(G)I-DLE Discusses Their New Album and the Music Industry

INTERVIEW

✦

INTERVIEW ✦

Upon their 2018 introduction to the K-pop scene, Cube Entertainment’s girl group (G)I-DLE quickly rose to fame for their fearless demeanor and undeniably powerful performances, captivating fans on a global scale.

In fact, from their very first few displays of talent, the group consistently established their potential to generate a distinctive sound by mixing various genres such as pop, hip-hop, and EDM — forging several organic, confidence-boosting singles like "LATATA," "Oh My God," "DUMDi DUMDi,” and more recently, “Queencard,” cumulatively amassing over 3.4 billion streams while regularly topping global music charts.

(G)I-DLE | CUBE 

Now, building on the universal acclaim they’ve attained together, (G)I-DLE has officially made yet another highly anticipated return with their latest release titled “클락션 (Klaxon),” setting their expansive, pop-savvy audience up for a perfect, refreshing summertime anthem that deserves attention.

With (G)I-DLE’s new release out now, here’s what the decorated pop group had to say about this exhilarating era of their music — along with the inspiring opportunities of growth they’ve experienced along the way.

Congratulations on your new release – fans are always eager for a (G)I-DLE comeback because it never misses the mark! Can you provide some insights into your new album's creative process or core ideas?

SOYEON: For this album, rather than focusing on showing how cool we are, I wanted to create music that everyone can enjoy and spend a refreshing summer together.

When looking at this new album as opposed to your first chapter together, how do you think your group’s sound has evolved since your debut?

MIYEON: Thanks to the fan’s love and support, we’ve been able to challenge ourselves with new concepts and convey the stories that we want to show in each album. In my opinion, since we've never stopped trying to create our own genre as a group "(G)I-DLE," we have been evolving.

SHUHUA: Even though I think we've been improving over time, I still feel the opportunity to grow. As I've gotten older and experienced a lot with the members, I believe that we improved naturally.

A lot of people really connect with your music due to your ability to consistently promote confidence, self-assurance, and other empowering themes. That being said, what’s the most consistent theme that you hope to convey through your new music?

SOYEON: I don’t always aim to convey a certain message, but I rather try to incorporate the story that I want to tell myself. With this album, I intended to express a feeling of naturalness, similar to when you watch a movie or read a book.

YUQI: We want to perform cool and lively summer songs with (G)I-DLE's unique vibes.

When it comes to the title track specifically, how would you describe its overall purpose in this era of your music?

SOYEON: The title track features a fun beat as well as other intriguing elements and highlights. I wanted the music to cheer people up and make them feel good. Additionally, I think MINNIE’s bridge part, which progresses in a minimalistic way, is very charming. I’m really proud of the arrangement, so thrilled to share it with everyone.

It’s known that each of you enjoy the creative process of an album, which has led to behind-the-scenes work with songwriting, production, etc. Is there one specific avenue that you’re particularly proud to have been a part of with this new release?

MIYEON: I’m really proud that this album is composed and written entirely by our members as always. It’s even more special because we’ve prepared a song specifically for our fans, which makes me even happier.

MINNIE: In this album, I participated in writing and composing the song ‘Bloom.’ Even though I worked on it in a very short amount of time, I’m so proud that it turned out to be such a lovely song.

Growth has always been a huge part of your career, as seen through each passing song you’ve dropped. What are some of the primary changes the group has undergone with this new album?

YUQI: While preparing for this album, members noticed our stamina wasn’t as strong as it used to be during dance practices. We came to the conclusion that we needed to look after ourselves more.

SHUHUA: I got to dye my hair once again for this album, and it seems very different from the last hairstyle I tried. A lot of other people have commented on how my hairstyle makes me look mature.

Now that you’ve been in the industry for several years and understand what the entire process entails – what do you enjoy the most, and what do you find the most challenging?

MIYEON: The most rewarding and happiest thing for me is being able to share this journey with our beloved fans and my fellow members. I love that I can create music and enjoy it with people who I can hit it off with. I do not think that being an idol is very challenging, I guess I am enjoying being an idol!

MINNIE: The best part is being able to try out new music and fashion styles and take on new challenges all the time. Meeting NEVERLAND from all over the world during tours is also incredibly enjoyable. However, as I get older, keeping up physically is becoming more challenging.

SOYEON: The most enjoyable part for me is being able to make music I love. I also have concerns about the things that everyone in their 20s can feel. However, I don’t think being an idol is particularly challenging compared to what people might think.

YUQI: I feel proud and happy every time I perform on stage and interact with NEVERLAND. The challenge that I face is probably the hardship that comes with each step forward in my career as an artist.

SHUHUA: Fortunately, I receive incomparable love and attention from my beloved fans, and I think I gain a lot of energy through the fans' support. However, I occasionally become overwhelmed since I only want to show a positive side while receiving a lot of attention.