NOWADAYS Unveils Their First Comeback with “Why Not?”

INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW ✦

K-pop group NOWADAYS has made a highly anticipated return to the music scene with their new single "Why Not?" alongside their new single album, titled [NOWHERE] — marking their first official comeback since debuting in the first half of this year.

Released earlier this week, "Why Not?" efficiently showcases NOWADAYS' growth and experimentation with their fusion of edgy pop sounds, continuing to solidify their identity in the diverse array of current K-pop offerings. Musically, the single album blends elements of pop, with an energetic tempo and catchy hooks that accurately convey NOWADAYS' fresh, fifth-gen style.

The group's sound, previously characterized by a combination of dance-pop, hip-hop, and electronic influences, has additionally used this new chapter to showcase their interpretation of these versatile genres with a fresh sense of artistry. Though, more importantly, NOWADAYS' return through [NOWHERE] sets a promising tone for the future and invites listeners to revel in the power of experimental pop music magic.

Here’s what the group had to say about their first comeback, [NOWHERE].

NOWADAYS, "Why Not?" | CUBE Entertainment

Congratulations on your first official comeback! What’s been the biggest change you’ve gone through since we last spoke during your debut era?

HYEONBIN: The biggest difference is that we now have our own fans, which has made our performances much more enjoyable and joyful.

YEONWOO: I feel like I’ve developed a greater sense of responsibility. Since we want to be singers that DAY_AND can be proud of and want to support, I find myself constantly thinking about how we can improve and do better.

What would you say are some of the primary themes or sounds behind this latest single?

JINHYUK: In this album, our fans should definitely pay attention to the performances because it’s incredibly powerful. I think our playful side is well captured in the choreography, so it would be great if fans focus on that as well!

SIYUN: Please look forward to our title track, which captures the essence of our five members in love. The fun lyrics with powerful performance are key highlights of the song as well.

When you first listened to the track, what did you think was its biggest hook or selling point?

YEONWOO: In my opinion, the charming chorus with the repeated lyrics is the biggest hook in this title track. The choreography plays a significant role in the song, so I hope to watch it with the performance.

JINHYUK: When I first listened to this song, I was really impressed by the chorus, so I believe it’s the song’s main selling point. I hope that’s what appeals most to our fans as well.

What is your favorite song on [NOWHERE], and why?

HYEONBIN: I like “Troublesome” the most in this album because it’s cute and it makes me feel comfortable when I listen to it!

YOON: “Troublesome” is my favorite song from our second single album since it’s easy to listen to, with adorable lyrics and a melody line that I love! I also listen to this song a lot!

YEONWOO: If I have to pick just one, I will go for “Heart vs Head.” This song’s topic, lyrics and melody all are appealing to me. I suppose I like every aspect of the songs!

JINHYUK: I really like our title track “Why Not?” Since I enjoy singing along to it when I listen to it, I believe the song “Why Not?” to be the perfect choice for me.

SIYUN: “Troublesome” is my favorite song since it’s easy to listen to and has a mood that reminds me of an OST for a web drama. 

Was there something about this concept/style that required more preparation than you anticipated?

YOON: The playful atmosphere is usually a main concept throughout our album, and it was challenging to express the concept and emotion naturally.

SIYUN: I found it challenging to express the emotions of being in love through choreography while making it look confident and playful with my expressions.

Has there been any member that surprised you during this new era?

HYEONBIN: I was really surprised by how much JINHYUK’s vocal skill has improved. He’s now handling so many vocal parts that audiences are able to count him as a vocal member. It was quite impressive!

YOON: I was surprised to realize that the rapper’s voice and the rough tone of the vocals blended well and were even more appealing than I imagined!

Finally, are there any genres or concepts you’re currently hoping to pursue?

HYEONBIN: One day, we hope to perform with only original songs on stage! That way, it will be better for our audience to fully engage and connect with the performance.

YOON: I would love to try an emotional concept in the future!

YEONWOO: I want to try a song that expresses sentimental mood and painful emotions.

JINHYUK: I’d love to try a sentimental or a sexy concept!! I think the members would do really well with both, so those are the two I’d like to explore the most!

SIYUN: It would be great to try a concept that’s both trendy and impactful like NCT Dream’s “Smoothie,” or a more nostalgic and sentimental one, like TXT’s “Deja Vu.” Both concepts seem really exciting to try in the future.