In contrast to the energetic and passionate side of the group shown in their first release, Nothing Without You would showcase the members' apprehension about an uncertain future as well as aspiration they had as trainees just months before and "hopes for beautiful days ahead".

[8][9] Prior to their debut, the group began promotions through their reality show Wanna One Go, which premiered on August 7, 2017, on the cable channel Mnet.

[10] During the first episode of Wanna One Go!, it was revealed that "Energetic" won the public vote and will become the title track of the album.

[11] Wanna One held their debut showcase and a small concert on August 7 at Gocheok Sky Dome, which opened to 20,000 attendees.

Champion, with 15 music show trophies for "Energetic", making it the winningest K-pop debut song since Seo Taiji and Boys - a record it still holds as of May 2022.

[17] Wanna One held a comeback show for their repackaged album, which was broadcast live on Mnet and tvN on November 13.

[24] As of October 2021, it has sold 805,000 copies, still holding the record for the best selling debut album for a K-pop group since Seo Taiji and Boys.