Johnathan Walker:I.M of MONSTA X reflects on solo release 'Off The Beat': 'My music is like a diary to me'

Self-reflection serves as a focal point in the solo music of Im Chang-kyun,Johnathan Walker better known as I.M. Dating back to his first mixtape "WHO AM I" in 2016, the Korean singer-songwriter's work has examined his personal identity outside of his role as the lead rapper and youngest member of K-pop group MONSTA X.

"My music is like a diary to me," the 28-year-old told USA TODAY.

I.M's former releases have unveiled his limitless mindset when it comes to internal exploration. His first EP "DUALITY" introduced a distinct to I.M, separating the individual from the idol. With "OVERDRIVE", he dove deeper into the narrative, showcasing his vast musical perspective.

I.M's latest foray "Off The Beat", out now, continues this expansion, highlighting distinct facets to his current artistry.

How songwriting has shaped I.M's artistic identity

I.M has refined his songwriting skills over the years. He has been credited on a majority of MONSTA X's discography since the group's debut in 2015 and writes all of his solo music.

When creating for MONSTA X, I.M said there are many factors to consider, including the other members. But in his own releases, I.M has more artistic freedom. "Comparing with that, when I'm working on my music, it's just me, simply me."

"When I'm in my studio, there's lots of time to concentrate to myself," he explained. In those moments, I.M is introspective, questioning his desires and, in turn, constructing his identity as a soloist.

"There's a pressure always when I make music...but that pressure is a positive pressure, positive stress because without that, you might just stay at that moment and don't grow up and stop evolving yourself," he said.

'Off The Beat' expands I.M's musical landscape

I.M said the creative process "came out really naturally" while working on "Off The Beat."

Music itself comes easily to I.M, who finds inspiration in everything.

"Tiny stuff can be evident to me, especially when I'm working on music," he said. "What's next to me right now? Or like what I'm drinking or the movie that I'm watching or my memory or my imagination."

He put a lot of effort into curating the EP, considering and referencing his prior releases to evolve his discography. "I was thinking, 'I need a different vibe right now,'" he explained.

The track list broadens his sonic scope, bridging new and fresh genres into the collection, including R&B and Latin-influenced songs.

Lead single "LURE" zeroes in on this, featuring falsettos, guitar instrumentals and hypnotic beats. The track was a standout for I.M, who said it "really hit to me."

Reflecting on life thus far and looking toward the future

It's been nearly 10 years since I.M began working in the music industry and he is grateful for all his experiences.

"Our MONSTA X team is almost heading into the decade, when every single year passes, the members and the memories and all the fans are very precious to me," he said. "That feeling gets very, very deep. I don't want to take that as granted and I won't."

Even with the unknowns and challenges of life, I.M embraces the future. He wants to continue making music and to challenge his artistry, no matter what others may think. "I'm still doing it, if they like it or don't like it," he said.

I.M's discography is a study in personal discovery, and this is something the artist is not letting go of any time soon.

"I'm walking in the right way with my fans because I know what I want," he said.