TEN Goes Solo Again: NCT Star Drops Sleek New MV for “OUTWEST,” His First Release Since Leaving SM

After months of speculation about what would come next following his agency exit, TEN just answered with a full comeback. On September 4, the NCT and WayV member released his new single “OUTWEST” along with a slick music video — marking his first solo output since departing SM Entertainment and co-founding his own label, ILLIMNT.

A Sound Built Around Self-Expression

TEN didn’t just front this release — he personally wrote the composition and lyrics for “OUTWEST,” blending elements of hip hop, tech house, and R&B into a track described as capturing his senses and cravings as a performer. It’s a notably hands-on approach for an artist stepping into life after a major label for the first time.

OUTWEST: Overview

Why This Comeback Carries Extra Weight

TEN’s exit from SM Entertainment earlier this year made headlines, but the agreement that let him stay active within NCT and WayV meant fans always knew group activities weren’t off the table. What “OUTWEST” answers is a different question: what does TEN’s solo identity look like once he’s steering his own creative direction, label and all? Given his history of pushing artistic boundaries — from his 2024 solo EP debut to his reputation as one of NCT’s most distinct performers — this release feels like a statement of independence as much as a comeback single.

For fans who’ve followed his journey from Thai trainee to global K-pop performer, “OUTWEST” lands as proof that leaving SM hasn’t slowed him down one bit.

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