WayV wrapped up their debut New York performance during Central Park’s SummerStage concert series, drawing massive crowds that left the five-member Chinese pop group eager to return, according to member YangYang. The subunit of Korean megagroup NCT headlined an evening of pop music sponsored by the China Institute of America on Aug. 2, performing without member Ten.
WayV Embraces New York City Debut and Fan Energy
The morning after their debut New York performance, WayV described being overwhelmed by the audience turnout. According to YangYang, the group had not experienced that kind of atmosphere in a long time and did not expect so many people to show up. The group treated the event as a mini-concert, serving as a warm-up ahead of their upcoming “Born This Way” concert tour starting in Seoul on Sept. 12.
For the New York setlist, the group packed their English-language tracks and performed “Low Low” live for the first time. YangYang noted that U.S. fans love the track, prompting them to deliver surprises and songs the crowd could sing along with. During the performance, fans sang lyrics louder than the group itself, an emotional moment that caused YangYang to remove his in-ear monitor to listen to the audience.
Did you know? WayV’s upcoming “Born This Way” tour marks the group’s third concert tour, giving them the confidence to curate setlists based on fan favorites.
Exploring New Music With “Vision Wings”
WayV is preparing to release their eighth mini-album, “Vision Wings,” on Aug. 10. The project blends traditional Chinese instrumentation with hip-hop and jungle beats. According to YangYang, the group has never tried Chinese-style music before, despite being Chinese, but felt inspired to make their mark on the genre and expose listeners to traditional instruments like the guzheng.
The album’s Chinese name translates to a bird that flies to the sky. YangYang explained that the concept tells fans they can fly together like an eagle through the sky despite obstacles. The eponymous lead single features two versions: a Chinese recording and an English recording. Kun stated that recording English versions for title tracks matches their identity as a group with global fans.
Xiaojun noted that each member brings a distinct color to the collective across different languages accumulated over seven years as a group. Member Xiaojun shared that one of his favorite tracks on the new album is “After Party (5am),” a ballad capturing the emotional shift during a post-concert celebration where he finds himself missing the fans.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for WayV’s concept video teasers for “Vision Wings,” which introduce each member through core values driving the group forward.
Sightseeing and Jet Lag in Manhattan
Outside of rehearsals and performances, the group took advantage of early morning jet lag to explore New York City. YangYang grabbed a bacon, egg, and cheese on a roll during six hours of free roaming time before scheduled activities began at noon. Hendery remarked that visiting New York felt like déjà vu due to the many movies and games set in the city.
For Kun, exploring the city offered a shift in perspective. According to Kun, playing flight simulation games at home usually provided a bird’s-eye view of New York skyscrapers, making it surreal to experience the structures from the ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was WayV’s New York performance?
WayV headlined an evening of pop music during Central Park’s SummerStage concert series on Aug. 2, sponsored by the China Institute of America.
When is WayV’s “Vision Wings” album releasing?
WayV’s eighth mini-album, “Vision Wings,” is scheduled for release on Aug. 10.
What is WayV’s upcoming tour?
The group is kicking off their third concert tour, titled “Born This Way,” in Seoul on Sept. 12.
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