#b.a.p meaningful songs

[awkwards-winter-blog]

A list of B.A.P’s songs that aimed to spread a message (non-romance) ---- updated.

was writing for a school assignment, don’t mind don’t mind.

// update: i got an A for my assignment for this.

// update #2: will be reblogging this post to constantly update it instead of editing! updated till i remember.

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Never Give Up (2011) Pre-debut Unit (Bang&Zelo)

never give up : everything will be okay ultimately, just believe in yourself and chase for your dreams

“ Taking thousand dollars private lessons This system that emphasizes grades over friendships This pressure called exams, this burden called college The stress that are building up, would my parents know? “

“  Never give up Cheer up, toward your dreams, never give up Get up, get up, you can do it Wake up, wake up Don’t worry, everything will be fine, never give up Because it’s you, it’s you, believe in yourself Never give up “

Warrior (2012) Debut EP

warrior : talks about the injustice within the society that we must fight against

“ A punch that I throw for you, Who are thirsty from the long fight Everyone’s different, everyone takes sides And those words are just words of ignorant people Since the words that echoes in my heart is different from yours I’m mad so listen to my 4 measure nagging (Rest In Peace) This prayer for truths Even if the hidden system, the black shadow cover it up This holy badge that won’t yield “

unbreakable : talks about not giving up on oneself and not letting others tear you down // motivation

“ In the beginning, when everyone said we would fail We clenched our jaws and sharpened our wings Even if it was dirty and upsetting, we held it all in We fought and won all of our self-battles (Even if we have to kneel down, even if we clash we’ll never break down) “

Power (2012) EP

fight for freedom : fight against conformity, to be who we really are, to say things we really mean

“ When others say yes, we say no We don’t associate with the same types Like it like it like that I want to say what I want without being stopped ”

“ Until when are you gonna be trapped Until when will you live like others ”

power : encourages the weak to stand up against the strong who abuse their money and power

“  You block out your ears and mouth, You’re so busy filling up your own boats that your roles are stolen away from you Like a decalcomanie, a role where money, power and honor don’t change Move, it is time for the anthem for the battle between the strong and the weak This is a Revolution, a Guernica flow So everyone, keep your head up “ “ There’s no more, no more justice The world surrenders to money In the shadows of the powerful, The weak are dying “

“ One shot! Anger, it’s the oppression given by those Who covers the bright light Two shot! Those who look exactly like the devil Put on a fake face every day Three shot! They put on a mask called justice And my ego stands up against them and fights Four shot! Go with the rhythm and without knowing, break down those who are trapped in a boundary “

“ Don’t need it, don’t need fakeness Only the wicked can survive in this world With a smiling face, they appear on TV and trample on young souls “

what the hell : problems within the society that should be recognised, but they are hidden and that we have the power to change the world for the better

“  So many ties are being used to cover the truth Putting a make on the fakes and saying It’s only indifference Leaving the children alone one by one There’s a crime but no criminal, does it even make sense? “

  “  The strength that governs the world is a problem What the hell is the law of the jungle? Why are good and evil split by money? And why are the weak killed? This is a coward war Hey, can you feel this? The fact that invisible hands Are maneuvering you according to their will Hiding the truths, TV and radio Are putting a blindfold on me, hiding the scandals  “

“  Change over the world, you have the right to do so Now spread your voice far far away “

Goodbye (2012) Single

goodbye : encouragement for listeners to pursue their dreams, to pick themselves up when they are down, to not be afraid of new beginnings / startings and that it is okay to feel lost.

“  I don’t know the word, “quit” – there’s no need to rush It’s good, I am just breathing for my dreams If I fall down, I’ll get back up – If I enjoy my failures, that’s that That’s right, The world is becoming my side again “

“ Why are people so easily influenced? I’m worried that I will walk on this path, Swayed by others words Their hearts are poor But I can escape it I will brush myself off And run once more Get up once more, right now  “

“ Take in a deep breath and let it out You can do it, Keep walking toward your hopes That can be reached Don’t stop in this shadow of the world You are more free than anyone else “

대박사건 (Crash) (2012) Single

note: even though i remember is in a way largely a romance song, but there are some lyrics that i feel, fit relationships, like frienships and kinships. we all have people and peers knocking us down but we come out stronger right? so i remember is based on my personal opinion!

i remember : to me, at least, it was about being hurt by someone a person truly cared for and how they’ve grown apart. but they take the memories with them as they form a part of them, helps them discover who they are and makes them, them. and to believe in yourself that you will be able to do it, even if no one says you can.

“ I don’t know why all of our Hell-like memories are still in my head I will remember all of our past days, How you played me I completely changed Because of you I don’t smile anymore Like before “

“  I wanted to be greater Than anyone so you could regret Yeah, my music that you looked down on Is playing on the streets of Seoul (Rock on) “

“  The fact that you left me Because you didn’t believe in my dream This reality drives me crazy “

“  Even if I walk this road by myself for a bit I will show you my everything “

[sxrella]

me: man, all of b.a.p's songs are so deep and have so much meaning

b.a.p: loco get a coco dududududududu

[p1harmonyofficial]

[📰] 20 Questions With P1Harmony: K-Pop Rookies on the High Energy of 'Disharmony: Break Out' Mini-Album

By Heran Mamo

Plus: See a full, translated video interview with the sextet exclusively on Billboard.

