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A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Yugyeom's Trusty Tour in Manila
In an exclusive interview with Preview, the South Korean artist delves into his beginnings, his work as a solo artist, and a glimpse into the road ahead.
Published Dec 24, 2024
“Coming back this time, I felt once again that Filipino fans are incredibly passionate and I feel energized from their love and support."
Last November 3, Preview was backstage at Yugyeom’s Trusty tour stop in Manila, where we caught a rare glimpse into the quieter moments before the South Korean singer's concert. By around 2 p.m., the SM North EDSA Skydome stage sat in dim silence as Yugyeom eased into rehearsals, dressed casually in a muscle tee and ripped jeans. It was a laid-back and unguarded energy, a stark contrast from the polished idol image that once defined his early boy group days with GOT7.
Rehearsals began with a soft ballad, his presence unassuming yet assured, an aura reflected in his newfound rhythm. This was no longer the Yugyeom of glittering stages or meticulous K-pop choreography. This was an artist exploring a deeper, more personal sound. As the setlist progressed through soulful R&B and groovy hip-hop, one thing became especially clear: Yugyeom is carving out an identity, one entirely his own.
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Ara May Tanagon
The atmosphere shifted when he took the stage for soundcheck. The venue, still bathed in low light, buzzed with energy as fans—dressed in red, per his request—roared in excitement. Yugyeom’s smile was effortless, his connection with the crowd immediate. In a moment of genuine interaction, he lowered the mic mid-song and invited the audience to sing along. The collective voices swelled in harmony, creating a sense of unity that was almost tangible.
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Ara May Tanagon
Minutes later, the arena plunged into darkness, and the opening notes signaled the start of the show. The concert itself felt less like a production and more like a celebration. Fans were on their feet by the second song, grooving to a setlist that included his solo tracks, some GOT7 hits here and there, and a DJ set midway through.
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Amid the cheers and pulsing bass, there was an undeniable intimacy to the performance. The Trusty tour, more than anything, felt like a celebration—a tribute to the journey Yugyeom has shared with his fans over the years, and an exploration of where he is now, and where he’s headed.
Ara May Tanagon
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Now, reflecting on his decade-long journey—from debuting as one-seventh of GOT7 to forging his own path as a solo artist—Yugyeom shares his thoughts on growth, gratitude, and a glimpse into the road that lies ahead. Read our exclusive post-show interview with him below.
Backstage with Yugyeom: A Glimpse Into His Artistic Growth and Journey on the Trusty Tour
How has the Trusty tour been so far? Is there anything about this tour in particular that sets it apart from the past tours you’ve done?
"In the past, I didn’t have many solo songs, so I couldn’t fill the entire performance by myself. Now that I have more songs, I’m able to show a more diverse range over a longer time, which I really enjoy."
Ara May Tanagon
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You’ve been to Manila several times over the last few years. How does it feel to be back this time around?
"Coming back this time, I felt once again that Filipino fans are incredibly passionate and I feel energized from their love and support."
What was it like working on your first full-length album Trust Me? What was the overall vision and concept behind it?
"When working on an album, the most important thing for me is 'Do it in a fun way and make the music that we want to.' All the songs were created with that mindset, so I really like them. The overall vision and concept were to create music that makes people feel good."
Ara May Tanagon
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It’s been 10 years since you debuted in the Korean music scene. What lessons from your beginnings with GOT7 have shaped you as an artist today?
"I learned so much from JYP, but what stands out are the things Jinyoung-hyung (JYP) often said: 'You need to be able to look far ahead,' and 'To have a long career as a singer, you need to be able to dance and sing well live.' Those words have stayed with me."
Can you share a moment or memory from those early days that still holds special meaning for you?
"When we debuted, all the members were young, and there were times when we were tired or didn’t get enough sleep. But I cherish the memories of us practicing together, talking, and laughing despite everything."
Ara May Tanagon
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With all seven members pursuing solo careers since leaving JYP, how have you managed to keep the bond strong since?
"Hmm… It’s about heart and connection. GOT7 exists because of Ahgase (our fans), and because we all know and share the same feelings, we remain a team."
Transitioning into a solo career was a big step. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during this shift?
"The biggest challenge was having to fill an entire music track and stage performance by myself, without the other members."
How has joining AOMG and diving into the hip-hop/R&B scene allowed you to explore a different musical side of yourself? What kind of artistic freedom has it given you?
"I feel I’ve been able to fully understand what kind of music I like and what my artistic color is. I've learned a lot and have been able to experience and challenge myself with music and styles I hadn’t tried before, which has really broadened my perspective."
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Ara May Tanagon
Who is Yugyeom today, both as a person and an artist? How different is he from the Yugyeom we saw in years past?
"I think I’m someone who is constantly evolving, and I want to continue to grow. Compared to a few years ago, I believe my singing, dancing, and way of thinking have all developed and become more refined."
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Since joining AOMG, your sound has evolved with stronger hip-hop and R&B influences. What inspired this direction?
"I started doing street dance when I was 14, and from that time, it allowed me to naturally gravitate towards hip-hop and R&B. It felt natural, like it was meant to be.”
Ara May Tanagon
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How would you describe your music style today? Are there certain themes or messages you aim to convey through your work?
"I’d say it’s love and laughter. I hope people love each other more and share more laughter."
Looking forward, what are some of your biggest goals as an artist? Are there specific themes or ideas you’re excited to explore in your future music?
"I want to keep making good music as time goes on. And as an artist who sings and dances, I want to keep performing for a long time."
Ara May Tanagon
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What do you hope to achieve, both personally and professionally, in the next few years? Are there any dreams or goals you’re excited to pursue next?
"As a person and as an artist, I want to share a variety of music with my listeners, and I hope that many people will listen to it and learn more about me."
Ara May Tanagon
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A Preview Original Production
Multimedia Director: Jana Jodloman
Photography and Videography: Ara May Tanagon
Video Editing: Greeko Junio
Story: Paulina Singh
Management: AOMG
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