In "Alivio," Chung Ha, the ever-evolving K-pop artist, trades her signature vibrancy for a haunting exploration of vulnerability and introspection, inviting listeners on a cathartic journey through the shadowed corners of the human experience.
From Scandal to Squid Game
After a public scandal and years of self-reflection, multitalented entertainer T O P is returning to the spotlight in Squid Game, marking a new chapter in his career after acknowledging the immense guilt that led to his departure from BIGBANG
Performing Authenticity:The Super Bowl, and the Complexities of DAMN.
Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime performance, a high-stakes balancing act between mainstream appeal and raw authenticity, mirrored the internal and external conflicts explored in his Pulitzer Prize-winning album DAMN , revealing a struggle for self-actualization played out on the world stage
From calling out Elon Musk during a South African concert to their long history of challenging political figures, Green Day's enduring activism proves that punk rock is more than just music it's a call to action and a weapon for social change
We explore her style evolution, a captivating story emerges, reflecting her musical journey From the bold power suits of the 80s, seen in her iconic look with voluminous hair and dramatic makeup during hits like “El me mintió,” to the elegant gowns she now wears on her “Siempre Te Amaré” tour, Amanda Miguel’s fashion choices showcase her artistic growth and strong sense of self
WHERE
THE GAME NEVER ENDS STREAM NOW
Chung Ha has always been an artist of transformation. She first emerged from the crucible of "Produce 101," a chrysalis of ambition and raw talent, blossoming into a solo artist who navigated the often-treacherous currents of the K-pop industry with chameleonic grace. Her artistry, a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and infectious energy, has always reflected an unwavering commitment to evolution, a refusal to be confined by expectations or genre limitations. But with "Alivio," her latest EP, Chung Ha signals a subtle yet significant shift, a descent into the shadowed corners of the human experience where introspection and vulnerability reign.
The "mood sampler," a haunting overture to the EP's release, sets the stage for this introspective journey. Flickering lights cast elongated shadows that dance with an unsettling life of their own, a heartbeat thrums with an intensity that borders on the unnerving, and Chung Ha sits amidst this unsettling tableau, her gaze fixed on some unseen horizon. There's a disquiet in the air, a hint of the macabre that permeates the visual language, hinting at the darker emotional terrain that "Alivio" seeks to explore. "Alivio," meaning "relief" in Spanish, might seem a paradoxical title for a project that delves into the complexities of anxiety, stress, and the struggle for selfacceptance.
But Chung Ha is not offering escapism; she's offering catharsis. "Alivio" is an invitation to confront the shadows within, to acknowledge the burdens we carry, and to find freedom in the act of facing our fears.
It's a recognition that true strength lies not in denying our vulnerabilities, but in embracing them, in allowing ourselves to be fully human, even in our moments of deepest despair This is not a descent into nihilism, but a journey towards understanding. Chung Ha, the architect of this
sonic and emotional landscape, guides us through a labyrinth of introspection, her voice a beacon in the darkness. Her vocals, once known for their bright, soaring melodies, now take on a new depth, a haunting quality that resonates with the complexities of the human experience There's a vulnerability in her delivery, a willingness to expose the raw nerves of the soul, that invites us to connect with her on a deeper level.
