Five years after making her solo debut with the single "Magnolia," MAMAMOO member and solo artist Whee In is back with her first full-length album, a year and nine months after the release of her second mini-album 'WHEE.'

'IN the mood' marks the continuation of her previous album 'WHEE.' Together, they form the phrase "Whee In The Mood," symbolizing the singer in "diverse forms within a specific ambiance."

'IN the mood' has 11 new songs titled "I Know I Know I Know (Beyond)," "In The Mood," "17 (featuring her fellow member Hwasa)," "Spark," "Bite Me (featuring Haon)," "Dance 4 You," "On The Island," "Aphrodite," "Breeze," "Bittersweet," and "Here I Am."

With the singer's first studio album, Whee In showcased her wide musical spectrum as she ventured into trying new genres. Despite the pressure, this step the singer is eager to make every comeback signals an incredibly promising journey ahead of her. "I was quite nervous and anxious to release my first full album, but I’m very excited to finally share this album with the world," said Whee In.

In commemoration of Whee In's solo return, allkpop had the chance to chat with the singer to talk about 'IN the mood,' pre-show rituals, and more. Continue reading to learn more about Whee In!

Shout-out video from Whee In to allkpop:

allkpop: Hi, Whee In! First and foremost, thank you for taking the time, and congratulations on the release of your first-ever full-length album! Let’s kick this interview off with the basics, what’s your mood these days?

Whee In: Hello! I'm delighted to have this interview with you! I’m currently in the mood to find comfort. I've recently concluded the promotion for 'IN the mood,' had a mini fan meeting with my fans, received an abundance of love, and am healing myself through travel!

allkpop: This is the second part of your identity series. How are they connected? Since you previously explored your connection to light in ‘WHEE,’ continuing with this album in particular, what kind of artist Whee In do you hope the listeners would realize or see?

Whee In: If in 'WHEE' I portrayed the "valuable me" using light as a medium, in 'IN the mood,' I aimed to reveal the authentic nature of humans beyond.

allkpop: How do you feel now that it’s been over a month since the album’s release? Did part of that anxiousness fade away as you scroll on social media reading comments that your album and performance are good?

Whee In: I do not think that the tension and the pressure will ever disappear. It is something that will always be there with me in order to present my absolute best. However, the encouragement from my fans definitely lifts my mood to work even harder!

allkpop: I was wondering where "Whee In The Mood" came from, which is also your Instagram handle. Is there any story or meaning behind that? How did that come about?

Whee In: It was created by a director who is very close to me, and it means showcasing myself in diverse forms within a specific ambiance.

allkpop: I read in an interview that one of your songs in your first EP ‘Redd’ is related to ‘WHEE,’ and now, ‘WHEE’ shows a connection with ‘IN the mood.’ What’s something you always insert or include in your releases to maintain that image and sound of Whee In, to keep that consistency in your discography?

Whee In: I aim to demonstrate my versatility in handling various genres. This album was my first venture into some new genres, and I am preparing to consistently showcase different facets of myself!

allkpop: Could you please walk us through the preparations you made for ‘IN the mood’ — from writing the lyrics for “Here I Am” to the recording process and the filming of the music video? You were involved in the creative direction for the music video of “Make Me Happy” — how about this time around? How was your experience collaborating with Hwasa for "17" and Haon for "Bite Me"?

Whee In: When I listened to "Here I Am," I thought I would be able to write the story I wanted to tell, so I decided to write the lyrics for the song. Throughout the album preparation, I engaged in extensive communication with the staff to share my thoughts on the album. I envisioned 'IN the mood' as an album perfect for a leisurely drive on a sunny day, and I believe this was translated effectively into the music video. The collaboration with Hwasa and Haon added a significant touch, contributing to the overall excellence of the song!

allkpop: I was wondering how different it is like when you work together just for a collaboration vs. working together as members of MAMAMOO. This is the first time you featured a fellow MAMAMOO member for your solo album. Does it feel different or new because you’re doing it from another angle or perspective?

Whee In: Collaborating with Hyejin (Hwasa) for the first time on an official project was a great experience! I loved that I was able to present something new. We filmed a live clip together, and the entire collaboration was a lot of fun. It may be the start of our next comeback as Two Young Girls! (laughs)

allkpop: Since this album contains 11 tracks, were you able to explore any new singing techniques or styles? Were you able to find and discover anything new in yourself while recording the songs?

Whee In: The genres that I will explore will be endless, and I've come to realize the potential for continuous growth within the process. It serves as a reminder for me to always maintain a level of tension and focus.

allkpop: What is your standard routine for warming up or preparing your body, mind, and throat for a live performance?

Whee In: I make sure to get a good night's rest or stay hydrated to prevent my throat from drying out! Although my routine isn't as extensive as one might think, I consistently practice singing whenever I find the time. Most importantly, I prepare myself with the mindset of showing all I’ve got!

allkpop: The majority of your songs have an R&B influence. Have you ever considered experimenting with other genres?

Whee In: I’m interested in a genre with heavy band sound, but above all, I’d like to try various styles of music without limiting myself to any.

allkpop: Your music provides solace, so I wanted to ask something about it back to you: what or who is your source of comfort? Could you please complete this sentence: “I'm most happy when…”? I asked this question to Hwasa previously, and I'd love to ask this to every MAMAMOO member!

Whee In: "I am happiest when I sing!" I want to share my songs with more people, and it brings me immense joy when my fans listen to and appreciate my music. I hope my songs can bring comfort to various individuals, and I am determined to continue singing.

allkpop: Looking back to where it started, what does it feel like to be able to accomplish so much — not just the “achievements on charts or platforms,” but also the accomplishments you feel inside of yourself as a musician, like writing your own songs and being involved in almost all aspects of your releases? You’ve been in the industry for almost a decade now, and you have definitely showcased your growth, but what part of this growth are you most proud of yourself? 

Whee In: I recently came back from a world tour, and the overwhelming love and support from fans were truly heartwarming! It was a joyful and fulfilling experience, and I believe I've reached this point in my journey due to the love from so many. I will definitely continue to evolve as an artist to present an even better version of myself!

allkpop: Now that releasing a full album has been ticked off of your bucket list, what’s your next big goal as a solo artist?

Whee In: My goal is to host a solo concert. There are many songs that I haven't performed live for our fans yet, and I am eager to present them as soon as possible!

allkpop: Lastly, I want you to pick one song from your album — the one that you would want to recommend right now, and then one song outside your discography that you’ve been listening to these days. Feel free to say anything to allkpop readers and your fans who will be reading this interview as well!

Whee In: It was a fantastic experience promoting 'IN the mood' with MooMoos, and I received so much love during this comeback! I was actually the one to receive more energy from our fans. Always stay healthy, and as promised, I will continue to put in my best effort to create delightful gifts for you.

Lastly, for today's song recommendation from this album, I suggest "Bittersweet" to match the mood of the day. As for a song I've been enjoying lately, I recommend "Baby Powder" by Jenevieve! Everyone, take care and stay warm!

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