Chinese pop star Lay announced Thursday (Sept. 20) that he will release a U.S.-focused solo album next month. NAMANANA is set to be released Oct. 19 and will feature dual English and Mandarin versions of 11 new songs for a total of 22 songs.
Lay (Zhang Yixing) got his start in the K-pop scene as a member of K-pop boy band EXO while simultaneously pursuing a career as a singer-songwriter in the Mandopop world.
NAMANANA is Lay’s third promotional album and fourth solo album overall, and will feature a track produced by Bazzi. The album will explore future bass, dance, urban and hip-hop influences, and feature work by Rice n’ Peas, 153/Joombas Music Group and more.
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“I am excited to finally be able to connect with global music fans in the U.S.,” Lay said in a statement. “I’ve put a lot of hard work into making this a sincere album and am passionate about sharing it with the U.S.”
Lay’s debut EP Lose Control debut at No. 4 on the World Albums chart in 2016, and he’s seen his two other albums, Lay 02 Sheep and Winter Special Gift peak within the Top 10. He topped the China V Chart with his single “Lose Control” in 2016.
Lay recently performed a remix version of his song “Sheep” at Lollapalooza.
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???, ?? ??? ? 22???? ??? ?? ?? ?? ??????–— ‘NAMANANA’ Album Release: 2018.10.19. #LAY #?? #EXO #?? #NAMANANA pic.twitter.com/RdkJdE0cYt
— EXO (@weareoneEXO) September 21, 2018