Yeonjun Embraces Artistic Freedom with Solo EP ‘No Labels’

Yeonjun, the 26-year-old member of the K-pop sensation Tomorrow X Together (TXT), has launched his first solo EP titled No Labels: Part One. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, conducted via Zoom from Seoul, Yeonjun expressed his determination to pursue music that resonates with his personal journey rather than adhering to external expectations.

Debuting in 2019 as the oldest member of TXT under BigHit Music, Yeonjun has witnessed the group’s evolution from youthful exuberance to a more mature sound. The journey has not only shaped the band’s identity but has also sparked Yeonjun’s desire to explore new musical territories. His latest endeavor, No Labels, reflects this artistic exploration, showcasing six tracks that traverse various genres.

Exploring Personal Narratives Through Music

Yeonjun described the creative process behind No Labels as one of self-discovery. “I’ve always wanted to share my stories and my music,” he stated, noting that his previous mixtape, Ggum, boosted his confidence to pursue a solo project. The EP was born from a desire to capture his unique artistic style and personal experiences.

He emphasized the importance of being involved in the songwriting and composition, stating, “I could just get a song and become a person that fits that song, but rather than doing that, I think it’s more fun and good to actually write the lyrics, compose and tell the story myself.” This hands-on approach allowed Yeonjun to express himself authentically, contributing to his growth as an artist.

Despite the excitement of releasing his first solo project, Yeonjun acknowledged the pressures that came with it. “Physically, there was so much to do,” he explained, highlighting the demands of writing lyrics, participating in choreography, and directing the project. Yet, he found the experience enriching, describing it as akin to a second youth.

Innovative Music Video Approach

In an effort to present his music in a fresh light, Yeonjun chose to feature multiple songs in a single music video. The three tracks included—“Coma,” “Let Me Tell You,” and “Talk to You”—were selected for their quality and appeal. He aimed to create an omnibus-style video that emphasizes performance over a linear narrative.

Working on the lead single “Talk to You,” Yeonjun found that the creative process fostered a deeper connection to the music. He clarified that while not every song is autobiographical, there is a personal touch in the storytelling aspect. “With ‘Talk to You,’ it was not really about me. Instead, I think I was more imagining things when I was writing this,” he said, demonstrating his ability to draw inspiration from various sources.

As he navigated this project largely on his own, Yeonjun reflected on the importance of self-reliance. “I didn’t really lean on anyone, but the entire process was a very meaningful time for me,” he noted, indicating that the challenges he faced contributed to his artistic evolution.

Yeonjun’s commitment to authenticity is encapsulated in the title of his EP. “No Labels” signifies his liberation from societal expectations and an embrace of self-identity. He remarked, “Through this album, I was able to know more about myself,” indicating that the project is more than just a musical release; it represents his ongoing journey of self-discovery.

Ultimately, Yeonjun hopes listeners will appreciate his music, even if not everyone connects with it. “Rather than trying to meet everyone’s expectations, I just try to focus on making music that I truly love and believe in,” he concluded, underscoring his dedication to artistic integrity as he steps into this new chapter of his career.