Jaehyun, a member of the renowned K-pop group NCT, has made his solo debut with the release of his first solo album, “J,” which launched on Monday. The album marks a significant milestone in Jaehyun's career, highlighting his transition from group member to solo artist.

“J” features eight tracks, with the title song “Smoke” available in both Korean and English versions. The album is designed to be a captivating soundtrack for the late afternoon through to early dawn, capturing a range of emotions and musical styles that reflect Jaehyun's distinct artistic vision.

The lead track, “Smoke,” is a hip-hop R&B composition characterized by its rhythmic bass lines, groovy vocals, and rich guitar riffs. The song’s lyrics depict a romantic moment in a car, with the imagery of smoke rising from a boombox adding a blend of wit and sincerity. This multi-faceted approach aims to resonate with a broad audience through its evocative and relatable themes.

Accompanying the single is a music video for “Smoke,” which presents a visually engaging narrative. The video explores Jaehyun’s journey into a world of self-obsession, culminating in dramatic and visually striking extremes.

To celebrate the album's release, Jaehyun hosted a special listening event titled “Jaehyun Vol. 1” on Monday. The event, which ran from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., provided fans with an immersive experience, allowing them to enjoy the album in a setting that enhanced its atmospheric qualities. Additionally, Jaehyun personally crafted and served beverages to attendees, adding a personal touch to the celebration.

Jaehyun’s solo debut underscores his versatility as an artist and his ability to connect with fans on a deeper level through his music. The release of “J” marks a new chapter in his career, showcasing his growth and potential as an individual artist while continuing to build on his success with NCT.

Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com