Yuqi of i-Dle Takes on Producer Role for Cube Entertainment’s New Boy Group NOWZ
Yuqi is stepping into a fresh role as a producer for Cube Entertainment’s newest boy group, NOWZ. On June 15, the company shared a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of NOWZ’s pre-release single, “Fly Freely (Feat. Yuqi),” on (G)I-DLE’s official channel. The video gives fans a glimpse of Yuqi supporting her juniors not just as an artist but also as a producer, building excitement for the upcoming release.
This marks Yuqi’s first time writing and producing a song for a male group. Reflecting on the process, she said:
"“I thought about what kind of song would suit NOWZ and what genre I’m best at. This was my first time writing a song for a boy group,” she said. “I’ve always liked stories about youth, and NOWZ gave off that youthful vibe.”" Yuqi connected deeply with the idea of youthfulness, which is a core theme throughout the track.
She added more about the song’s message:
"“I wanted this song to feel like a gift for NOWZ. I wanted to tell the members, ‘Fly freely. It’s a message that says, ‘As long as we’re together, we can overcome anything. Wherever you are, whatever the situation, live freely and do what you want.”"
Written, composed, featured, and produced by Yuqi, “Fly Freely (Feat. Yuqi)” captures the feelings of growing up and facing life’s uncertainties with courage and hope. A scenic online cover image featuring NOWZ members linking arms by the seaside complements this emotional and inspiring vibe.
Yuqi also spoke about the significance of gifting this song to a group outside her own:
"“This is my first time gifting a song to another team, so I’m grateful they trusted me. Just like the lyrics say, no matter what happens in life, tomorrow will be brighter. So I hope they won’t be sad. I truly hope they can fly freely.”"
TRENDINGThe pre-release single will drop on June 17, ahead of NOWZ’s debut mini-album, IGNITION.
At the same time, (G)I-DLE’s leader Soyeon continues to make waves as a producer. She has led the production of most of the group’s tracks and recently revealed on a variety show that her monthly copyright earnings reach around 1 billion KRW (about 725,000 USD). Interestingly, she also mentioned that Yuqi’s earnings in China surpass even hers, highlighting the substantial impact Yuqi has made overseas.
Together, Soyeon and Yuqi are proving to be influential forces beyond their roles as performers, shaping the future of K-pop from behind the scenes. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how Yuqi’s production work with NOWZ will be received when “Fly Freely (Feat. Yuqi)” goes live.