Big Bang’s Taeyang and Daesung End Contracts with YG Entertainment, G-Dragon Still in Discussions

In a move that truly marks the end of an era, Big Bang members Taeyang and Daesung have decided not to renew their contracts with their longtime label YG Entertainment.  

Big Bang debuted under YG Entertainment back in 2006 and were one of the company’s core groups for over 16 years. The four members – leader and rapper G-Dragon, rapper T.O.P, and vocalists Taeyang and Daesung – had previously renewed their contracts again after completing their mandatory military service in 2020.   

T.O.P was the first to leave the label earlier this year in February, but emphasised he would still be part of the group. The announcement was followed by the release of “Still Life,” Big Bang’s first comeback in four years after 2018’s “Flower Road.” 

Taeyang has chosen to transfer to The Black Label, a subsidiary of YG Entertainment led by Korean producer Teddy Park, known for his work on tracks by Blackpink, Big Bang, 2NE1 and Jinusean. The Black Label is home to several prominent singers, rappers and producers, including Jeon Somi, Zion.T, Løren, Vince, Okasian, R.Tee, 24 and more.  

The company announced the news on December 26th, stating, “After working together as producer and artist for a long time, producer Teddy and artist Taeyang are taking on a fresh start at The Black Label based on their musical trust in one another. The Black Label will provide our full support for Taeyang to carry out diverse musical activities more actively.” The singer-songwriter is also reportedly working on his next album, which will be released under his new label. 

As of now, it’s unclear where Daesung will choose to go, but YGE confirmed he will still remain with Big Bang, explaining, “The fact that Daesung is a Big Bang member has not changed. We support Daesung’s choice and new start, and we are always open to cooperating with him.” The label also added that they are in the middle of contract negotiations with G-Dragon – who has been under YGE since he was 13 years old – so fans are waiting with baited-breath to see what the King of K-pop’s next move will be.