Why HUTA Will Have You “HOOKed”!
HUTA describes his new album, shares surprising facts about it, and talks about how it differs from BTOB’s music.
What three words or phrases best describe your new album, HOOK?
“Energy,” “Rhythm,” [and] “Bounce.”
Is there any particular reason why, unlike your previous albums, HOOK has no features on it?
I wanted to have an album filled solely with [my] vocals. I wanted to show that I'm an artist who can fill an album with variety on my own.
Since HOOK is your first album in three years, did you feel more pressure than usual to make it a high-quality release? How did you deal with that pressure?
This was my first album since moving to a new company, and my first in three years, so naturally, I felt a sense of pressure. However, BTOB COMPANY's trust was great, and as I prepared with the mindset of a new debut, the pressure eased and I became more passionate.
Do you purposefully try to make your solo music sound different from BTOB’s music? How is the music of “HUTA from BTOB” similar to and different from the music of “HUTA the Soloist”?
First of all, solo music and group music are structurally very different. With multiple members, overlapping parts are possible, [and] while that's possible in solo music, it's not common. Group music also offers much more freedom and variety in terms of topline possibilities. That's why I think making solo music is a bit more challenging. BTOB music seems more lyrical and emotional, while [my] music seems to [be] more rhythmic and powerful. If there's one similarity, it's that my emotions are ultimately incorporated, right?
Do you ever get advice or feedback from the other BTOB members while working on your solo music? And what have their reactions been like to HOOK so far?
The members have surprisingly different musical pursuits and tastes, so we don't usually give each other advice on our solo albums. I've heard a lot of people say that “Bora” is really exciting and cool!
What would people be surprised to learn about the making of HOOK?
Most of the songs were candidates for the title track! Even if they weren't on the album, there are some songs that would have been great as digital singles to match the season. I'm proud of this album's completeness.
A behind-the-scenes story: I remember the Spanish and Portuguese in “V” and “Bora” were difficult to review. The chorus of “V” wasn't even grammatically correct, but we were careful about the rhyme, flow, and nuance, so we just went with it, taking K-pop's permission! [Laughs]
Which song on HOOK is your personal favorite, and why?
Title track “Bora” is my favorite. It's a genre I'm trying for the first time, and it took the longest to complete. I've grown very attached to it. Of course, it's also the song I'm [the] most confident in!
Which of the songs on HOOK did you predict that fans would love the most, and why?
I was certain “Break Free” would be the most popular! It has a catchy melody and is a genre of internationally-beloved band music. Most importantly, the lyrics contain key words that resonate with everyone around the world.
Finish this sentence: “After listening to HOOK, I hope listeners…”
“After listening to HOOK, I hope listeners will realize that Lee Min Hyuk (HUTA) is a truly sensible and sophisticated artist, and an artist who makes great music!”
Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your new music?
I want to meet many [fans] from around the world! I think this is just the beginning! I'll continue to show you an even more wonderful and evolving side of Lee Min Hyuk. Don't miss out, hop on this rhythm!
Check out HOOK here!
Answers have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. Photos courtesy of BTOB COMPANY.