MONSTA X Kihyun’s Solo Debut Almost Didn’t Happen, But He’s Already Thinking About His Next Album
MONSTA X‘s Kihyun made his solo debut with the single album VOYAGER. Though it was a long time coming, its fruition came down to perfect timing.
Fans have been waiting for Kihyun to release solo music for years, but it hasn’t always been possible. Fans know that MONSTA X’s schedule is packed year-round, so the timing had to be right.
The first time we discussed my solo was two or three years ago. I was in conversation a few times, but in January [Starship Entertainment Executive Producer] Hyunjoo Seo showed me the ‘VOYAGER’ song. I was like ‘Wow.This is it’ …
— Kihyun
MONSTA X also postponed their tour in January, due to COVID-19, leaving a window for Kihyun to prepare for his solo debut.
Since MONSTA X has such a distinct musical style, Kihyun thought about what he would do differently with his solo.
My favorite part was recording because it’s my own music, and I can do whatever I want. I don’t have to match up the sounds of the others … I really want to establish myself as Kihyun solo, and as Kihyun from MONSTA X because the musical colors are so different.
— Kihyun
Kihyun’s title-track “VOYAGER” utilizes his killer vocals and sets the tone for the entire project. He definitely nailed it and defined his musical color.
Though it hasn’t even been a month since his first album was released, when it comes to what’s next for Kihyun as a solo artist, he already knows what he wants to do.
I actually have already thought about my next move and how I can incorporate different genres—specifically, thinking about jazz for my next solo album.
— Kihyun
MONBEBE have barely recovered from Kihyun’s debut, but can’t wait to see what he comes up with. With MONSTA X’s comeback on the horizon, fans are well-fed.
