On April 5, 2025, BTS member j-hope reminisced about his formative experiences during his time on the reality show American Hustle Life in an interview with the Los Angeles Times.
In 2014, this unique series placed the seven members of BTS into the heart of American hip-hop culture, significantly influencing their musical journey. The show was designed not only to provide insights into the genre but also to allow the group to engage in real-life experiences that would ultimately help define their artistic identities.
Among the notable figures BTS encountered was the late rapper, actor, and producer Coolio, renowned for his iconic 1995 hit “Gangsta’s Paradise.”Filmed in Los Angeles, the show challenged the group to undertake various tasks while receiving guidance from celebrated artists, including Coolio and Warren G. These interactions were pivotal in pushing the group beyond their comfort zones and instilling a greater appreciation for the hip-hop genre.
Coolio’s mentorship had a profound effect on j-hope and his colleagues. In early episodes, he devised tasks that tested their adaptability and understanding of hip-hop culture. Coolio’s authentic support and invaluable advice left a lasting impression on the group.
Reflecting on his experiences years later, j-hope shared with the Los Angeles Times how transformative that period was for him artistically:
“It was more than just a musical influence. I was very young at that time, and if I had the chance to go back now, I think I could understand and take in a lot more. At the time, though, it was a process to adapt to a new culture, different from the one I grew up in,”he said.
During the interview, j-hope also paid homage to Coolio, acknowledging his impact on his development as both a rapper and a person:
“And I believe that those moments were crucial for my growth and shaped who I am today. That’s the most important lesson I took from that experience. Rest in peace, Coolio,”he expressed.
American Hustle Life served as a platform for BTS to immerse themselves in a completely different culture. One memorable activity required the members to hand out flyers, inviting the public to attend their showcase for free.
BTS’ j-hope Reflects on Musical Milestones and Touring Success
In the same interview, Christine Terrisse from the Los Angeles Times spotlighted j-hope’s significant achievement with his recent single “Mona Lisa,”which became his seventh solo track to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. This accomplishment ties him with fellow BTS member Jungkook for the most Hot 100 entries by a K-pop artist.
Notably, the interview coincided with j-hope headlining his HOPE ON THE STAGE concert at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles on April 4, 2025. With a capacity of 22,000 seats, the show was a resounding success, resulting in additional seats being released due to high demand, according to Ticketmaster.
As reported by Touring K-pop, over 46,236 tickets were sold for the concerts on April 4 and 6, 2025, highlighting j-hope’s growing popularity.
After his military service, j-hope expressed excitement about pursuing a solo tour, viewing it as a crucial opportunity for personal and artistic growth. When asked about the remarkable progress in his career—from receiving a single fan letter at his debut to leading major stadium concerts—j-hope reflected humbly:
“Of course, I could not have imagined back then that I would have this kind of life and I really appreciate what I have currently. As time passes by, I’m really grateful to see more and more people listening to and enjoying my music. I feel like it’s their support and passion that allow me to be the artist I am today,”he remarked.
Upcoming Concert Dates for j-hope’s HOPE ON THE STAGE Tour
Fans can look forward to the following performances:
- Los Angeles, California, USA: April 6, 2025 – BMO Stadium
- Manila, Philippines:
- April 12, 2025 – SM Mall of Asia Arena
- April 13, 2025 – SM Mall of Asia Arena
- Saitama, Japan:
- April 19, 2025 – Saitama Super Arena
- April 20, 2025 – Saitama Super Arena
- Singapore:
- April 26, 2025 – Singapore Indoor Stadium
- April 27, 2025 – Singapore Indoor Stadium
- Jakarta, Indonesia:
- May 3, 2025 – Indonesia Arena, GBK
- May 4, 2025 – Indonesia Arena, GBK
- Bangkok, Thailand:
- May 10, 2025 – Impact Arena
- May 11, 2025 – Impact Arena
- Macau, China:
- May 17, 2025 – Galaxy Arena
- May 18, 2025 – Galaxy Arena
- Taipei, Taiwan:
- May 24, 2025 – NTSU Arena
- May 25, 2025 – NTSU Arena
- Osaka, Japan:
- May 31, 2025 – Kyocera Dome Osaka
- June 1, 2025 – Kyocera Dome Osaka
Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, Live Nation, and select approved regional resellers. Fans are encouraged to visit BIGHIT MUSIC’s official website for the latest details on the tour.