In recent years, there has been a rise in the popularity of K-pop in the US and around the world. However, with any trends comes those who love it, and those who hate it. Some may say that K-pop is not everyones cup of tea; but we beg to differ. There are hundreds of groups who have their own distinct sound that have similarities to music popular in western culture. If people were able to give the music a chance and get past the memes and hardcore fans in the K-pop scene, we think they would be captivated by the many talented artists they would discover.
Wasp, by 2 members of the group P1Harmony, Intak Hwang and Jongseob Kim, is a rap song that breaks common stereotypes placed on K-pop. When thinking about K-pop, most people would think of cutesy, high energy pop songs, but this song is far from that. Even within the K-pop industry, member Jongseob is known for his impressive and difficult rap sequences and flows that even veteran rappers can’t replicate. Wasp is a powerful song that includes bold vocals that pack a punch. It’s certain to have any listener who’s a fan of rap or hip hop adding it to their playlists.
Easy by LE SSERAFIM is a trap r&b song that tackles a message that anyone can relate to. The song shares the message that even though the group members make everything they do look easy, they still face difficulties behind the scenes that others do not see. Produced by Sean Tucker, who has worked for artists like Bad Bunny and Lil Tecca, the bass down to the sampler that opens the song are addictive when combined with the group members’ soft vocals and adlibs. Anyone who is a fan of artists like Bryson Tiller and SZA would most definitely love this track.
Daydream by ENHYPEN is a hip-hop track that has a distinct feel that is not often seen in the average K-pop song. It is produced by Johnny Goldstein, who has produced for artists such as the Black Eyed Peas and Kanye West. The song includes classic hip hop sounding instrumentals, but is paired with both rap sequences and the lyrics being whispered for the majority of the song, creating a distinct ambiance and experience for the listener. The lyrics of the song follow the most universal themes in music: love and the desire to be near that love interest. To those who love a solid beat and bass, this song is definitely for them.
Supernatural by New Jeans is an upbeat hip and r&b fusion, which many consider to be their signature sound. A unique aspect of this song is its fusion of three languages, English, Korean and Japanese. The lyrics follow the story of the girls falling in love, a common theme in most pop music. Due to its groove and r&b influences it, it almost feels like a pop song you’d hear in the 90s. At the same time we think this is a song that even those whose favorite genre isn’t pop would enjoy and dance along to, as was seen when this song blew up on TikTok and everyone was learning the choreography.
K-pop has a large range of songs that could fit anyone’s preference in music genres. We covered songs that take heavy influence from hip-hop, R&B, and rap music, but this music scene can even range from rock to synth pop. Even if someone does not understand Korean, music is a universal language that everyone can develop a connection with.