Troy’s Bumkey, Even Without His Music He’s Quite Charming

Solo singer Bumkey has returned as the leader of the group Troy. Known for his soulful R&B vocals, he has come back with the title of leader, not just solo artist.

Hip hop label Brand New Music' rookie group Troy revealed their debut song "Green Light" through the March 13th broadcast of cable channel Mnet's "M Countdown". Troy's first stage was lively, not different from idol groups, and they brought a performance R&B hip hop genre that's seldom seen nowadays. Their genre doesn't limit the color of their musical approach.

This strong personality group's leader is none other than Bumkey. Last year he was active as a solo artist with songs such as "Bad Girl" and "Attraction", and has been emerging as a strong source in the music world. In a time when many groups are going solo or forming units, Bumkey is returning to a group after a successful solo break.

His given name is Kwon Ki Bum, but he debuted as "Bumkey". It's a name that's unique in both English and Korean, and easy to pronounce. It's evident that he was mindful of his activities abroad, and also shows his remarkable music passion and aspirations.

Bumkey liked hip hop since he was younger, so he studied vocal based R&B, pursued the line of work he liked, and ended up here today. In a recent interview he said, "I was contemplating my pursuit of happiness, and found music." He found his happiness through music.

It's already been 10 years since he started his music career. For the long preparation time, he's featured in many songs by hip hop artists, including Palo Alto, Supreme Team, Primary, and Dynamic Duo. In 2012 he joined the company Brand New Music, and in June last year he came out with a single album and made his solo debut.

There's not much more we have to say than that his solo debut was a success. He quickly rose to the top, and played live shows across the country. He "traveled over 1000km a day to perform. When there were more holidays, he would often perform twice a day. There have been times when he wouldn't rest even a day all month." Even while preparing for Troy, he didn't have a chance to rest. Up till right before their March debut he would decrease his sleep and show powerful performances for his fans.

Bumkey's position as leader of Troy has been planned since long before. One Brand New Music rep stated, "We signed Bumkey after the members for Troy had already been decided. His preceding solo debut was planned."

So what if we strip Bumkey of his music? What kind of person is he?

His life's motto is 'happiness'. More than having a nice house or nice car, Bumkey said he wants to be a happy person. Music has become such a big part of his life, he says, "If I didn't do music, I don't know what I would have done."

One Brand New Music rep stated, "Bumkey is good and sincere. If an agency were filled with singers only like Bumkey, they would have it easy," and praised the singer. Regarding his own personality, Bumkey said, "I'm blood type A, but I'm told often that I act like an O. I do have the personality that goes with type A, but I'm not timid." He laughed. Although he can be quiet before strangers, he shows sincere affection towards the people around him.

If there's a break in his activities, he likes to spend time with other members or his friends. He still keeps in touch with his childhood friends, and enjoys a relaxed and friendly lifestyle. He must really be a big part of their lives, since they're so eager to use any of his new songs as their ringtones.

Bumkey has something else he likes just as much as music - cars. He said, "When I was younger, my childhood dream was to become a car designer. There was a period where I was taking a break from my music, so I entered a car in the auto show." It's quite surprising that this is his hobby. Since he likes cars so much, when they travel from one place to another, he'll often drive his own car. He often likes going on drives when he has time. In the future he plans to professionally learn racing. He said, "I've been really busy nowadays, but if it's something I enjoy, then I believe I must make time for it." Bumkey, when he's stripped of his music, is left with passion.

Troy has been preparing for a long time, and right from the start it looks as if their work will be quite lively. They are a new character group. Their new song "Green Light" has an exciting hip hop rhythm and light, sweet vocals with catchy rap. Just like their colorful music video, the group put on a performance that was reminiscent of a musical.

Bumkey's special soulful vocals and groovy color definitely adds to Troy's R&B hip hop character. It's evident that Bumkey's continuous musical activities have shown growth thanks to his efforts.

Bumkey is happy in Troy. He said, "Right now I feel like I'm in a dream. Even when things are hard I don't really think about how difficult it is." He'll continue working towards the number 1 spot on music charts and music programs. We can look forward to Bumkey's influence as the leader and main vocal of Troy.

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Bumkey
Troy
Green Light
M Countdown
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