EXCLUSIVE | Mamamoo's Wheein brings her own Wonderland to fans in 2nd album 'Whee'
Wheein is back with another solo album. The Mamamoo star made her solo debut in 2018 with the smashing hit single ‘Easy’. She dropped her first album in 2021 and following an eight-month gap she came back with her second mini-album ‘Whee’. It also happens to be her first album with her new label THE L1VE whose CEO is none other than VIXX’s Ravi. Wheein took us on a rollercoaster with ‘Whee’ as she also implemented fun and fantastical elements like ‘Alice in Wonderland’ in her title track ‘Make Me Happy’ which showcased her heavenly vocals.
Mamamoo's Wheein released ‘Whee’ and its title track ‘Make Me Happy’ on January 16. The album immediately topped iTunes, Bugs and entered charts like Genie and MelOn. MEAWW had a chance to ask the K-pop idol about her new label and how she prepared for her recent album. In an exclusive interview with MEAWW, Wheein discussed ‘Whee’, the music-making process, how she came up with the album name and more.
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MEAWW: Congratulations on ‘Whee’! This is your first album with your new label THE L1VE and VIXX’s Ravi who even participated in the making of the album. How has the experience been?
WHEEIN: I’d like to thank Ravi for opening up to me, and I remember just being so happy to work with the team that has such amazing energy. The whole process of making this album was very fun and entertaining.
MEAWW: In just a day of its release, ‘Whee’ was already a successful album, topping charts like iTunes and Bugs and this is just the beginning of your amazing solo journey. How are you feeling?
WHEEIN: I never expected such love, so I’m very thankful and unbelievably happy every day.
MEAWW: With all of the album tracks being so beautiful, what made you choose ‘Make Me Happy’ as the title track?
WHEEIN: I thought the hook with repetitive rhythm and lyrics was quite addictive. I also thought the phrase "오묘해" (mysterious, profound in Korean), was a key point that can leave a strong mark on the listeners.
MEAWW: Make Me Happy’s concept represents your free-spirited and artistic image so well. How did you go about preparing for it till you were satisfied that it was authentically ‘Wheein’?
WHEEIN: I really focused on easy listening which is one of my vocal strengths. Also, I think the whole process went smoothly because it was about representing what I already have in myself.
MEAWW: The album name ‘Whee’ is so whimsical and fun! What inspired it?
WHEEIN: ‘Whee’ from my name WHEEIN, means shine or sparkle. So ‘Whee’ album literally represents my light or my sparkle, and I was confident that this album can show my identity very clearly.
MEAWW: What would you say is the highlight of ‘Make Me Happy’?
WHEEIN: I would say the opening part and the repetitive part singing “come around” are the most memorable points.
MEAWW: The music video is so exciting, the filming must have been cool too. Are there any fun behind-the-scenes stories of filming the ‘Make Me Happy’ music video?
WHEEIN: There were a lot of art installations that required very detailed work on individual pieces, so the whole shoot took about 30 hours. But it was a fun experience.
MEAWW: Fans have always loved the songs that are written by you like ‘Letter Filled With Light’ and ‘Ohoo’. Can we expect more of your self-made songs in the future?
WHEEIN: Yes, of course. I will continue working slowly but steadily.
MEAWW: Your festive Christmas single with Ailee was much loved. Is there a possibility of a proper collaboration with her in your next comeback?
WHEEIN: Yes, we’re always open to the idea. We will also produce and sing good music for you in our own position, so please stay tuned for Ailee and me.
MEAWW: You have had so many iconic collabs. Are there any artists that you have not worked with yet that you would like to collaborate with next?
WHEEIN: There are just so many amazing artists I want to work with. I’m always open to any collaboration.
MEAWW: Since 2020 you have been dropping so many fan-favourite OSTs. Are you interested in branching out and taking on different projects?
WHEEIN: My main focus is always music, but if I get an opportunity, I’d like to consider it.
MEAWW: So many offline concerts and tours are finally taking place. Are there any plans for your solo concert or maybe even a world tour with THE L1VE artists?
WHEEIN: We don’t have anything planned for now, but we’re considering every possibility and opportunity. Hopefully, the right one will come and we’ll make it happen.
MEAWW: Finally, any last words for fans who were eagerly waiting for you?
WHEEIN: Thank you so much for your love and support for this album. I promise you that I’ll be an artist that never stops growing in any aspect. Stay safe, I love you all.
Watch the music video for 'Make me Happy' below.