J-hope was the third member to join Bangtan Sonyeondan (BTS) as a trainee after RM and Suga. Since their debut as BTS, J-hope has performed four solo songs such as Intro: Boy Meets Evil and Mama from BTS' 2016 album Wings, Trivia èµ·: Just Dance from the 2018 album Love Yourself: Answer, and Outro: Ego from BTS' 2020 album Map of the Soul: 7. In 2018, J-hope released his first mixtape and also collaborated with Becky G in 2019 for the song Chicken Noodle Soup. During that time, BTS went on a "hiatus" to complete their mandatory Korean military enlistment. J-hope became the first BTS member to announce his first solo album Jack In The Box in the year 2022.
As we wish J-hope on his 30th birthday today, let’s reminisce on seven of his best tracks.
Arson
Arson was released on July 15, 2022, and featured as the title track and the last song on his first solo album, Jack In The Box. Arson truly represents J-hope’s ability to show something other than his “sunny demeanour”. Arson is about J-hope’s personal struggle and standing up against the world’s criticisms. It showcases his old-school rapping and feels more like the early days of BTS songs.
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The music video of Arson shows J-hope struggling with his personal struggles and considering the best path for himself. At one point, J-Hope is seen running in slow motion, trying to escape from two crashing cars that explode dramatically.
More
More debuted on July 1, 2022, marking the lead single from J-hope's solo album, Jack In The Box. Reflecting J-hope's mindset and relentless ambition, More blends elements of alt-rock and hip-hop, delivering a dark and moody aesthetic. More yet again shows an extremely dark, raw side of J-hope with the music video showcasing the K-pop star receiving a mysterious package with no label, which leads him to a bizarre world upon opening it. His apartment unexpectedly links to a dystopian office, which the rapper quickly seizes control of. Afterwards, he switches into an entirely white ensemble to sing the song's rock-influenced chorus in what seems to be a dilapidated garage.
On The Street
On the Street is a collaborative lofi hip hop single by J-Hope of BTS and American rapper J. Cole. Released on March 3, 2023, the song serves as a homage to J-Hope's artistic roots, celebrating the synergy of street dance and hip-hop. Co-written by J-Hope, Cole, and Pdogg, who also produced the track, the lyrics delve into J-Hope's love for street dance and hip hop. Cole's verse mirrors this theme, recounting his artistic journey and the evolution of his craft. The music video captures J-Hope dancing in the streets of New York City and the Bowery subway station, while Cole showcases his moves on the rooftop of a city building. This song, positioned as a "gift" to his fans, is significant because it is J-Hope's final release before his mandatory military service.
See Also: BTS' J-Hope and Jimin's heart-touching conversation in their docuseries makes ARMY emotional
Daydream
Daydream is yet another standout song from J-Hope's mixtape Hope World. It is well-known for its lively and lighthearted atmosphere, which immerses listeners in J-Hope's creative universe. Hip-hop and pop components are combined in this song, which has a catchy melody, a steady beat, and a dynamic production. J-Hope's delivery is charismatic and full of confidence, making for a captivating listen. J-Hope tackles topics of self-expression, creativity, and escape in Daydream. He encourages listeners to embrace their creativity and extends an invitation for them to join him in his daydreams, where anything is possible.
Outro: Ego
Outro: Ego is J-Hope's solo track from BTS's album Map of the Soul: 7, released in 2020. It's the last song on the album and delves into themes of growth, acceptance, and self-discovery. The production of the song is upbeat and energetic, combining pop, hip-hop, and electronic components. The heart of the track's inspirational message is encapsulated in J-Hope's assured rap performance and emotive vocals. J-Hope considers his life's journey in Outro: Ego, accepting his uniqueness and real self. The song's lyrics exude a feeling of freedom and emancipation as J-Hope exhorts listeners to confidently follow their aspirations and accept who they are.
See Also: BTS members J-hope and Suga bid farewell to Jimin and Jungkook as they begin their military service
Airplane
Airplane is yet again a beautiful track from J-Hope's mixtape Hope World. It is a reflection on his artistic path, with the metaphor of an aeroplane representing his rise to success and the experiences he has along the route. The song is a mix of hip-hop and pop, with an appealing tempo and catchy choruses. In Airplane, J-Hope shares personal anecdotes and insights into his life and career. The lyrics depict his experiences travelling the world, performing on stage, and pursuing his dreams with passion and determination. J-Hope's introspective verses convey a sense of gratitude for his journey and the support of his fans.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Noodle Soup is a collaboration between J-Hope and American singer Becky G, released in 2019. The song pays homage to the original Chicken Noodle Soup by Webstar and Young B while infusing it with a fresh and modern twist. With a catchy beat and infectious hooks, the single combines elements of trap, Latin, and hip-hop. The vibrant vocal harmonies of J-Hope and Becky G produce a lively and energising effect. Chicken Noodle Soup celebrates unity, diversity, and cultural pride. The lyrics highlight the joy of dancing and the power of music to bring people together across different backgrounds and languages.
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