A week after his recent Forbes appearance, MONSTA X member I.M returns on the US-based publication. This time, recognizing his status as a global hip-hop artist.
First published last March 11, writer Jeff Benjamin follows the progress of I.M's solo debut "DUALITY" and heaps praises on the MONSTA X member in an article titled "I.M's Unwavering Vision On 'Duality' Makes Good On His Promise As A Global Hip-Hop Artist: 'I'm Satisfied'"
The article recalls how I.M became the de facto translator and interpreter for MONSTA X during its first appearances in the United States - thanks to the rapper being fluent in both English and Korean - and appreciates the maknae's clear vision for his music, despite the path to global stardom being a difficult one.
"Duality is a tightly constructed, cleverly crafted collection of tracks that lets the Monsta X superstar bring listeners into a world previously unexplored on record," Benjamin wrote. He also noted that more than the smooth transition between English and Korean, "DUALITY" is a reflection of I.M - particularly his ambitions to impart "multilayered stories" woven with "smart wordplay and bold declarations."
The latest I.M feature in Forbes also asks listeners to listen to the tracks in the album more than once, likening it to some of the greatest hip-hop works that contain multiple layers and cannot be taken simply at face value.
In the following interview between I.M and Benjamin, the MONSTA X member reveals that his solo debut has been six years in the making, describing the experience as "surreal" and bringing him a relief to see the fans' reaction to his work. When asked why he decided to release "DUALITY" now, I.M pointed to the pandemic, adding that not being able to see his fans made him "feel a little bit down." While he remains optimistic about meeting them again, he adds that he wanted to show his "heart and emotion" as much as he could.
"I released this album for the ones who've trusted and waited for me," I.M, whose real name is Im Chang-kyun, told Forbes.
The latest I.M write-up on Forbes comes a week after Hugh McIntyre noted the stellar performance of "DUALITY," whose all five tracks debuted on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales Chart - making I.M hold one in every five spots in the US singles chart.
Listen to I.M's global hit "God Damn," the title track for "DUALITY," below:
