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RM is the unofficial “God of Destruction” of BTS. He is also the rapper behind solo songs like “Bicycle” released during 2021. What makes bikes so special for this K-pop artist? Here’s what he said about his new track and its meaning. 

RM, Jimin, and J-Hope of BTS attend a press conference for BTS's new digital single 'Butter'
RM, Jimin, and J-Hope of BTS attend a press conference for BTS’s new digital single ‘Butter’ | The Chosunilbo JNS/Imazins via Getty Images

RM writes and releases songs for the K-pop group, BTS

As the leader and one of the songwriters in BTS, RM is one of the masterminds responsible for songs like “Permission to Dance,” “Life Goes On,” and “Boy With Luv.” As a solo artist, RM previously charted for a solo release on the Billboard 200 in 2018, with his mixtape, titled Mono.

This K-pop artist is also known for his love of nature. Fans can often find him hanging out along the Han River or Hangang Riverside Park, sometimes posting pictures of his bicycle rides. For RM’s birthday, according to Newsweek, “fans donated nearly $10,000 to plant the trees, in honor of RM’s commitment to environmental issues.”

RM also releases original songs, including ‘Bicycle’

Just after releasing BTS’ album Be (Deluxe Edition), RM premiered a new solo song. That was “Bicycle,” a nod to RM’s happy place and one of his favorite activities. This track was released in conjunction with the 2021 BTS FESTA and earned over 12 million views on its YouTube video.

“I’ve faced a lot of pressure while making music throughout my life to move ahead a little more or make music that stands out better,” RM said during an interview with Billboard. The rapper added that bikes “hold an important place in my heart.” 

“When I ride my bike, I’m free from the pressure of the things I’m supposed to feel and think about,” he continued. “I don’t care if people recognize me, and that’s the closest I get to feeling free, mentally and physically — when I’m riding fast and feeling like I’m up on a cloud.”

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RM also collaborates with other artists, including Lil Nas X

Outside of his 2021 release, RM premiered solo music on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. That includes his remix of “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X, titled “Seoul Town Road.” 

It was this song that the boy band performed together at the Grammy Awards, becoming the first K-pop group to sing at the award ceremony in the process. However, RM wouldn’t be the only BTS member who released solo music. 

In 2018, J-Hope premiered his chart-topping mixtape, Hope World. Under the stage name Agust D, Suga released solo songs like “Moonlight” and “Daechwita.” He also played a role in producing music for other artists, later collaborating with Halsey for her album Manic.

Music by BTS, including RM’s solo song titled “Bicycle,” is available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, and most major platforms.