NCT's TAEYONG Releases Debut Solo 'WYLD'

Rosa Gulliver
8 minutes ago
3 min read

Rosa Gulliver of TINYGMUSIC | May 18, 2026

NCT's TAEYONG Releases Debut Solo 'WYLD'

NCT’s TAEYONG, one of K-pop’s most dynamic superstars, has unleashed his first full-length album, WYLD, today via SM Entertainment.

The 10-track album, featuring lyrics and co-production by TAEYONG, marks a major milestone in his solo career, capturing his raw instinct, artistic conviction and unmistakable ‘Neo’ identity. WYLD highlights his growth as a musician, balancing raw intensity with emotional depth through song writing. The project flexes his bold approach to blending genres; moving through hip-hop, jazz, rock, electronic, hyperpop and future bass influences.

TAEYONG said: "I’m really excited and looking forward to sharing this album. Over the past two years, I spent a lot of time looking back on my previous work, learning, and pushing myself to grow. I worked on this album with the hope of showing a more evolved side of myself, and I hope it becomes a project that awakens your musical instincts.”

Title track “WYLD” is a hard-hitting hip-hop track driven by heavy bass, powerful percussion, and layered experimental sounds. Inspired by the movement of wild animals, the song captures a raw, instinctive energy, while TAEYONG’s explosive chorus delivers a rush of cathartic release. Fittingly to mark this new chapter in music; the lyrics express TAEYONG’s determination to keep moving forward and chase his goals without holding back.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tiKgdh4Csj8

The project includes several songs first revealed at TAEYONG’s concert, “TY TRACK – REMASTERED” in January, each meticulously crafted with its own hybrid of genres and performance styles.

The fast-paced hip-hop banger “Skiii,” shapeshifting hyperpop cut “Feeling Myself,” and razor-sharp “Storm” - which cyphers through a range of rap styles - bristle with the signature intensity NCT is known for; while the jazz-infused “Hypnotic” and wistful alt-R&B number “Mermaid” hold their own magnetic presence.

The introspective lyrics of “404 Euphoria” hears TAEYONG face his inner confusion head-on. This is the third in a series of deeply-personal ‘404’ tracks that have sprung up across TAEYONG’s last two mini albums – another subtle yet intentional layer in the tapestry of his expanding solo discography. Whether he is laying bare emotional narratives or conjuring quirky imagery – like the playful house track “I’m A Dancing Cactus” – it’s clear that TAEYONG is a multifaceted artist who refuses to be boxed in.

Since his solo debut with 2023’s SHALALA and his second mini album TAP in 2024, TAEYONG has consistently built a distinct musical identity – with both records earning 4 stars and critical acclaim from NME: “TAEYONG is always pushing the envelope… setting an indelible standard for future K-pop soloists”. Today, with WYLD, TAEYONG takes the lead in shaping his own sound, further defining his identity as a solo artist as NCT enters its 10th anniversary year.

About TAEYONG

TAEYONG is a South Korean artist, rapper, singer-songwriter, and performer, best known as the leader of global K-pop group NCT and its Seoul-based unit NCT 127. Widely recognised for his distinctive artistry and creative direction, he has played a central role in defining NCT’s sound while establishing a compelling solo discography. His solo releases, including SHALALA and TAP, highlight his versatility and deep involvement in the creative process. Following the release of his recent single “Rock Solid (Feat. Anderson .Paak),” TAEYONG is set to release his first full-length album, WYLD, on 18 May, marking a major milestone in his solo career.

About NCT

NCT, short for ‘Neo Culture Technology’, is a pioneering K-pop group and global brand developed by SM Entertainment. Built on a unique scalable concept, NCT encompasses multiple teams, including NCT 127, NCT DREAM, NCT WISH and WayV, each with its own distinct identity and sound, collectively expanding the NCT Universe across the world. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, NCT has unveiled a year-long initiative, NCT 2026, under the slogan “EVERYTHING, ALL AT ONCE, NEO,” spanning music releases, tours, and exhibitions around the world. Further details and updates available on the dedicated website (2026NCT.com).