JU-NE Embraces His Rock Side in Solo Debut “나 홀로 (Feel Lost)”

June may be over, but JU-NE has only just begun!

On July 3, the iKON member made his official solo debut with the release of his first-ever mini-album, BRUISE. For the last nine years, JU-NE’s distinctive vocals have captured listeners' attention worldwide, gracing iKON tracks and K-Drama OSTs with his husky, unique vocals. As a self-confessed fan of rock music who has dipped into the rock genre before (with his single “Deep Night,” featuring his fellow iKON group member BOBBY), iKONICs (iKON’s fanbase) have been calling for JU-NE to dive deeper into this genre with the songs of BRUISE having now delivered this wish. 

BRUISE consists of five tracks, each influenced by a different style of rock music, incorporated into pop, that allows JU-NE’s dynamic artistry to shine through; “나 홀로 (Feel Lost),” followed by “빌어 (Hope),” “So Cold,” “한강이야 (Han River),” and “슬프다 (Painful Feat. BOBBY) ” with “나 홀로 (Feel Lost)” serving as the mini-album’s title track. 

“나 홀로 (Feel Lost)” sets a high bar for BRUISE. Written by JU-NE and produced by renowned music producer GRAY,  “나 홀로 (Feel Lost)” emits a powerful yet calm rock presence as JU-NE’s mesmerizing vocals coast over its rich backtrack. Comprised of band instruments, the electric guitar, bass guitar, and drums are the most prominent, with the sounds of an intricate, high-pitched guitar riff hooking the listener in from the very first minute the song plays. 

Adding to its rock vibe, JU-NE embraces the role of a rockstar in the music video for “나 홀로 (Feel Lost).” His visual style, acting, and impressive real-life guitar skills show JU-NE to be in his musical and artistic element – one fans would love to see continue in future releases. The music video, on the other hand, has a cinematic feel to it with a stylistic camera and visual choices and a retro aspect of the locations, props, and JU-NE’s outfits expressing this. 

“나 홀로 (Feel Lost)” is an incredible debut track for JU-NE’s official solo debut, showing how much the rock genre suits his vocal tone and movement as a solo artist. The other tracks on BRUISE are just as incredible to listen to, with each one showing a different side to JU-NE that listeners may have not heard before. If this is JU-NE at the beginning, then I can’t wait to see what he releases next—here’s hoping we get more rock vibes from him in the future!

Edited by Rachael Lovette