Kim Taehyung, aka V from BTS, has just released his digital single “FRI(END)S.” This pop soul R&B track features a heartwarming confession and showcases Taehyung’s rich, soulful vocals that effortlessly traverse between low and high ranges.
Through its witty lyrics, “FRI(END)S” expresses the desire to “put the ‘end’ in friends” and elevate a longstanding friendship to a deeper level, as cleverly hinted by the title’s wordplay —’END’ bracketed in the word ‘FRIENDS.’
On YouTube, “FRI(END)S” debuted at #1 on the Global Top Music Videos chart, a daily ranking of the most popular music videos on the platform.
The music video, directed by renowned British photographer and director Samuel Bradley, consists of elements that evoke empathy and surprise through its unexpected twists. It deviates from stereotypes that typically portray the familiar narrative of transitioning from friends to lovers.
The MV also stars British actress Ruby Sear, known for her role in the Netflix series “The Gentlemen,” who portrays Taehyung’s love interest.
As explained by the director, “the video depicts V as a conflicted protagonist experiencing love from two different perspectives”—one as a single individual and the other involved in a romantic relationship. As his day unfolds twice, in one scenario, he is alone amidst couples, evoking bitterness and loneliness, while in the second, he is part of a couple himself, radiating the warmth of springtime with a smile on his face.
Listen to “FRI(END)S” on Spotify below.