In a candid and reflective interview, V, the soulful baritone of BTS, opens up about his journey, his solo endeavors, and the group's latest album, 'Arirang'. With a unique perspective on his time in the military and a deep love for music, V's insights offer a fascinating glimpse into the mind of an artist.
The Military Break and a Year of Self-Discovery
V's time away from the spotlight during his military service was a period of introspection and personal growth. He yearned to perform, but also recognized the importance of serving his country. It was a time to 'forget about V of BTS' and embrace his identity as Kim Taehyung. This period allowed him to focus on his values, health, and inner world, a process he describes as 'rebuilding and resetting' his mind and body.
"I tried to organize and give a lot of thought to my inner world... So for that year and a half, I worked out a whole lot. Read a lot, listened to a lot of music." - V
Layover: A Musical Journey
'Layover', V's debut EP, is a testament to his musical versatility and passion. The title itself is a metaphor for his artistic journey, expressing the idea that life is not a straight path. V wants to showcase his ability to navigate different musical styles, from jazz to classical, and share his love for alternative music with his fans. It's a personal project that allows him to reflect on his journey and present a multifaceted artistic identity.
"Layover is expressing that my life is not a straight path... I want to say: I can make this kind of music, but I also like many other styles." - V
The Collaborative Spirit of BTS
In a group as talented and diverse as BTS, ego could easily become a hindrance. However, V highlights the collaborative spirit and equality that defines the band. Despite individual egos and solo careers, the members amplify each other's strengths, resulting in a more polished and cohesive sound. This dynamic is especially evident in their latest album, 'Arirang', where every song aligns with V's musical style and preferences.
"I think the group is good at making everyone feel pretty much equal... We actually amplified each other and ended up making a better album." - V
The Future: Solo Ambitions and Artistic Exploration
While V has no desire to be a solo pop star, he recognizes the value of solo projects and the lessons he can learn from his bandmates. He plans to absorb their strengths and apply them to his future solo albums. Additionally, V's love for jazz and alternative music suggests a potential pop album in the future, an exciting prospect for fans.
"I don't want to limit myself to one genre of music... I want to experience every single genre I really love." - V
A Broader Perspective
V's interview offers a unique insight into the artistic process and the collaborative nature of music. It highlights the importance of self-reflection, growth, and the power of collaboration. His journey as an artist is a testament to the idea that music is a journey of self-discovery and expression, and that the best art often comes from a place of authenticity and collaboration.
