NIEL is Ready to Re-Introduce Himself!
The former boy band member talks about taking charge of his creative vision more than ever.
What three words or phrases best describe your new mini-album, SHE?
“Emotion,” “new beginning,” and “growth.” This album includes songs that express various emotions surrounding breakups, a concept I have wanted to try since establishing my own company.
What is something people would be surprised to learn about the making of SHE?
Originally, [it] was supposed to be a single album with just two songs: “SHE” and “If you’re the ocean.” However, due to various circumstances, the release was delayed, and we decided to expand it into a mini-album. I received additional songs and recorded them about a month and a half before the release. Honestly, I loved the original two songs so much that I was a bit worried if the new tracks would match up, but as soon as I heard them, I loved them without any need for revisions!
How did DOKO become the executive producer of SHE, and did he offer you any specific advice or encouragement?
I was introduced to DOKO through an acquaintance, and we immediately clicked musically. When we met again, he had already done detailed research on me, analyzing which concepts my fans and the general public liked [and] what moods would suit me best, even backing it up with specific data. That really earned my trust and led to us working together. During recording, he even scolded me a bit, saying I needed to let go of some old habits! DOKO has a way of making people feel comfortable, so the entire process was enjoyable, and I think that’s why we ended up with such great songs.
Why did you decide to establish your own agency, and how long had you been thinking about doing so?
I had been thinking about it for a very long time. The biggest reason was that I wanted to fully reflect my own opinions and personally oversee the entire production process from start to finish. It’s not that I don’t value collaboration or discussion, but I simply wanted the freedom to explore the concepts and genres I had always wanted to try.
What has surprised you about what it’s like to set up your own agency, and what have been the biggest pros and cons of doing so?
I was surprised to find out how involved I had to be in even the smallest details, and learning about all the financial aspects was eye-opening too. I think the biggest pro is that I get to have a lot of say in what I do, but at the same time, the biggest con is that I have to take full responsibility for everything as well.
Is there a particular reason why you chose to still go by “NIEL,” your name during your time in TEEN TOP?
No special reason. Since my real name is Ahn Daniel, and I felt there was no need to change or discard the name “NIEL,” I decided to continue using it.
It has been ten years since your first solo mini-album came out! Do you ever think about how different it is compared to the music you’re making nowadays?
Well, for one thing, my voice has changed slightly as I’ve gotten older. I also feel that my musical thinking and the ways I approach my work have matured a lot. Doing musicals has helped me better understand emotions and improved my vocal techniques, which I think has made a big difference.
What are your short-term and long-term goals, both for your new music and for EL&D Entertainment?
In the short term, I want to let people know “NIEL is actively promoting!” In the long term, I hope that when people think of NIEL, they’ll say, “He’s such a cool artist.” My personal dream is to go on a solo world tour.
Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your new music?
Since this album marks the official beginning of my activities under my own company, I just want to say, “[I’ll] do my best! [I] worked hard!”
Check out NIEL’s new mini-album, SHE, here!
Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. Photos courtesy of EL&D Entertainment.