Jeon Soyeon, IU, G-Dragon, Zico, Stray Kids’ Changbin, and Jung Yonghwa are not only recognized as idols but also as songwriters and artists beyond their groups. Recently, they have attracted attention for being featured in the credits of their junior artists’ new releases.
While it is not uncommon for senior artists to participate in their juniors’ musical production, it is interesting to note that many active seniors simultaneously work on their own music and help their juniors.
An amazing senior-junior collaboration is between Jeon Soyeon of (G)I-DLE and QWER. Soyeon wrote, composed and arranged QWER’s title track “My Name is Sunny”, released on September 23. His solo lyrical work perfectly captured QWER’s style and the track remained in the top five for a month after its release.
IU surprised fans by supporting Billlie’s return after 1 year and 7 months. He wrote the lyrics for the title track “remembrance candy” from the mini-album released on October 16. The song’s theme is about recovering lost treasures, and member Tsuki thanked IU for her message of hope.
G-Dragon, before his solo return after 7 years, was credited as the composer for the title track “Clik Clak” on BABYMONSTER’s first full-length album. Although he is no longer part of YG Entertainment, G-Dragon has maintained a positive relationship with the company and contributed his “YG DNA” to help the emerging group.
Jung Yonghwa co-wrote and composed “He + She = We” for Ampers&One’s October 22 release and guided them during the recording. Stray Kids’ Changbin made headlines by writing, composing and featuring ITZY’s song “Vay” from their eighth mini-album “Gold”.
It is also common to see older people supporting younger people as producers. Zico supported BoyNextDoor, while BoA supported NCT’s Wish as producer. Kim Jaejoong has also expanded his range by producing rookie girl group SayMyName.
These collaborations benefit both parties: young people get musical and promotional support, while seniors can improve their reputation if the projects are successful. For example, Jeon Soyeon solidified her status as a producer with the success of QWER, and Young K solidified his reputation as a lyricist with H1-KEY’s “Rose Blossom.” One 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
