KISS OF LIFE talk 'Sticky' success, Coachella aspirations, and upcoming world tour at 'Lose Yourself' press showcase

KISS OF LIFE recently celebrated the release of their 3rd mini album 'Lose Yourself' with allkpop and other media outlets at a press showcase event in Seoul's Yes24 Live Hall.

Featuring seven diverse tracks (including a solo track for each member), the album showcases the group’s ability to blend hip-hop, R&B, and Latin influences, following a theme of 'immersion' that transcendes the 'freedom' explored in their previous released. When discussing the creative process behind their new album, the group's maknae Haneul emphasized the album's eclectic sound by saying, "We wanted to include various genres to make listening more fun."

The title track "Get Loud" highlights the group’s signature sound with a combination of hip-hop rhythms and striking guitar. Main vocalist Belle, who participated in the composition of the track, shared, “I often work on songs, but collaborating with talented producers for this project helped us create something that truly reflects who we are as a group.”

The music video for "Get Loud" incorporates unique elements like parallel universes and doppelgängers, with a standout scene featuring confetti representing the moment of self-discovery. "There’s a scene where paper confetti falls, symbolizing the realization of an unknown side of ourselves," the group's leader Julie explained.

Julie also gave insight into previously released track "R.E.M," describing it as a song steeped in the Y2K aesthetic. "It’s about meeting someone in a dream and wanting to stay in that state because of the happiness it brings," she explained.

Reflecting on moments of immersion during the album's creation, each member shared their personal experiences. Haneul noted that she often 'loses herself' while watching dramas, while main dancer Natti revealed that performing on stage is when she 'loses herself' and feels most deeply connected to her art. "When everyone is fully immersed in the performance, that’s when I feel the coolest," Natti said. Julie added that she 'loses herself' when she can feel the rhythm as she dances their choreography.

The group is not only preparing for their upcoming album promotions but also their first world tour 'KISS ROAD,' which kicks off in November with a concert in Seoul before moving onto stops in 19 other cities including Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris, and Tokyo. For many fans, it will be the first time seeing KISS OF LIFE live, and anticipation is building. Belle expressed her excitement about the upcoming tour: "This is something we’ve dreamed of for a long time. It’s physically challenging to prepare for both the album and the tour at the same time, but we’ve enjoyed every moment of it." 

“Performing live for our global fans has always been a dream. The energy from fans around the world has been incredible, even from afar. Now we finally get to meet them in person, and we want to make it a tour to remember," Natti added before moving into other aspirations she has for the group. "We’ve always had big dreams, and Coachella is one of them. [In the meantime,] we’re working hard, going on this world tour, and continuing to develop our music."

As additional dates needed to be added to the U.S. leg due to venues already selling out, the international appeal of KISS OF LIFE is undeniable. Julie touched on this global connection, saying, “Even when language is a barrier, fans abroad still sing along and understand our choreography. It’s amazing how our music connects us.”

'Lose Yourself' is KISS OF LIFE's third comeback this year as well as the first since their 'summer queen' success with hit single "Sticky." With the aforementioned single climbing domestic charts, earning the group two music show wins, and joining the roster of 'WATERBOMB' performers, KISS OF LIFE has quickly become a favorite, both in Korea and internationally. Julie reflected on the journey, sharing, “We were overwhelmed by the love we received with 'Sticky.' This time, we worked even harder to show our thanks.”

The other members also revealed different moments where they have realized their growing popularity. Belle recalled, "When we hear the crowd cheering as we introduce ourselves on stage, it’s when I really feel like we’ve made it." Natti shared a similar sentiment, adding, "We recently performed overseas, and hearing fans sing 'Sticky' along with us was an unforgettable moment."

At one point of the press event, a reporter mentioned that October is quite the popular month for girl groups. Not only was ITZY also making their comeback on October 15 as well, but Kim Jaejoong's new girl group SAY MY NAME was debuting. To this, Julie responded that its an honor to promote alongside so many respected artists. "What makes us stand out is our deep understanding of hip-hop and R&B," she added when asked how the group stands out. "It allows us to blend those elements into our performances.”

Meanwhile, the latest schedule for KISS OF LIFE's 'KISS ROAD' world tour can be seen below: