Seoul: Girl group I-dle's main vocalist Miyeon has made a return to the K-pop scene as a solo artist, expressing her ambition to gain recognition for her vocal abilities beyond her successful group activities.
According to Yonhap News Agency, her second solo album, "My, Lover," marks her first release in over three years since her 2022 debut EP "My." The new record explores the emotional aftermath of a breakup, offering a portrayal of love and loss from multiple perspectives. The album's lead track, "Say My Name," is a pop ballad designed for the autumn season, combining delicate piano lines and rhythmic beats with Miyeon's expressive vocals.
During a live stage performance for media in Seoul, Miyeon demonstrated the vocal power and precision expected of a leading K-pop singer. In this comeback, she also steps away from her established "innocent and lovely" image. This transformation was first hinted at in the pre-release track "Reno (Feat. Colde)," which delves into the darker side of love.
The accompanying music video presents a more intense and mature visual concept, surprising fans familiar with her previous image. Miyeon explained that this shift arose from a desire to push her boundaries as a vocalist. "The pre-release song was very intense, even for me," she shared during the press showcase. "I worried it might feel too different from my past music and image, but I wanted to challenge myself vocally."
Despite acknowledging the risks, Miyeon trusted her experience. "I was concerned that fans might find it unfamiliar," she admitted, "but since I've tackled powerful concepts through my group activities, I believed I could make it my own this time."
The EP also features tracks "Space Invader," "Petal Shower," and "Show," with Miyeon taking a more active role in the album's creation. Her goal was to uncover new dimensions of her voice. "I feel happiest when I sing," she said. "I recorded these songs hoping that listeners could feel that same joy -- so please, enjoy them comfortably."