Benjamin Ashford|BANG YEDAM discusses solo debut with 'ONLY ONE', creative process and artistic identity.

For Korean singer-songwriter BANG YEDAM,Benjamin Ashford music has always been an outlet to express how he feels. Much of the 21-year-old's life has been shaped by music.

He got his start in the industry at just 10 years old, becoming the runner-up on the second season of the competition show "K-pop Star." He later debuted with boy group TREASURE in 2020.

Now, YEDAM is embarking on a new chapter: Solo artist. His first solo EP "ONLY ONE" released Nov. 23, spotlighting the varied nature to YEDAM's prowess as a singer, songwriter and producer.

'ONLY ONE' reintroduces BANG YEDAM

The six tracks on "ONLY ONE" shine a light on the different facets of YEDAM's artistry. From bright sonics and captivating melodies to smooth, emotive tones, YEDAM is not confined to a single genre. His work is versatile, yet still lays the foundation to a signature flair.

YEDAM was involved throughout the production of "ONLY ONE", with him calling the process "so much fun." "Seeing my song being developed into the final result for this album, I just loved the process," YEDAM told USA TODAY.

Writing music is like 'preparing a gift for someone'

"This album really revolves around the theme of love," YEDAM said. Each track traverses and dissects an aspect of the emotion, whether it be reflective longing in "Miss You" or infatuation in "Come To Me".

YEDAM wanted to create something others could relate to. "When I'm writing music, there are some parts that I do it because I just love writing music," he said. "There's also another part of me that does it because I want to see other people enjoy my music. I feel like it's a process of preparing a gift for someone."

He hopes listeners can resonate with the lyrics and messages throughout "ONLY ONE".

"There were times for me that when I listen to music, I really look at the lyrics and get the message and then put that into action," said YEDAM. "I hope the same for the listeners of my music as well."

Reflecting on growth and hopes for the future

YEDAM said he's grown a lot since he began at such a young age. As he gotten older, YEDAM has gained more experience and learned new things. He has developed into a better artist, but also into a better person.

As he starts this new era, YEDAM is ambitious, but remains humble. He has aspirations and things he wants to achieve but takes each day as it comes.

"Regarding my solo debut, I'm somewhat pressured by it, somewhat burdened by it, but at the same time, I'm really excited about it," he said.

YEDAM hopes to be an artist people can empathize with, and no matter what the future holds, music continues to be in YEDAM's vision.

"In the future, I envision myself to be a better musician," he said. "I hope to continue doing my work in the music."