The music itself is likely to reflect this shift in tone. We can anticipate a tapestry of darker textures, perhaps incorporating elements of alternative rock, gothic pop, or even classical influences. The melodies may be more melancholic, the lyrics more introspective, but there will undoubtedly be moments of soaring beauty, reminders that even in the darkest corners, there is always light to be found. Chung Ha, after all, is not an artist who wallows in despair; she's an artist who seeks transformation, who uses her music to navigate the complexities of life and emerge stronger on the other side. Chung Ha's journey began not under a moonless sky, but under the bright lights of "Produce 101," where her talent and determination shone through the fierce competition. She emerged from the show as a member of I.O.I, a project group that captured the hearts of fans worldwide. But Chung Ha's story didn't end with I.O.I's disbandment. She embarked on a solo career, driven by a desire to explore her own artistic vision and connect with audiences on a deeper level. Her music has always been a reflection of her own journey, a testament to her growth as an artist and as a person. From the energetic bops of her early releases to the more introspective and experimental sounds of her recent work, Chung Ha has consistently pushed boundaries and defied expectations. She has never been afraid to embrace vulnerability, to explore the full spectrum of human emotion, and to challenge the conventions of the K-pop industry. With "Alivio," she continues this journey of self-discovery, inviting us to witness her exploration of the complexities of anxiety, stress, and the struggle for self-acceptance. This is not a descent into darkness, but a courageous confrontation of the shadows that lurk within us all. It's a reminder that true strength lies not in denying our vulnerabilities, but in embracing them, in allowing ourselves to be fully human, even in our moments of deepest despair
Chung Ha's story is one of resilience, of constant evolution, and of an unwavering commitment to authenticity. She is an artist who refuses to be defined by any single genre or image, who uses her music to connect with her audience on a deeply personal level. With "Alivio," she invites us to join her on this ongoing journey of self-discovery, to witness the transformative power of vulnerability, and to celebrate the beauty that can be found even in the darkest corners of the human experience.
The
Mamas of California
Broke & Tired Edition
By
Gustavo A. Martir Luna M.A
Photography Curated | Courtesy of Brenda Rivera, Frida Rubio | B Latin Music
Staff Writer
It is not about erasing our differences, but about celebrating them and finding common ground. If my music can help someone see Mexicans, Latinos or Immigrants with different eyes, then I feel like I'm doing something good.
You have had mainstream success with songs featuring artists from various genres "The One (Pero No Como Yo)" with country star Kane Brown, "It Was Always You" with the soulful Leon Bridges, and "Según Quién" with reggaeton megastar Maluma, just to name a few What have been some unexpected challenges or rewards when collaborating across genres, and how do those moments shape your music?
Each collaboration has been a unique and enriching experience. With Kane Brown, for example, it was incredible to see how our voices and styles complemented each other, and with Maluma, it was an explosion of energy and rhythm that completely took me out of my comfort zone. The greatest rewards have been the human connections that are formed in the process. You learn a lot from other artists, and that makes you grow not only as a musician, but also as a person.
Those moments have taught me to be more open and not be afraid to experiment. In the end, that's what shapes my music: the freedom to explore and create without limits.
Your album *Boca Chueco, Vol. 1 won a Latin Grammy last year as Best Contemporary Mexican Music Album, and just won at the Grammy’s. What was it like to learn about these recognitions, and how do they reflect the creative risks you have taken in merging genres? Looking ahead, how do you plan to top these achievements and continue pushing the boundaries of your music?
It was a mix of emotions: gratitude and a lot of happiness. Knowing that Boca Chueco, Vol. 1 has resonated so much with people and the industry is confirmation that the risks are worth it.
Your success in merging Mexican music with country music may be due to the rise of US-born Mexicans, children of immigrants who navigate dual identities. Country music has often been considered unrelatable or politically conservative, which some associate with anti-Mexican When I mix Mexican music with Country, I am not only creating something new, but I am also showing that our cultures can coexist and enrich each other. Many times, prejudices arise from ignorance, and by bringing these genres to new audiences, I am opening a door for people to see that, deep down, we are all the same. In the current political climate, where there is so much division, I believe that it is more important than ever to use music as a tool for unity. sentiment. How does your blend of Mexican and country music help bridge this cultural gap and challenge discrimination against Mexicans, Latinos, and immigrants, especially in the current political climate?
It is not about erasing our differences, but about celebrating them and finding common ground. If my music can help someone see Mexicans, Latinos or immigrants with different eyes, then I feel like I'm doing something good. I have always believed that music must be authentic, and this album is a reflection of that: of my love for the genres that inspired it and of my desire to take Mexican music to new horizons. Looking ahead, my plan is to keep experimenting and learning. I don't want to stay safe; I want to continue exploring sounds, collaborating with artists from different genres and telling stories that connect with people. Music is a never-ending journey, and I'm excited for what's to come
One of your most surprising genre-bending collaborations was when, last December, you shared the stage at CMA's Country Christmas with for KING & COUNTRY and sang "O Come, O Come Emmanuel." How did this collaboration come about, and how different, if at all, was this experience for you, performing in front of a country audience and considering that for KING & COUNTRY and the song have a Christian/gospel base? How much did this performance take you out of your musical comfort zone?
