Speculation of what will become of the once beloved BIGBANG rapper T.O.P has become a hot topic on the internet as of late.
After making a return as an actor in Squid Games, T.O.P announced back in January of this year the many plans he had in the works for fans of his music, building up anticipation with album teasers and more. Now, everyone is wondering if his new song will find mainstream success and if T.O.P genuinely intends to reunite with the remaining BIGBANG members after his latest lyrics suggested parting ways.
At last week’s recent Coachella performances, BIGBANG made the bold announcement that they are embarking on a world tour to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their debut. G-Dragon personally announced that e saved this announcement for the Coachella stage revealing to fans that the group isn’t over. “This year, BIGBANG celebrated its 20th anniversary. It’s just the beginning…We are planning to start our 20th Anniversary World Tour in August, so please wait,” said the fashion-forward leader.
Fans were also delighted to hear the inclusion of T.O.P’s voice in the stage tracks, fueling hopes that T.O.P would soon rejoin the group after announcing his return to music with his title release “DESPERADO” on April 3rd, which is part of his album Another Dimension. However, the iconic rapper seemed to be taking a different approach to his music and a stage featuring all 4 members seems grim.
Even news of a new album including the four members began to surface among fans, but when T.O.P’s interview with WWD was released, the long-running celeb expressed, “As I pass my 30s, I go beyond the stage of facing myself and focus on the time to empty that self,“ and “I want there to be no more drama in my life,” suggesting he wants to shed his past image and move beyond the ties he had from his earlier career.
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This transition away from his past was even made more clear after his songs from the new album were analyzed. The song “Studio54” has been garnering attention, and not for its distinctive autotune-heavy vocal that utilizes T.O.P’s signature rapping style, but when he exclaims, “I’m so sorry, but I loved 20s BIGBANG. SAY LESS,” and ”I’ve cut em off, BANG, BANG. You know what I’m saying, BOY?” The lyrics felt dismissive and by no means a sign to reconnect with his former members.
However, despite the hype surrounding his return, various fans felt that his songs lacked a punch and didn’t reel them in as much as before. Perhaps without YG’s signature sound, T.O.P’s musicality lacks the dynamic style and excitement it is usually known for? Now, fans ponder what exactly the BIGBANG member plans to do with his career moving forward, as he still faces issues with bans from major broadcasting stations like KBS.
To celebrate his return, T.O.P announced he will hold a free listening party for his first full-length solo album on April 24th in Korea. The event will be held at the Megabox’s Guui Eastpole branch in Gwangjin District, Seoul, where T.O.P will hold two listening sessions and serve wine alongside the projector showcasing his artistic videos for the album. The artist will also attend the event to enjoy the experience with his VIP fans.
UPDATE:
On April 21st, BIGBANG created a new official account with the bio “20th Anniversary,” signaling major plans for their milestone year. The first post, captioned “BIGBANG IS BACK,” featured G-Dragon, Taeyang and Daesung alongside a commemorative video that heightened excitement for a rumored world tour.
Despite his recent lyrics and absence from the Coachella stage, T.O.P was notably included in the account’s following list. This surprising move sparked immediate curiosity, with fans commenting, “I can’t believe they’re following T.O.P,” and “BIGBANG is back!”
It remains unclear if this signals a reconciliation or a nod to the group’s history, but for now, fans are left wondering if the 20th anniversary will ultimately include all four members.
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What do you think of his latest return? Some fans praise T.O.P for making music his own way while others find his revamped style to be unfamiliar. Looking for more drama? Then be sure to check out trending K-dramas for free on Amasian TV.
