“TAEYONG presents a compelling argument for a promising solo career, exhibiting his mastery as a multi-faceted musician” – NME
26 February 2024 – Today, NCT’s TAEYONG releases his highly anticipated second mini-album “TAP”. Written and composed by TAEYONG, the six-track mini-album is available now. Listen here.
As he continues to play a larger role in his own album production, TAEYONG’s latest solo project demonstrates a deepened sense of maturity in his music. Just ahead of the release, TAEYONG performed two back-to-back solo shows at Seoul’s Olympic Hall. Held on 24 and 25 February KST, ‘2024 TAEYONG CONCERT <TY TRACK>’ was also available to watch online via Beyond LIVE and Weverse for fans to tune in from across the globe.
The title track features TAEYONG’s signature witty rap flow, paired with a groovy, addictive beat. The hip-hop track playfully portrays a flirtatious relationship, conveying a message of confidence and cheekily encouraging people to act on their desires: ‘Keep tapping on me / I’m typing to you.’ Watch the music video for ‘TAP’ here.
The second track, ‘Moon Tour’, is an alternative R&B song, with lyrics that equate real love to the immensity and eternity of the solar system. The mini-album then transitions into ‘Run Away’, a rock song that brings a different vibe to TAEYONG’s music with warm guitar riffs alongside his energetic and refreshing vocals.
Tracks on the mini-album also reveal TAEYONG’s honest thoughts and emotions; his own confident demeanor is reflected in ‘APE’, which simultaneously captures his inner struggles and personal realisations. In ‘Ups & Downs’, he delicately whisper-sings, creating an isolating atmosphere reflective of the song’s own emotional and melancholy message.
The closing track, ‘404 Loading’, is a follow-up to ‘404 File Not Found’ off his debut solo mini album “SHALALA”, a song detailing feelings of loneliness. In contrast to the sentiment of the previous track, this dives into overcoming those feelings and delivering the positive message of wanting to be with someone forever.
With “SHALALA” last year, TAEYONG achieved half a million in sales and secured the top spot on the iTunes Top Albums Charts in 31 regions worldwide, topped the Worldwide iTunes Album Chart, and dominated the music charts in Korea, Japan and China, once again solidifying his status as both a group leader and a successful solo artist. The project also earned praise from NME; praising its eclecticism and humanity. “By fusing cyberpunk aesthetics and his down-to-earth songwriting, he forges an unparalleled sonic panorama that pulls you in… TAEYONG presents a compelling argument for a promising solo career, exhibiting his mastery as a multi-faceted musician.”
In 2019, TAEYONG released his solo track ‘Long Flight’ via SM STATION, SM Entertainment’s digital music project aimed at showcasing its artists and producers in new ways. Both the track and music video received positive reviews. The track debuted at #6 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart. In 2022, he collaborated with rapper Wonstein for the single ‘Love Theory’. The song notably debuted at #8 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart.
“TAP – THE 2nd Mini Album” Tracklist:
1. TAP
2. Moon Tour
3. Run Away
4. APE
5. Ups & Downs
6. 404 Loading
You can give it a LISTEN HERE
WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR ‘TAP’ HERE