Hui Talks About His Hopes and “Hmm BOP”!

Hui explains why “Hmm BOP” was the perfect main-track choice for his solo debut, how his PENTAGON bandmates showed their support for it, and more!

Please describe what your new mini-album is about!

WHU IS ME : Complex is an album that I consider to be [my] first step as a solo artist. This album [was] a process of constantly thinking about who I am and what kind of music I should make.  

Did certain memories or life experiences influence you when you were making the songs on WHU IS ME : Complex?  

I have been a trainee since I was young, and this album is based on those experiences. When I work on my songs, I often feel inspired by a word or a phrase.  

Which song on WHU IS ME : Complex were you the most excited for fans to hear, and why?  

Of course, I was excited for my fans to hear “Hmm BOP” first. It was a song that [included what I] wanted to express the most, and [I] thought it was a song that contained a lot of [the] things I can do the [best].  

Was “Hmm BOP” always going to be the main track, and why did you choose it?  

I wanted to show [myself] freely expressing [myself] and having fun on the stage. There are parts where I can fully show off my abilities as a vocalist, [so I] thought it was the perfect song to start with. 

Please share some information about each B-side on WHU IS ME : Complex!

“MELO”: “MELO” was the easiest to write and record. Since I worked on the track with my [PENTAGON] member WOOSEOK and we have been working together for a while, we were able to complete this track quickly and without any trouble.  

“Cold Killer”: While working on this track, I had a lot of concerns in the beginning. After working on the first guitar riff, the progress became faster. [Since] completing the song, every time I listen to [it], I think to myself, “It’s cool” and really enjoy listening.  

“A Song From A Dream”: “A Song From A Dream” is a song that I worked on back in 2019, and even though it’s been a long time, I thought it was still good. I decided to release this track because it fits well with the current season.  

What have been fellow PENTAGON members’ reactions to your solo debut?  

PENTAGON members came to support during the jacket photoshoot and music video [filming,] and even the first day of music broadcasts. My members gave me so much strength and made me feel like we are always together.  

What are your goals for 2024?  

My first goal is to continuously show various styles of great music. Most importantly, I would like to meet [PENTAGON fans,] UNIVERSE, all around the world.  

Lastly, do you have a message for your fans or anything else you want to say about your music?  

Thanks to all the support and love, I am always happy and doing well. As I continue to focus on becoming a better artist, I want to make my fans proud. I love you, UNIVERSE. 

Check out WHU IS ME : Complex here!

Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. Photo credit: Instagram.