On July 25, 2024, a UK-based fashion and music magazine CLASH released a new interview with Pdogg, one of the lead producers of Jimin’s latest solo album titled MUSE. During the interview, Pdogg discussed the album’s production process, highlighting how the BTS member played a crucial role.
Pdogg shared that the singer wasn't directly involved in the technical aspects of some songs, despite that he contributed significantly by sharing his thoughts and emotions with the producers. He did this to ensure that his vision was accurately conveyed through his music.
"Even when he’s not directly involved in the technical production of a song, Jimin always puts much thought into the stories or emotions he wants to convey in close discussion with the producers," Pdogg added.
Moreover, Pdogg mentioned that the BTS idol consistently aims to create music that complements his voice perfectly. He said:
"While trying to create something that resonates with today’s audience, he also focuses on making music that best suits his voice."
For those unfamiliar, Pdogg, whose real name is Kang Hyo-won, is a South Korean record producer and songwriter at Big Hit Music. He has been closely involved with BTS, working on both their group and solo projects.
Alongside GHSTLOOP and Evan, Pdogg played a key role in producing the Filter singer's solo albums, as highlighted in the Production Diary of the FACE album.
BTS' producer Pdogg shares behind-the-scenes insights on Jimin's work on MUSE
In the interview, Pdogg also shared insights into the BTS member's approach to his vocal technique and musical style. He said that the artist had been contemplating changes to his method even before recording the track Who, and had been taking vocal lessons. He stated:
"Jimin was already exploring the idea of changing his vocal technique long before we had started recording ‘Who’ and was in the process of receiving vocal lessons on how to use his voice more comfortably. "
Regarding the diverse genres featured on the MUSE album, Pdogg mentioned that both of Jimin's solo albums were produced around the same period. During their 2022 trip to Los Angeles, they worked with local producers to develop tracks, starting with Rebirth (Intro).
He added that the relaxed atmosphere of LA was ideal for the production team to craft energetic songs. Pdogg also noted that the Serendipity singer played a crucial role in shaping the album’s direction by clearly communicating his vision to world-renowned producers like Jon Bellion, Arcade, and Tommy Brown. He elaborated:
"Being surrounded by the laid-back, chill vibe of the city was the perfect environment to produce more uplifting and energetic songs."
Pdogg continued:
"Jimin directly explained to them [global producers] what he wanted to convey and the direction he wanted to take for this album and each song."
Morover, Pdogg praised Jimin's versatility, noting that it allowed him to broaden his musical range on the album.
MUSE album includes seven songs - the title track Who, Rebirth (Intro), Interlude: Showtime, Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco), Slow Dance (feat. Sofia Carson), Be Mine, and Closer Than This.