Adding a dose of freshness to K-pop is Starship Entertainment’s newest rookie group IDID. The seven-member group who are the globally renowned agency’s first new boy group in about five years encapsulate a free-spirited charm, raw emotions and an evolving musicality to carve out their own path in K-pop and beyond.
Consisting of JANG YONGHOON, KIM MINJAE, PARK WONBIN, CHU YOOCHAN, PARK SEONGHYEON, BAEK JUNHYUK, and JEONG SEMIN they septet have released eight-track debut album I did it, an energetic collection showcasing their upbeat delivery and sonic variety.
Formed through the survival variety program Debut’s Plan, the band who released pre-debut single “STEP IT UP,” in July have quickly gained attention as an ambitious act to keep on your radar. Led by instinct and confidence, IDID who made their first international appearance at KCON Los Angeles in August – where they announced their official debut – are already set to take on the world with their powerful artistry.
In conversation with Earmilk, the seven-piece dive into their debut album, the sound they hope to shape and who inspires them, among much more.
What’s the message/inspiration behind ‘I did it.’ Take me through the creative process for it?
PARK SEONGHYEON: Our debut album I did it. carries the message that ‘Even if I fall or get hurt, it’s still who I am.’ The eight tracks are like different emotional moments connected together into one flowing stream. From recording to dance practice and to performing on stage, we’ve truly had fun every step of the way.
How would you describe IDID’s sound? Is there a particular sonic signature that you hope to make distinctly your own?
PARK WONBIN: We don’t have a signature sound yet as we just debuted, but the fans will notice our upbeat and distinct musical style immediately. All seven of us have unique characteristics and charms that help us to shape our sound.
What’s your personal favourite track from the album and why?
JANG YONGHOON: “CHAN-RAN” for sure! It’s IDID’s first focus track of the album and debut song, so it means a lot to me. I’m addicted to the unique sound and melody, and it makes me happy and feel free-spirited whenever I perform the song on stage.
KIM MINJAE: My favorite is “CHAN-RAN” because the track represents IDID the best.
PARK WONBIN: “SLOW TIDE” is my go-to song. The track shows who IDID is, and fits our image perfectly.
CHU YOOCHAN: I like “CHAN-RAN” but my favorite track is “SLOW TIDE” because the melody and the lyrics are very free-spirited and make my heart race.
PARK SEONGHYEON: “CHAN-RAN” is my most favorite song from the debut album. It expresses IDID’s identity the most and I like the message behind the track – ‘It’s okay to be clumsy now and then.’
BAEK JUNHYUK: From our debut album I did it.. My favorite song is “SLOW TIDE.” When I first heard the song, the dreamy and rhythmical sound matched my vibe.
JEONG SEMIN: “CHAN-RAN” is also my favorite track because it’s our first focus track of the debut album.
Who inspires you both professionally and on a personal level?
JANG YONGHOON: JungKook of BTS inspires me a lot. I admire the way he approaches every moment with sincerity, and I try to learn and incorporate it in my life.
KIM MINJAE: Bruno Mars and Justin Bieber inspire me the most when it comes to stage performance.
PARK WONBIN: Professionally, I get inspired by Taylor Swift’s abilities and responsibilities she showcases as a musician.
CHU YOOCHAN: Senior artists from Starship Entertainment inspire me the most because through them, I learn a lot about talent, stage presence, and politeness.
PARK SEONGHYEON: Lately, I’ve been inspired by J.Cole. I think it’s so cool how he tells his own story through music. I also want IDID to become a group like Coldplay who defines an era.
BAEK JUNHYUK: BTS’s JungKook also inspires me. He’s the youngest in the group just like me, but he’s recognized globally for his talent. That motivates me to work harder.
JEONG SEMIN: Personally, my biggest inspirations are my family and our fans. They always pray and support me to keep me grounded whenever I go through hard times. However, on a professional level, I admire JungKook of BTS – his presence on stage and constant self-improvement always motivate me.
As you make your official debut, what hopes/wishes do you carry as IDID?
JANG YONGHOON: I want IDID to be a timeless artist that is remembered for generations. I also dream of going on a world tour, performing at festivals, and growing as an artist by sharing the stage with our fans worldwide.
What’s been the most rewarding process of your musical journey so far? What’s been most challenging?
KIM MINJAE: The most challenging moments have always prepared me for performances, but those moments were also rewarding. The hard work pays off when we get to show an amazing performance on stage.
Finally, in three words tell fans what they can expect from IDID!
CHU YOOCHAN: Three words that our fans can expect from us would be: Freshness, Authenticity, Passion.
BAEK JUNHYUK: Character, Hip-Hop, and Young would be something that we’ll showcase to our fans so please look forward to it!
Connect with IDID : Instagram
