British-Punjabi actor Taz Singh on the 'absolutely amazing' experience of working with RM of BTS
"As an actor and human being, if it connects with others and gives people a sense of belonging, encouragement and relatability, it's all worth it."
Known for his love of visual arts and storytelling, RM of BTS has recently been making waves for his new alternative album Right Place, Wrong Person. Just this week, the rapper achieved his first #1 on Billboard’s Top Rap Albums chart with the project.
In his recent music video for ‘LOST!’, RM is seen trying to navigate through a maze-like building, entering various rooms and floors. Eventually, he finds himself on the set of a dystopian-looking talk show, where he is unexpectedly a musical guest.
The music video, written and directed by Aube Perrie (who also directed Harry Styles’s ‘Satellite’ music video), is both bizarre and a visual treat for the eyes. But it also gives audiences a look at up-and-coming talent.
Taz Singh, a U.K. based actor of Indian-Punjabi descent, makes an appearance in ‘LOST!’ as a TV show host. And ever since the music video’s release, Singh’s appearance has gone viral within South Asian communities from around the world.
Singh recently chatted with bunni pop about what it was like to work with RM and his goals for the future as an actor.
How did this opportunity to appear in RM's music video come up for you?
It came through my U.K. agent and team. At the time it was a confidential Korean project. I auditioned and was called back for another audition. Afterwards, I was confirmed. Later, I found out I would be working with RM. I was full of joy and excitement. Of course, I had to keep everything confidential.
Tell me about the experience shooting the video, as well as working and meeting with RM?
I have to say a big thank you to RM, San Yawn and Aube Perrie. It was an honour to work with them. I'm grateful for the creative inspiration and direction. Working with RM was absolutely amazing. I also want to say thank you to the other cast, Stephany Yujin, Miji Yi, David H.Lee, Natallia Bulynia, Audrey Kang, Hee Shin, Yasamin Saadati, Kasra Nemati the crew and everyone, and to Pulse Films. I had a really lovely time.
You got to speak a bit of Korean here in this particular music video. Have you already been a fan and consumer of K-pop and Korean content even before this experience?
I grew up with Asian friends and was introduced to Korean culture, music and entertainment during my school years. Soon, I became a fan of G-Dragon, Taeyang and Big Bang at that time, and my friends later introduced me to Korean dramas. It was intriguing, and different to what I usually watched. Soon after, I embraced the culture, started to try learn the Korean language and soon became conversational with friends. As time passed, I later decided to take and pass [The Test of Proficiency in Korean] exam.
What is a memory that sticks out for you from this experience?
There are many, honestly. The scene in the MV where RM climbs up over all the other people and as he reaches the top, his head comes through the desk, with two hosts looking at him, is probably one of my favourite scenes. To shoot that was challenging, but very fun.
Many in the South Asian community are very excited to see Sikh representation in this music video. What does that mean to you as a performer? How important is that for you?
I'm all about making others happy, so I'm glad it has become very exciting. A lot of people have made these YouTube shorts, or reels, of my scenes in the MV. I have received a lot of warm responses from BTS ARMYs, Sikh fans and just everyone around the world! As an actor and human being, if it connects with others and gives people a sense of belonging, encouragement and relatability, it's all worth it.
What are your future goals and plans as an actor? Where can we see you next?
I'm currently working on some things in Japan right now. I would like to do more work in Korean projects in the future, if it happens. Same for India and Bollywood. I'm up for working in Canada too, well, I already have the work permit, so let's see. If it happens, it happens. I can't say too much about some of the things that are yet to come out but stay tuned. I'm really grateful for the warm responses from everyone. I will keep working hard and doing my best!
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
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