Gong Minzy finally made her highly anticipated debut with the release of "NINANO" MV on Monday, April 17. But despite her new quest as a solo artist, the former YG artist and 2NE1 member did not forget to look back from where she came from.
"After leaving YG and 2NE1, both of which were like my hometown, I was very nervous," she admitted as per Soompi. "I felt pressured to meet all of the expectations."
The idol went on, "YG is like my family's ancestral home. After all, that is where I learned to sing and dance. It was a great help for many reasons. Because there was YG, there can be the artist Gong Minzy."
But despite having to leave YG Entertainment, the former 2NE1 member found a new home in Music Works which she said implements a more systematic approach compared to her previous agency.
Gong Minzy added that the preparation for her solo debut has opened a lot of opportunities for her to improve as an artist. "Preparing my album was a good catalyst, as it was a new challenge for me and a new opportunity for me to grow," she explained.
When asked about her transition from being in 2NE1 and venturing as a solo artist, Gong Minzy admitted she felt pressured given the popularity of the YG girl group. However, the idol said her relationship with the former co-members has remained the same even after she left the group.
"We monitor each other, and communicate with each other frequently. They also cheer me on a lot," she added.
Allkpop cited Gong Minzy's title track for "Minzy Work 01 Uno" EP has "stronger beat and edgier melody" compared to the usual dance songs. The former 2NE1 member collaborated with Flowsik for "NINANO" along with Melanie Fontana, Mitchel "Lindgren" Schulz, and Jon Asher.
Aside from the single, Gong Minzy's debut album also features five other songs, namely "Superwoman," "ING," "Flashlight (feat. Jay Park)" and "Beautiful Lie."
