As early autumn approaches, music enthusiasts can expect a richer playlist. A slew of powerful solo artists are set to release new tracks in September, promising a fierce solo showdown in the music industry.
The lineup is diverse, from members embarking on solo journeys, those juggling group and solo activities, to those returning after military service or joining new agencies. They represent various companies and generations, all stepping into the solo arena.
BTS V
◇ BTS's V vs. SHINee's Key vs. DAY6's Young K: The Pride Battle of HYBE vs. SM vs. JYP
Prominent idol group members from Korea are set to release solo albums in September. Heavyweights from K-pop giants like HYBE, SM Entertainment, and JYP Entertainment are gearing up to captivate listeners with their individual releases.
Leading the anticipation is BTS member V, who will unveil his solo album 'Layover' on the 8th of this month. The album, featuring the title track 'Slow Dancing', includes a total of six songs. The album, produced in collaboration with well-known producer Min Hee-jin, known as the 'mother of NU'GIN', is garnering significant attention.
With V's involvement, Producer Min took charge of music, choreography, design, and promotion for the album. The fresh collaboration, combined with V's unique taste, promises a new side of V, distinct from his BTS persona.
Day6 Young K.
SHINee's versatile member, Key, is also set to release his second mini-album 'Good & Great' on the 11th. After completing promotions for SHINee's 8th album 'Hard' earlier this year, Key has been actively participating in various entertainment programs while preparing for this album, raising expectations.
DAY6's Young K will release his first solo album 'Letters with Note' on the 4th, his first since completing his military service earlier this year. Ahead of the album release, he will hold a solo concert titled 'Letters with Note' from the 1st to the 3rd at Kwangwoon University in Seoul.
◇ Hwasa vs. Chaeyeon on the Same Day, Kim Sejeong Returns to Her Roots
On the 6th, MAMAMOO's Hwasa and IZ*ONE's Chaeyeon will simultaneously release their tracks. Hwasa will drop her digital single 'I Love My Body'.
Hwasa, who debuted with MAMAMOO in 2014 and began her solo career with the single 'Twit' in 2019, gained immense popularity with the title track 'Maria' from her first mini-album in 2020. Her upcoming solo activity, under the new agency P Nation led by Psy, is highly anticipated.
Singer Lee Chae-yeon.
Chaeyeon, who previously succeeded with her track 'Knock', will release her first single album 'The Move: Street'. The dance track 'Let's Dance', combining Moombahton and House genres, showcases her ambition to reign as the 'Performance Queen'.
Kim Sejeong, currently appearing in tvN's 'Amazing Rumor 2', returns to her musical roots after approximately 2 years and 5 months. She will release her first full album 'Moon' on September 4th.
◇ Solo Debuts: KARA's Youngji vs. DKZ's Jaechan
KARA's Youngji and DKZ's Jaechan are making their solo debuts. Youngji will release her first single 'Toi Toi Toi' on the 12th. Jaechan, who debuted with DKZ in 2019 and gained popularity with tracks like 'Naughty Calf' and 'Love Thief', is also preparing for his solo debut in September.
DKZ member Jaechan
Following the solo ventures of artists like Jihyo, Baekho, and Yerin earlier, September will continue to see the rise of idols-turned-soloists. An industry insider commented, "Solo activities of idol members not only fill the gap during group hiatus but also serve as an opportunity to showcase and develop individual talents. With many having proven their power in previous releases, the September chart battle is expected to be fierce."
