The septet, who made their highly anticipated debut earlier this year, have big dreams to conquer the South Korea music industry
The debut of seven-piece K-pop and rap group Tempest in February was well-received by fans. A mini-album titled It’s Me, It’s We, launched alongside the band’s debut, landed the number 13 spot on the Gaon Music Charts in South Korea in March—not bad for a rookie release.
It’s Me, It’s We gives a glimpse of the talents of the band, which consists of vocalists Hyuk, Hanbin, Hyeongseop and Eunchan, plus rappers Lew, Hwarang and Taerae. The lead single, Bad News—a funky, energetic track—talks of Tempest’s ambition to rise through the ranks.
Hyeongseop and Lew previously formed the musical duo Hyeongseop x Euiwoong; Hwarang and Hanbin had appeared in reality game shows; while Hyuk, Eunchan and Taerae are breaking into entertainment for the first time. The band is under Yuehua Entertainment, the talent agency that launched the careers of K-pop girl groups Everglow and WJSN as well as rising actor Lee Do-hyun.
Here, the members of Tempest tell Tatler about their debut, the album—and their aspirations for the journey ahead.
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Tell us more about your band’s name.
Lew (L): “Tempest” means a strong storm. The name contains our bold aspiration to sweep everything with our intense energy and powerful performance. And for us, Tempest means “one” and “my everything.”
In a mega industry filled with successful boy bands, what makes you stand out?
Hyuk (HY): I think the difference is that we not only show our individuality, but also blend well as a team. Also, I believe that our story is well-portrayed and presented in the music, which is truly the beauty of it.
Some of you aren’t new to the music industry. How do your experiences shape and inspire you as a group?
Hwarang (HW): I was able to recall the memories and emotions of my first time on stage through a broadcast program. I think that is why I was able to easily get my mind ready before I prepared for the stage as Tempest, or as Hwarang.
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