S Poddar
G-Dragon has finally returned in a big way with the release of his new album, Übermensch. To celebrate this milestone, he has also released a riveting music video for the song Too Bad, which is joined by American artist Anderson.Paak and a cameo by aespa’s Karina. This is a big moment for fans who have been waiting in anticipation for fresh music from the South Korean rapper and producer.
This album is G-Dragon’s third complete studio endeavor and his first significant release in seven years since his 2017 EP, Kwon Ji-Yong. It also marks a new era for his career, as it is his initial release under Galaxy Corporation and US-based record label EMPIRE after he parted ways with YG Entertainment in 2023. The label change has raised eyebrows about where his music would be heading and how he has developed as an artist.
Discussing the album, G-Dragon said about the inspiration of Übermensch, “the title Übermensch means ‘Beyond-Man’ or ‘Higher Man,’ something symbolizing one person beyond one’s self. The concept of the album is trying to showcase the best version of yourself stronger and tougher and put it in front of everybody. I want to convey that kind of power to my listeners through my songs.” What he said here goes much deeper than an act of simply returning as there is this level of introspection about becoming more and creating anew.
In addition to fresh tracks, the album also includes two of his previously released singles from 2024, Power and Home Sweet Home. The latter holds particular significance as it features his Big Bang bandmates, Taeyang and Daesung, rekindling the chemistry that made the group one of K-pop’s most influential acts.
As part of his grand comeback, G-Dragon has unveiled two music videos—one for Drama and another for Too Bad. The latter is a big-name collaboration with Anderson.Paak, who not only brings his distinctive flair to the song but also appears in the highly visual video. To add to the buzz, aespa’s Karina appears in the music video, adding an additional boost of star power to the venture. The collaboration of the artists has developed a special genre of music with a blend of G-Dragon’s hip-hop experimental sound and Anderson.Paak’s soulful energy as well as Karina’s contemporary K-pop looks.
The excitement for Übermensch does not end with the album and videos. G-Dragon is preparing for an immense world tour this year in 2025 as his first ever global tour after eight years. The tour should be a celebration of his musical heritage, as well as an exhibition of his current artistic progression. Along with the tour, he will be headlining 88rising’s Head In The Clouds Festival in Los Angeles later in May. The show is being advertised as his “exclusive 2025 North American festival performance,” and therefore, should not be missed by his global fanbase.
G-Dragon’s musical odyssey started way back in 2006 as the leader of Big Bang, a group destined to reshape the K-pop phenomenon. Throughout his career, however, his power did not reside within the confines of the group, for in 2009 he initiated his solo career as well with the release of his debut album, Heartbreaker. His follow-up releases, such as the EP One of a Kind and the album Coup d’Etat, yielded several top-charting singles such as Crayon, That XX, and Crooked. The songs solidified his position as one of South Korea’s most creative artists, experimenting with genres and pushing boundaries.
His influence transcends music, as he has also become a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world. Famous for his fearless and fashion-forward style, G-Dragon has partnered with big brands like Chanel and Nike, cementing his status as a cultural figure. His return to the music scene is predicted to again drive trends, not only in K-pop but across the global entertainment and fashion universe.
With the release of Übermensch, G-Dragon has proven that he remains a powerhouse in the industry. The album’s themes of personal growth, resilience, and transformation reflect his journey over the past few years, both professionally and personally. As he embarks on this new era, fans can expect more groundbreaking music, electrifying performances, and moments that will further cement his legacy as one of K-pop’s most influential figures.
For his die-hard fans who have been along for the ride, this comeback is not simply a return—this is a statement. A statement that G-Dragon isn’t just back, but on his way to elevating his art to another level, and Übermensch as proof of his growth and ongoing reign as king of music.