This collaboration was a very special experience, it arose almost like a gift from destiny. I was invited to participate in CMA's Country Christmas, and when they suggested I sing with for KING & COUNTRY, I didn't hesitate for a second. Although it was a bit out of my comfort zone, because I don't usually sing gospel or Christmas music, it was an opportunity to connect with something more spiritual and universal. It was incredible to see how music, in this case such a traditional song, can unite people from different cultures and beliefs. The country audience welcomed me with such affection, and that reminded me that, in the end, music is a language we all understand. These experiences make you grow as an artist and as a person.
In many, if not all, of your performances, you demonstrate your bilingualism when you sing songs in Spanish and English. Sometimes you sing a song in both languages. You showed your bilingualism during your performance of "It Was Always You" on Jimmy Kimmel Live. How important is it for you to maintain your Mexican roots while performing these live genre-bending performances? Have you noticed a cultural shift in how audiences perceive Mexican music through your bilingual performances?
For me, maintaining my Mexican roots is essential It is who I am, and it is what gives authenticity to my music. When I sing in Spanish or English, I always try to make it feel natural, because that's how I live: between two languages and two cultures. That is something I want to convey in each presentation. I have noticed that the public is increasingly open to exploring music in other languages. Before, maybe there was some resistance, but now I see that people get excited and connect with the songs, even if they don't understand all the words. That fills me with pride, because I feel that I am helping Mexican music to be more valued and recognized globally. In the end, music has no borders, and that is something I want to continue showing in every show.
You have mentioned that your favorite band is the Eagles, but you had the incredible experience of opening for the Rolling Stones What was it like to share the stage with such iconic musicians? Was there a specific moment during that experience that felt surreal or deeply meaningful to your journey as an artist?
In April of last year, you made history as the first Mexican music artist to perform at Stagecoach, one of the most emblematic country music festivals What did it mean to you to bring your unique blend of Mexican and country music to a stage graced by legends like Willie Nelson, George Strait, Toby Keith and even the Eagles, artists who have inspired your own love of country music? How do you think moments like this and breaking barriers impact other Mexican artists who are exploring their own paths in the world of country music?
As we look to the future, Carin León’s achievements of 2024 stand as a vibrant prelude to what lies ahead. With his pioneering spirit and unwavering commitment to authenticity, Carin León is undoubtedly set to transform the musical landscape even further in 2025. His work continues to break barriers and inspire, reminding us that the fusion of cultures is not just a trend, but a lasting, unifying force in music and in life.
“My dream is to continue making my mark with my music, regardless of the recognition that comes.
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime performance was one of the most anticipated in history, with over 130 million viewers tuning in not just for the music, but for the drama surrounding his feud with Drake Fans speculated whether Kendrick would perform Not Like Us, especially after Drake threatened to sue his label for defamation This external conflict mirrored an internal one: Kendrick was faced with a choice should he play it safe, appease mainstream America, and maintain his composure? Or should he embrace his truer, rawer self, defying expectations and delivering the hard-hitting, unapologetic rap that had fueled his career? This struggle between his two selves played out visually and thematically throughout the performance. Samuel L. Jackson, portraying Uncle Sam, acted as Kendrick’s conscience, introducing the show with the words,
"Welcome to the great American game, " before quickly chastising him for being "too loud, too reckless, too ghetto." Kendrick’s backup dancers formed an American flag split down the middle, symbolizing the duality of a nation that claims to care for its people particularly Black Americans while simultaneously perpetuating discrimination and political turmoil. This act of protest was particularly bold, as former President Donald Trump was in attendance. The moment became even more politically charged when a dancer waved both the Sudanese and Palestinian flags, adding another layer of defiance to Kendrick’s statement.
