In November 13, 2017, RM decided to change his stage name which he grew fond of over the years and has been a foundation of his music career. He penned a letter to ARMYs telling us his decision and what it meant to him.
Over the years RM has produced songs which has strong impact and angst which started since he was a known underground rapper in the early days of his career. He was tearing up the underground hip hop scene. But also, over the years, RM has come into an evolution of his music, along with his self. He expressed that the name change is also because of the music he aim to produce. And from then on, we have seen a phenomenal change in him. He has matured and grew into the artist we all know today. He still has the same fire, but stronger as he also came to know who he is along with his music.
“There might be turning points in your life, so live, to see through them”
“My goal is to be mature in many ways including my way of thinking. I want to become a person who thinks more righteously and makes greater music. Those are my goals.”
— Kim Namjoon also known as RM of BTS (fr his vlives)
It’s a journey of finding his self and Rap Mon is the beginning of it all — it is his foundation and foreground. RM didn’t forgot about Rap Monster, he just outgrew it like maybe how a 12 year old outgrowing their favorite outfit. Which tells us that change can be a good thing — it’s inevitable especially when one is slowly trying to find their purpose and what they want in life. Change will lead you to where you ought to be and who you will become. We’re always one decision away to something amazing and different.
Like RM, we may grow fond of the things we are used to and it may take us time to finally decide on what to do with them. But also, like him, let’s embrace the possible changes in our lives with an open mind and outlook. His name change isn’t something ordinary like “I just think this is cute” — it’s a representation of his decision and growth, of who he wants to become and aspire to be. RM and Namjoon, he have showed us more of what music and art can offer. And whichever music he chooses to produce, we’re sure it’s going to be something amazing. And there will and might be more changes in the future, but we’re pretty sure with who is now, it’s going to be for something he loves.
It’s a reminder to embrace the unfamiliar and look at them with an open mind. Being scared is human nature, but as how RM embraced his new name along with his music and self, we’ll all get along with it. Rap Monster, will always be Rap Monster just like your favorite toys when you were young who have kept you company. And as a fan who genuinely appreciates the RM of today, sincerely thank Rap Monster for giving him that beginning. He still has the same vision, but more specific.
How he have grown for the past 1000 days is such an amazing character development and we all can’t wait for more #1000DaysWithRM and another 1000 days more. Whether you have come to know him as Rap Mon or RM or Namjoon, don’t worry because all versions are beautiful.
