After 11 years, Jang Hyunseung has ended his exclusive contract with Cube Entertainment, placing a period on B2ST and Cube’s tumultuous relationship. For many this news was surprising, as those fans who are aware of the significance of Jang Hyunseung had hoped that the continued connection to his long term music company would lead to a comeback somewhere in the future.
K-pop is a fast paced industry where a popular group or single can be all but forgotten in the following year. So it’s not that surprising that many current K-pop fans have no idea who this idol is and don’t get why it’s a big deal. But this is the man that almost made it into Big Bang. Who then debuted in a popular boy group called B2ST (pronounced as beast) and then debuted again in the smoking hot, trendy duo group Trouble Maker with THEE HYUNA. Regardless of when you got into K-pop, you’ve heard of at least 2 of those groups.
Further, Hyunseung is a talented vocalist and dancer who had the potential to be a top or near top solo star. His tone is pleasant and he has generally been allowed to explore his range without the pressure to reach high notes meaning that he rarely needs technical assistance when performing live. He has a vast amount of stage experience and that shows with how comfortable he always appears to be when performing as a soloist or in a duo/group. But most importantly, he knows how to put on a show and isn’t afraid of conforming to “what’s appropriate” for idols. Trouble Maker was notorious for pushing boundaries to dope music.
Now we do not know if Hyunseung chose to leave or if Cube chose not to renew with him. Hyunseung has only had a single release since he returned from the army and I Just Can’t Stop Loving You was not a commercial or critical success from what I’ve seen. There was also the controversy surrounding his exit from B2ST due to his “immature attitude” and if you have seen some of the videos from around that time, it would be hard to argue against that viewpoint. He even released a statement of apology towards his former members and the fans for his behaviour. I can see why Cube may have felt it was not worth it to them to keep him on the label.
So what now? In Nat’s fantasy world, he would rejoin the group formerly known as B2ST aka Highlight. They need a rapper. He’s the best choice. As a member of Highlight, he’ll be performing music that he’s already comfortable with and he’ll be able to navigate the Korean music scene as a soloist but on his terms. It would also highlight that the group has moved past previous conflicts to become a tighter, more positive group. It would certainly be a positive spin that could help with exposure as well.
We don’t know what the future holds for Jang Hyunseung but let’s hope that the reality is as good as that or better.