S Poddar
K-pop idol ASTRO commemorated their ninth anniversary with the drop of their newest single, “Twilight,” a song that captures the promise of an upcoming bright future together with their loyal fans. Released on Sunday, the song is both a reminiscence of the journey of the group and a sentimental message to fans who have stayed by their side all these years.
Fantagio, the management company of ASTRO, said “Twilight” is a song that has a special warmth but at the same time, an inspiring energy. The melody incorporates a dense combination of instrumentals and harmonizes beautifully with the individual vocal colors of the members. The track does not just demonstrate the musical growth of the group but also enforces the emotional bond between them and their fans.
ASTRO’s leader JinJin was instrumental in bringing “Twilight” to fruition, overseeing its production. Translating the song’s meaning, he explained that it symbolizes ASTRO’s strength and endurance, pushing through adversity to find a new sunrise. His words ring true, particularly given the rollercoaster ride the group has been on over the years.
ASTRO debuted on the K-pop stage in February 2016 as a six-member group, immediately being recognized for their vibrant, youthful energy and harmonized performances. Their yearly custom of releasing a song on their debut anniversary has become a sacred ritual for fans. In 2024, they celebrated the occasion with “Circles,” a track in tribute to their fandom, Aroha, reaffirming the unbreakable connection between the artists and their fans.
Throughout the years, ASTRO has proven themselves to be extremely versatile, going from their signature bouncy pop music to mature and experimental tunes. From their debut hits such as “Hide & Seek” and “Breathless” to emotionally draining songs like “Blue Flame” and “After Midnight,” the group has continued to evolve without compromising their identity.
Though, their ride has not been without bumps. The group has had to deal with a major change, as Moonbin’s untimely death and Rocky’s departure have left the group a four-member entity. Through all these sad moments, the surviving members have demonstrated great resilience, opting to forge ahead while commemorating their fallen brethren.
Separately, the ASTRO members have continued to thrive in their individual careers. Cha Eun-woo has cemented his position as a top-draw actor in the industry, headlining hit dramas and consistently making headlines for his stunning looks and acting prowess. MJ, with his powerful voice, has been busy on the musical stage, proving that he has a lot more to offer beyond being an idol. JinJin and Sanha have also established their own careers, with JinJin working on music production and Sanha venturing into acting and solo activities. Their success in different areas of entertainment speaks to the richness of talent in the group.
Despite pursuing their respective passions, ASTRO’s togetherness remains at the core of their journey. “Twilight” is a testament to their long-standing friendship and unshakeable bond with their fans. The hope and persistence that the song promises is particularly meaningful, with its reflection of not only their individual struggles but also the collective resilience of their fan base.
As ASTRO enters their ninth year, the group continues to demonstrate their toughness and love for music. That they can withstand and evolve even in the darkest of times speaks volumes about how committed they are. “Twilight” is not just a song—it is a representation of their appreciation, affection, and vow to remain shining with Aroha whatever the future might bring.
