BTS’s Suga Reveals Writing Songs For Other Artists Does Not Really “Benefit” Him—And Why He Writes Anyway

BTS‘s Suga isn’t just a K-Pop idol, he’s a rapper and songwriter as well. He’s one of the most well-known singers when it comes to producing hit after hit for other artists.

He acknowledged his different talents in an interview with Weverse Magazine.

I’m BTS’s SUGA, and I’m Agust D, and when I’m producing, I go by ‘by SUGA.’

— Suga

Unlike his work as Agust D or as a BTS member, the melodies that he produces for others have a more “commercial” sound. Suga acknowledged this and said it was to be expected as he has the responsibility to make songs that the companies hiring him approve of.

But when it comes to by SUGA, I make perfectly commercial music. I’m the producer for those songs, sure, but the owner is someone else, you know? In that case, they’re commissioning my work. But they wouldn’t think about just leaving it all with SUGA. The artist’s label has to think carefully about whether to commission me for producing and consider my situation, too, and those people must be hoping for something commercial.

— Suga

Giving the artist’s label what they want is crucial as a songwriter, with him saying, “That’s the most important part of working with outside people.” Suga then admitted that he does not receive too many benefits from making songs for other artists. He implied that it is neither money nor similar direct advantages that keep him going.

Actually, that kind of work isn’t much of a benefit to me.

— Suga

Instead, he’s happy when listeners agree that he’s a capable songwriter who can handle different genres.

‘Oh, he can write this kind of song, too.’ That’s all. The more valuable thing I can get from it is the recognition and records the artist or the company will get with the song instead.

— Suga

Your browser does not support video.Suga and Suran won the “Hot Trend Award” in the 2017 Melon Music Awards 

Some songs written by Suga include Suran‘s “Wine” (2017), HEIZE‘s “We Don’t Talk Together” (2019), and IU‘s “Eight” (2020).