Jeon Soyeon, IU, G-Dragon, Zico, Stray Kids’ Changbin, and Jung Yonghwa are not only recognized as idols but also as singer-songwriters and artists beyond their groups. Recently, they have gained attention for featuring in the credits of new releases by their junior artists.
While it’s not uncommon for senior artists to participate in their juniors’ music production, it’s noteworthy that many active seniors are simultaneously working on their own music and helping their juniors.
One standout senior-junior collaboration is between (G)I-DLE’s Jeon Soyeon and QWER. Soyeon wrote, composed, and arranged QWER’s title track “My Name is Sunny,” released on September 23. Her solo effort on the lyrics perfectly captured QWER’s style, and the track has remained in the top five for a month since its release.
IU surprised fans by supporting Billlie’s comeback after 1 year and 7 months. She wrote the lyrics for their title track “remembrance candy” from the mini-album released on October 16. The song’s theme is about reclaiming lost treasures, and member Tsuki thanked IU for its hopeful message.
G-Dragon, ahead of his solo comeback after 7 years, was credited as a composer for the title track “Clik Clak” on BABYMONSTER’s first full album. Although no longer a part of YG Entertainment, G-Dragon has maintained a positive relationship with the company and contributed his “YG DNA” to help the rising group.
Jung Yonghwa co-wrote and composed “He + She = We” for Ampers&One’s release on October 22 and mentored them during recording. Stray Kids’ Changbin made headlines by writing, composing, and featuring in ITZY’s song “Vay” from their eighth mini-album “Gold.”
It’s also common to see seniors supporting juniors as producers. Zico has supported BoyNextDoor, while BoA has backed NCT’s Wish as a producer. Kim Jaejoong has also expanded his range by producing the rookie girl group SayMyName.
These collaborations benefit both sides: juniors gain musical and promotional support, while seniors can enhance their reputations if the projects succeed. For instance, Jeon Soyeon boosted her producer status with QWER’s hit, and Young K solidified his lyricist reputation with H1-KEY’s “Rose Blossom.” An industry insider noted that while such collaborations often start from personal or agency connections, more cross-company support is emerging, helping seniors establish themselves as talented songwriters and producers.
Source: Daum