Uncle Sam’s voice echoed through the stadium once more, instructing the scorekeeper to deduct a life from Kendrick. This moment strongly resembled Kendrick’s album DAMN., in which he loses his life as part of a greater spiritual and psychological battle. The duality of Kendrick’s performance was most evident when he teased the audience with a snippet of Not Like Us but quickly reminded them that playing the song could lead to legal trouble. Instead, he brought out SZA to perform more mainstream, mellow tracks. Yet, despite this moment of restraint, Kendrick ultimately succumbed to his "darker" unconscious self, launching into Not Like Us with a defiant declaration: "40 acres and a mule, this bigger than the music."
The final shot showed a sign reading "Game Over." Was it a statement on his feud with Drake—or his battle with America itself? Still, this performance, like DAMN., revolved around duality between control and defiance, mainstream appeal and raw authenticity, submission and rebellion. Just as Kendrick wrestled with these forces on stage, his album DAMN. explores the same tensions within himself. Through death and rebirth, submission and resistance, the album captures his struggle for self-actualization a journey that played out in real time before the world’s eyes. Let’s take a deeper dive into DAMN. and uncover its psychological underpinnings. Kendrick Lamar’s DAMN. is the only hip-hop/rap album to receive a Pulitzer Prize, awarded for “distinguished musical composition.” When analyzed for its lyrics, sound, and cultural significance, it is undeniably deserving of this recognition. The album has sparked numerous fan theories, such as its duality and the reordering of the track list. In other words, the beginning is the end, and the end is the beginning. Kendrick himself acknowledges the duality on MTV News, “the initial vibe listening from the top all the way to the bottom is this aggression and this attitude … exposing who I really am. … You listen from the back end, and it’s almost the duality and the contrast of the intricate Kendrick Lamar. Both of these pieces are who I am. ”
the album represents Kendrick Lamar s journey through death and rebirth individuation. I argue that the central theme is Kendrick’s rebirth, unfolding in two parallel stories: the fight between good and evil, conscious and unconscious, ultimately, with ourselves (“me versus me”). The album's dualities represent Kendrick’s battle between spiritual adherence to God (forward version) and temptation by earthly pleasures (backward version). Forward, Kendrick’s death is the start of his rebirth an ego death. Through this journey, he becomes whole, embodying Christification: unification of self through suffering and transformation. We witness his spiritual resurrection, his journey from man to God.
Backward, DAMN. reveals the opposite: Kendrick falls from godhood. After GOD., he succumbs to fear, disregards Cousin Carl’s message (FEAR.), and descends into his unconscious abyss of earthly temptations (LUST., PRIDE., XXX.). He realizes his curse lifts only by returning to God’s commandments. His rebirth begins when the blind woman kills him an ego death leading to renewal as the album loops back. This backward narrative mirrors his descent into the unconscious, where he confronts his Shadow. Ultimately, DAMN. reflects the universal cycle of rebirth, illustrating Kendrick’s Christification through unification of opposites (e.g., HUMBLE. and PRIDE.; LOVE. and LUST.). Forwards is backwards. Backwards is forwards. Forward, DAMN. begins with BLOOD., where Kendrick asks: “Is it wickedness or is it weakness? You decide. Are we gonna live or die?” He encounters a blind woman; she tells him he has lost his life and kills him. This represents his descent into the unconscious. The blind woman symbolizes his Soul, killing him for failing to confront his unconscious desires, insecurities, fears. Ego death is essential for rebirth. Jung’s concept of rebirth resonates throughout DAMN. Kendrick’s Christification mirrors this process as he unifies his opposites. This is reinforced by the album’s Good Friday release. Forward, we witness Kendrick confronting his Shadow, integrating opposites, transforming from man to God. Backward, it’s the opposite Kendrick’s fall due to his failure to confront the darkness within and his worship of false idols.
