Having served as MONSTA X’s main rapper, producer, and songwriter for eight years, JOOHONEY officially begins his solo music career, demonstrating his diverse talents and experiences.
On May 22, JOOHONEY unveiled his highly anticipated mini-album titled ‘LIGHTS,’ for which ‘FREEDOM’ serves as the focus track. Written and produced by the singer himself, all six tracks in the album allowed him to delve into his authentic self and channel his inner voice. Along with ‘FREEDOM,’ the six-piece album includes, ‘HYPE ENERGY,’ ‘Voice,’ ‘Evolution,’ ‘monologue,’ and ‘Dont Worry, Be Happy.’ This debut album encompasses his deep emotions and strong charismatic energy.
“My solo album is finally out in the world after long waited eight years! I feel truly happy and excited to share the music filled with my honest emotions. The album itself shows my color the best and I believe MONBEBE would like it as well. I hope this album could serve as the key and light that opens up this desolate world.”
– JOOHONEY
‘FREEDOM’ captures the perspective of a boy embarking on a journey towards freedom through the masterful blend of piano, strings, intense hip-hop, and majestic choir sounds. His versatility as a rapper, vocalist, and producer is represented in the songs but the album completely shows fans a different version of JOOHONEY. The track is accompanied by a music video that vividly depicts the arduous process of self-discovery, engrossing the audience in the essence of the song. The MV portrays the complex emotions and pain associated with the journey of seeking freedom through different paths, providing insight into JOOHONEY’s deepest and unadulterated emotions. Through this transformative journey, the artist learns to trust himself, embraces his freedom, and crafts his own unique narrative.
Amidst the struggles encountered while fighting for freedom, he delivers an optimistic message of finding hope. ‘LIGHTS’ serves as a testament to his personal growth as an artist, offering a glimpse into his journey. Fans can anticipate an exceptional musical experience as they explore JOOHONEY’s distinct style and genuine expressions through his solo debut album. In a candid manner, he reflects on his passion during his debut in 2015 and expresses his yearning for freedom in the present reality. ‘LIGHTS’ also carries a heartfelt promise to his fans, assuring them of his unwavering support and musical presence in the future.
JOOHONEY’s solo performance during the MONSTA X tour in 2022 was further propelled by the captivating energy with the track ‘Voice.’ With its striking introduction featuring a choir session and a fusion of 808 drum beats and electric sounds, ‘Voice’ symbolizes the notion that we can all serve each other’s voices and collectively act as the ‘KEY’ to challenge the world.
‘Evolution,’ this emotionally charged hip-hop composition seamlessly blends elements of rap and rock. Through ‘Evolution,’ he conveys a significant message urging listeners to remain resilient and persevere, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable darkness. The song emphasizes the importance of self-reflection as the catalyst for genuine personal growth and advancement.
For the track ‘monologue,’ the soloist joined forces with singer-songwriter GSoul. Written from JOOHONEY’s perspective as he reflects on the uncertainties that filled his pre-debut days, during which he relentlessly pursued his dreams, the track takes the artist and fans through nostalgic phases. It delves into his introspection, capturing the feelings of doubt and ambiguity he experienced during that time.
The album includes a special song for MONBEBE (official fandom name). ‘Dont Worry, Be Happy’ was specially created keeping fans in mind. JOOHONEY explained, “Even when I’m older, when I listen to this track, I will think of all the moments I spent together with MONBEBE.”
Are you a MONBEBE? Check out JOOHONEY’s music video for ‘FREEDOM!’ Do let us know your thoughts about the album and how this brings out the artist’s new side!
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