This Idol Who Almost Debuted as BTS' 8th Member Is Now Collaborating With Jimin

It's hard to imagine BTS without RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, but the lineup we know and love could have looked very different.

Before their official debut, several other trainees at BigHit Entertainment almost made the cut. Among them was Loco.

Loco, now a well-known K-Pop rapper, auditioned for BTS when the group was initially conceptualized as a "rap/hip-hop" outfit rather than the idol group it became.

Although he didn't make it into BTS, Loco shared in an interview how impressed he was by Suga during the audition process.

Since then, Loco has carved out a successful career, winning the first season of "Show Me the Money" in 2012 and signing with hip hop label AOMG.

He's known for his iconic collaborations like "All I Wanna Do" with Jay Park and Hoody, "Somebody!" with MAMAMOO's Hwasa, and the beloved OST "Say Yes" for "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo" with Punch.

READ MORE: Loco Releases Album After 6 Years 

Now, Loco is teaming up with Jimin from BTS for another iconic collaboration. BIGHIT MUSIC announced via Weverse that Jimin's second solo album, "MUSE," will feature a pre-release track titled "Smeraldo Garden Marching Band" with Loco.

Hello.

This is BIGHIT MUSIC.

We are excited to share details about the release of BTS member Jimin's second solo album, "MUSE."

Following his first solo album, "FACE," where he sought to explore his true identity, "MUSE" documents his journey in search of the source of his inspiration.

Showcasing Jimin's expanded musical spectrum, "MUSE" includes seven tracks, including the fan song "Closer Than This," released in December 2023.

We ask for your continued love and support for Jimin's second solo album, "MUSE."

Pre-Order Period: Starts 11 AM, Tuesday, June 18, 2024 (KST)
Release Date and Time: 1 PM, Friday, July 19, 2024 (KST)

The album includes seven tracks, including "Closer Than This," released in December 2023.

The full tracklist, revealed today, includes: "Rebirth," "Interlude Showtime," "Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (Ft. Loco)," "Slow Dance (Ft. Sofia Carson)," "Be Mine," "Who" (title track), and "Closer Than This."

The pre-release track "Smeraldo Garden Marching Band" combines hip-hop elements with a big band sound, creating an upbeat and dynamic atmosphere.

Loco shared his excitement on Instagram, posting the cover art for the track and reflecting on his unique journey.

ARMYs are eagerly anticipating this full-circle moment, recognizing Loco's impressive skills and the significance of his collaboration with Jimin.

 ALSO READ: BTS' Surprise Appearance at Megan Thee Stallion's Gig Stuns ARMYs: 'We Need Them Back Together ASAP' 

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Cassidy Jones.