The album incorporates Jungian archetypes. In BLOOD., the blind woman is the anima destructive in this unintegrated state. Her killing Kendrick reflects failing to integrate the Shadow. DUCKWORTH. opens the reversed version, signaling Kendrick’s inward journey. He encounters his Soul; this aligns with the Jungian journey where he must reconcile inner conflicts before meeting God. GOD. marks Kendrick’s confrontation with divinity.
FEAR. and XXX. explore duality, tied to Kendrick’s Christification. In FEAR., Cousin Carl declares Kendrick’s people cursed, quoting Deuteronomy 28, blaming false idols money, sex, and drugs. XXX. exposes America’s violence. These tracks underscore the duality of blessing and curse.
LOVE. and LUST. highlight DAMN.’s duality. LOVE. opens with “Love and lust.” Forward, Kendrick must conquer lust before love and Christification. Backward, it’s his fall losing love and succumbing to lust. In LOVE., Kendrick’s anima expresses vulnerability. In LUST., his animus dominates. Kendrick references James (4:4), warning against worldly distractions. “I need some water” signals both sexual and spiritual thirst. In HUMBLE., Kendrick boasts, revealing his struggle with his Shadow pride. PRIDE. explores guilt and self-reflection. While PRIDE. conveys humility, HUMBLE. showcases arrogance. This reflects Shadow integration. The cycle from LOVE. to LUST. to HUMBLE. to PRIDE. mirrors self-awareness and growth.
In LOYALTY., Kendrick questions true allegiance. “Tell me who you loyal to?” forces reflection. “That’s what God is for” suggests true loyalty should be to God. It critiques fixation on wealth and pleasure.
In FEEL. and ELEMENT., Kendrick explores inner turmoil and outward persona. FEEL. is introspective, exposing vulnerability. ELEMENT. is aggressive, showcasing his hardened exterior. Forward, ELEMENT. precedes FEEL., symbolizing shedding ego. Reversed, FEEL. comes first, suggesting repressed emotions fuel his persona. This mirrors integrating Shadow and Persona.
In YAH., Kendrick wrestles with Shadow and Persona, torn between spiritual calling and worldly desires. He acknowledges God but admits to temptation. Cousin Carl, the wise old man, warns against idol worship. Cousin Carl’s message contrasts with the blind woman, representing Kendrick’s unconscious. This highlights duality wisdom versus desire.
In DNA., Kendrick declares his DNA holds “ war and peace, ” highlighting his complex identity. He calls himself “Yeshua’s new weapon, ” aligning his struggles with Christ. He’s an “anti-social extrovert,” embodying introversion and extraversion. This reinforces DAMN.’s duality.
In BLOOD., Kendrick’s encounter with the blind woman remains ambiguous. Her response “ you ’ ve lost your life” suggests she is an unconscious manifestation. Forward, his death marks his spiritual rebirth. Backward, it’s punishment for disobedience. His death in both reflects ego death, necessary for Christification. Connecting the album’s beginning and end reveals the cyclical nature of rebirth. DAMN. is a masterful exploration of duality. Forward, Kendrick confronts his Shadow, overcomes demons, and moves toward spiritual resurrection. Backward, it’s a fall from godhood, succumbing to desires. These parallel narratives highlight the eternal battle between good and evil, conscious and unconscious, divine and human. DAMN. is not just Kendrick’s story but a roadmap for us all.
In the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, two siblings are not just making waves in the music scene they're reshaping it. Mariah Reymundo and her brother, Alex Reymundo (known professionally as Reymundo), are part of a new generation of artists who blend activism and artistry to inspire and connect with their listeners. Both of them have evolved in their own right, constantly pushing their musical boundaries while supporting each other along the way.
For Mariah Reymundo, music is a space where she can be brutally honest with herself and the world around her The singer-songwriter explains, “Honestly, in my personal relationships I build up a lot of walls where I don’t speak about things honestly, so writing music and putting it out to strangers is a lot easier than telling the people that are actually in my circle I use music and writing as an unfiltered outlet for my most private thoughts” In this rawness, Mariah finds not only an artistic release but also the strength to champion marginalized groups that have shaped her understanding of the world. Having grown up in a community surrounded by adversity, she sees her music as a platform to shine a light on those who often go unheard. “If I ever was given a platform, I knew that I could use my privilege to speak on things and shed light on the marginalized groups,” she shares. Though Mariah’s work often explores deeply personal themes, she’s also driven by a desire to foster social change through her music Whether performing in front of a packed venue or a modest crowd, she always uses her voice to promote activism “Even at shows where attendance might seem low, I always make a point somewhere in my set to speak about social injustices,” she says. “I want people who support me to feel like they have a safe space to feel vulnerable and cared for.”
