EntertainmentMusicPop music Album Critique: Jung Kook’s Solo Foray ‘Golden’ Shimmers with Flawless Pop Appeal by Madison Thomas November 4, 2023 written by Madison Thomas November 4, 2023 4 comments Bookmark 31 The youngest member of the renowned K-pop ensemble BTS, Jung Kook, unveiled his inaugural solo album ‘Golden’ to rapturous acclaim last Friday. Titled in homage to his moniker ‘the golden maknae’ which translates to ‘golden youngest’ in Korean, the album is steeped in an Anglophone sensibility and stands out as one of the most compelling pop releases this year, mirroring his penchant for vintage pop flavors. During a spell this summer, Jung Kook’s collaboration with Latto, the single ‘Seven,’ dominated airwaves—a radiant track in the vein of UK garage, melodically ticking off every day of the week to symbolize his unyielding affection—though the song’s meaning slightly alters with the explicit version. The track soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 charts, positioning Jung Kook as the second BTS member to achieve such a milestone in a solo capacity, following Jimin’s own success. Indeed, his credentials as a ‘golden’ artist are well-earned. The catchy chorus of ‘Seven’ is just a taste of the allure permeating ‘Golden.’ Throughout the album, Jung Kook exhibits a sophisticated grasp of the intricacies of pop execution—acknowledging that contemporary pop demands inventive partnerships, a theme prevalent in his album’s tracks. Notable collaborations include Ed Sheeran’s guitar work on ‘Yes or No’ and Shawn Mendes’s input on the piano ballad ‘Hate You.’ Major Lazer lends its signature touch to the sultry beats of ‘Closer to You,’ while DJ Snake joins forces on the pop-dance track ‘Please Don’t Change,’ reminiscent of Justin Bieber’s style. Additionally, Rapper Jack Harlow features on the hit ‘3D,’ which clinched the number five spot on the Billboard Hot 100. While it might draw an unwelcome parallel in today’s cultural discourse, especially amid discussions sparked by Britney Spears’ memoir ‘The Woman in Me,’ ‘3D’ is evocative of the zenith of Justin Timberlake’s solo endeavors in the 2000s, such as ‘Justified’ and ‘Suit and Tie,’ reminiscent of the era’s iconic Timbaland and Pharrell collaborations. However, it’s important to note that Jung Kook seems to only draw from the best of Timberlake’s legacy—his unmistakable musical prowess and successful solo venture post his initial boy band fame. While NSYNC dissolved, leading to a lengthy hiatus, BTS has only announced a temporary break. Yet, the standout track is undoubtedly the newest single, ‘Standing Next to You.’ With its funk-infused rhythm and echoes of Michael Jackson, it promises to be among the most enthralling pop hits of the year. In essence, ‘Golden’ is an album where every track warrants uninterrupted listening—a compendium of pure pop delight. This narrative has been amended to accurately reflect that Jimin previously achieved a No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hit as a solo artist. Table of Contents Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jung Kook Golden Album ReviewWhat is the significance of the title “Golden” in Jung Kook’s album?How successful has Jung Kook’s solo debut been?Who are some of the notable collaborators featured on the album?Can “Golden” be compared to Justin Timberlake’s solo career?What is the standout track on theMore about Jung Kook Golden Album Review Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jung Kook Golden Album Review What is the significance of the title “Golden” in Jung Kook’s album? The title “Golden” pays tribute to Jung Kook’s nickname, “the golden maknae,” which translates to “golden youngest” in Korean, highlighting his exceptional talent and youthfulness in the K-pop world. How successful has Jung Kook’s solo debut been? Jung Kook’s solo debut with “Golden” has been highly successful, with his single “Seven” reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making him the second BTS member to achieve this milestone as a solo artist. Who are some of the notable collaborators featured on the album? “Golden” boasts impressive collaborations, including Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes, Major Lazer, DJ Snake, and Rapper Jack Harlow, contributing to the album’s diverse sound and appeal. Can “Golden” be compared to Justin Timberlake’s solo career? While “3D” from the album may evoke memories of Justin Timberlake’s early solo work, it’s important to note that Jung Kook draws inspiration from Timberlake’s musical talent and solo success, rather than trying to replicate his entire career. What is the standout track on the More about Jung Kook Golden Album Review Jung Kook’s “Golden” Album Billboard Hot 100 Chart Ed Sheeran Shawn Mendes Major Lazer DJ Snake Jack Harlow Justin Timberlake Michael Jackson You Might Be Interested In This Week’s Streaming Highlights: Dolly Parton’s Rock Debut, ‘The Crown’ Resurfaces, ‘Rustin’ Inspires Lucinda Williams: How the Grammy-Winning Singer Overcame a Stroke and Returned with a New Book and Album Film Analysis: Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ and Its Implications Fill your holiday stocking with Cher, Ella Fitzgerald, Brandy, Andrea Bocelli and more 10 people died at the Astroworld music festival two years ago. Will anyone be held accountable? Japanese Icon Ryuichi Sakamoto Passes Away at 71 Album ReleaseBillboard Hot 100BTSGolden AlbumJung KookK-popMusicMusic CollaborationsPop musicPop Music ReviewRetro PopSolo Debut Share 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail Madison Thomas Follow Author Madison Thomas is a food journalist who covers the latest news and trends in the world of cuisine. She enjoys exploring new recipes and culinary trends, and she is always on the lookout for new and exciting flavors to try. previous post Sofia Coppola Focuses Her Cinematic Vision on a U.S. Legend: Priscilla Presley next post Biden spent weeks of auto strike talks building ties to UAW leader that have yet to fully pay off You may also like Bookmark Danny Masterson sent to state prison to serve... December 28, 2023 Bookmark Book Review: Ralph Nader Profiles Exemplary Corporate Leaders... December 27, 2023 Bookmark Mariah Carey and Bryan Tanaka split after 7... December 27, 2023 Bookmark AP Spotlight: Reneé Rapp’s Bold Choices Define Her... December 26, 2023 Bookmark Film Critique: ‘The Color Purple’ – A Vibrant... December 26, 2023 Bookmark Charles Melton Reflects on His Journey to Stardom December 26, 2023 4 comments PopMusicLover22 November 4, 2023 - 4:57 pm OMG, dis article rocksssss! Jung Kook’s album “Golden” iz amazin’, no skips, u gotta listen. #BTS #Kpop Reply JungKookieStan November 4, 2023 - 5:32 pm luv the vibe of “Seven,” Jung Kook is a legend. Thx 4 the article, it’s spot on! Reply MJJacksonFan November 5, 2023 - 12:46 am “Standing Next to You” is pure MJ vibes, loving it! Great review, thumbs up! Reply JustinFanForever November 5, 2023 - 5:00 am JT vibes in “3D”? I’m here for it! Kook’s makin’ history too, just like Timberlake. Reply Leave a Comment Cancel Reply Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