G-Dragon proves his 'Power' with bold new single

By KTimes

In K-pop star G-Dragon’s latest solo release, "Power," dropped on Oct. 31, he appears to take direct aim at the media frenzy surrounding him. The music video opens with a mock news alert titled, “A Day in the Life of GD,” highlighting the obsessive attention his every move attracts.

G-Dragon, whose real name is Kwon Ji-yong, raps with biting sarcasm about "forced criticism spreading around," aiming his harsh verses at sensationalist media outlets that spread rumors about his alleged drug use based on out-of-context footage.

The singer-rapper of boy group BIGBANG recently expressed feeling "backed into a corner, with everything closing in," as he shared his relief at being cleared of drug charges.

At the end of the "Power" music video, G-Dragon exits a studio set with blue skies in the background, a nod to Jim Carrey’s iconic exit in the 1998 film "The Truman Show."

Having started as a trainee at just six and debuting as a member of BIGBANG at 18, G-Dragon has lived most of his life under the public eye, much like Carrey's character.

His leap outside the studio set in the video reflects his longing for freedom, symbolized by the bold "88" behind him — a reference to his birth year and a new artistic beginning. This single marks his first release in 88 months since his 2017 album "Kwon Ji Yong."

Fresh start after leaving YG

True to the lyrics "88 soars," "Power" climbed to the top of YouTube’s music video charts within a day of release and remains popular on domestic streaming platforms. As of Nov. 4, the track ranks second on Melon, following Rose's "APT." with Bruno Mars.

Critics praise the song's catchy beat, witty lyrics and G-Dragon's unique rap delivery.

“'Power' captures the playful, rebellious image that comes to mind with G-Dragon, blending it with relatable themes to break his long silence and reconnect with fans," said music critic Kim Do-heon. "The song also cleverly pays homage to iconic hip-hop lyrics from hits like Dr. Dre’s ‘Nuthin' but a G Thang’ and Beyoncé’s ‘Run the World,’ making it even more enjoyable to listen to.”

"Power" is G-Dragon's first release since leaving YG Entertainment and signing a contract with Galaxy Corporation, a company specializing in AI-related ventures.

According to a source from his new agency, he’s currently working on an album featuring "Power." Unlike YG, his new label isn’t known for K-pop production.

However, a music industry insider close to G-Dragon said, “Support for G-Dragon’s new album came from his ‘extended YG’ circle, including Teddy,” a renowned K-pop producer and songwriter.

G-Dragon co-composed "Power" with Theron Thomas, an international songwriter who collaborated on Rose's "APT." under The Black Label, Teddy’s production company.

Stands tall in confidence

Despite a strong domestic response, "Power" has yet to appear on Spotify’s Global Top 50, where songs by younger K-pop idols dominate.

On Nov. 3, the chart included "APT." (No. 1), BTS member Jimin’s "Who" (No. 4) and BLACKPINK Jennie’s "Mantra" (No. 28), reflecting the generational shift in K-pop’s global reach.

Yet, G-Dragon remains unfazed. In "Power," he boldly declares, "A second-generation limited edition, a masterpiece of the century," signaling his confidence as a pioneering K-pop rapper who helped define the industry’s second wave.

Music critic Hwang Sun-up describes the track as G-Dragon’s assertion of his legacy, setting him apart from today’s idols.

On Nov. 23, G-Dragon will perform at the 2024 MAMA Awards held at Kyocera Dome Osaka, where fans can expect his signature stage presence.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.