TXT Returns with New Album After Renewing Contracts: A Journey of Growth and Reflection

Tomorrow X Together (TXT) has returned stronger than ever after renewing their contracts. Known for singing about the stories of virtual boys, they now become the narrators of their own tales.

TXT (Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taehyun, Hueningkai) held a media showcase on the 13th at Korea University's Hwajeong Gymnasium in Seoul to celebrate the release of their 8th mini-album, '7TH YEAR: When the Wind Stops in the Thorns.'

The title track 'Stick With You' is an electro-pop song that captures the yearning to hold onto a love that seems to be ending. This yearning can also be interpreted as the members' determination to pursue their dreams. The album includes six tracks in total, including 'Bed of Thorns,' 'Take Me to Nirvana (feat. 万妮达Vinida Weng),' 'So What,' '21st Century Romance,' and 'Next of Next.'

The album's poetic and lengthy title is reminiscent of the group's early music. They gained attention with unique titles like their debut song 'CROWN' and the title track 'Run Away' from their first studio album 'The Dream Chapter: MAGIC.' Hueningkai remarked, "The album title is quite long, which is nostalgic. It reminds us of our debut days and is definitely part of our identity." Soobin added, "It's been a while since we've had a Korean title, which feels refreshing. Fans said it reminded them of our debut, and preparing this album with a debut mindset made those comments feel like high praise."

Last year, TXT renewed their contracts with Big Hit Music. The members quickly came to a consensus. Taehyun shared, "It took less than an hour for us to agree. We still want to work as a team and be with our fans, so renewing was a given. We wanted to provide stability to our fans by announcing the renewal during our concert."

Before renewing, the members sought advice from BTS's RM. Taehyun said, "RM gave us heartfelt advice. He took the time to review past files to help us. He warmly congratulated us on our seven years of activity." They also attended a BTS concert last week. Hueningkai noted, "There was much to learn. Despite the rainy conditions, BTS used it to enhance the atmosphere. We analyzed the performance and found it enjoyable. We'll use this inspiration to work harder on our stage."

This album marks their first comeback after renewing their contracts. Soobin expressed, "It's a new feeling to release an album after renewing. We aim to show a cool side of us." Yeonjun added, "We prepared with the mindset of debuting again. I'm curious about how it will be received." Taehyun stated, "As always, we'll give our best effort."

The members have infused their personal stories into the new album, increasing their involvement and cohesion. Hueningkai explained, "We included real emotions felt during the seven-year renewal process. It's special that all five of us are narrators." Taehyun added, "We discussed with the production team about the music we wanted to create and our thoughts. Interestingly, our ideas were quite similar."

Over the past seven years, they have likened their inner anxieties and uncertainties about the future to 'thorns.' Despite completing their contract renewal and entering their eighth year, it hasn't been all glamorous. There were anxieties about the future and a desire to reach greater heights. Beomgyu shared, "There were many joyful moments, but also times of anxiety and contemplation. We wanted to honestly capture those emotions in this album." Taehyun reflected, "When we debuted, we thought we'd become global stars instantly. There was a significant gap between reality and our ideals, with struggles and challenges we couldn't show."

The unexpected COVID-19 pandemic added to their anxieties. However, enduring various moments together has strengthened the members. Soobin recalled, "About a year after debuting, COVID hit. As rookies, we had much to experience, but everything suddenly stopped, which was tough. It felt like something was given and then taken away. We've matured mentally and become closer through these experiences."

TXT aims for higher goals. Taehyun stated, "Our spectrum has broadened over time, so we're excited for what's next. We wonder what more we can achieve and how we can present something new and impressive. While Billboard rankings are important, we believe that being healthy and happy during the process is paramount. The journey should be joyful." He also boldly declared, "We want to be number one on Billboard."

TXT's 8th mini-album '7TH YEAR: When the Wind Stops in the Thorns' will be available on various music platforms at 6 PM today.

Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr