Dive into the enigmatic world of Bang Yongguk's creative genius as he breaks all his own rules with his latest album, "3".
When characterizing Bang Yongguk, two words immediately surface: humble and immensely talented. His craft, honed over a decade of hard work in the industry, has propelled him beyond the initial confines of the label of “K-pop idol,” establishing him as a true powerhouse in the music world. With every release, he not only pushes but shatters the boundaries of his artistry, consistently surpassing his previous accomplishments and delivering music that resonates deeply with audiences around the globe. Yongguk's seamless transition between roles as a producer, rapper, songwriter, and singer underscores the breadth of his creativity and versatility, cementing his status as a multifaceted artist.
The release of Yongguk's latest album, "3," on March 31st, is a testament to his growth and evolution as an artist. Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, "2," "3" delves even deeper into a rich tapestry of genres, themes, and storytelling techniques. While "2" marked the beginning of Yongguk's journey to break free from expectations, "3" represents a bold leap forward, allowing him to fully embrace his artistic freedom and explore new territories with confidence and finesse. From its poignant lyricism to its visually stunning storytelling, "3" showcases Yongguk's versatility and ability to captivate listeners on multiple levels.
As Yongguk prepares to kick off his latest U.S. tour, aptly titled "3," on April 5th, fans can expect an unforgettable experience that celebrates the depth and breadth of his artistry. With his magnetic stage presence and undeniable talent, Yongguk is set to leave a lasting impression on audiences across the country. In an exclusive interview with Yongguk, he shares insights into the creative process behind "3" and reflects on the significance of his journey, and more offering fans a deeper understanding of the man behind the music.
Welcome back, Bang Yongguk! Congratulations on your new album, '3.' How does it feel to share this project with your fans?
It’s an honor for me that I can make new songs every time and show them to the world. This kind of excitement is my favorite feeling. I just want my fans to enjoy my new songs.
How do you hope your fans will connect with the messages and emotions conveyed in '3'?
This EP isn’t complicated or difficult. Rather than a specific topic or frame, I targeted to make music that people can listen to it freer, easier, and more comfortable. I wish that many people comfortably and happily listen to my music anywhere.
Your comeback notice poster for this album featuring lizards has sparked curiosity among fans. Can you elaborate on the symbolism and how it ties into the concept of your new album?
It means breaking my own rules and ways of making music. As I unintentionally faced how the reptiles cast off their skin, I felt a desire to break away from something that I had made. It was the start of this album. I felt that my desire to try tempos or genres that I hadn’t tried before was growing more and more every year.
This album has been described as 'breaking away' from fixed ideas. What motivated you to explore new genres and challenge your own creative boundaries for this album?
I destroy, create, kill, and revive myself repeatedly in music. I love this process. Although it is so harsh for me, I think it is essential for those who make music. I don't know how long I can perform on the stage as a musician. If I can know it, I want to do this again and again for the rest of my life.
Were there any moments during the creative process that were particularly rewarding or challenging?
I held a song camp for the first time while making this album. Rico and Ronnie were in Korea, and I enjoyed the song camp with them, along with Samuel. I experienced many times when I worked on the albums of idol groups. But I held it for my own album for the first time. It was such an enjoyable experience, and it was so awesome to make better tracks. Perhaps, I had obsessed that I should make my album all by myself. That’s why I hesitated about such a process. But I felt it made me learn more and build up myself so that I can make better music. Now, I think I want to hold this kind of song camp frequently from now on.
In what ways has your creative process evolved since the release of “The Colors of Love?” Are there any lessons or experiences that influenced the making of '3'?
“The Colors of Love” is the first album made with the company I’m under now. So, I followed my company in the overall creative directing of that album. I intended to escape the way I had done. But I take the role again to make this album. Someone would not believe that I enjoy the creative work beyond the music. But I always have made my albums in this way. I can say I put those experiences in this album once again.
Music videos often provide visual representations of a song's message or theme. Can you give us a sneak peek into the concept behind the music video for this album's title track?
I wanted to throw away the word ‘Music Video’ when naming my video content. Especially the title track and the ‘Music Video’ of it. I wanted to throw away this idea and I feel this is related to the topic of this album. Every single song in this album is the title track for me, and I tried to present a visual theme that fits each song. This is the start of the visualizer of this album. If music and video were mixed up to be one, I thought it would be meaningful. I put my effort for a long time to find the place and idea to realize that.
Are there specific tracks on '3' that hold significant personal meaning to you? If so, could you share some insight into the inspiration behind them?
This is what I hear most whenever I release my album. This question contains all the meanings of what albums I've been making. (laughs) What is important in this album is that I broke my fixed idea away. I think this gives every track in this album its own special meaning. Just enjoy my album. I wish people danced together and sang along to the song. Then, the people who listen to this music can give this album the specialty in person.
Your music has never shied away from pushing boundaries. How do you maintain this fearlessness in experimenting with different sounds and concepts, and what drives you to challenge expectations in your artistry continually?
Sometimes, I find it hard to control it. How about making this kind of music? Everything starts from this curiosity. That’s why I can’t release every song I make, even though I make many songs. I have many songs that I don’t want to listen to, although I made it for myself. But good songs are born from this challenge. You guys are listening to such songs. I’m so sincere in making music. There are many times when artists who work with me have a hard time, but they trust and support me. It is one of my motivations to make music.
Anticipation is building for your upcoming U.S. tour. Could you provide some insights into the tour details and perhaps tease any special surprises or memorable moments that fans can look forward to experiencing?
As I will start the U.S. tour right after the new album is released, it feels like a kind of promotion for the album. I’m preparing it while mixing new songs and previous songs excitingly. I want to say that it will be more exciting than the tour last year. I hope everyone dances together on the stage. See you guys soon!
Lastly, what message would you like to send to your fans who have been eagerly awaiting your comeback and supporting you throughout your musical journey?
I tell it whenever I drop my new album if it were not for fans, I couldn’t keep making music so far, I think. Thank you so much for supporting and being together with me. I promise that I will keep showing great without giving up if even one person on Earth wants to listen to my music. Thank you so much. And I love and admire you all.
Listen to his discography on Spotify, SoundCloud, and Apple Music.
Catch him on tour in the U.S. starting April 5th.
*Special thanks to Bang Yongguk and YY Entertainment for this exclusive interview.
Image and video credits: YY Entertainment