Different Paths to the Same Destination
BIG Naughty — an 18-year-old rapper and singer — was discovered on season 8 of the Korean hip-hop survival show Show Me The Money in 2019. Soon, he signed with H1GHR Music after the show ended. Building a following for his unique vocals in his sing-rap style, he continued to display his versatility as an artist on the company compilation albums Red Tape and Blue Tape released in 2020. Releasing his debut solo album Bucket List with an impressive line-up of artists, BIG Naughty began to establish his individual identity in the ever-growing Korean hip-hop world. eaJ is on a similar yet different journey as a fresh soloist. Debuting in the band DAY6 in 2015, eaJ has been releasing new projects and getting solo opportunities. “STAB” is the newest addition to these ventures, following his first appearance as a solo artist at 88Rising’s Head In The Clouds Festival. With this newest feature on “STAB,” eaJ continues to expand his portfolio and identity as a solo artist.Going Back to “STAB”
“STAB” is a departure from what BIG Naughty has released so far. Compared to his previous releases, it takes a more angsty route. This may be due in part to his new collaboration with producer dress, who produced “STAB.” Opening with a low and distorted trumpet motif, “STAB” continues with a distorted band sound throughout the song. The piano, trumpets, occasional strings, and pounding drums drive the song forward in perfect harmony. The syncopated drums create the feeling of running towards — or away from — something, and that’s mirrored in the music video with BIG Naughty constantly running. The lyrics paint a different picture from the exhilarating feeling of the sound. It is clear from the start that this song is about pain in a romantic relationship, with BIG Naughty opening the song with “What is love that my eyes are filled with tears.” The chorus paints this picture perfectly. In it, BIG Naughty and eaJ nearly scream the words “I want you to stab right in my leg. Don’t let me go back again to you oh.” eaJ’s verse, filled with his signature soaring high notes, drives home the pain he and BIG Naughty feel. He sings: “You never ever meant for us dead but the pain from your anger is stuck in my head.”This guy is amazing in the booth. Stoked to drop this one with him!!! https://t.co/pYziOG04ou
— eaJ (@eaJPark) November 15, 2021
