EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Lay Zhang On His Growth And How ‘Fresh’ Took Him By Surprise

Yep, you read that correctly. We got the opportunity to exclusively interview Lay Zhang, and we’re going to be pinching ourselves over this one for a while.

Back in June, Lay Zhang released his latest album, STEP, which was his first entirely in English. You may have come to know Lay through this, or its singles ‘Run Back To You’ or ‘Psychic,’ or you might’ve known Lay for over a decade now as part of K-Pop juggernaut EXO. Regardless of when you got here, we can all agree that Lay is a force to be reckoned with. It was an honor to ask Lay Zhang about STEP, his growth since his rookie days, and how mentoring young artists inspires him, all in this exclusive interview!

Lay Zhang x THP Exclusive Interview

Lay On STEP

Huge congratulations on the release of STEP! How does it feel to have the whole album out in the world?
Thank you! It feels incredible to finally share this album with everyone. I’m excited for fans to hear it.

What makes now the right time for you to release your debut all-English album?
It felt like the perfect moment to connect with a broader audience and showcase my growth as an artist.

You worked with some amazing artists and writers on the album. What do these collaborations mean to you? And how did they come about?
These collaborations mean a lot to me. They came about through mutual respect and a shared vision for the music.

Lay On ‘Fresh’

Was there a song you were most nervous for fans to hear? Or one where the reaction has taken you by surprise?
I was a bit nervous about ‘Fresh’ because it’s different from what I’ve done before, but the positive reaction has been amazing.

We can’t stop listening to ‘Fresh!’ What are some things that make you feel “fresh and brand new?”
Thank you! Traveling, trying new experiences, and connecting with fans always make me feel rejuvenated.

The moment we heard the title track ‘STEP,’ we knew the performance would be amazing, and the official dance video proved us right! What can you tell us about the experience of recording this song?
Recording ‘STEP’ was a dynamic and energetic experience. The dance video was a lot of fun to create, and I’m glad fans are enjoying it.

Lay On Tour & TV

Congratulations on the start of the Grandline 4 Tour, too! How does it feel to be back on the road and sharing the new album with fans in person?
It’s thrilling to be back on tour and connect with fans face-to-face. Their energy makes every performance special.

Show It All aired earlier this year. Of course, you were a mentor, but is there anything that you learned or took with you and brought to your own performances since the show?
Mentoring taught me a lot about patience and perspective. I’ve definitely applied some of those lessons to my own performances.

How did you find the experience of being a mentor, especially while you are still very active in the industry yourself?
Being a mentor was rewarding. It was a balancing act, but it also gave me a new appreciation for the industry.

Lay On His Career

How do you think you’ve changed the most since your own rookie days? And what do you think your rookie self would think of the Lay Zhang of 2024?
I’ve grown a lot in terms of confidence and skill. I think my rookie self would be proud and inspired by the journey.

As a singer, dancer, rapper, actor, producer, and businessman, it feels like there’s no creative outlet you’re too afraid to try! Are there any other creative avenues you’d love to explore?
I’m always open to new creative challenges. Exploring more in the realms of film and fashion interests me.

What message would you like to give to new fans who discover the world of Lay Zhang through STEP?
Welcome! I hope my music inspires and brings joy to you. Thank you for joining me on this journey.

And what would you like fans who have followed you for over a decade now to take away from this release?
Thank you for your unwavering support. This album is a testament to our journey together, and I hope it resonates deeply with you.

Thank you again to Lay Zhang for chatting with us in this exclusive interview! Now, we gotta go show STEP even more love.

What did you think of our chat with Lay? Are you as obsessed with STEP as we are? Are you, like us, among the fans showing ‘Fresh’ the love it deserves? Let us know over on Twitter @thehoneypop, and you can also talk to us over on Facebook and Instagram!

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