Exclusive: Jackson Wang on loneliness, Magic Man 2, and why India's on his radar

India Today

16-06-2025

When Jackson Wang says he's always chasing honesty, he means it. The Hong Kong-born singer-rapper, performer, and entrepreneur has carved his own path in the global music scene, far from the structured world of K-pop stardom he began with. Now, with his new album, 'Magic Man 2', slated for release on July 18 and a potential world tour in the works, Wang is more candid, reflective, and creatively free than ever before. And yes, he wants India to be on that map.advertisementIn an exclusive conversation with India Today, the 31-year-old opened up about everything from loneliness and self-doubt to his deepening relationship with fans, navigating the industry independently, and what it means to stay true to yourself, even when the world is watching you drown ('High Alone').ON BEING HIS OWN ARMY'Sometimes I miss having a label, a big team. There are pros and cons,' Jackson admitted, reflecting on his status as an independent artiste, and added, 'You're the one writing, directing, monitoring. It's just one person doing everything. And that can be exhausting.'
Watch the full interview here: Despite the toll, Jackson remains committed to his vision. For 'Magic Man 2', he isn't just a performer, he's the architect. From conceptualising the visuals to mapping out promotional strategy and release timelines, it's a solo endeavour fuelled entirely by instinct and resilience.advertisement'Big corporations play it safe. There's stability, but not much room for innovation. With independence, there's risk, but also freedom,' he said, pausing to add with a grin, 'Maybe someday I'll sign with a label again, if they can follow my vision. Or maybe I'll sign with India Today!'HIS MESSAGE FOR FANSAt the heart of Jackson's new music lies a throughline of vulnerability. His recent single 'High Alone' offers a raw look into his psyche. One of the most striking scenes in the video shows Jackson drowning in a water tank, while those around him watch and laugh.Watch 'High Alone' music video here: 'Entertainment is entertainment. People come to watch the show, even when you're hurting,' Wang said matter-of-factly. "After it's over, they leave and move on to the next. That's just how the world works,' he further shared.But Jackson doesn't say this with bitterness. If anything, his years in the industry have taught him neutrality. 'There's kindness in the world. There's also indifference. It's not good or bad - it just is. You have to be mature enough to accept that. And if you can't, maybe this industry isn't for you,' Wang prompted.Wang's message to fans has shifted with time too. Once an idol trying to meet expectations, he now encourages people to put themselves first. 'I always tell my audiences to prioritise their own dream. We as artistes are here to bring you joy, sure. But never put us above your own life. Chase your dream first,' Jackson mentioned.ON WORKING WITH DILJIT DOSANJHadvertisementOne of the highlights of Jackson's recent releases is 'Buck', a high-energy collaboration with Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh. The track, with its EDM backbone and Punjabi rap flourishes, feels like a global party anthem.Watch the video here: 'Three years ago, I watched Diljit perform at Coachella. I told myself I'd love to work with him someday,' Jackson recalled, adding, 'Then, while working on 'Buck', I thought - he'd sound fire on this. I messaged him, and he was like, 'Oh brother, I'll do it.' Two weeks later, I had the vocals.''I'd love to perform it live with him. Hopefully in India,' he exclaimed.Despite his global reach and multiple hats - entrepreneur, idol, fashion muse, soloist, Jackson Wang isn't chasing labels. In fact, he's actively shedding them. 'People call me K-pop, C-pop, J-pop - whatever. Call me popcorn if you want,' he joked, sharing, 'At the end of the day, I'm just me. I'm Jackson Wang.'advertisementHe's equally unbothered by critics or the internet, who might dissect his choices. He stated, 'If you overthink, you can't do anything. Just be honest. Tell your story. If they get it, great. If not, too bad. You can't please everyone.'Jackson's enthusiasm for India isn't performative. It's personal. He's been trying to come to the country for years, and while a planned visit had to be postponed earlier this year, the desire to connect hasn't faded.'If there's any opportunity, I'll be there. Even if it's just three people in the crowd, I'll give it my all,' he mentioned. 'Hopefully after 'Magic Man 2', when I go on tour, India's on the map," he shared.'Magic Man 2' releases on July 18, 2025. It has a total of 11 songs, encapsulating every emotion he has been through before he accepts it.Must Watch