BamBam unveils the creative journey behind his groundbreaking mini-album 'BAMESIS in this exclusive interview.
BamBam, the multifaceted Thai artist, has been captivating audiences worldwide with his dynamic performances and infectious charisma since his debut. While he first made waves as a member of the renowned K-pop group GOT7, BamBam has since carved out a formidable solo career that continues to push boundaries and exceed expectations. From his solo debut in 2021 with the mini album 'Ribbon' to his first full-length album 'Sour & Sweet' in 2023, BamBam has consistently showcased his growth as an artist and his ability to connect with fans on a deeply personal level.
Now, with the release of his third mini album, 'BAMESIS,' on August 8, 2024, BamBam is poised to make yet another significant impact on the music scene. This latest offering not only highlights his evolving artistry but also demonstrates his skills as a songwriter and composer, talents he has honed through his work with GOT7 and his solo projects. BamBam's journey as a soloist has been marked by a string of successful releases and electrifying performances, including his recent world tour, "BamBam The 1st World Tour [Area 52]," and appearances at major events like Waterbomb and KCON.
In an exclusive interview, I sit down with BamBam to delve into the creative process behind 'BAMESIS,' explore the themes that inspired this new chapter in his career, and uncover the driving force behind his solo endeavors. Join us as we uncover the story behind the album, discuss BamBam's artistic vision, and learn what fans can expect from this exciting new release.
Hi BamBam! Thank you for speaking with me. Congratulations on your new mini album, 'BAMESIS'! Please tell us a bit about this exciting new release.
BAMBAM: Thank you. My third mini-album [BAMESIS] is a combination of 'BamBam' and 'Genesis', which means origin. It represents a world that I have created. This album musically expresses my identity, from coming to Korea as a child to becoming who I am now, by creating a new space called 'BAMESIS.' It contains various genres of music, including hip-hop and Latin, so please show it a lot of love.
‘BAMESIS’ has a darker, more alluring concept than we are used to. In what ways does this album challenge your own comfort zone as a performer? As an artist?
BAMBAM: Many fans wanted to see a darker concept, so we decided on this concept. Until now, I've always shown a mellow side. While I do have a mellow side, I also have a darker side, so I found it very interesting and enjoyable to work on showing another side of myself.
What message or emotion do you most hope to convey through ‘BAMESIS’, and why is it important to you?
BAMBAM: As an artist, I wanted to confidently reveal my strengthened resolve and ambitions toward the path I'm walking and the people who are walking alongside me. Living in a foreign country for a long time, I have put in many efforts and trials to become who I am now. After going through these times, I think I've become stronger. I hope many people will recognize this side of me through my music.
How does the visual concept of “LAST PARADE” align with its musical themes?
BAMBAM: “LAST PARADE” is a song that paints a majestic procession gradually moving towards its final march, like a large-scale painting. We incorporated this musical aspect into the visual concept, capturing an intense and magnificent feel. If you listen to “LAST PARADE” while looking at the concept photos again, you'll experience a different charm.
Tell me about the music video for “LAST PARADE.” How does it complement the song's concept?
BAMBAM: We've unfolded the grandeur of the song in the music video as if it were a massive painting. We've enhanced the visual appeal by creating a unique mood where two characters intersect, bringing out the contrasting elements of the song - the charismatic, low-voiced verse parts and the passionate, free-feeling rap parts. There are many interesting elements, so I think it would be good if you watched it several times.
Were there any memorable moments or difficulties during the music video shoot?
BAMBAM: I had waited for three years to work with this music video director, so I really enjoyed the filming and had a lot of fun. I'm glad we were able to create such a rich and wonderful music video, thanks to the participation of many people, including myself, the dancers, and the models.
Which track on ‘BAMESIS’ are you most excited for fans to hear, and why?
BAMBAM: While all the songs are precious, “LAST PARADE” is the most grand and impressive, so I really hope you'll listen to it. The performance is incredibly spectacular, especially for this title track, so I think it would be great if you could also check out my stage performances along with the song.
You recently interviewed Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman for Marvel Thailand - that must have been an exciting experience for a Marvel fan like yourself! If "Last Parade" and "Thank You Come Again" represented Marvel characters, who would they be?
BAMBAM: “LAST PARADE” has a strong, grand, and solemn feel, so I think it would suit X-Men. As for “Thank You Come Again,” it has a heavy beat with light flow rapping on top, so I think it would go well with Deadpool.
Throughout your career, we've seen your artistry evolve. How has your perspective on music as a form of self-expression shifted since you first started, and what's driving that change?
BAMBAM: When I first debuted, I wasn't a solo artist but a member of a group, so rather than expressing my own thoughts, I made music that suited the group's color. As I started producing solo albums, I began to express my thoughts more clearly and intensely.
The driving force behind the change is undoubtedly our fans, AHGASE. If there were no people listening to my thoughts and music, I feel it would be meaningless to continue releasing albums. That's how much I consider AHGASE to be the driving force that keeps me active as an artist.
What are your future plans following the release of ‘BAMESIS?’
BAMBAM: I’m planning to start activities in Korea and then travel to various countries to meet fans in person. During the COVID period, I was only able to meet overseas fans through video calls each time, which was very disappointing. So this time, I'm planning to conduct a 'SHOWCASE TOUR' where I can visit fans directly, talk with them, and show them my new song performances. I'm trying to visit countries I couldn't go to during the world tour, so please look forward to it and show a lot of interest.
Lastly, please leave a message for your fans reading this.
BAMBAM: I'm always so thankful, and I hope we can be together forever. I'll also work hard to become a singer who can show you even more impressive performances. Thank you, AHGASE!
Connect with BamBam on Facebook, IG, IG (Personal), X, X(Personal), TikTok, Weverse, and Youtube.
Listen to his discography on Spotify or Apple Music.
*Special thanks to BamBam and ABYSS COMPANY for this exclusive interview.
Image and Video Credits: ABYSS COMPANY