Jackson Wang, a name that has become synonymous with talent, hard work, and authenticity, is back with his new single "High Alone," a standout track from his highly anticipated upcoming album, MAGIC MAN 2. As a versatile artist known for blending music, fashion, and personal storytelling, Jackson's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From his beginnings as a member of the global sensation GOT7 to becoming a solo artist and entrepreneur, his unique approach to music and artistry has consistently pushed boundaries. MAGIC MAN 2 promises to be a reflection of his growth, both personally and artistically, as Jackson shares his truth and explores deeper emotions with his fans.
Jackson has cultivated a dynamic career in the entertainment industry beyond his music. Since his debut, he has continuously evolved, showing a keen interest in not only producing music but also expanding his brand through fashion with his record label, TEAM WANG. His entrepreneurial spirit, combined with his desire to connect with his audience on a personal level, has solidified his place as one of the most influential figures in the global music scene. With each project, Jackson strives to be more than just a performer-he aims to inspire, share his life experiences, and create meaningful connections with his fans worldwide.
In this exclusive interview, we had the privilege to sit down with Jackson Wang to discuss his latest musical endeavors, the creative process behind MAGIC MAN 2, and the personal growth he's experienced over the years. Jackson opens up about his journey, his vision for the future, and what motivates him to keep evolving as an artist.
Congratulations on the release of "High Alone"! I've listened to it. I don't know, but I feel sad watching the music video. Would you please describe it?
Oh, a lot of people asked me about the inspiration behind this album. But, actually, there was no particular inspiration. It was just my life. For 11 years, this has been my life. Last year, I took a break. I stopped working because I wanted to recharge and refresh. I feel like in the past 10 years, I didn't have time for myself to grow, think, or even digest everything. So, I took a year off, started thinking, and got closer to myself. You know, in any industry or society, you meet a lot of people, and many of them may not think like you, their intentions, mindsets, and personalities are different. Over 10 years, I met so many people, and while there are a lot of good-hearted people, there are also bad people with bad hearts. But, the thing is, bad people don't think they're bad. So, in conclusion, I just think everyone's intentions and thoughts are different. It took me a year to recover and I started writing diaries. I put everything I wrote into songs, and that will be in my next album.
So, are you happy with where you are now?
I think I'm over it. I'm good. I've just accepted it. It's not about being happy or sad, it's just the truth. I realized that there are bad people and good people, but I don't think of people as bad anymore. I just think that people are different. Like I said, bad people don't think they're bad. So, I think people are just different. The world we live in is beautiful, but sometimes you have to be yourself. Sometimes, you have to stand up for yourself. Sometimes, you have to be a "bad person," not to be bad, but to protect yourself. And that's just a fact. There's no good or bad about it.
What motivated you to continue the story with MAGIC MAN 2? What can fans expect in terms of musical evolution and themes this time around?
MAGIC MAN 2 is nothing but the truth for me, about how I see the world, society, reality, and humanity. It's all based on my personal experiences. I'm telling it through MAGIC MAN 2." And also, what is "MAGIC MAN"? Why the makeup? I'll explain that in my next album.
So, you've been in the industry for how long now? Eleven years? What keeps you going?
Yeah, eleven years. I think it's been a process for me to grow. Making music is just an expression of what I want to say as a person. When I was 17 to 19, those were my trainee days to become an idol. Later, when preparing for my solo career, I was learning what it meant to be a musician. I'm always learning. My perception has changed over time. When I was younger, I always wanted to make something cool, to show that I can dance, sing, and rap. But as I approach 30, my perspective has shifted. It's not about being cool anymore; it's about what I want to say as a person. This album, MAGIC MAN 2, is me telling people what I think and want to say as Jackson Wang.
So back then, it was more about showing people what you could do, but now it's about showing who you are?
Exactly. It was about showing what I could do, but now it's more about showing who I am. Even with directing videos, I wanted to show, "Hey, I can shoot it like this." But those concepts, if you really think about it, had nothing to do with me as a person. So, with this album, I just want to be able to tell people what I think as a human.
And, as you said, what is "Magic Man" to you?
I think everyone has their own "Magic Man." It's like, today, meeting you, you seem very nice, but do I really know who you are inside? Or do you know who I am inside? Whatever is inside me-that's my "Magic Man." Everyone has their own internal emotions, feelings they often don't share with too many people.
So, now you want to show your personal side to everyone through this upcoming album?
Yes, exactly. If I'm always portraying a character that's not me, one day, people will realize and feel betrayed. So rather than doing that, I just want to be myself. I am who I am, and if you can relate, you can relate. If not, then that's too bad.
So, with your personal music, what is your process for creating a song, from concept to production? I know you're a self-producer. How do you ensure your vision comes to life in your music?
When I was young, I always thought I wanted to show off. But like I said, now there's no real inspiration. It's just what happened to me. The idea and inspiration just come naturally. I don't have to think extra to package it. I just tell the truth of what I think.
Can you walk us through the process of building TEAM WANG from the first step and how you've shaped it into what it is today?
It's still nothing today, but I'm shaping it. It's a step-by-step process. There are no shortcuts. There are a lot of things you need to watch out for, and one important thing is choosing someone you trust.
So, what's next for TEAM WANG? Do you have any specific plans for it?
For TEAM WANG design, I want to elevate it beyond just an apparel brand. I want it to be a lifestyle brand where the boundary is not limited to clothing. It could be anything, really. On the music side, I want to partner with more new artists, not as their management, but for their music.
So, looking to the future, what is one dream or goal you still want to achieve? What does the next chapter of your career look like for you?
Down the line, as an artist or creator, I will continue to release work that is true to me. That's it. I want my audience to engage with my work and relate to me as a human. That's my dream.
Listen to "High Alone" by Jackson Wang on every music platform.
(DIP/tim)
