“Producer Bang Si-hyuk was the only person who clearly pointed out the good and bad aspects of my vocals.”
This is the return of Lee Hyun (41), ‘Big Hit's first artist’. It is truly a ‘return’ as he has released a new mini album after about 14 years since his first full album released in January 2012.
Recently, Lee Hyun, who released his third mini album ‘A(E)ND’, met with Maeil Business Star Today to share his current situation and feelings. The keywords were undoubtedly ‘Big Hit’ and ‘Bang Si-hyuk’.
He briefly introduced his new album, saying, “I have been working on it since October last year. I received a lot of songs and tried out guides, and I thought a lot about how to approach it genre-wise.” His final choice was a reconfiguration of 2000s R&B soul.
“I tried to add a retro feel while also being trendy. I worked hard to give a non-old-fashioned vibe and to showcase my unique vocal characteristics.”
The album title ‘A(E)ND’ combines the similar spelling and pronunciation of the contrasting meanings of ‘AND’ and ‘END’. It symbolically shows the duality of relationships and the complexity of emotions. This new album contains six songs that delicately depict universal emotions such as love and breakup that anyone can experience.
His close friend, Big Hit's representative producer P-Dog, participated in the new song production, enhancing its completeness. He actively contributed by producing, writing, and composing tracks like ‘Day and Dream’, ‘What’s on Your Mind’, and ‘Our Gravity’. The result was filled with affection and respect for Big Hit's first artist.
He smiled, recalling that P-Dog said, “It’s amazing to see your vocal abilities developing.” He expressed, “I wonder if there’s another place that understands and recognizes me this much,” revealing why he has stayed with Big Hit Music (formerly Big Hit) for a long time.
Was it only P-Dog? Bang Si-hyuk, the chairman of HYBE who first recruited him, also showed exceptional interest. Although he said there were no specific comments on this album, he felt reassured just by his presence. Reflecting on the time of his initial contract with Big Hit, Lee Hyun explained, “Three agencies contacted me, but he was the only one who said, ‘This is completely not good for you. And this point is attractive. I hope you become this kind of vocalist while working with me in the future.’”
Thanks to Chairman Bang's trust and support, Lee Hyun has walked his path unwaveringly until now. In addition to R&B genre music, he attempted a new challenge last year as a project artist ‘Midnight’, which combines music and technology.
“I wanted to introduce changes like intense synths and a mustache concept that wouldn’t typically be associated with Lee Hyun. This fresh attempt gave me confidence as a singer.”
In fact, the title of ‘Big Hit's first artist’ also brings some pressure. He said, “While being in the company, I feel the need to pioneer and show that I can try various things. So I try to be more challenging.”
Moreover, Lee Hyun, who recalls Chairman Bang's past vision at every moment, defined his attitude as an artist, saying, “I learned that music should not be neglected if it is to become an industry. I have repeatedly heard that I must meet the needs of fans and the public, so I am now accustomed to it.” He candidly shared, “I want to be a ‘dantala’ (musician) for a long time rather than holding any high position just because I have been with Big Hit for a long time.”
He mentioned that he has been consistently setting aside time for vocal practice over the past year. “I regularly receive vocal evaluations from those around me. I have a desire to filter well and become a more solid and refined vocalist.”
Strictly speaking, Lee Hyun debuted as a member of Big Hit's first mixed group, Eight. Although he is currently focused on solo activities, it will be the 20th anniversary of the team's debut in two years.
“Is there a day when we will come together as Eight? I am looking forward to positively planning activities with the members,” he expressed hope.
Lee Hyun, who is becoming a living legend and senior of Big Hit. “I have no intention of obsessing over making a fresh and new start or breaking away from the past,” he emphasized. Nevertheless, he left a resolution to become a singer who will frequently stand on stage and make his presence felt.
In conclusion, Lee Hyun's wish was defined in one line. “Even if I don’t create a huge wave in the music industry, I want to remain a senior who quietly stays with Big Hit.”
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