Her unique blend of melodic vocals and intimate lyrics resonates with her listeners.
Drawing inspiration from artists like Imogen Heap, Mariah’s songs often feature rich harmonies and immersive soundscapes. She approaches songwriting like a puzzle, where every piece fits together, and every melody adds emotional depth. “It’s all about building with harmonies and melodies to keep things fresh for me and my listeners,” she says. For Reymundo, the driving force behind his musical evolution is curiosity. “What draws me to do the broad range that I do is wondering if I can do it,” he explains. “I want to be able to try new things and see if I can make it work.” A genre-blending artist, Reymundo dips his toes into indie rock, hyperpop, bedroom pop, and even new wave rap. His willingness to experiment with different sounds speaks to his belief that music, like any muscle, only grows stronger with consistent effort and exploration.
Reymundo sees his artistic journey as intrinsically tied to his personal growth. He’s driven by the idea of never becoming stagnant, both as a person and as an artist. “I don’t want to be one sound for my entire career,” he says. “I think that’s the best way to keep yourself engaged and your listeners engaged too.”
However, his ambition doesn’t just revolve around self-expression. Reymundo also believes that, as an artist with influence, it’s his responsibility to use his platform for change. “Even at my level with just a couple hundred people a month listening to me, I still feel that’s enough to try to make an impact,” he says. He stresses that music doesn’t need to be political to create a sense of community or spark a movement. “Art in itself is already a very moving experience,” he adds.
Reymundo’s collaborative projects also reflect his commitment to fostering community. In 2022, he founded 222, a collective of local Louisville artists including Mariah. The group’s charitable tour in 2024 not only showcased their talents but also provided much-needed supplies to local charities, blending music with activism. “The Showing Love Back Tour was created as a thank you to a city that inspired and supported us,” Reymundo recalls.
Mariah and Reymundo’s relationship as siblings is as much about mutual respect as it is about creative chemistry. “I genuinely think that my brother is a musical genius, and I cannot stress that enough,” says Mariah The two have a rare musical bond that allows them to push each other to greater heights “We just bounce off of each other organically,” she adds. Despite having different individual styles, the duo’s sibling dynamic is a significant part of their success, with fans constantly drawn to their connection both on and offstage.
Yet, like any close collaboration, they have their clashes. “We’re siblings, and that’s just how it is,” says Reymundo “We either yell over each other until it’s resolved or drink some tequila ” But despite the occasional conflict, there’s always a strong sense of support. “If one of us makes it, the other can’t really be left behind,” he says.
As a duo, they not only share musical goals but also a deep commitment to community. Their Louisville roots are central to their identity, and they continue to support other local artists while paving the way for the next generation Mariah believes that the growing success of Louisville artists is paving the way for others. “Success stories from our city have broken down walls for new artists to emerge, ” she reflects. For both Mariah and Reymundo, the future is filled with exciting possibilities. Mariah’s individual goals are focused on expanding her reach beyond her hometown, while Reymundo’s vision centers on building a sustainable music career. “I just want to leave a legacy and an impact,” he says. As a duo, they dream of collaborating with some of their musical heroes, with Mariah hoping for a partnership with Lana Del Rey, and Reymundo envisioning a future project produced by the likes of Wake Up F1lthy.
Above all, they aim to continue growing both individually and as a sibling duo. “Our biggest advantage is that we already have a number one fan,” Reymundo says “No matter what I do or what Mariah does, I’m always there to show support and she’s always there to do the same for me. ”
In a world that often demands conformity, Mariah and Reymundo are breaking the mold, using their music to tell their stories and make a difference They’re not just artists; they’re visionaries who believe in the power of art to spark change and build community. Their journey is just beginning, and as they continue to shape the future of music, one thing is clear: the Reymundo siblings are a force to be reckoned with.
