"Upon first listen, I thought, 'I must do this.' I haven't had many songs that caught my attention so quickly, and I enjoyed it," said BTS member Jungkook, who has embarked on a bold journey as a solo artist with his debut single 'Seven'. Though he has previously released solo tracks, this is his first official solo project.
Jungkook described 'Seven' as a "catchy song that everyone can easily enjoy". He added, "I was thinking about how I could make 'Seven' enjoyable for as many people as possible. 'Seven' was a genre I tried for the first time, and the entire process was refreshing. There were many things I learned while recording. It was fresh and delightful."
In 'Seven', Jungkook serenades the listener with lyrics about wanting to be with a loved one seven days a week. The repetitive lyrics, addictive melody, and warm acoustic guitar sounds, coupled with Jungkook's sweet voice, make for an easy listen.
The music video adds another layer of enjoyment with its fun rhythm and comic elements. Throughout the week, Jungkook argues with his lover (played by Han So-hee) but still seeks to prove his love. Despite intense disputes, being submerged in water, and being swept away by a storm, Jungkook sings and dances a song of courtship. He even endures a dangerous situation as he stages a fake funeral. The sight of Han So-hee amidst the mourning crowd is revealing. Fortunately, Jungkook emerges from the coffin, humming with a smile. Han So-hee reacts with a mix of shock and relief. Finally, she extends her hand to Jungkook, and the two walk away hand in hand. Jungkook's confidence, charm, and playful antics make for a humorous narrative.
Upon release, 'Seven' swiftly climbed domestic music charts. It topped the charts on Melon, Genie, Bugs, Flo, among others, the day it was released. The music video came close to 10 million views within four hours of its release. Global fans left comments in various languages, such as, "Jungkook's voice is calm and mesmerizing," "He has left his mark on all of K-pop," and "As always, the youngest one delivers art to us."
Jungkook is the sixth BTS member to make an official solo debut, following J-Hope, Jin, RM, Jimin, and Suga. The other members have also achieved significant records through their solo activities. For instance, Jimin's solo track 'Like Crazy' was the first by a K-pop solo artist to top the Billboard Hot 100. Suga's solo album 'D-DAY' ranked 13th on the World Album chart, 32nd on the Top Current Album chart, and 42nd on the Top Album Sales chart according to the latest Billboard charts dated July 15th.
On July 14th (local time), Jungkook will perform 'Seven' for the first time at the '2023 Summer Concert Series' on ABC's 'Good Morning America'. This concert series is an annual event hosted by the iconic morning news show, and BTS had opened the concert in 2019.
As Jungkook sets foot as a solo artist, it will be intriguing to see what records he will set.
