SooYoung of Girls' Generation Stepped onto the Japanese music stage with immense enthusiasm as she prepared for her solo debut, set against the vibrant backdrop of the Music Awards 2024. With her new single 'Unstoppable,' SooYoung not only reflects her personal artistry but also pays homage to the cultural influences of the 2000s, which have shaped her musical identity.
During her recent interview before the televised event airing on December 28, SooYoung shared her thoughts on the significance of her Japanese solo debut. “2002 was when I first debuted here, so starting my solo career now feels particularly meaningful to me,” she explained. This sentiment speaks volumes about her connection to Japan and her desire to continue her music career on both Korean and global stages.
The 2024 Music Awards showcased some of the year's most celebrated tracks based on streaming data, bringing together a host of premier artists including SooYoung, who performed ‘Unstoppable’ live at the event. Not stopping there, SooYoung also graced the stage for a special collaborative performance with NiziU, blending together hits like 'MR.TAXI' and 'Take A Picture' for one night only.
When asked about 'Unstoppable,’ SooYoung described it as “a song heavily influenced by the K-POP and J-POP of the early 2000s,” which she holds close to her heart. She wanted her debut to reveal who she is at her core, tracing back to the vibrant music culture of her early career. “I was very mindful of wanting to create something quintessentially me, and I thought immersing myself in the sound of the 2000s was the perfect way to start this new chapter,” she elaborated.
SooYoung’s choice of Japan for her solo debut isn’t merely geographical; it carries emotional weight. “My debut here was my first step as an artist,” she noted, underscoring her fond memories of growing together with her fellow Girls' Generation members. “Hearing the support from them made the experience all the more special,” she adds, reflecting on her team’s positive reactions as they listened to her new song. “When I shared the track, their immediate response was ‘너무 좋아 (It’s really good),’ which warmed my heart.”
One of the standout memories she recalled was with the song 'MR.TAXI,' which served as both her original Japanese debut piece and part of the performance for their first showcase. “Even though 'GENIE' was technically our debut song, 'MR.TAXI' felt monumental because it was our first original track recorded directly here,” she reminisced. The nostalgia of those early days flooded back, making her reflect on how far she has come.
Looking forward, SooYoung expressed her excitement for the upcoming performance spotlighting 'Unstoppable,' especially amid the electrifying atmosphere of the Music Awards. “The show not only highlights my performance but also features the J-POP tracks I deeply cherish from the 2000s, allowing me to experience the joy of music from both the stage and the audience’s perspective,” she enthused. Her eagerness to connect with longtime fans and new listeners alike was evident, as she prepares to make her mark as a solo artist.
Through this exciting transition, SooYoung stands at the crossroads of nostalgia and future possibilities. Her Japanese solo debut ushers forth a new era not just for her music but also emphasizes her growth as an artist eager to explore diverse expressions and connect with her audience intimately. With 'Unstoppable' laying the groundwork for the next step of her career, fans and critics alike are ready to witness her evolution firsthand.
