NCT Dream reveals tour must-haves, pre-show routines and how they relax after a concert
In a new series, USA TODAY’s The Essentials, celebrities share what fuels their lives.
Don't sleep on NCT Dream and its success.
When the septet debuted in 2016, the K-pop group's members were teenagers, influenced by the concept of "youth" while navigating their personal aspirations in the spotlight.
Nearly eight years later, the guys have matured and come into their own, developing a signature style and garnering worldwide recognition. Last year alone, NCT Dream placed No. 6 on the IFPI Global Top 10 Album Chart, won top awards in South Korea and embarked on a global tour across 26 cities, including in the U.S.
NCT Dream will make its way back to the states this year – starting Sept. 12 – for seven stops on its third world tour, including in New York, California and Washington D.C.
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"Just getting ready for the concert itself is a thrill, and we're very excited to be able to come up with a brand new concert," says the group's leader Mark, 24.
On a late-night Zoom call prior to The Dream Show 3: Dream()scape tour's kickoff in Seoul, NCT Dream's members spilled on their routines and performance go-to.
How NCT Dream preps for a performance
Everyone has their own way to get hype before a concert, including NCT DREAM's members: Mark, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, Jisung and Renjun (who was absent from this interview).
Jisung, 22, says one of his go-to pump-up songs is "City Lights" by Avicii, while Jaemin, 23, says his playlist puts a "zen mode" before hitting the stage.
For Jeno, 24, there's usually a lot on his mind before a performance. Instead of listening to music, he tends to put on his headphones and play nothing. "I like to block all the sound out, to stay still and to empty my mind."
As part of his pre-show routine, Chenle, 22, watches interviews of late basketball player Kobe Bryant, "on every tour, before every concert."
"It gets me pumped up for the concert and ready to put on great performance," he says.
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How NCT Dream relaxes after a show
Before a performance, Chenle takes precautions toward his health, including taking vitamins. Especially after a show, he uses products to prevent vocal issues and alleviate any strain since his voice gets "really hoarse."
Jeno also prioritizes his well-being on tour. "I always like to take a shower and I always make sure I use cold water at the end, especially because we're using our bodies a lot for shows and it really tires out our muscles," he says.
Haechan, 23, usually winds down by taking a warm bath and occasionally drinks some wine.
Sleep is key for the all group's members, but Jisung often find himself staying up late after a show.
"I'm on my phone all night," he says. "I want to learn how to relax."
What does NCT Dream do during downtime?
When the guys have a chance for free time on tour, they still spend it together.
"I like taking pictures. I'm not a professional, (but) I like to see the scenery and everything. Having a nice walk every once in a while is good in a different city," Mark says.
"We get to see a lot of different architecture in each city and that's another thing I like to look out for while we go out and take pictures," says Jaemin.
An avid basketball fan, Chenle keeps his sneakers on hand wherever he goes. "I've played basketball in pretty much every city we've been to so far," he says, adding how Mark usually plays pickup with him.
But each member uses his personal time-off differently.
"One of my most important essentials is my laptop so I can play games," says Haechan. "I can go outside during downtime but that makes me use up more energy. So I prefer to stay indoors … It's like me-time."
Jisung enjoys watching other K-pop artists' music videos, as well as some of the other content they have on their channels.
NCT Dream tour must-have items
Jaemin lists several must-haves for tour: wireless headphones, perfume, hydration cream, a Thai product for sinus relief, vitamins and an energy drink to name a few.
Chenle says his good luck charms for a great performance are the friendship ring that he shares with his members, plus his watch. "I have to put it on as soon as I wake up; there's like a routine," he says.
Besides his headphones, Mark's other must-have isn't tangible – it's his concentration.
"I always remember to bring myself," he says.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.