Summary (TL;DR)
Jung Kook’s new single “3D” explores themes of desire and intimacy with a refreshing focus on mutual consent. The catchy song and visually stunning music video celebrate diversity. While the rap leans straight, using more inclusive language throughout could strengthen the song’s connection with Jung Kook’s global LGBTQ+ fan base. The song’s maturity stands out from typical pop narratives that dwell on apology and forgiveness. “3D” offers a welcome change, celebrating honesty and clear communication in relationships.
Jung Kook, also known as JK or Jungkook, recently dropped a single titled “3D,” featuring a rap by Jack Harlow. Instead of dissecting whether it’s a hit or miss (a matter of personal taste), I want to delve into my experience with the song and its accompanying music video. Immersing myself in the track with eyes closed, I was quickly won over by its infectious vibe. This positive impression only grew stronger when I watched the music video, a visual feast that brought a smile to my face.
JK’s video showcases an abundance of diversity, which, to me, is profoundly beautiful. From the inclusion of people hailing from various cultural backgrounds to the wardrobe choices, captivating dance sequences, and even the chess pieces, the video paints a vivid picture. It’s believable, from his performance, that the object of his affection in the narrative would walk away from the experience with nothing but pleasure. “3D” is a sexy and respectful ode to desire, and JK’s performance embodies this sentiment perfectly.
Speaking of performance, it’s refreshing to see JK embracing his unique dance style. This personal evolution is unmistakable in the video, where he executes a few moves with undeniable confidence but differently from the others. I’ve been an avid observer of his growth as a dancer over the years, and it’s gratifying to witness the positive transformation.
The Remix Revolution: Exploring ‘3D’ in R&B
When HYBE unveiled the remixes, I nearly overlooked them, but I’m grateful I didn’t. Among them, one remix stands out, resembling an R&B track that sounded like it was sung by someone immersed in Black culture. Initially, I suspected my ears might be playing tricks on me, so I slowed down the original track, adjusted the pitch, and to my astonishment, it was indeed JK’s voice gracing this R&B-infused rendition, digitally altered.
What intrigues me most is the incorporation of R&B elements into the song, for example, vocabulary. I noticed it on the original and even thought to myself, “It’s a shame this isn’t an R&B song”. The remix transforms “3D” from a charming yet dance-centric anthem that ignites the dance floor into a sensuous melody more suited for intimate moments in the bedroom. Music, as we know, holds the power to set the mood, convey emotions, and gauge the atmosphere. For instance, sharing a seductive song with the object of your affection to gauge their response is not uncommon. Are they hinting at the possibility of taking things to the next level?
The song caters to both scenarios—couples who have experienced intimacy before and are currently separated by circumstances (long-distance relationships, travel, COVID-19, etc.).
I can’t touch you through the phone
Or kiss you through the universe
In another time zone
It’s the only time I can’t reverse
But when there’s two dimensions
There’s only one I’m missing
If you feel alone
You don’t have to feel that no more
So if you’re ready
And if you let me
I wanna see it, in motion, 3D
And the rap segment, while expressing a desire for a new experience, makes it clear it’s casual sex. Maybe someone on Instagram or TikTok caught their attention.
I had one girl, too boring
Two girls, that was cool for me
Three girls, damn dude’ horny
Four girls, okay now you’re whoring
Hey, I’m loose….
…. I’ll fly you from Korea to Kentucky
And you ain’t gotta guarantee me nothing
I just wanna see if I get lucky
I just want to meet you in the physical and see if you would touch me
Unlike many pop songs that become trapped in repetitive cycles of apology and reconciliation, “3D” offers a refreshing departure. The lyrics shift the focus away from repairing fractured relationships and delve into a more mature exploration of desire and mutual consent. This is a welcome change. Pop narratives often get weighed down by themes of heartbreak and forgiveness, where the emphasis lies on fixing what’s broken. “3D” breaks free from this pattern, presenting a scenario where two individuals are upfront and clear about their desires. This honest communication underscores the importance of consent, adding a layer of depth that makes the song stand out.
The song works beautifully when the object of affection is female, but might not resonate as strongly otherwise. It would have been inclusive to use a term of endearment instead of “girl” to allow a broader audience to relate and enjoy it, especially since Jack’s rap covers straight relationships. After all, Jung Kook boasts a dedicated LGBTQ+ fan base worldwide, and embracing broader language in future releases could create an even stronger sense of connection for them.
The ability to transform a dance track into an R&B gem is a remarkable feat. If HYBE continues to explore such creative avenues, the potential impact is far-reaching and may only be fully appreciated when it’s too late to ignore.