By Isis Antonio Staff Writer
While TOP’s musical journey may be on hold, his foray into acting especially with Squid Game marks a new chapter in his career TOP’s role as Thanos in Squid Game Season 2 is an intense and deeply personal one. Thanos is a struggling rapper whose career spirals into ruin due to drug use and financial troubles, a storyline that hits close to home for T.O.P, whose past struggles with substance abuse have been widely publicized. “The offer to play Thanos was a daunting proposition. The character mirrored my past, reflecting aspects I’d rather keep hidden,” T.O.P revealed. However, despite his initial hesitation, he accepted the role, driven by the belief that it was his destiny. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk’s faith in him was pivotal, giving TOP the courage to take on the challenging part TOP’s portrayal of Thanos was meticulously crafted Drawing from his own experiences, he researched the effects of drugs to better understand his character's psychological state Thanos is depicted as someone deeply reliant on substances, and TOP infused his performance with physical nuances, such as portraying the character’s damaged teeth and erratic mannerisms.
Photo Credit - No Ju-han
T.O.P’s portrayal of Thanos is more than just acting it's an exploration of his own inner demons. “Before he’s under the influence, Thanos experiences intense anxiety,” T.O.P explained. “However, when he’s under the influence of drugs, he’s no longer himself.” This stark contrast helped T.O.P bring a level of depth and unpredictability to the character, allowing him to express the vulnerability and chaos Thanos experiences.
The look of Thanos also stands out, with his purple hair and Skittle-colored nails an intentional nod to the infamous Marvel character TOP and the director worked together to ensure that Thanos was not only unique in his appearance but also in his actions TOP’s decision to integrate elements of “mumble rap,” associated with those reliant on drugs, further added to the complexity of the character T.O.P’s portrayal resonated with fans worldwide, who saw beyond the flashy exterior and recognized the tragedy within the character. “I tried to create a contrast between who he is before and after he’s under the influence,” he explained. “Thanos is just someone who’s not fully there.”
T.O.P’s journey through the darkness of scandal, substance abuse, and self-doubt has not been easy. Describing his 30s as a “lost time,” he reflected on his isolation and the deep self-loathing he experienced. For seven years, T.O.P lived in solitude, pouring his emotions into music as a way to survive. Music became his therapy, a way to heal, and he now hopes to share that healing with his fans. “The reason I did that was not for any other reason, but because music was the only place where I could breathe,” he said. As he moves forward, T.O.P envisions a life less dominated by the drama of fame. His goal is to find stability, to live a life more akin to any other young man in Korea, free from the constant scrutiny of the public eye.
“I just want to be a sincere musician and actor,” he concluded. “My primary goal is to establish a stable and less dramatic life.” As T.O.P continues to evolve, his return to the entertainment industry signals more than just a comeback it’s a reclamation of his story. The transition from a K-pop idol to a nuanced actor is a testament to his growth and resilience. While his past mistakes will always be part of his journey, T.O.P’s openness and willingness to confront them head-on is what will ultimately define his legacy. Whether or not he ever reunites with BIGBANG, T.O.P’s future in entertainment is far from over. With his powerful performance in Squid Game and a new perspective on life, he’s stepping back into the limelight this time, on his own terms.
And, as he said, “Maybe when more time has passed, I’ll be able to contact them,” referring to his former bandmates. For now, T.O.P is focused on healing—and perhaps, in time, mending the broken ties that were once so central to his life.
