Chen of EXO finds solace, safe space in songwriting

MANILA, Philippines — Chen, regarded as a standout vocalist of K-pop boy band EXO, has shown how he does not only shine in the singing department, but also in writing the lyrics of songs that reflect his authentic self as an artist.

Through his solo fan concert dubbed “Beyond the DOOR,” the South Korean singer-songwriter gave fans a glimpse of how songwriting matters to him just as much as performing on stage.

“I see it as a kind of confession, a way of honestly conveying the thoughts and emotions that I wanted to express to someone,” he said in a pre-recorded video shown before thousands of Filipino EXO-Ls on Nov. 23 at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City, the last stop of his Asia tour presented by Wilbros Live.

His fourth mini-album DOOR, released last May 28, was another proof of his passion for transforming his words into melodic hits.

Of the six songs in the extended play (EP), Chen co-wrote five: Dandelion, Remember, Playlist, Fall In Love Again and its title track, Empty.

“I usually enjoy writing lyrics, when I write them, countless words come to mind just to express one particular idea…When I pour out the stories I’ve been holding onto, I feel a great sense of relief,” he remarked.

Even before his comeback album this year, the group’s main vocalist has already played a part in making lyrics for EXO’s widely popular singles, namely Ko Ko Bop and Love Shot.

His discography was also a testament to his growth in songwriting. For his solo debut, he penned Flower, a ballad track in his solo debut album titled April, and a Flower, and he took part in writing the soul-stirring song My Dear for his second EP.

“In those moments, it’s as if the knots in my heart that I’ve been wanting to express are untangled and resolved. This always gives me a feeling of my heart being cleared and refreshed,” the K-pop star further detailed.

Though he finds comfort in creating music, Chen admitted that such a path is daunting.

“To be honest, there are times when I do feel exhausted. I sometimes wonder, ‘Am I doing well in this performance?’ ‘Are the people watching from below really enjoying it?’” he pondered.

Still, the 32-year-old idol whose solo career began five years ago, remains hopeful that his music will leave a mark, which he metaphorically likened to the smell of coffee that he brews himself.

“It’s the whole process of selecting my favorite beans and brewing it myself that I find really enjoyable. The fragrant aroma while brewing and the satisfaction of getting the exact flavor I want after drinking it are what make the experience so fulfilling for me,” Chen said.

“Scent is something you can’t see, but when you catch a whiff, it stays deeply in your memory. I think music is similar — though it’s invisible, it can leave a lasting impression in your heart,” he explained.

With this goal set in his mind, Chen aspires to be an artist whose music stands the test of time and touches the lives of many, saying, “I hope my music can be something subtle that you’ll recall when you look back someday. I want to create music that isn’t overwhelming but instead approaches you in a simple and pure way.”