K-pop icon G-Dragon has returned after 7 years and 4 months with his new digital single 'POWER,' marking a vibrant comeback.
Released on various music streaming sites at 6 PM on the 31st, this track encapsulates his pride and honest reflections through a powerful hip-hop sound.
'POWER' is G-Dragon's first solo release since his 2017 mini-album 'Kwon Ji Yong.'
The track blends intense Middle Eastern-inspired beats with his signature rapping style, featuring bold and layered lyrics. Notable lines include, "Stop sharing edited clips, shout out," and "2nd-gen limited-edition, completed by the century," referencing his recent drug allegations and affirming his musical identity.
The song addresses the controversy surrounding last year’s drug-related accusations.
In October, G-Dragon was investigated but later voluntarily submitted to all tests, which cleared him as no substances were detected.
In a recent appearance on tvN’s 'You Quiz,' G-Dragon shared his feelings during that period: "I was cornered, with no way forward and only walls behind me," he revealed. "
All I had to do was stay true to myself, but I wanted to avoid repeating past hardships."
One source said, “He has successfully transformed personal challenges into music while maintaining his pride as a K-pop pioneer.”
In an earlier SNS live broadcast, G-Dragon described 'POWER' as "a satire on media power, blended with multiple layers of meaning," seemingly reflecting on the influence of modern media and the life of an artist within it.
As the leader of 2nd-generation idol group BIGBANG and a solo artist with numerous hits like 'Heartbreaker,' 'Crooked,' and 'Who You?', G-Dragon is hailed as a "living legend" in K-pop.
His artistic pride shines through once more in this new release.
G-Dragon is also scheduled to make his first 'MAMA Awards' appearance in 9 years on November 23, signaling a fresh era for him as a K-pop icon.
Observers are keen to see what impact G-Dragon’s comeback will have on the K-pop industry.
As a leader of the 2nd-generation idols, there is considerable anticipation regarding his place in today’s K-pop landscape and the responses his musical experimentation will garner.
Fans and industry insiders alike are eager to witness his next steps following 'POWER' and the legacy he will continue to build as a K-pop artist.
Fans are especially excited for the unique performance he has planned for the MAMA Awards stage.