PUNK’S NOT DEAD: GREEN DAY’S ‘AMERICAN IDIOT’ STILL SPEAKS
Green Day’s long-standing role in both the music industry and the political arena continues to be defined by their unapologetic punk ethos and activism. The band’s performance at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium on January 19th, as part of the Calabash 2025 festival, was a testament to their ability to merge music with politics. Not only was it their debut concert in South Africa, but it also marked another notable moment in their ongoing critique of political figures and social issues, reinforcing their place as punk icons with a purpose. During the performance of their 2004 anthem “American Idiot,” frontman Billie Joe Armstrong famously altered the lyrics from “I’m not a part of the redneck agenda” to “I’m not a part of the Elon agenda,” directing a pointed jab at billionaire Elon Musk. Musk, who was born in Pretoria, has long been a controversial figure in global politics, with his actions often sparking criticism. One such incident, at Trump’s second inauguration, saw Musk making a gesture widely compared to a Nazi salute, adding fuel to the fire of his already polarizing reputation. The band’s decision to call out Musk reflects their refusal to shy away from addressing controversial topics continuing a legacy of blending music with political commentary.
This move was not an isolated incident In fact, Green Day’s activism has become almost as integral to their identity as their music After their 2023 performance on New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, where they replaced “redneck agenda” with “MAGA agenda,” Musk himself criticized the band on X (formerly Twitter). Mike Dirnt, Green Day’s bassist, quickly responded, dismissing Musk’s criticism and reaffirming the band’s punk roots: “Elon Musk actually is the machine. I can’t take anything else from that. He’s not shy about saying stupid sh*t on the internet Whatever”
The band’s activism extends beyond lyrics Green Day has always been outspoken in their political views, from their early critiques of the Bush administration to their recent outspokenness regarding Donald Trump and other right-wing figures. During their performance at the 2016 American Music Awards, Green Day famously shouted “No Trump, no KKK, no fascist USA” as a response to the political climate following Trump’s election. Their 2023 "Ultimate Nimrod" t-shirt, which featured Trump’s mugshot styled after the cover of their Nimrod album, served not only as a statement of defiance but also as a fundraiser for wildfire relief efforts in Maui.
In addition to their concert performances, Armstrong has actively encouraged fans to vote for progressive candidates, including endorsing Kamala Harris for the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Green Day’s commitment to activism runs through every facet of their career, reinforcing the idea that punk is more than just music it’s a call to action
Their 2004 album American Idiot, which solidified their place in punk rock history, remains a milestone of political expression. The album’s critical messages of disillusionment with the American government and the media resonated deeply with a generation growing frustrated with societal structures. Tracks like “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” and “Wake Me Up When September Ends” became anthems of rebellion and introspection, while “American Idiot” itself stood as a critique of American consumerism and political complacency
Despite the passage of time, Green Day has maintained their position as one of the most influential punk bands of all time, both musically and socially. Their music is undeniably impactful, but it’s their consistent challenge to the status quo that has made them a permanent fixture in the conversation about politics and music. Their activism serves as a reminder that punk music has always been a form of protest, a channel for anger and frustration with societal norms
As Green Day continues to evolve, they show that punk is alive and well not only in the raw sound of their guitars but also in their fearless political statements. Whether they’re calling out Elon Musk or supporting progressive candidates, Green Day’s punk spirit is as relevant as ever, urging fans to think critically and take action. In a world where political divides continue to widen and societal issues mount, Green Day remains a crucial voice in the ongoing fight for justice, equality, and social change
Through their fearless activism, Green Day proves that punk is more than just a genre it’s a movement. A movement that continues to inspire both musicians and listeners alike to never back down, always question authority, and speak up for what is right. Green Day’s latest performance is just one example of their enduring power to use music as a weapon of social change, ensuring their legacy as one of the greatest punk bands of all time
Letter From The Editor
Music resonates with us on countless levels, often in ways we don't even fully realize. And so often, those levels are inextricably linked to the political landscape, both local and global. This issue has delved into that complex connection, reminding us of music's vital role in reflecting our world, challenging the status quo, and inspiring us to action. We extend our sincere gratitude to Carin Leon and B Latin Music for so generously sharing their story, their artistry, and their insights with us. We hope this issue not only sparks conversation but also motivates you to become a part of the change you wish to see. We look forward to continuing this important dialogue with you in our next edition, exploring the ever-evolving relationship between music and the world around us
