It’s not an easy task to debut solo after performing alongside many group members over the years, but JACOB was prepared for the challenge. Since his debut with The Boyz in 2017, the Korean-Canadian singer has gradually accumulated lyric-writing and composition credits across the group’s discography. JACOB continued to showcase his creative ideas through self-made tracks uploaded on SoundCloud. When considering his 2021 mixtape KINDLE and other singles, his work provides both comfort and introspection. This intent also carries over to j., the digital album that officially marked his solo debut on June 10.

The seven-track album follows the evolution of a relationship, a perspective he says was inspired by the music he often listens to. According to a press release, j. oozes with influences from musicians like Ed Sheeran, Keshi, HAIM, and Men I Trust. JACOB addresses the complexities of this experience through stages such as infatuation and insecurity. Shortly after its release, JACOB took the time to speak with The Kraze about the album’s creation process and what this new step in his career signifies.

Q: Congratulations on your solo debut! You’ve released self-composed and self-written songs before, but how does it feel now to release solo songs in an official capacity?

A: It is an amazing feeling. [It’s] amazing I can search my name and have music on so many platforms, haha!

Q: The story on j. unravels as a reflective journey on what it means to build a loving, trusting relationship. What inspired you to focus on this topic?

I felt like the tracks I listened to were suited to be love songs, so while making the melody and lyrics I tended to think about relationships and love!

Q: How did you decide on “Slow Dancing” as the album’s title track?

I had a tough time choosing, but I felt like it really brought together all the songs and it made sense to me once I listened all the way through!

Q: ERIC features on “MELATONIN” from your mixtape, KINDLE, and SUNWOO features on “Back & Forth” on j.. Were these songs made with those particular features in mind, or did the features from your fellow members come later in the creative process?

They both came later! I am not the type to think before making something, haha! It's more like an “aha” moment, and then I try and make it happen!

Q: Similarly, could you describe your thought process behind reaching out to Thai soloist Wonderframe for her feature on “Promise”?

I was looking for someone to feature and through a friend I was able to contact Wonderframe! She was so friendly and willing to help, and [we] had a blast working together!

Q: Seeing as you grew up in Mississauga, Ontario, do you have any particular memories from your childhood that you’re looking to incorporate into your future solo work?

I really hope I can perform in my hometown sometime in the future and also be able to shoot a video there! I feel like it'll be a special moment for me!

Q: What is a lesser-known or “hidden gem” activity that you would recommend people to do when visiting the Greater Toronto Area?

Albeit a bit far, I always recommend going to Tobermory because it is very pretty and also one of the only places I properly traveled to.

Q: If you had the chance to speak to your past self from your trainee days, what would you say to him now?

I would say to practice smarter, not harder! And to start songwriting even more!

Q: Where do you see your music evolving from here?

I hope I can expand to different types of music and learn from that, so I can really find the sound I want fans to hear!

Q: Is there anything specific you would like to share with your fans and our readers?

Thank you for all the love and support, and I hope I can someday come perform for you all!

Thank you to JACOB for his thoughtful answers, and to HIGHBREED ENTERTAINMENT for making this interview happen..JACOB’s wish to perform as a soloist in front of his fans will manifest in just a few weeks. He will soon be embarking on his first Asia showcase, More Than Words Tour 2026. It begins July 17 in Seoul and will reach other cities including Osaka, Tokyo, and Jakarta.

[EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW]: The Boyz’s JACOB on Crafting Solo Debut Album j.