As I started to put this post together, I realized that everyone on this list has or is still a part of K-Pop boy group. For most of them, it’s been a while since they’ve released any solo music. A lot has been going on in the world of K-pop this year, and the music just keeps coming. And there are still more comebacks and tour dates to come!
Agust D Drops Highly Anticipated D-3 Album Ahead of 1st Solo Tour!
So, I pre-ordered this album without thinking about it lol; that’s how excited I was for this. The other two leading up to this were amazing, so I was curious as to what he would bring on this final installment of this Agust D series. The first single “People Pt.2” featuring IU isn’t a favorite of mine, as much as I love when they work together. The next single and music video drop was “Haegum” and was more of what I would expect from Agust D.
*Trigger Warning: Violence*
I also love the song and video for “AMYGDALA” which shows the dark times he went through, especially after an accident that eventually led to him having shoulder surgery a year or 2 ago. Another favorite of mine is “Snooze” featuring The Rose’s Woosung, and the late Ryuichi Sakamoto. The whole album tells a story and is beautifully done; and shares a different side, as compared to the SUGA that runs around with BTS.
SUGA is also on his first solo tour here in the US. He didn’t come close enough so I will be sitting this one out, unfortunately. I am very proud of him.
Taeyang is Back with New Down to Earth EP!
After a bit of a hiatus, Big Bang’s Taeyang is back with a solo EP. I wasn’t quite sure how he was coming with this one after I wasn’t a huge fan of his single “Vibe” with BTS’ Jimin. They are amazing separately, but this collaboration was a miss for me. I do like his collab with Lisa, Blackpink, for “Shoom” more, because they play off of each other well.
The ballads are what I was looking forward to. “Seed” is a beautiful song, but “Reason” is my favorite, and has a heavier R&B influence. “Inspiration” is another one that I really like and is more up-tempo and features rapper Beenzino. So, it’s safe to say that he did not disappoint with this comeback.
Lee Gikwang Returns with New Solo Album Predator!
After a couple of comebacks or so with his group Highlight, Gikwang is back with a new solo album. The lead single “Predator” is a more Pop/ Dance track, an intense one, so definitely something I would expect from him. But some of my favorites are “softer” and/ or slower tempo and with more of an R&B feel to them, like: “Favorite”, “I Can’t Do This”, “Anxiety”, and “Out of Control”. Then you have tracks like “I’m Not You” and “Universe” that really show off his vocals.
Overall, I am just so happy that he’s back. He’s one of the older Idols, but he ages like fine wine. And the older he gets, the better he and his music get. This is why I can’t help but stick with my older generation groups and soloists.
Woodz Drops New Album OO-LI!
He surprises me with every project he puts out, in a good way 🙂 I never know what to expect from him, but his music is always a fun mix of Pop, Rock, and R&B. With that, it’s hard to pick any favorites. But I’ll start with his vocals on “Journey” and “Drowning”, he just sounds so effortless but strong, especially for the chorus.
Now for “Busted” it’s more upbeat and something I would expect from him. It’s more of a Rock vibe, with some R&B, with a catchy bridge and chorus. “Who Knows” has a similar sound but more on the Rock (guitar and drums) side, and a bit grungier. But I have to say that this has become one of my favorite albums from him.
B.I. Releases New Single Ahead of Official Comeback Announcement!
This one was a surprise and last-minute addition to this post. But for those who know me, know that I love me some Hanbin aka B.I. He showcases his rap skills and charisma on this track. And his voice sounds even deeper to me, for some reason.
I love the swag, and the collaboration with Sik-K and Reddy. It’s a heavy hitter for sure and the visual performance of it brings the whole vibe together. With that, I can’t wait for the new music. He officially announced on IG that the new single will be coming in May and the new album in June.
