Yuju Makes A Powerful Solo Debut with ‘Play’

Singing about a sour relationship, South Korean singer-songwriter Yuju makes a hauntingly beautiful solo debut with “Play.” Accompanied by a music video, the single leads the vocalist’s solo debut five-track EP Rec.

Co-written by Yuju alongside Amelia Moore, Chancellor and MZMC, “Play” brings forth an eerie pop-synth composition with a rhythmic baseline keeping the soundscape fresh and dynamic. The mid-tempo approach coalesces with Yuju’s deep, captivating vocal delivery with ease, heightening the track’s drama and appeal. 

“Play” sees the vocalist examine the demise of a relationship. Acknowledging that her love interest was never keen on nurturing the relationship, Yuju poetically elucidates how her love was never received: “You played my love like a game / I gave it my best with all my heart/ When the flowers bloom beautifully and turned red/ You broke it and far way, you departed (You departed).” As the track proceeds, Yuju seems determined to detach herself from the emotional baggage and grief the one-sided love affair inflicted upon her. Attempting to break-free and move on she sings; “Like this game was meaningless/ I am so exhausted and tired/ Take off the last leaf and fly away/ So long.” 

Oscillating between red and blue set designs, the music video offers several glamorous shots of Yuju donned in various ensembles ranging from a red ruffled dress to a modern hanbok. There seems to be a deeper symbolism to the use of blue and red overtones-perhaps a commentary on despite being engulfed by love and passion by the idea of love (which later took an ugly turn), Yuju is attempting to heal from the rage, bringing her closer to tranquility. 

Comprising five tracks, Yuju’s solo debut EP, Rec includes a collaborative track “Cold Winter” alongside South Korean rapper “Mad Clown” the rest of the tracks include “Bad Blood (Intro),” “Play,” “The Killa,” and “Blue Nostalgia.” 

After six years, GFRIEND ended their long-term contact with Source Music on May 18th, 2021. Post the announcement, on September 1st, 2021, Yuju entered an exclusive contract with Kang Daniel’s Konnect Entertainment, to continue her musical aspirations and Rec is just the beginning of it.