With a simple but satisfying title, Happy is not just Jin's debut album – the seventh and final member of BTS to release a full-length solo project – but a statement about his creative journey and the importance of his fans in it.
While the 31-year-old is known to keep BTS's ARMY at the forefront of his work, mind and interviews, making his first public appearance since completing his mandatory military service at an event to hug 1,000 fans last summer, Jin shares his love for rock music in hopes of inspiring joy in listeners further. Described as an “organic and seamless” process, Jin used a range of international collaborators to complete his musical vision for Happy: New York singer-songwriter and former BTS collaborator Max co-wrote the buzzy single “I'll Be There,” Gary Barlow of British boy band Take That worked on the lead track “Running Wild,” Taka and Toru of the Japanese ONE. OK ROCK co-produced and played instruments on “Falling,” while “Heart on the Window” is a duet with Red Velvet's K-pop girl group member Wendy, who grew up in South Korea, Canada, and the United States .
“Putting the album together allowed me to stop and think about how much ARMY means to me,” says Jin Bulletin board. “As I worked on each piece, I thought about what I wanted to convey to them, how I wanted to bring them joy and happiness, while also expressing how much I missed them during our absence.”
With HappyJin proves his ability to grow creatively and explore fresh musical landscapes while staying deeply connected to the roots of his BTS journey. With warmth, optimism and universal messages, Happy he has the qualities to not only enchant his loyal fans, but entertain entirely new audiences — and he does so while channeling his most authentic self.
Read on to see what the 'Worldwide Handsome' superstar has to say. Bulletin board for Happysounds, time and meaning, and more.
How are you doing at this exciting time? Was your return to music difficult after a break or was it a natural return?
Jin: I'm happy to be back with my first personal album, Happy. Making this comeback, my first thought was to reconnect with ARMY. Making the album was a way for me to share something with them and the whole process felt like a return to something natural.
With his release Happyall BTS members will have officially released a full solo project! While we have many great solo singles from you, can you share an insight into why we are releasing your first solo album now?
Before enlisting, I was mostly focused on our group activities, so a solo album didn't feel right at the time. But with all the members taking turns serving, I felt it was the right time to share something personal with the ARMYs who have supported us all this time. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I enjoyed making it.
I know you are a big fan and emotionally attached to BTS' 2016 single 'Spring Day'. Was it an inspiration to find music that resonated with you like “Spring Day,” either emotionally or with rock influences?
“Spring Day” has always held a special place in my heart, but for this album, I wanted to explore something a little different. I set out to create a more lively, upbeat vibe, so the overall feel of the album is more lively and energetic. I would probably consider exploring the emotional tone of 'Spring Day' in the future.
Happy described as “Jin's journey to true happiness” and “an authentic portrayal of Jin as a solo artist”. What did this trip entail?
The trip back largely revolved around my connection to ARMY. As I worked on each piece, I thought about what I wanted to convey to them, how I want to bring them joy and happiness, while also expressing how much I missed them when they were apart. Putting the album together allowed me to stop and think about how much ARMY means to me.
You introduced the LP with “I'll Be There,” which has a rockabilly and rock n' roll sound. Why was this song about reinventing yourself?
I just really connected with the track and it felt like the right thing to share with ARMY first. The fun, exciting atmosphere of the track was a good way to kick things off. I wanted to bring joy and comfort to those who may be feeling down, and it's my way of offering some cheer before the full album is released — I'm sharing a song I love.
“Running Wild” has a lot of energy and universal themes that will appeal to so many people. What are your goals or hopes? Happyhis lead single?
With “Running Wild”, I wanted to create a track full of energy. I hope it inspires people to keep going — whether that means running, working out, or just pushing themselves to overcome a challenge.
You brought in a number of international partners Happy. What were you looking for in your partners?
This is a tough question as I just wanted to work with people whose music and talents I admired. Each collaborator brought something unique to the table and I am so grateful for the opportunity to work with such talented artists to bring Happy in life.
As I listened, I wondered if you had ever considered starting your own band before or working with a rock act as a side project.
The only group I will, now and forever, be a part of is BTS. Band music is a genre I'm personally interested in and I love exploring different styles as a solo artist. But at the end of the day, my roots and connection to music will always be with BTS.
You think about your solo songs — including four No. 1s Bulletin boardThe Global Digital Songs chart with 'Astronaut', 'Super Tuna', 'Yous' and last week's topper 'I'll Be There' — can you pick a favourite?
All of my solo projects are meaningful, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be “The Astronaut”. It's especially close to my heart thanks to the incredible opportunity I had to work with Coldplay, who I admire deeply. I'll never forget the moment I first heard the song, the things I felt when Chris [Martin] play the song first.
Nothing else to share with international ARMY right now?
I will continue to give my all to be able to connect with all of you personally!
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/pop/bts-jin-right-time-solo-album-happy-1235828976/
