He penned songs based on his experiences over the past ten years. Nam wrote the lyrics to four tracks and contributed to two of the compositions. Music structure ДЄ dance album, A New Journey integrates EDM and funk into its sound. He prepared by modifying his diet, doing weight training, exercising, and managing his health. Unlike his previous solo endeavors, Nam implemented choreography in his songs.

The album was recorded in Seoul at Woollim Studio and mixed at W Sound, LAFX, InGrid Studio, and Mapps Studio. The record was set to be released earlier, but was delayed to 'enhance its completeness'. In wanting the lyrics, thoughts, and melodies he identified with to 'melt deeply' into the record, Nam prioritized his storytelling. He sought to showcase musical maturity and explore diverse genres throughout the album tracks. The title reflects Nam's new musical direction. On previous singles 'Still I Remember' ( Write., 2016) and 'If Only You Are Fine' ( Second Write., 2018), he was noted as the 'representative performer of emotional ballads'. Nam crafted A New Journey amid preparations to play the lead roles in the musicals The Days and Mefisto, and in midst of a concert tour throughout Asia. Besides ballads, I wanted to show that I do well with other music, too.' Everyone thinks it's ballads when Nam Woo-hyun does it, but I tried new music.

Day 26 a new day ep lyrics