231103 The Atlantic – Jungkook of BTS is Chasing His Pop-Star Dream by Lenika Cruz

This was a very insightful interview:

> He told me that, for a long time, he thought it was important for artists to write their own records (as some BTS members elected to do for their solo albums). Jungkook has written and produced songs for BTS, including quiet ballads and electropop anthems; at least two tracks that he wrote for his solo project ended up being recorded by the group instead. **“As I grew up, I came to terms with reality and started accepting what I’m not good at or what I don’t have to do,” he said. “At this moment, there’s nothing I want to write about. So I was thinking, Do I really need to invest my time into creating a song from the beginning to the end?” With Golden, the urgent desire wasn’t there, and the timing didn’t make sense. (BTS is expected to reunite in 2025, after all of the members have completed their mandatory military service; Jungkook has yet to begin his.) Rather than writing lyrics or composing melodies, he chose to experiment with new vocal techniques and hone his live-performance skills.**

I think this shows what his approach has been on Chapter 2, which is developing his vocal technique and pushing himself out of his comfort zone.

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[lenika just posted this snippet](https://x.com/lenikacruz/status/1720304556846792924?s=46):
> one thing that didn’t make it into the piece was a part when he talked about how much effort he put into imitating singers on demos/guides who had different styles and abilities. and that when he was recording he had thoughts like “am i actually good?” and was proud of his growth

we know how much of a perfectionist he is, so seeing him recognising and being proud of his growth honestly makes me emotional. i’m so proud and happy for him

Yes, great article! JK is a master craftsman!

Artists don’t have to be put in a box, he wanted to focus on being the performer and bringing these songs to life through his craftsmanship. And WOW does he.