Kang Daniel candidly spoke about the seven years of his music career and also opened up about his plans to enlist for the mandatory military service.
On June 16, Kang Daniel held a press conference at Park One Tower 2 in Yeouido, Seoul, to commemorate the release of his sixth mini album, 'Glow to Haze.'
The title track, “Episode,” features an impressive fusion of Latin and R&B sounds. Even in the short highlight medley, its sophisticated melody and smooth groove stand out.
Kang Daniel explained, “I wanted to capture a story that feels like a gradient. I think the song expresses the fading layers of love,” adding, “I portrayed the images of myself and the other person during the most passionate moments of love in a harmonious way.”
In this album, Kang Daniel participated in both the composition and lyrics for the track “Love Game,” marking his first experience as a composer. By blending piano, bass, and guitar sounds, he created an addictive rhythm and melody. The lyrics, which depict the push and pull of love, add another layer of intrigue.
He explained, “I had tried composing in the past, but I felt I might go crazy from the stress, so I avoided it. I had thought of composing as a great tool to express one’s emotional nuances, but I stayed away simply because of the stress. After performing and sharing many songs, I started to feel like maybe I should try it. I realized there are expressions that can't be conveyed through lyrics alone. Now, this album includes my first track as a composer. To me, that feels like a new chapter.”
He added, “Since it’s my debut work as a composer, I felt a bit shy about making it the title track. I didn’t think I had enough experience or polish yet, so I placed it as a B-side. I wanted to portray the beginning of emotions that are gradually fading. Because it’s my first composition, I included many of the elements I like, lots of 16-bit, cute sounds.”
Debuting through the project group Wanna One, Kang Daniel is now in his seventh year as a solo artist. He shared, “Time really flies. It’s already my seventh year." He also reflected, "Looking back, there are still many things about myself that I’m not satisfied with. There are always regrets like, ‘It would’ve been better if I had done this.’ I regularly take time to self-reflect. I don’t think my mindset has changed much, but I do think I’ve built up some experience and skill.”
“I also want to show how that experience has built up,” he said. “As for the future, I’m still not sure what exactly I want to do in music. I’ve figured out my musical taste, but I don’t think I’m confined to a specific genre yet.”
Kang Daniel also shared his plans for military enlistment. “It’s been decided for the second half of this year. I was actually planning to enlist earlier, but before I go, I wanted to greet fans with meaningful activities and show as much as I can,” he said. “There will be follow-up promotions after this album too, so I hope you’ll look forward to those as well.”
SEE ALSO: Kang Daniel drops 6th mini album "Glow to Haze" exploring the shades of love
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