Jimin couldn’t imagine himself being more satisfied with any job title other than musician. "I think I'll find a way to be BTS no matter what," Jimin tells Bustle. As one seventh member of BTS for more than a decade, Jimin captured the hearts of the group's fans (collectively known as ARMY) with his falsetto, dance moves and goofy antics on the band's reality show .
Now, like fellow BTS members who have released solo projects in recent months, the 27-year-old is exploring his own personal sound on his debut album , FACE . It's already climbing the charts, debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 Album Chart; the project's lead single, "Like Crazy," debuted at No. 1 on the Hot 100 in April, marking a milestone for Bangtan. An individual member of the boy band (BTS) or a Korean solo artist tops the singles chart for the first time.
In the seven songs of the physical album, Jimin recorded his inner feelings. "Alone" is a pop ballad about isolation and loneliness, while "Set Me Free Pt. 2" is a bass-heavy hip-hop song that features a backing choir that emphasizes his determination to break free. The latter song had darker lyrics and contained a curse that was so different from his previous solo music that it rocked Twitter to its core. This is also the first song that Jimin has rapped on a solo track.
Even though it was a solo effort, BTS was still involved in the production of "FACE." "I remember RM telling me to pour all my emotions into each song. That was very helpful in making this album," Jimin recalled of the advice he received from the BTS leader, who was credited with three songs songwriter. Jimin also invited Jung Kook to sing vibrato and improvisational songs on "Letter," which is included on the physical release.
Below, Jimin discusses making FACE , being inspired by j-hope, and buying his idols’ vinyl records.
On creating face and worrying about what Ami will think
What was the most difficult or surprising part of making a solo album?
I realize once again that I rely on our members more than I thought, and I am so grateful for them. Also, songwriting is not easy, but I love it so much that I thank them again for giving me the motivation to write this album.
What is your favorite lyric?
“I Want to Stay in This Dream” from my hit song “Like Crazy.”
It’s no secret that whenever you rap, you laugh out loud. Now, on “Set Me Free Pt.2,” you specifically wrote a track with a rap section. How do you feel when fans hear you rapping on the track?
I try to show all aspects of myself as an artist. I felt a little shy and wondered how they would feel listening to my rapping.
Which song on FACE are you most proud of ? Why?
I'm proud of every song on FACE . However, when it comes to choosing one, I do have the most special affection for "Set Me Free Pt.2". I loved every step of making this song. For example, I went to America to record a choir and it was amazing to hear their voices and see the whole process. I believe my fans will think this song best represents what BTS Jimin does best.
When you think about your fans listening to "FACE," how do you imagine they'll feel?
I feel anxious just thinking about it. The Ami I knew would be totally focused on trying to figure out what I was feeling or thinking while singing each song.
About citing BTS songs and support from BTS members
"Set Me Free Pt. 2" feels like the next step after "ON" - there's even a line like "going insane to keep sane". Was it a conscious decision to quote that song?
This is one of my favorite lines in a BTS song. I did quote "ON" in "Set Me Free Pt.2" because I was inspired by that quote.
You are known for supporting BTS members' personal projects. You even went to Chicago to support j-hope at Lollapalooza. Who is the most supportive member of BTS so far? In what way?
In fact, it was the members who inspired me to start making this album. I shared my experiences and feelings during the pandemic, and they suggested that I include them in the album. I really appreciate them listening to me and supporting me.
j-hope’s Lollapalooza stage was perfect! I was working on an album at the time and seeing the passion and energy he filled the stage with was very inspiring.
Whose reaction after listening to the album was most important to you?
One of them expressed the hope that this album can be a new starting point for me to further grow as an artist. This means a lot and I will continue to do my best to achieve this goal.
You're known to be vulnerable both lyrically and in concert, but this album feels more open. Are you worried about fans getting to know you on a deeper level?
This album really portrays my innermost feelings and thoughts that I've never expressed before, so I'm curious what ARMY will think of this album.
Listen to Westlife and his music idols
Is there a song that you grew up listening to that you still know all the words to?
"My Love" by Westlife.
What are your favorite karaoke songs?
"Old Love" by Li Wenshi.
Who is your current music idol?
The Sun and Michael Jackson. I actually just recently purchased some vinyl records for the first time from an old vinyl record store. I have vinyl records of Michael Jackson and The Beatles.
Which came first, the melody or the lyrics?
I love writing melodies, so the melody comes first.
When did you truly feel like a musician?
I feel happiest whenever I'm on stage.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
