Taeyang Releases “Quintessence” on the 18th, Capturing the Essence of 20 Years in His Music Career

Taeyang of BIGBANG will release his fourth studio album, “Quintessence,” on the 18th. Recently, he appeared on a YouTube channel to share behind-the-scenes details about the album and the reactions from his BIGBANG teammates.

The album title “Quintessence” means “the purest form of essence or core.” Taeyang initially asked producer Teddy if it was a difficult word to use, but after learning it matched the name of a cleaning solution for amethyst crystals that Teddy particularly valued, he decided on the title as if it were fate guiding him.

The reactions from BIGBANG’s members were also special. G-Dragon praised the album by calling it “Great,” while Daesung expressed strong approval as well. Although the members are usually critical in professional matters, they gave warm feedback regarding the music. Regarding Taeyang’s mention of “BIGBANG” in the lyrics even during his solo activities, Taeyang explained that it was an expression of a “miraculous feeling of having shared 20 years with his fans,” revealing his deep affection for them.

Taeyang also shared his experience performing at the global music festival Coachella. Initially worried due to his hiatus, he said, “The moment I stepped onto the stage, I felt it was ‘Bangchella’ (BIGBANG + Coachella”),” highlighting how the enthusiastic response from fans gave him confidence on stage. He added humorously that although removing his clothes wasn’t part of the plan, he did so inspired by the energy at the event. Even though the concert took place in the middle of a desert, the staff enjoyed American-style Chinese food through delivery apps.

Known as a true “Pyongyang Nongmyeon enthusiast,” Taeyang also recounted an incident where he invited his fans to a nongmyeon restaurant on his birthday. He taught them the proper way to enjoy Pyongyang Nongmyeon, which involves eating meat first and then the noodles, and signed their reviews of the dish, creating a unique form of interaction.

Taeyang said, “My solo album became the first step in this significant 20th-anniversary year,” and expressed anticipation for BIGBANG’s future activities and tours starting with this release.