TXT Returns With ‘7TH YEAR’ After Contract Renewal

Tomorrow X Together (TXT) has opened a new chapter in its career, returning with a fresh album following the group’s contract renewal with BigHit Music.

On April 12, the five members—Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taehyun, and Hueningkai—held a showcase at Korea University’s Hwajeong Gymnasium in Seoul to introduce their eighth mini album, 7TH YEAR: When the Wind Stopped in the Thorn Bush.

First comeback after renewal marks turning point

The release carries added significance as TXT’s first project since renewing their contracts, a decision the members described as swift and unanimous.

“It didn’t take even an hour for us to agree,” the group said during the event. “We wanted to continue as a team and stay with our fans.” They also revealed that RM of BTS offered advice during the process, encouraging them and acknowledging their journey over the past seven years.

Leader Soobin reflected on the moment, saying the comeback felt especially meaningful. Yeonjun added that the group approached this album “with the mindset of debuting again,” highlighting their renewed determination.

The members also spoke about their growth over time, noting that while challenges existed, their sense of identity as a team remained firm. “There were difficult moments, but never a true crisis,” Yeonjun said, emphasizing their stability and unity.

Album explores anxiety, growth, and emotional depth

The new album centers on the group’s internal journey, capturing emotions experienced over seven years—from responsibility and uncertainty to ambition and self-reflection.

The title itself symbolizes a brief moment of calm amid ongoing struggles, reflecting a pause in the turbulence of growth. The members described the project as an honest portrayal of the gap between expectations and reality, particularly around the time of contract renewal.

“We thought debuting would make us global stars right away,” they said. “But we learned through experience. These are emotions anyone can relate to.”

Musically, the album expands TXT’s narrative beyond youth and coming-of-age themes, moving into more complex emotional territory.

Title track signals shift in storytelling

The title track, “Stick With You,” is an electro-pop song driven by a powerful hook. It portrays the desperation of holding onto a relationship nearing its end, marking a departure from the group’s earlier themes.

Members contributed actively to the album’s creation. Yeonjun participated in writing and composing “So What,” while Taehyun and Hueningkai also took part in songwriting and melody development across multiple tracks. Soobin contributed lyrics to the closing song, reinforcing the album’s personal tone.

The music video features actress Jeon Jong-seo, whose performance adds cinematic depth to the narrative. The members noted her transformation on set, praising her professionalism and emotional delivery.

Looking ahead as an eighth-year group

Now in their eighth year, TXT expressed both relief and renewed focus following the early renewal of their contracts. Hueningkai said the decision allowed them to approach their comeback with a clear mind, while also thinking deeply about how to begin a new phase.

Yeonjun shared that the period leading up to the album involved personal reflection, including moments of burnout that ultimately contributed to his growth as both an artist and individual.

Looking forward, the group emphasized their commitment to longevity. “What we want most is to continue as this team for as long as possible,” Yeonjun said.

The album, featuring tracks such as “Bed of Thorns,” “Take Me to Nirvana,” and “21st Century Romance,” was released on major streaming platforms at 6 p.m. KST on April 12, marking the beginning of TXT’s next chapter.