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KEY is on the hunt for good memories. The K-pop singer is having the time of his life on the US leg of his KEYLAND: Uncanny Valley world tour and wants fans to indulge in the same irresistible feeling.
KEYLAND: Uncanny Valley marks KEY’s first time trekking solo across the states, coming off the heels of the release of his third solo album, HUNTER. As a household name in South Korea’s entertainment industry, he’s mastered the art of being an icon with his witty banter and, of course, as the all-rounder in the legendary group SHINee. It’s only been a few dates into this tour, and he’s already hit the ground running with exquisite performances, viral posts with Wicked‘s Cynthia Erivo, and unforgettable interactions with his fans, lovingly dubbed Lil’ Freaks.
Related: RIIZE’s Members Share Their Favorite Memories From the RIIZING Loud Tour
Below, we chatted with him about the tour so far, his backstage rituals, and what he hopes his fans take away from his performances.
Kicking off your first solo US tour, is there anything you’re looking forward to?
I’ve been dreaming about doing a solo US tour forever, so honestly, I’m excited about everything! I love exploring new cities, and digging for local vintage pieces you can only find in each place. But more than anything, the idea of fans coming out to see my stage in person… that’s what really makes my heart race.
KCON served as a precursor to you announcing your US leg of the tour. What was the energy like before and after you finally released the news?
Before KCON, it felt like I was holding onto this fun little secret, so I was a bit nervous and quietly waiting for the right moment. But the second the announcement dropped, fans reacted so quickly and with so much excitement that it instantly lifted my energy. That was when everything really started to feel real.
You teased a little bit of backstage fun and prep on your Instagram. What is it like curating the stages, makeup, and overall look of the show?
With solo stages, I get to bring my ideas to life down to the smallest details, and I really love that process. From the colors and textures to the lighting, shaping the look and feel of the show takes time, but it’s rewarding because that’s where my identity and style really come through. Even with makeup, I’m trying small variations depending on the vibe of each tour stop.
Any fun backstage stories?
Backstage is a total whirlwind, to be honest. This show takes so much to put together—hair, makeup, outfits—so everyone is moving nonstop. It gets chaotic, but in a way that’s fun and keeps the energy really high.
Do you have any pre-performance rituals?
I always do a team huddle with the entire concert crew before going on stage. And a cup of tea is a must.
What do you find as your strength when performing solo vs. a group?
As SHINee, our strength is definitely our teamwork and the way we naturally complement one another. When I am on my own, I try to express my personal taste and ideas more openly and directly. I pay close attention to the details so everything comes across the way I envision it, and I think that is one of my strengths as a solo artist. I also get to guide the entire mood of the stage, which is something I really enjoy.
What song/stage are you excited to perform the most?
We rearranged the setlist and added a few new songs to fit the US vibe. I’m really excited to finally perform those on stage.
What song/stage do you consider the most challenging to perform?
High-energy songs like “Gasoline” are definitely the toughest. The choreography is demanding, and performing it solo means I have to keep that power going the whole time. It really pushes me, but it also makes the performance feel so satisfying and rewarding.
Do you have a particular fan memory from the tour that sticks to you the most?
There are moments when fans move in perfect sync with me, and those always stick with me. Even when I’m just saying a few words in English, they laugh and react right on cue, which is surprising and really touching. And in some cities, the whole crowd moved together so naturally that it felt like they had their own concept for the night. Moments like that stay with me long after the show.
Is there anything you want fans to take away from your tour and performance?
I want fans to feel the heart behind what I do—just how sincerely I approach every song and every performance. And I hope this show can be a small source of comfort or inspiration for them. If the time and energy I put into this tour becomes strength for someone, even for a moment, that means everything to me.
Key Keyland: Uncanny Valley Tour Dates
Dec. 3 – Los Angeles, Orpheum Theatre
Dec. 5 – Oakland, Calif., Paramount Theatre
Dec. 8 – Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, Will Rogers Auditorium
Dec. 10 – Brooklyn, Kings Theatre
Dec. 13 – Chicago, Riviera Theatre
Dec. 15 – Seattle, Moore Theatre
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Lea Veloso
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