Sayart.net - Twice′s Jihyo Takes Center Stage with Solo Debut EP ＂Zone,＂ Embracing a New Artistic Chapter

JYP Entertainment

Jihyo, a familiar face from the acclaimed girl group Twice, has embarked on a transformative musical journey with her debut solo EP titled "Zone." The 26-year-old artist, who marks the second member of the group to venture into solo territory, unveiled her eclectic sound to fans worldwide on Friday, culminating nine years since her debut.

The announcement of her solo project was met with great anticipation, following the release of fellow Twice member Nayeon's solo album "Im Nayeon" in June 2022. Jihyo's solo debut was celebrated with a press conference held in Seoul on Friday, just hours prior to the EP's launch at 1 p.m. that same day.

Jihyo shared that her work on the album commenced last year, a process that allowed her to explore her artistic direction and aspirations. "When the company told me that I'd be making a solo album last year, rather than giving me a direction, they told me to decide what I wanted to do," she revealed. With a focus on highlighting new facets of herself as a vocalist, Jihyo meticulously crafted a collection of seven tracks encompassing various genres from R&B to Latin.

The title of the EP, "Zone," is emblematic of Jihyo's artistic identity. Comprising the letter "z" representing Jihyo and the word "one," the album encapsulates her individual and complete artistry. The musical journey navigates diverse sonic landscapes, with Jihyo embracing a range of vocal expressions – a departure from her usual high-pitched delivery in Twice's music. She even delves into singing-rap in this solo endeavor.

The lead single, "Killin' Me Good," showcases Jihyo's authentic self, unveiling her powerful lower range through a captivating, rhythmic melody. Rather than veering into uncharted territory, Jihyo harnesses her signature strength, delivering a vibrant dance anthem that exudes energy and conviction.

Jihyo expressed her belief that enjoyment in her performance is pivotal to radiating positivity and emotions to her audience. "My biggest joy as a singer is dancing and performing and entertaining people through the activity," she emphasized, elaborating on her deliberate choice to infuse dance into her solo work.

The single's lyrics were crafted by JY Park, founder and producer at JYP Entertainment, who resonated with Jihyo's vision. Jihyo also contributed to the writing of six additional tracks, including an all-English lyric song titled "Talkin' About It."

For Jihyo, a solo career has been a long-cherished dream, realized after almost two decades since she began her journey with JYP Entertainment as a trainee. Reflecting on the timing of her solo debut, she shared, "I believe that everyone, whether an artist or not, have their own individual allures. It might seem ugly to some, but I believe it could appeal to others." She aspires for her authenticity to be open to interpretation by her audience.

Twice, the globally acclaimed girl group, has sustained its popularity for nine years, marked by their consistency, camaraderie, and energetic performances. Their presence has grown internationally, with notable achievements including their groundbreaking concert at New York's MetLife Stadium in July.

"I've already achieved everything by putting out an album I'm satisfied with that portrays me as a solo singer," Jihyo stated. As she embarks on this new solo chapter, she hopes to remain true to herself both as an artist and an individual. "Although I'm not sure whether I'll be loved as now in 10 years' time, I hope that I'm a person who could be genuinely happy, reveling in myself as I am."

With her debut EP "Zone" now released, Jihyo's remarkable musical voyage as a solo artist has begun, promising to captivate fans and forge a lasting legacy.

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