[Exclusive Interview] W24 Reflects on Their Musical Growth with ‘Seize The Day’

3 weeks ago 16

Get to know the members of W24 in this exclusive interview!

W24, the talented K-band known for their dynamic musical journey, is back with their highly anticipated 6th mini album, Seize The Day. Their latest album brings an exciting new chapter to their ever-growing discography. Known for their active involvement in the creative process, all members of W24—Jonggil (drummer), Howon (leader and vocalist), Aaron (keyboardist), and Yunsoo (guitarist and maknae)—have once again contributed to the writing, composing, and arranging of the tracks. Seize The Day is set to showcase their signature blend of heartfelt rock sound and emotional depth, promising a collection of songs that speak to the moments we cherish and the time we fight to hold on to.

With a rich musical history that includes over 10 digital singles, six mini albums, a studio album, and international releases in Japan and Russia, W24 has proven time and again that they are a band capable of transcending boundaries. Their new mini album follows this tradition, blending familiar sounds with fresh elements that reflect their growth as musicians. To mark the release of Seize The Day, W24 will host an exclusive concert on March 8th, titled Seize The Day: Redeeming The Time, where fans can experience the album live and celebrate this milestone with the band.

In this exclusive interview, we had the chance to chat with W24 about the inspiration and creative process behind Seize The Day. The band shares insights into the emotions and stories that shaped their latest album, as well as what this release means for their musical evolution. Join us as we explore their journey, the challenges they’ve faced, and how they continue to seize every opportunity in their career with passion and dedication.

Hellokpop: Welcome, W24! Congratulations on your comeback! Seize The Day marks your sixth mini album—what message or emotions do you hope to convey through this release?

W24: Just like the title of our mini album, we really hope that everyone “seizes their day everyday”! Just like the lyrics of “Seize the Day”, we might live very repetitive and boring days but we hope you guys find joy and energy through our songs.

HKP: If Seize The Day had a specific season, color, or mood to represent it, what would it be?

W24: Our main concept of Seize the Day is metallic. Cold, grey and silver, would be the words that would represent this album.

Howon

HKP: The title of the album is quite powerful. What does Seize The Day mean to you as a band and individually?

W24: “Seize the Day” is a turning point for us. Our band’s mood and song feelings have changed a lot, so we look forward to how people will feel about this song.

HKP: Can you share any memorable moments from the songwriting or recording process?

W24: This style of British rock song is our first try! So when Yunsoo wrote the song and Howon recorded the song, we went into the mood of becoming more “sexy” to bring out the best of this song.

HKP: Since all of you actively participate in writing and composing, how do you usually collaborate? Are there any unique creative methods you use?

W24: Each member writes their own song first, or sometimes one person brings an idea and then we sketch the song together. There are various ways, but there is usually a struggle for each member.

Jonggil

HKP: What’s the most unexpected source of inspiration you’ve had when writing music?

W24: “BoomBam” was one of the songs that happened very unexpectedly. Yunsoo and Howon were talking about what kind of song would go well with Howon’s voice and Yunsoo started to listen to a song’s beat. This is how “BoomBam” was created.

HKP: Is there a particular song on the album that holds special meaning for you? Why?

W24: “thought of you…” and “friend zone list” are special songs for all of us. Yunsoo wrote “thought of you…” in 2019 and Jonggil wrote “friend zone list” in 2018. It is special that we are able to recreate these songs now and release them.

HKP: How does Seize The Day compare to your previous releases, both musically and thematically?

W24: W24’s image was always very bright and energetic. This time we wanted to show our listeners a more metallic and cold sound, although energetic at the same time. “Seize the Day” will be something very different to what everyone has been hearing from W24.

Aaron

HKP: Your concert Seize The Day: Redeeming The Time is happening on March 8—what can fans expect from this special performance?

W24: Obviously, we are performing all of our new songs that day! Also, it is our 7th anniversary! So we will celebrate this day together with our fans. We really hope many of our fans come.

HKP: This year marks seven years since your debut. Looking back, how do you think W24 has evolved musically and as a team?

W24: We have definitely come a long way, although we need to go further. We have learned to listen to each other and express what each of us thinks in a positive and honest way. This has been our secret to being in a group until now. We are looking forward to our 10th, 20th, 30th anniversary!

HKP: Each member brings something unique to W24—how would you describe each other’s strengths in the group?

W24: Howon is the one who knows how to keep order and takes care of scheduling. Aaron is the one who brings a different style to our music and fashion. Jonggil and Yunsoo are the ones who bring songs and put a lot of energy into sound making.

There are more, but these are the strengths to mention.

Yunsoo

HKP: If you could give advice to your 2018 debut selves, what would it be?

Yunsoo: You don’t have to put too much energy when taking videos. It’s nice to be natural.

Jonggil: Being healthy is the best. Stay healthy!

Howon: Practice more. Don’t stop! You will regret it!

Aaron: Hey, hey Keep up the energy my friend!

HKP: For newer fans just discovering W24, which song from your discography would you recommend as the perfect introduction to your music, and why?

W24: “Revelations” is the song that many newer fans say it’s the song they were introduced to us so “Revelations!”

HKP: Lastly, please leave a message for your fans who have been eagerly waiting for this comeback.

W24: Every!! I know you have waited a long time for this new album! We are so happy to be back as a whole group and we really hope that you guys enjoy our new songs. We are really proud of our songs, and we hope you guys enjoy them too.