Rosa Gulliver of TINYGMUSIC | March 21, 2025
J-Hope has unveiled a new solo digital single titled “MONA LISA,” accompanied by a music video. This release comes just two weeks after the digital single launch of “Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)” on March 7, further enhancing the broad and compelling allure of its predecessor.
The hip-hop/R&B track “MONA LISA” honours the celebration of individual beauty. Drawing inspiration from Leonardo da Vinci’s renowned painting ‘Mona Lisa,’ the song compares the admiration for an enchanting person to the everlasting masterpiece. It emphasises that true attraction stems from the unique traits that distinguish each individual, rather than outward appearance.
In this track, J-Hope effortlessly blends hip-hop and R&B with a catchy, danceable rhythm and smooth, easy-listening melodies, crafting a sound that feels both new and timeless. As the song progresses, the chorus near the end encourages an infectious sing-along, enhancing the uplifting, feel-good vibe. With its smooth melodies and evocative lyrics, J-Hope dominates the track, projecting a refined bravado with a sensual touch. J-Hope was involved in the track's production, highlighting his ever-evolving artistry and musical skill. Additionally, Blake Slatkin, known for working with Charlie Puth, Sam Smith, Lizzo, and others, is credited on the track.
J-Hope premiered “MONA LISA” with a first-ever live performance during the sold-out Brooklyn stop of his first solo world tour ‘HOPE ON THE STAGE in North America’ at Barclays Center on March 13 & 14. Since its premiere, fan-captured footage of the performance has been going viral across social media, highlighting his smooth, effortlessly cool delivery that perfectly blends a laid-back attitude with a distinct hip vibe.
The music video was eagerly awaited and released alongside the track. It creatively animates the track with a performance-focused style, presenting hip-hop with a sleek, sophisticated flair and a striking modern aesthetic. In the video, J-Hope navigates a set reminiscent of a contemporary art museum, embodying a living work of art as he performs. The camera, capturing his dazzling movements in a smooth flow, enhances the performance's captivating nature. Meanwhile, dynamic lighting effects highlight his silhouettes, making the video a mesmerising visual masterpiece. J-Hope’s styling, adorned with glittery details, exudes a luxurious and free-spirited aura, enhancing the music video's overall aesthetic.
Following the easy-listening, dreamy sound of “Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel),” J-Hope unveils yet another facet of his unique artistry with “MONA LISA,” a track that exudes his smooth, laid-back charm. With this, J-Hope expands his musical spectrum, solidifying his status as one of the most dynamic and sought-after global artists.
“MONA LISA” is available now on all streaming platforms worldwide.
About J-Hope
J-Hope (Jeong Hoseok) is a South Korean rapper, dancer, songwriter, music producer and member of 21st century pop icons, BTS. Known as the ‘lead dancer’ of the group, J-Hope boasts his performance skills that are nearly perfect. His originality in music as an artist also comes from the fact that he learned music through dance. J-Hope has been participating in making music such as “Intro : Boy Meets Evil” and “MAMA” in WINGS, and his solo works. J-Hope’s first mixtape Hope World (March 2018) expressed his honest emotions and personal narratives, suggesting his vision as an artist. Globally-famed “Chicken Noodle Soup (feat. Becky G)” released in 2019 showcased his own musical personality with exhilarating energy and performance. J-Hope also validated his capability as a creative director by leading all aspects—from music to concept and visual elements of his solo album, Jack In The Box (July 2022), which addresses his passion and agony he goes through as an artist. In 2022, J-Hope made history as the first South Korean act to headline a main stage at Lollapalooza. J-Hope released a special album HOPE ON THE STREET VOL.1 alongside docuseries ‘HOPE ON THE STREET’ in March 2024. In March 2025, J-Hope released a series of solo singles “Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)” and “MONA LISA,” further cementing his global presence. He is set to headline BMO Stadium in Los Angeles in April 2025 as part of his first solo world tour ‘HOPE ON THE STAGE,’ becoming the first South Korean male artist ever to headline a stadium concert in North America.
About BTS
BTS, an acronym of Bangtan Sonyeondan or “Beyond the Scene,” are a GRAMMY-nominated South Korean boyband that has been capturing the hearts of millions of fans globally since their debut in June 2013. The members of BTS are RM, Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook. Gaining recognition for their authentic and self-produced music, top-notch performances, and the way they interact with their fans, the band has established themselves as 21st century pop icons breaking countless world records. While imparting a positive influence through activities such as the LOVE MYSELF campaign and the UN ‘Speak Yourself’ speech, the band has mobilised millions of fans across the world (named ARMY), collected six No.1 Billboard Hot 100 singles since 2020, and performed multiple sold-out stadium shows across the world. They were also named TIME’s Entertainer of the Year 2020. BTS are 5-time GRAMMY nominees (63rd to 65th GRAMMY Awards) and have been recognised with numerous prestigious awards like the Billboard Music Awards, American Music Awards (Artist of the Year 2021) and MTV Video Music Awards.
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