Q: It’s been three years since your last release. Why release “Ringa Linga” now?
Taeyang: I felt like the right answer was to put out a song that reflects what I want to say right now. I kept thinking about whether I should continue my previous style or try something different, but in the end, doing what I genuinely want at this moment felt right. My musical range has grown, so I thought this was the perfect time to show that.
Q: The full album isn’t out yet. How does it feel?
Taeyang: It feels like I’m right before the final stage. But at the same time, it’s refreshing to finally share something new. I’ve been thinking about this for a long time, so being able to release even part of it feels relieving.
Q: G-Dragon already had successful solo releases before you. Did that feel like pressure?
Taeyang: Not really. I was actually the first to plan a solo album, it just got delayed. Their success doesn’t feel like pressure because our solo work ultimately contributes to BIGBANG as a whole. I do think about doing well for the group, but I don’t compare myself to their results.
Q: Why was your album delayed for so long?
Taeyang: As time passed, the kind of music I wanted to make became clearer and stronger. But it’s not something I can decide alone, I had to convince the company and people around me, so it took time. I think it’s more accurate to say I was waiting for the right timing. Now everything has aligned, and this feels like my moment.
Q: How did “Ringa Linga” come together?
Taeyang: One night in the studio, Jiyong listened to the track (the instrumental) first and suggested connecting it with the children’s rhyme “Ringa Linga.” I liked the idea too, and we finished recording it in just two days. It was exactly the kind of song I wanted to do.
Q: Your musical style feels different this time. How would you describe it?
Taeyang: Before, my solo music and BIGBANG’s music felt quite separate. But now, that boundary doesn’t really exist anymore. Whether I’m performing solo or as part of the group, I feel confident I can bring my own color into any kind of music. I just follow what I’m drawn to.
Q: What does good music mean to you now?
Taeyang: I think good music is something that moves people’s hearts. And to do that, you have to make music that’s true to yourself. I’ve realized that’s more important than things like rankings.
Q: So charts aren’t your main goal anymore?
Taeyang: Not really. Of course, if I reach number one, I’d be grateful and happy. But it’s not something I feel I absolutely have to achieve. I’ve come to understand that there are more important things than that.
Q: Looking back, how do you see your growth as an artist?
Taeyang: I think you can’t grow musically without growing as a person. Before, music was everything to me. Now, I’ve realized how important the people around me are, including the members and those close to me. That’s changed me a lot.
Q: When do you think your peak will come? Taeyang: Personally, I think my peak will come in my early thirties. As I get older, I’ll have more experience and maturity, and I think that will reflect in my music. I’ll be more certain in who I am, not just as a singer, but as a person too.
translated by @kwoncircles on X