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Celebrity Travel: Go Away With Lay

By Jae-Ha Kim, Tribune Content Agency on

Musician/producer Lay is celebrating his recent 27th birthday with the release of his latest solo album, "NAMANANA." Born Yixing Zhang in Hunan, the EXO star recorded each song, including his self-produced single, "Give Me a Chance" -- in both English and Mandarin. A workaholic who says he's happiest when he's busy, he made his solo United States festival debut this past summer at the Chicago stop of Lollapalooza. "I'm like a machine (that) never rests," says Lay, who collaborated with artists such as Bazzi on his album. "Even in my free time, I am pretty much always making music, composing and producing ... and maybe enjoying some food. It sounds a bit boring, but I hope to make the most of my time to improve, enhance my skills and achieve higher success. I am hoping to be stronger and obtain worldwide recognition."

Q. Out of all the U.S. cities, how did you end up choosing Chicago?

A. It was Alan Walker who invited me to Lollapalooza. I got the chance to perform (my) song "Sheep" with him. Chicago was very impressive. I got to try deep-dish pizza. It had a lot of cheese and I love cheese. I thought it was very good and delicious.

Q. How comfortable are you creating new music when you're on the road?

A. "NAMANANA" was made in hotels. For me, I can't really make a trip that's mainly for tourist purposes, as I usually have a very tight work schedule. So the way I gather inspiration when I produce music is that I will sit in a studio and then make a lot of beats, as well as try some other things.

Q. What do you remember about the first trip you took as a child?

 

A. I don't remember where I went for my first trip, but I remember I felt excited and nervous about the flight. I felt a bit worried about the turbulence and it made me feel dizzy. I remember convincing myself that without technology, or say without those developed transportation means, we would not be able to travel. So the plane must be designed very safe for people to travel. I had to just keep reminding myself of that!

Q. Many Americans have traveled to Beijing, but they don't know about provinces like Hunan. What are some things people should know about Hunan?

A. Hunan is a beautiful place. It's my hometown. I have some American friends studying there. It's a great place with delicious and traditional foods. Life in Hunan is more relaxed compared to other parts in China. People don't have that much stress. If you have time, you should visit.

Q. When was the first time you traveled to the United States?

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