Mixtape: Why Not?
The unofficial debut that started it all.
Stray Kids is a South Korean boy band formed by JYP Entertainment in 2017. The band has eight members: Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N. Former member Woojin left the band in 2019. Stray Kids primarily self-produces its recordings; the main production team is 3Racha, consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, with the other members frequently participating in songwriting. The band released their unofficial debut extended play (EP) Mixtape in January 2018 and officially debuted on March 25 with the EP I Am Not.
- Type
- Pre-debut extended play (EP)
- Affiliation
- JYP Entertainment
- Release Era
- 2018
- Key Theme
- Chasing dreams and finding a way out of the ordinary together
- Creative Role
- Co-written and co-composed by the members
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
The band's members themselves conceptualized the name "Stray Kids" and created their own logo. The name originally referred to a lost child who wants to chase their dreams, then evolved to represent the idea of finding a way out of the ordinary together. Along with the launch of Stray Kids' official website, JYPE announced the release of the group's seven-track pre-debut extended play (EP) titled Mixtape, which was co-written and co-composed by the members and includes "Hellevator" and other songs the band performed on the show.
In Their Own Story
Prior to the show's premiere on October 17, JYPE released Stray Kids' first music video titled "Hellevator", which was later released as a digital single. Two members, Lee Know and Felix, were eliminated but returned in the final, nine-member line-up. The EP and the performance video of its second track, "Beware", were released on January 8, 2018, while "Spread My Wings" was uploaded online a week later. The EP debuted at number two on the Gaon Album Chart and the Billboard World Albums chart.
Reader's Guide
The source does not provide a detailed guide about the production process of Mixtape beyond stating it was co-written and co-composed by the members.
Did You Know?
- Stray Kids' first music video, 'Hellevator', was released before the reality show premiered.
- Two members, Lee Know and Felix, were eliminated during the show but returned in the final nine-member line-up.
- The band's members themselves conceptualized the name 'Stray Kids' and created their own logo.
- The EP Mixtape debuted at number two on the Gaon Album Chart and number one on the Billboard World Albums chart.
- The EP includes songs the band performed on the reality show Stray Kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mixtape: Why Not??
This project represents Stray Kids' inaugural full-length studio album released following their survival show debut and official introduction.
How does Mixtape: Why Not? impact the group's history?
It marks a transition period where the members evolved from trainees into idols who exercise significant creative control over their work.
Did Stray Kids write the music on this album?
Yes, there was high participation in production, allowing the group to showcase their unique voices and distinct sound.
What are the main themes explored in Mixtape: Why Not??
The content focuses on self-discovery and bold expression as eight members find their rhythm together without being silenced.
Why is this mixtape considered vital for Stray Kids fans?
It stands as a bold assertion of artistic freedom that solidified the unique sound which would define their long-term legacy.
More in Behind the Scenes & Legacy
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