Multi-talented Korean singer BANG YEDAM made a swift return just a few months after his captivating solo debut EP, “Only One.” This time, he teams up with the talented Winter from, vocalist of K-pop girl group aespa, for his breezy new single ‘Officially Cool.’
Their powerful vocals intertwine on this gentle, springtime track, promising to become a K-Pop duet to remember. Both YEDAM and Winter masterfully capture the story’s bittersweet emotions, perfectly conveyed in the song’s lyrics and the accompanying music video (which we’ll delve into deeper later).
Ahead of his comeback with ‘Officially Cool,’ BANG YEDAM recently chatted with The Knockturnal. Fresh off performances in Hong Kong and other travels, he exuded excitement to reunite with fans and showcase his new music.
The announcement of ‘Officially Cool’ sent fans into a frenzy, eager to hear a collaboration between BANG YEDAM’s powerful vocals alongside Winter.
The Knockturnal: The collaboration with aespa’s Winter on ‘Officially Cool’ has fans excited! The concept itself seems refreshingly fun, and the sound from the teasers matches that energy. What did you enjoy most about the creative process for this single? Did any interesting stories emerge during the preparation or making of the song?
BANG YEDAM: This is my first duet song so I was very excited while I prepared. I’m also looking forward to it alot, so please stay tuned with me!
The ‘Officially Cool’ concept from the very first teaser to the final music video release captivated fans. With a spring pastel aesthetic, Winter and YEDAM portray a pair of ‘friends’ navigating the awkward “talking stage” of a relationship.
Their unspoken feelings and playful teasing unfold through phone calls and playful interactions throughout the video, mirroring the chapters of their budding connection.
Chapter 1 depicts YEDAM greeting Winter with a cutesy blue cake on her birthday. Chapter 2 throws a curveball with “Best Friends” written on the cake, seemingly friend-zoning Winter. However, Chapter 3, titled “Love Letter to Winter,” hints at a confession, leaving their relationship status confusing. The tension builds as their hands almost touch and they awkwardly sit far apart watching a movie, as a lonely teddy bear symbolizes that all too well-known “third wheel” feeling.
The story is set to resonate with viewers, capturing the rollercoaster of emotions when you have feelings for someone close – do they feel the same, or are you just friends? The powerful, conversational lyrics perfectly mirror the playful banter between the characters, their voices soaring in ad-libs and high notes, mimicking a conversation.
The video’s ending leaves the question unanswered: are they officially together, or just “officially cool”? Watch the music video to find out!
Speaking of the video, filming offered a chance for YEDAM to explore his acting skills, further enriching the storyline.
The Knockturnal: From the vibrant concept photos to the teasers, ‘Officially Cool’ promises a captivating music video. Did you have any standout moments you particularly enjoyed while filming the video?
BANG YEDAM: Every single moment was a different experience to me. Also It was fun filming while being immersed in acting since there was some story-line in the Music Video.
Beyond his impressive vocals, BANG YEDAM is a passionate songwriter and producer. He hints at exciting new music with self-produced tracks on his releases to come.
The Knockturnal: Building on your experience producing and writing your previous EP “Only One,” what new skills or insights have you gained as a creator? Did this newfound knowledge have any effect on ‘Officially Cool’?
BANG YEDAM: I think I learned another process on how to prepare for the next album as a creator and also thought about how to sing this song as a player too.
BANG YEDAM is a seasoned collaborator, having recently showcased his phenomenal vocal range on BIG NAUGHTY‘s ‘INFJ’ alongside B.I. He transitioned from captivating TikTok challenges to his current duet with aespa’s Winter. This versatility leaves fans eager to see what exciting collaborations he has lined up next!
The Knockturnal: For your last release you had collaborated with a ton of idols filming Tiktok’s from Red Velvet‘s Yeri to Dreamcatcher’s JI U and DAMI! With the catchy sound of ‘Officially Cool,’ are there plans for a dedicated TikTok challenge? If not, do you have any ideas for a fun, trend-worthy concept inspired by the song?
BANG YEDAM: Of course I’m planning for the TikTok challenge! It’s kind of a duet-song, I think it would be nice if various couples could participate in this song-challenge this time!
The Knockturnal: Following your impressive and captivating vocal performance on Big Naughty’s ‘INFJ’ with B.I. What was the experience like collaborating with these talented artists? How did this collaboration come about?
BANG YEDAM: I’ve learned a lot from each collaboration song and projects, because every artist has a different perspective and inspired me in different ways. We always tried to show a variety of appearances in collaborative songs. Concept of the song was kind of (a) perfect match with Winter too so we brought the idea during the creative meeting.
Having previously been in the group TREASURE, BANG YEDAM has embarked on a successful solo journey. We were curious to learn about the unique experiences and lessons he’s gained from this new chapter. What ignites his musical fire and pushes him to constantly evolve as a songwriter, vocalist and performer – the very elements his fans adore?
The Knockturnal: I’m sure your journey as a solo artist has come with its lessons. Is there a specific piece of advice or a lesson learned during your solo debut that you’d like to share with aspiring artists?
BANG YEDAM: If you have your own distinct taste and things that you want to express, please don’t hesitate to explore them!
The Knockturnal: You recently shared Lil Yachty’s album “Let’s Start Here” on social media. Are there other artists who are currently inspiring you musically?
BANG YEDAM: I got inspired from many types of artists instead of specific artists.
The Knockturnal: While your solo career might be relatively new, your artistic journey has been extensive. What keeps you motivated to keep creating and pushing yourself?
BANG YEDAM: I always think having fun is the most important thing so I always try to not lose my fun while I work or create songs.
‘Officially Cool’ continues this journey for YEDAM. He’s determined to push boundaries and experiment with fresh sounds, keeping his music exciting for fans.
The Knockturnal: 2024 is still young, but are there any musical aspirations or personal goals you’d like to share with your fans and supporters?
BANG YEDAM: I would like to explore my deep color a little bit more in music and not lose my fun too.
The Knockturnal: Is there anything else you’d like to share about ‘Officially Cool’ or your upcoming plans that we haven’t touched on yet? Any last thoughts for your fans!
BANG YEDAM: It’s a really great song so I’m also looking forward to it and I’m very sure our fans will love it too! Please enjoy!
So, are you officially cool with YEDAM’s new single? We know we are! Stay tuned for more exciting music and what promises to be even more captivating performances from this rising K-Pop star.
For more of BANG YEDAM:
OFFICIAL INSTAGRAM | PERSONAL INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE
