“It's like a video game that breaks through levels and logs into the world of Gen Z!”: 77Ke on His New Album

77Ke goes into detail about the stories and ideas behind Wonderland!

For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence “77Ke is ___” or “77Ke’s music is ___”?

“77Ke’s music is the best choice in your playlist.”

How did you choose your stage name, and did you consider any other stage names before “77Ke”?

My Chinese name is Chi Chi Ke. The “7” in Chinese is pronounced “Chi,” so for Chinese people, it’s easy to remember my name “77Ke” [as] “Chi Chi Ke,” and my album was released on 7/7. When we chose the date, everything was surrounded by “7” (“Chi”).

What were your biggest sources of inspiration for the songs on Wonderland?

In this album, the inspiration is all from my experiences. My values and opinions might not follow society’s standards and expectations, but when we think outside of the box, anything can happen. Ideas and logic are enough to glimpse the observations and feelings of Gen Z towards the world. Wonderland offers infinite possibilities [and says] there is no limit. [But no matter] which generation, [listeners] can find the same values and encouragement through this album.

What was the most exciting thing about making Wonderland, and what was the most difficult part of the process?

The most exciting thing was shooting the first music video, because it was my first time acting in [a video for] my own song. The most difficult part was producing the song "Your Wonderland,” because we did three different versions in order to choose the best.

Why did you choose the album title Wonderland, and how far along in the album-making process were you by the time you decided on an album name?
For me, Wonderland [represents] infinite possibilities. It's like a video game that breaks through levels and logs into the world of Gen Z! When I finished gathering all the songs for this album, we thought that the word “wonderland” was very suitable!

What are your favorite lyrics from a song on Wonderland, and why? 

My favorite lyrics are from the song “Lullaby.” The song was written for my ex who had sleep problems.

Please share some information about each song on Wonderland!
“Your Wonderland”: A synth-pop song about internet addiction.

“Juliet”: If I were Shakespeare, I would want to rewrite the story [of] Romeo and Juliet and give it a happy ending.

“Siamese”: The inspiration [came] from cats, who can be compared [to people who just want] one-night stands.

“It’s OK”: It’s a comforting song that can heal people.

“Cigarette”: About being addicted.

“Never Let You Down”: The perfect love confession song.

“No Reply”: A story about how I was dumped.

“Don’t Be Shy”: It’s a sexy song [for] a girl.

“Normal Life”: I imagine my future family [believing that what is] ordinary is happiness.

“Lullaby”: This song was written for my ex who had sleep problems.

How did you decide which songs from Wonderland would get music videos?
I had some ideas and decided with my team. In some music videos, we added [things] about me, like my beloved cat.
What was it like working with Karencici on “Rosie”?
We wrote “Rosie” in a very short time. I am really lucky to have had a chance to work with her. Karencici was the best senior I have ever met. She’s kind, taught me a lot about performing, and gave me some suggestions about how to improve my social media [presence].

Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your new album?
[I] hope everyone will like my first-ever album, Wonderland. Don’t forget to check out my Instagram, @77Ke__, to see some pictures of my cat! 

Check out Wonderland here!

Answers have been edited and condensed for clarity. Photos courtesy of HIM International Music.