The Fan-Centric Comeback of EXO: A Special Release for Dedicated Fans
The recent comeback by EXO has been a unique event that stands out in the music industry, primarily because it was designed with the fans in mind. This strategy demonstrates the group's deep appreciation for their fan base, known as EXO-ls. Unlike other comebacks, EXO's latest release aimed to connect with their loyal supporters even when the group wasn't fully together.
A Comeback for the Fans
The comeback was so fan-centric that it even made its way into the credits, stating “With EXO-ls.” This strong emphasis on the fans highlights the importance of maintaining a close relationship with the EXO-ls, even during challenging times when some members are gone. The express purpose of the comeback was to give something back to their devoted fans after a period of absence.
A Mini-Album Tailored for Fans
Even the release of the mini-album, which included Lay, Xiumin, and DO, was designed with the fans in mind. Lay, being the only active member at the time, was included to ensure that EXO fans still had something to relish. The production team chose a series of five songs, showcasing a blend of their unique styles and strengths. Each track was carefully crafted to resonate with the EXO-ls, reminding them that the group remained a constant presence in their lives.
Past and Future Members
The video for this comeback singer also captured moments of the past and reflected on the future. Chanyeol and Baekhyun, who were away due to military service at the time of filming, made appearances despite the challenging circumstances. This ensured that the video had a personal touch, capturing the essence of the group's fan connection even when the members couldn’t be together in person.
No Promotional Showcases
Interestingly, EXO's comeback release wasn't intended for promotional shows from the start. As they released the tracks, the members didn’t attend any music or variety shows to discuss their comeback. This decision further underscores their commitment to their fans and the message they wanted to convey. The lack of visibility in promotional shows might be seen as a strategic choice to keep the focus on the music and the connection they shared with their fans.
A Message of Unity
The five-song tracklist of this comeback project was a powerful message in itself. It conveyed EXO's enduring commitment to their fans, saying, “Even if we don't have all our members right now, EXO is always with EXO-ls.” This message emphasized that the group's journey and legacy continued, no matter the circumstances.
In conclusion, EXO's fan-centric comeback serves as a beautiful example of how a music group can maintain a deep and meaningful connection with their fans. By focusing on the fans, EXO has reminded them that the group remains a constant in their lives, creating lasting memories and emotional bonds that can't be broken.