Again' on various music platforms. The single includes the title track 'I'll Never Love Again' and the song 'Smashing Concrete.'
This digital single reflects on the repetitive nature of daily life and the situations we often take for granted, encouraging listeners to view things differently, even if just for today. It poses the question, "How will you perceive it?"
The title track 'I'll Never Love Again' is an alternative rock track with a folk sensibility, featuring WOODZ's delicate vocals and a grand choir that convey the themes of love, heartbreak, and resolve.
'Smashing Concrete,' which was pre-released as a visualizer video in July, is an alternative metal track that combines WOODZ's rap and vocals. It delivers a message of breaking through obstacles with its intense guitar and drum sounds, offering energy and liberation.
The music video for 'I'll Never Love Again' will also be released on the same day. It combines various forms of love, WOODZ's passionate performance, and the song's grand sound to create a powerful narrative and stunning visuals.
This single marks WOODZ's first release in approximately 1 year and 9 months since 'AMNESIA' in December 2023. Once again, WOODZ has written and composed the songs himself, infusing them with his unique musical style.
During his military service, WOODZ's self-composed song 'Drowning' experienced a resurgence, topping major music charts like Melon TOP100, Genie, and Bugs, and securing first place on music shows, proving his undeniable presence. The military performance video of 'Drowning' on KBS2's 'Immortal Songs' National Armed Forces Day special has surpassed 20.29 million views on YouTube.
Interview with WOODZ
Q1. How do you feel about releasing your first album after discharge and nearly two years?
I'm excited to start full-scale activities with this release, including future albums and concerts. Although there were concerns about the pressure of releasing my first post-discharge album, I enjoyed working on it. I'm grateful for the opportunity to gain more attention for my music following its resurgence, and I prepared diligently to repay the fans who have been waiting. I plan to showcase more music starting with this digital single.
Q2. Can you briefly introduce the title track 'I'll Never Love Again'?
While it literally means 'I'll never love again,' what I want to convey is more of a question to the listeners than a simple statement. It's a song that questions whether one would choose to love again or not if faced with the final moment of a breakup or the end of love. I hope listeners can enjoy it while pondering their own answers.
Q3. Please introduce 'Smashing Concrete,' which gained attention with its pre-released visualizer video last month.
It's about overcoming limitations. To rise higher, you often have to climb step by step. I thought of slumps as concrete walls, and while others might suggest going around them, I believe breaking through is necessary to reach the next level. It also addresses stress, and I hope for a society where we can break through our individual stresses.
Q4. What are the key points to focus on when listening to the two songs?
For the title track 'I'll Never Love Again,' focus on the gradually intensifying emotions and the sound of each session while feeling the lyrics for a more grand experience. I believe you can feel the flow of emotions and tension. 'Smashing Concrete' is a song with an intense band sound, so I hope you can enjoy it energetically.
Q5. What was the most important aspect you focused on while working on the songs?
I aimed to be honest with myself. I believe these songs are the most representative of my style among all the songs I've released so far. I always express my intention to create honest music in the introductions of my albums, and I tried to be honest and show more of myself while working on these songs.
Q6. We heard you passionately filmed the music video for the title track, including flying in the air and shooting in front of intense flames. Any special episodes or points to watch for during filming?
It was my first wire shoot, and although people said it would be tough, it was surprisingly okay. Flying felt fun. For the fire scene, I got closer to make it look more realistic, resulting in more dynamic shots.
Q7. What is your future musical direction, and what kind of artist do you aspire to become?
I want to continue making music independently and create genuine music. Rather than thinking I should make more of a certain type of music because it was successful, I want to become an artist who concretely creates what I truly want to show. My goal is to become an artist who can tour stadiums worldwide. I believe that by consistently communicating with fans and presenting what I want to show in a balanced way, I will eventually reach that goal, always dreaming along the way.
Q8. Any final words for your listeners and fans?
These songs are completed with your interpretations. I hope you can enjoy them in your own way and fill the songs with your interpretations! I'm always sincerely grateful and love you all.
Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr