MONSTA X Kihyun’s Solo Debut Almost Didn’t Happen, But He’s Already Thinking About His Next Album

Do MONSTA X members ever rest?

MONSTA X‘s Kihyun made his solo debut with the single album VOYAGER. Though it was a long time coming, its fruition came down to perfect timing.

MONSTA X’s Kihyun | @OfficialMonstaX/Twitter

Fans have been waiting for Kihyun to release solo music for years, but it hasn’t always been possible. Fans know that MONSTA X’s schedule is packed year-round, so the timing had to be right.

The first time we discussed my solo was two or three years ago. I was in conversation a few times, but in January [Starship Entertainment Executive Producer] Hyunjoo Seo showed me the ‘VOYAGER’ song. I was like ‘Wow.This is it’ …

— Kihyun

MONSTA X also postponed their tour in January, due to COVID-19, leaving a window for Kihyun to prepare for his solo debut.

MONSTA X | @OfficialMonstaX/Twitter

Since MONSTA X has such a distinct musical style, Kihyun thought about what he would do differently with his solo.

My favorite part was recording because it’s my own music, and I can do whatever I want. I don’t have to match up the sounds of the others … I really want to establish myself as Kihyun solo, and as Kihyun from MONSTA X because the musical colors are so different.

— Kihyun

Kihyun’s title-track “VOYAGER” utilizes his killer vocals and sets the tone for the entire project. He definitely nailed it and defined his musical color.

Though it hasn’t even been a month since his first album was released, when it comes to what’s next for Kihyun as a solo artist, he already knows what he wants to do.

I actually have already thought about my next move and how I can incorporate different genres—specifically, thinking about jazz for my next solo album.

— Kihyun

MONBEBE have barely recovered from Kihyun’s debut, but can’t wait to see what he comes up with. With MONSTA X’s comeback on the horizon, fans are well-fed.

Source: Forbes

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