October 1, 2025 | 08:40 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - In the fourth quarter of 2025, former BIGBANG rapper T.O.P. is set to return to the music scene as a solo artist with the release of a full-length studio album. This marks his first solo project since the 2013 digital single “Doom Dada.”
As reported by The Korea Herald and Yahoo! News Malaysia, the 37-year-old rapper and actor has reportedly completed the album’s recording and is preparing to shoot multiple music videos. Not only is he returning to the stage after nearly a decade, but he is also rumored to be collaborating with Squid Game’s art director, Chae Kyoung-sun, for the production, with whom he has previously worked.
Hints of his comeback began in November 2024, when T.O.P responded to a fan’s Instagram comment with “2025.” He later confirmed in a June 2025 international interview promoting Squid Game 2 that he had been working on new music. According to The Korea Herald, citing an anonymous industry source, the album is expected to be released sometime in or after October.
Following his departure from YG Entertainment in 2022 and BIGBANG in 2023, T.O.P has remained independent, not signing with any agency. While rumors have circulated about a potential deal with Kakao Entertainment, the company has publicly denied the claims.
In 2016, T.O.P faced controversy after being convicted of marijuana use while serving as a conscripted police officer. He was sentenced to 10 months in prison and suspended for two years.
He also had his mandatory military service subsequently converted to an alternative form of social service and announced his retirement from the entertainment industry. However, T.O.P later reversed that decision by starring in Squid Game Season 2.
In a January interview, T.O.P reflected on his turbulent 20s, saying he was “unfortunate to receive so much love” at a young age and admitting, “I made huge mistakes and collapsed mentally.” Despite that, he said he has never stopped creating music. “I feel alive whenever I’m in the studio,” he shared. “I’ve been working constantly and have created a lot of music. I believe the time has come to share it with the world.”
As the news sparks excitement among VIPs, they are also abuzz with anticipation over the Coachella 2026 full lineup, where BIGBANG is set to take over the stage for a two-day show.
Editor’s Choice: Coachella 2026 Announces Star-Studded Headliners and Korean Icons' Return
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Royalty Issues Resolved, Indonesian Malls Can Now Play Music Without Worry
10 jam lalu
APPBI emphasized that shopping centers, especially malls, have long been among the most compliant industries in paying royalties to musicians.
Spotify to Introduce New Policy on AI-Generated Music
4 hari lalu
Several new policies from Spotify emerged amidst the flood of AI-generated music. Creating music using artificial intelligence is allowed as long as it is done correctly.
Indonesia's LMKN Promises Fairer Royalty Distribution for Musicians
9 hari lalu
The National Collective Management Institution (LMKN) has now served as the collector of music and song royalties from digital platforms.
Kanye West Net Worth 2025: Is He a Billionaire Now?
13 hari lalu
Kanye West net worth in 2025 is estimated at $400 million, marking a sharp contrast to his recent claim of a staggering $2.7 billion valuation.
10 European Music Festivals You Can't Miss: Tomorrowland, Sziget, and More
13 hari lalu
Most of the top European music festivals understood the assignment by delivering impressive stage designs, a lively atmosphere, and iconic music.
Coachella 2026 Announces Star-Studded Headliners and Korean Icons' Return
13 hari lalu
The lineup for Coachella 2026 has been announced, with Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and BIGBANG set to perform.
Top 10 Richest Rock Stars Ranked by Net Worth
27 hari lalu
From Paul McCartney to Jon Bon Jovi, the richest rock stars built fortunes through timeless hits, epic tours, and smart ventures.
Rich Brian Returns with 'WHERE IS MY HEAD?', Featuring Star Studded Collaborators
32 hari lalu
Rich Brian returns after 6 years with 'WHERE IS MY HEAD?', a deeply personal self-produced album that blends introspection and bold experimentation.
Rapper Melly Mike Tastes Indonesian Cuisine; Ayam Pop Is His Favorite
35 hari lalu
Rapper Melly Mike explored restaurants serving traditional Indonesian cuisine and savored dishes including sate lilit, rendang, and ayam pop.
Doja Cat's Net Worth and the Buzz Around Her Verse Fees
36 hari lalu
Doja Cat's net worth in 2025 is estimated at $16-$25M, fueled by chart-topping hits, sold-out tours, brand deals, and lavish real estate investments.
