Lay Zhang is likely one of the most motivated, and phenomenally gifted artists of our time – having spent over a decade developing his indescribable career as a global superstar in every creative dimension within his reach. In order to find himself fully engaged in that reputable space, a labyrinth-like path is what led Lay to take on some of the most respected artistic titles attainable, including rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, director, dancer, and actor – all prior to celebrating his 30th birthday earlier this year.
Because of such relentless accomplishments, the singer has repeatedly been featured in the annual Forbes China Celebrity 100, working his way up from top 20, to the eventual and major impact of the top 5 just last year. Lay’s drive truly comes to no surprise for many, after launching his astute career through the juggernaut K-pop label SM Entertainment in the renowned group EXO. Prior to EXO, the label had introduced names that eventually influenced western media’s eventual reception to K-pop (Girls Generation, SHINee, Super Junior, TVXQ!) with EXO eventually taking on the mantle as yet another game-changing collection of talent.
EXO (which Lay still actively adores and contributes to) has spent their unified career amassing millions in album sales, landing on top spots amongst the most noteworthy charts around the world, and expanding their unique impression through technique. Since his debut with EXO, Lay has gone on to launch his own label Chromosome Entertainment Group, a brand new endeavor with universal support and anticipation, just over a year since its conception. Now as a business owner in this changing music landscape, Lay has pinpointed creative freedom that only some of the best artists in the world are able to attain with universal acclaim that bolsters the notion of staying true to oneself.
Just two months ago, having covered extensive ground with unstoppable potential at his fingertips, Lay recently took the chance to drop a love letter track to his fans titled “Bee With You”. As expected, the song shows consistency in raw ability – adding to his discography of illustrious beats and diverse interests – including the hit solo track “Honey” that has garnered an unfathomable 22 million streams, and features on tracks like “Let’s Shut Up & Dance” which have accumulated more than 35 million streams to date.
With Lay’s musical ability continuing to justify his admirable reputation around the world, we were elated to speak to the multifaceted talent about his take on the past, present, and future of his own craft.
You’re such an esteemed and respected artist that you’ve really experienced immeasurable success in your career, through your solo music as well as your work with EXO! Would you say getting to that place has helped you attain (or appreciate) more freedom of artistic expression?
Lay: It’s different. You have to learn how to mix your energy and vibe with everyone else and make sure you’re telling one story and one sound together. When you are alone you can do whatever you want which can be great, but sometimes having all this freedom can be confusing. You don’t know where to begin. Being in a group and being solo has helped me appreciate the different aspects of artistic expression.
Speaking of, you managed to create your own company Chromosome Entertainment Group, and that’s such an incredible achievement! What were some of your goals that led to the creation of Chromosome?
Lay: I wanted to pass on the knowledge I’ve gained working in the industry all these years. I also want the world to know that there are so many up-and-coming talents in China that need to be heard. It’s important to me to find different ways to share Chinese culture and having a company is just another way.
Now that you’ve gotten through your first year as a company with Chromosome Entertainment Group, what has been a major takeaway for you?
Lay: It’s hard [laughs] It’s actually really great. There is so much work and behind-the-scenes decisions that most people don’t realize before you see a group or artist debut. It makes me appreciate my team even more now. The key thing I learned is communication. You need to communicate with everyone and give everyone a chance to share their ideas. You never know who has the next big idea.
You recently dropped your song “Bee With You” and it was such a beautiful tribute to your expansive fanbase. How excited were you to release this track, and how personal did it feel to put that out in the world?
Lay: I just love the song. Everything sonically was great, and I wanted to share some of my thoughts with my fans. Every day I wake up and work hard for them. It makes me happy to be able to do this.
You’ve also amassed over 70 million followers across your social media platforms, which has evolved tremendously since your debut days! How has social media and that connection with fans impacted your craft over the years?
Lay: I’m amazed. There is a great responsibility with so many people watching you. It reminds me to work hard and be the best person I can be. I hope people can be inspired by the path and the decisions I make and will make.
Fans were also so excited to see your contributions to EXO this year with the mini-album Don’t Fight the Feeling! What was it like getting back into the collaborative process of the group?
Lay: Very important! I LOVE MY BROS, and I’m always there whenever they need me. It’s amazing to work with all of my bros again. I just wish we could get to do it in person, but the pandemic has made things more complicated.
You’ve been vital to the expansion of both K-pop and C-pop in your career, and now with K-pop in particular, we’re seeing an increase in the number of rookie groups debuting! What would you say is the biggest difference between your debut with EXO, and the groups you are noticing today?
Lay: Debuting is really tough. It’s a lot of hard work. I think today’s groups seem to be positioned to be more global. They’re speaking more languages fluently and they’re experimenting with different sounds and styles.
Now that you’ve been able to get back into all different styles and commitments through music and business, how have you managed to find that imperative creative balance?
Lay: When you love what you do, it doesn’t feel like work. It’s exciting and almost relaxing at times switching my brain between completely different roles and projects. I’m constantly learning new things.
I know that your love for your fans is so important to you, and I know that you have supporters around the world hoping to see you perform live! Do you have any hopes or potential plans for a concert either in person or virtually?
Lay: It really depends on these coronavirus strains and whether they can be contained. My goal is to perform live as soon as possible though. I’m patiently waiting, but it’s important that people are safe first.
Absolutely! Lastly, can you tease any upcoming project you’re excited about, or that fans can look forward to?
Lay: I do have some new [unannounced] TV shows and films coming. And we’ll see about the music.
Lay’s song “Bee With You” can be streamed above, and keep up with him on social media like Twitter and Instagram for more updates on all of the singer’s future releases!
