“Our memories are recorded in here.”
(V)
BE REVEALED
It’s not very often that BTS reveal their inner workings, so it was a pleasant surprise for ARMYs when this tweet appeared on social media in late February at the infamous golden hour of 12.00 AM (KST).
As a backstory to the BE album, a short video teased brief clips of each member sharing their thoughts, experiences, and insights. The members could be seen speaking openly and candidly to one another, with the ever-present laughter, smiles, and humor that BTS are known for. Keen eyes noticed that the members were interviewing themselves – no third parties, no external reporters, just the seven BTS members. The interview spaces were warm, comfortable, and relaxed, with only two members on screen at any one time – interviewer and interviewee, as colleagues, friends, and brothers.
Two days later, on Feb. 27, BANGTANTV aired “BE-hind Story.” International ARMYs quickly discovered that there were no English subs, only a notice advising that “Due to system constraints, subtitles for this content will be provided after the conclusion of the live streaming.” This didn’t deter ARMYs, who, like myself, sat through the entire screening, aware that we were undoubtedly missing out on some key information because of our inability to connect due to the language barrier. Within 24 hours, though, the subbed version was uploaded to YouTube with English, Japanese, and Chinese subtitles.
Watching with English subtitles elevates the English-speaking international audience’s experience. From a personal perspective, I noticed that I became more invested in each of their shared commentaries to the extent that sometimes, as is BTS’ unfailing modus operandi, I experienced distinct feelings of connectedness & belonging to each of them. Shortly afterward, seven individual videos were released, containing the “full” stories as shared by each of the BTS members.
CAPTURING THE ESSENCE
Belonging may seem like an unusual descriptor, but it is an apt one. Ever since BTS decided to share their journey with ARMY from concept to creation, it would be fair to say that this has been our most intimate album to date. Throughout each step of BTS’ BE journey, ARMYs have continued to walk beside them, sharing their frustrations and their joys. This may be why the interview series felt more intimate as well; the members not only spoke of the different roles they played in the album’s production, they also spoke of future aspirations, and how they would like to see themselves grow and develop as artists.
Jin mentioned how he struggled with the low notes of “Blue & Grey,” and shared his innate preference for upbeat songs as opposed to sad ballads. J-Hope researched the term “grey rhino” in order to understand it better in its metaphorical state, and as a result, he learned that it was more than just the “pretty phrase” that first caught his eye. As such, this highlighted an area in his artistry that needs further growth and development. RM commented on the “3 Bs” – bed, bus, bath: “When you spread out your net of thoughts, and when you let your brain take a break, all your thoughts get sorted out and during that process, you get inspired unexpectedly.” While his words might be considered philosophical, there was also a practical nature to them.
ARMYs may have been surprised to hear Jung Kook say that, although slightly, he felt his style resonated well with the Japanese vibe of song-writing, so he was continuing to work equally on Japanese and Korean songs. Another interesting point was his reveal that, as an artist, he didn’t want to lose his style and character by focusing on vocalization. As for V, we can see his artistic drive coming through; this was something that he referred to as “greed,” which in turn caused V to delay the release of his pending mixtape. After explaining his reasons for the delay, he exclaimed, “I won’t ask our dear fans to wait for my mixtape, but please look forward to it.”
Jimin seemed more matter-of-fact in his interview as he shared that there are still many things that he’d like to try in the future, especially with songwriting and enhancing his personal style of vocals. Finally, we come to Suga. ARMYs are well aware that Suga is a consummate songwriter. Again, he expressed that he wants to try writing songs in different genres, as he has been making music for almost 16 years in more or less similar styles. It is clear to see that his work ethic hasn’t changed in that time, as he continues to look for ways to cultivate himself as an artist, even learning how to play new instruments.
IN THE END
One highlight that stood out strongly from all of the members’ interviews was the notion of a “team.” Each member referred to this in some form, although they may not have used this word specifically. From song-writing to melody-making, conceptualizing to performing, there was a distinct knowing amongst the members that although they each had their individual roles and responsibilities, collectively they were all contributing to the masterpiece that ARMYs now know as BE. Even when their opinions on matters differed, BTS acknowledged that they were happy with the end result.
ARMYs may never know why Big Hit chose to present these interviews in this style. The members themselves expressed that this style of interviewing was a first for them as well. Perhaps the members would feel more relaxed when only they were in the room (not negating the staff who were also present), or perhaps, in keeping with the self-produced theme, it made sense that the members asked and answered themselves. Regardless of the intent, BTS showed ARMYs once again, through their thoughts and actions, just how much they love and appreciate their fans.
DISCLAIMER: We do not own any audio & visual content in this video except for the editing. ALL RIGHTS BELONG TO THE RIGHTFUL OWNERS. No copyright infringement intended.
Written By: Shelley
Edit By: Vera
Checked By: Aury
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