Since debuting solo in 2009, he’s spent 15 years honestly expressing his emotions through music. In contrast to past songs with melancholic lyrics that worried fans, “POWER” reflects a healthier, stronger version of him, showing he’s overcome past struggles.
Returning after 88 months, G-Dragon’s “POWER” quickly soared to the top of real-time charts on domestic music platforms like Melon HOT100. The song’s lyrics played a key role in its success, with G-Dragon portraying his newfound self-love, even as he faces media scrutiny and criticism.
Since 2009, G-Dragon has often sung about loneliness, reflecting on how achieving his dreams led him to lose his sense of self as Kwon Ji-yong, the man behind the G-Dragon persona.
In his solo debut album “Heartbreaker”, the song “A Boy” reveals his struggle, singing, “As time passed by, my loneliness grew / The sense of duty was the heaviest burden for me.”
In Bigbang’s 2012 track “Still Alive”, he confronted harsh rumors and judgment, declaring, “I may seem like I’m dying, but I won’t die / I won’t escape the other’s eyes and hide / Those pointed fingers are proof that I’m still an issue / Disappointment and hope are the reason and basis.”
By 2017, as he entered his 30s, G-Dragon attempted to confront his loneliness with his EP “Kwon Ji Yong”, admitting in the intro track “INTRO. Kwon Ji Yong (Middle Fingers-Up)” that he withdrew from social interactions to protect himself.
He conveyed similar emotions in “SUPER STAR”, lamenting how his childhood dream of being on TV left him feeling empty and lonely despite his success.
His emotional struggles weren’t for show. G-Dragon recently shared these on tvN’s “You Quiz on the Block”, revealing, “I’ve lived as either a trainee or G-Dragon for over 20 years, but as Kwon Ji-yong for only 4~5 years. I didn’t even know who I was. Though I loved what I did, I wasn’t happy, and it was hard to seek comfort because I worried it would sound like complaining.”
After a seven-year hiatus, G-Dragon seems to have reconnected with his true self.
His latest single “POWER”, released on October 31st, includes the empowering line “I am free / I’m beautiful just being myself”, asserting his resilience amid media scrutiny. Gone are the turbulent emotions of the past; now, “POWER” exudes confidence and strength.
In discussing the song, whose lyrics he participated in writing, G-Dragon explained, “Music is my strength. This track conveys many meanings related to media influence. I was confused before, but those times are behind me.” He noted, “Taking care of my health has changed my appearance and outlook. Though I’m no longer sharp-edged, I’m personally content.”
G-Dragon used to add R&B style to his songs to gently sing about his depression. This time, however, he delivers his voice with confidence and power. “POWER” is built on a heavily distorted bass source and catchy riff, with a strong vocal delivery in his rap. It showcases how his music has evolved over the 15 years since his solo debut.
Despite debuting 18 years ago, G-Dragon’s influence remains as strong as ever, with fans calling his return “a king’s comeback”. G-Dragon’s honest storytelling and unique style have formed the foundation of his enduring popularity from the 2000s to the 2020s, securing his position as a timeless figure in the music industry.
Source: Naver
