Bang Yongguk Makes A Suave Comeback With ‘Up’

Former leader of boy group B.A.P, Bang Yongguk makes a powerful return to the spotlight with a spellbinding music video for his latest release “Up.” Leading the rapper-producer’s sophomore EP 2, the record comes two years after the release of his first solo album BANGYONGGUK.

Co-written and produced by the 31-year-old South Korean rapper, alongside Coup d’Etat, JUNIK and N-Soul, “Up” is a dark hip-hop/rap anthem, layered with resonant synth and trap beats. Yongguk’s low, booming rap delivery amplifies the track’s assertive and sensual atmosphere, further complementing the lyrical quotient which expresses a carnal and passionate exchange between two individuals. 

Penned from the point of view of a man enamored by a woman, “Up” opens on an intimate, honest note as Bang raps: ” Make you hot as much as you want/ Shimmering mirror ball over your head/ Over unconsciousness, we’re more honest up up/ Pumping out pheromone.” As the single progresses, it gets saucier and sultry as the protagonist describes the woman who captivates his senses: “24 hours are not long enough/ No one is better than you/ No one is sexier than you/ No words can express/ You too hot.” 

Rooted in a white and black color palette, the music video features chains and satin scarves to symbolize submission to the indescribable and magnetic attraction that has taken over the protagonist’s senses. In many ways, the music video carries theatrical elements with several ballerinas twirling around the rapper. Donned in white tutus and theatrical masks, the ballerinas could potentially symbolize the external attention the protagonist continues to receive. However, his infatuation with a certain woman refrains him from pursuing other relationships. 

Bang’s latest EP 2 narrates the story of the rapper, his journey as an artist up until now, who has lived through unpredictable changes ever since he was born. Coming straight from his heart, the stories are told across six tracks of the album, and cover topics of love and hate, joy and sadness under a broader keyword called life.