(*Only Yonghwa-related parts are translated.)
They performed more than 100 times in live houses and on the streets of Japan. Through striving earnestly, CNBLUE has become a popular band in Japan and Korea. At the juncture of 5th anniversary since major debut, they will release the new album ‘Euphoria’ and begin an arena tour. We first asked them to tells us about the new album.
-The lyrics (of Glory days) are positive, about keep going on despite being lost on the path. What do you do if you’re lost on the path you need to take?
YH: Even if I’m lost, I continue forward. In Korea, there’s a saying “once you start, you’re halfway there.” As long as you started off, you’ve succeeded 50%.
MH: (on recommended track) As for me, “Face to face.” It’s a good rhythmic song like “With me” and “Don’t care,” I think it’ll bring up the atmosphere during live concerts.
-On a related note, what do you wanna say to one another “Face to face”?
JS: To Yonghwa. A while ago, I traveled Europe. He’s also going to Paris this time, related to his work. I want him to see many things.
MH: I believe he’ll buy nice presents for us!
YH: Oh will I~? (laughs)
JS: JH bought me some toothpaste from Italy though?
YH: Huh!? I haven’t received it yet…
JH: Oh that’s because, just when I returned from Italy, JS treated me to some sashimi from caught fish. But in fact I didn’t buy anything as a present, so I couldn’t help but give it to him saying, “It’s a famous toothpaste in Europe.” JS, treat me to some sashimi again!
YH: (Tired/dispirited note) I’m not so fond of sashimi, that’s alright…
-Then, which song do you recommend, Yonghwa?
YH: ‘Royal Rumble’, which sings about the future. Though I like love songs too, I prefer the songs that sing of hope.
-What is the future that the band imagines?
MH: Keep going on.
YH: Tokyo Dome.
JS: We can do both, dome tours and continuing music.
-The relationship among members is also important to longevity.
JH: We really have a nice relationship.
JS: It’s because of me. Without me, it’s not far-fetched to say today’s CNBLUE won’t exist!
YH: Thanks to Jungshin, I’m (monotonously) H-A-P-P-Y. Jungshin is very important because he brightens the atmosphere of the band. I’m speaking from my heart.
-What’s your personal view on your future?
MH: Nothing especially. As long as I can live on normally, I’m okay.
YH: You haven’t changed (laughs). Someday, I want to hear “I respect you” from my child.
JS: I believe you’ll be a good dad.
YH: Really!?
JS: Ah, just kidding (laughs). I can imagine what kind of dad the other two will be, but Yonghwa… so, I’ll stay by your side and keep my eyes on what kind of dad you become.
-Do you wanna be Yonghwa’s son?
JS: No! That’d be awful! (laughs)
YH: If he’s my son, I would raise him stoutly!
-Since it’s the 5th anniversary, please pick 5 things that maintained the band thus far.
All: Fans!
MH: Without the fans, we can’t get strength no matter what we do.
YH: I agree. Also, members, street lives, past tours, and genius Yonghwa (laughs).
-That’s important (laughs). Why the street lives?
YH: Because we had that experience, we can feel bigger happiness in large venues.
(on rookie days)
YH: I feel like I was more confident back then. I rammed in like a bulldozer (laughs).
-‘Euphoria’ is an album that arrived after such days. Tell us about the meaning of the title.
JH: It means ‘happiness’. It’s about our gratitude toward the fans who make us happy.
YH: Let’s stay together after 5 years, and be happier!