W24’s Good Vibes
W24 talk about channeling their energy into music, stories from making “Voyager,” standout memories from Asian Top Band, and more!
For those who have never heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence “W24 is ___” or “W24’s music is ___”?
“W24’s music is good.” When we say “good,” we have different meanings of it. It is great to listen to, but it is also positive and uplifting. We give off a lot of energy [and] hope our new listeners get lots of energy from our songs.
What special traits or skills does each member add to the group?
Jonggil’s friendliness helps us a lot when we meet new fans and co-workers. Yunsoo’s [detail-oriented] personality helps [us] remember important facts that many forget. Aaron’s sense of fashion helps us select what to wear for important schedules. Howon’s language skills help [us] communicate freely with overseas fans.
Do you remember your first impressions of each other? How have your group dynamics changed since you first became a band?
We had very different impressions of each other when we first met. Now, we are just grateful that we don’t fight as much as before. We communicate a lot, just like before, but we don’t misunderstand each other anymore.
Do you see each other’s strengths and weaknesses as balancing each other out? Do you learn from each other?
Being able to balance our strengths and weaknesses is actually one of our best traits as a group. For example, Yunsoo is good at writing songs that go well for idols. Jonggil is more of a hook and simple songwriter. Aaron is really good at writing sentimental songs. Howon is learning a lot from each member.
Please describe your new single, “Voyager”!
“Voyager” is a rock-based song with lots of energy. It’s very fast and upbeat, and the lyrics describe our journey now soaring up like a rocket ship. We hope our fans really enjoy the song, especially when [they] need energy.
How is “Voyager” similar to and different from your previous singles?
“Voyager” is actually the first song we’ve tried [in this] style of music. It sounds a lot like J-rock, and its fast drum sound is not common in contemporary music.
Can you share a “TMI” story from making the “Voyager” music video?
One big “TMI” is that we tried [the visual effects technique] chroma key [for the first time]. It was awkward not being able to see what the background would look like. It was still very interesting, and we are very happy with the music video.
What is something people would be surprised to learn about the “Voyager” recording process?
Jonggil actually finished the drum recording of “Voyager” in one session. Usually drummers take a long time with fast songs because of the details, but Jonggil finished in one session.
What is your favorite YouTube cover video you’ve ever made, and why? And are there any songs you hope to release a cover of that you have not yet?
“Un Siglo Sin Ti” definitely has to be one of our favorites. We are very thankful because of all the love we’ve received through that cover. We would love to do more covers, but we haven’t decided on one yet. Soon, our Morat cover will go up!
What were your experiences like on Asian Top Band? Do any specific moments from filming stand out in your memories?
Asian Top Band was a very special program for us. It was just incredible to win first place, and we are still very proud of it. One thing we can remember is that it rained a lot during recordings. Almost all the recordings were done outside, so it was a hassle for the producers to always make [covers from] the rain. The recordings would take longer, and so some days, we would finish recordings at 4 a.m.
What is one career goal you have already accomplished, and what is one you are still dreaming about accomplishing?
One of our career goals was to release a full album, which we did [with] WHITE ALBUM. We obviously still have so many goals we want to accomplish, and one [is] having a concert in stadiums in any country.
You’ve already covered a big range of styles in your music, but are there any genres you haven’t tried yet that you want to?
We definitely have done lots of styles. One style we might try someday [is] band/EDM-style. Songs like “bad guy” by Billie Eilish [are in] a style we would love to try [too].
Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourselves or your music?
Hello to all new listeners. We always want our listeners to take away positive and overflowing energy, so we hope you enjoy our music. Thank you for listening and reading this interview!
Check out “Voyager” here, and learn more about W24 here!
Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. Photos courtesy of JARMY ENTERTAINMENT.