Since his solo debut in 2009, he has spent 15 years honestly expressing his emotions through music. In contrast to past songs with melancholy lyrics that worried fans, “POWER” reflects a healthier and stronger version of him, showing that he has overcome the difficulties of the past.
Returning after 88 months, G-Dragon’s “POWER” quickly rose to the top of real-time charts on national music platforms such as 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 like Kwon Ji-yong, the man behind the G-Dragon character.
On his debut solo album “Heartbreaker,” the song “A Boy” reveals his struggle, singing, “As time passed my loneliness grew / The sense of duty was the heaviest burden for me.“
On Bigbang’s 2012 track “Still Alive,” he addressed rumors and harsh judgment, declaring: “It may seem like I’m dying, but I won’t die / I won’t escape the eyes of others to hide / Those pointy fingers are proof that I’m still a problem / Disappointment and hope are the reason and the basis.“
In 2017, in his thirties, G-Dragon attempted to address his loneliness with his EP “Kwon Ji Yong,” admitting in the intro track “INTRO. Kwon Ji Yong (Middle Finger Up)” that he withdrawn from social interactions to protect himself.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 alone despite his success.
His emotional struggles were not for show. G-Dragon recently shared them on tvN’s “You Quiz on the Block,” revealing: “I have lived as an apprentice 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. Even though I loved what I did, I wasn’t happy and it was difficult to seek comfort because I feared it would sound like complaining.“
After a seven-year hiatus, G-Dragon appears to have reconnected with his true self.
His latest single “POWER,” released Oct. 31, includes the empowering verse “I am free/I am beautiful simply by being myself“, affirming her resilience amidst media scrutiny. Gone are the turbulent emotions of the past; now, “POWER” exudes confidence and strength.
Discussing the song, for which he co-wrote the lyrics, 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. Even though I’m no longer sharp, I’m personally happy.“
G-Dragon added R&B style to his songs to sing softly about his depression. This time, however, he delivers his voice with confidence and power. “POWER” is built on a heavily distorted bass source and a catchy riff, with a strong vocal delivery in his rap. It shows 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 return of a king.” G-Dragon’s honest storytelling and unique style laid the foundation of his enduring popularity from the 2000s to the 2020s, ensuring his position as a timeless figure in the music industry.
Source: Naver