P1Harmony explore a wide range of topics and genres on their high-intensity mini-album Disharmony: Break Out, which was released April 20 as the follow-up to their first EP, Disharmony: Stand Out.

Named one of the rookie K-pop groups to watch in 2021 by Time, members Keeho, Theo, Jiung, Intak, Soul and Jongseob had a unique experience stepping into the spotlight for the first time: The sextet debuted in the Korean film P1H: The Beginning of a New World on Oct. 8, 2020, before releasing their debut EP, Disharmony: Stand Out, on Oct. 28. Starring in a film prior to releasing their own music allowed P1Harmony to be more comfortable and confident enhancing their choreography (their Billie Eilish medley choreography has amassed more than 1 million YouTube views) and even coming up with their own music video concepts.

To commemorate the release of Disharmony: Break Out, the members of P1Harmony answered Billboard’s 20 questions about how Korea shaped who they are, how their evolving sound shines through on their latest mini-album, and the meanings they've taken away from this project as well as what they hope their fans will too.

1. What’s the first piece of music that you bought for yourself, and what was the medium?

Keeho: 5 Seconds of Summer, CD

Theo: BIGBANG’s MADE, CD

Jiung: Lee Moon Sae, cassette tape

Intak: Teen Top's "Miss Right," mp3

Soul: G-Dragon, CD

Jongseob: B.A.P’s "1004," CD

2. What was the first concert you saw?

Keeho: Ariana Grande’s The Listening Session

Theo: BIGBANG’s MADE Concert

Jiung: Lee Sun Hee’s Concert

Intak: Open Concert by KBS when I was 7!

Soul: Teen Top’s Japan Concert

Jongseob: B.A.P Concert

3. What did your parents do for a living when you were a kid?

Keeho: [My mom] used to do work related to music, she was a musician. My dad used to work at a university as a counselor.

Theo: My mom is a hairstylist.

Jiung: My mom used to be a banker and my dad used to work at National Tax Service.

Intak: My mom is a [yoga] trainer or coach and my dad is a businessman.

Soul: I’m not sure.

Jongseob: My mom used to be a jazz dancer as well as an instructor and my dad used to work at National Dance Company of Korea.

4. Who made you realize you could be an artist full-time?

Keeho: Myself and acquaintances

Theo: Myself

Jiung: My rap and my vocal coach

Intak: My parents. They gave me full support, as well as the confidence to be able to pursue my dream.

Soul: Teen Top

Jongseob: B.A.P and my parents

5. What’s at the top of your professional bucket list?

Keeho: The Grammys!

Theo: Our own world tour!

Jiung: To perform in front of a million people

Intak: To become a respected musician

Soul: To perform at a big music festival or a stadium, like Coachella

Jongseob: To perform until I can’t

6. How did your hometown/city shape who you are?

Keeho: It’s a place where I was able to gain my own confidence and learn the importance of being friendly [manners]. It’s also where I was able to experience a wide range of vocalists and their styles, which ultimately helped me shape and find my own vocal style.

Theo: It’s a place where I was able to live without any pressure or concerns.

Jiung: For me, my hometown is currently a place where I can find mental stability and state of relaxation. I reminiscence about my hometown quite frequently when I need to recoup and find mental stability.

Intak: I was raised in the rural part of Korea, so I was always close to nature and grew up playing in the valleys or riding gunny sacks in the mountains. I think that’s what helped me be at leisure.

Soul: It’s a place where I grew up without any hardships.

Jongseob: It was one of the most comfortable places in Korea with positive vibes and clean, refreshing air, which helped me find peace and ease.

7. What’s the last song you listened to?

Keeho: Ariana Grande’s "POV"

Theo: P1Harmony’s "End It"

Jiung: DPR IAN’s MITO

Soul: P1Harmony’s "Reset"

Jongseob: Penomeco’s Dry Flower

8. What’s your karaoke go-to?

Keeho: Alicia Keys, "If I Ain't Got You"

Theo: BIGBANG’s "BANG BANG BANG"

Intak: Bobby’s "YGGR"

Soul: I don’t go to karaoke haha

Jongseob: Beenzino’s "Dali, Van, Picasso"

9. If you could see any artist in concert, dead or alive, who would it be?

Keeho: Beyoncé

Theo: G-Dragon and Huh Gak

Jiung: Lee Sun Hee

Intak: Michael Jackson

Soul: Beyoncé

Jongseob: Post Malone

10. How has the pandemic affected your creative process?

Keeho: My source of inspiration has become very limited, as I don’t get to go to new places or meet new people.

Theo: I think because I couldn’t really go out, I was able to focus more on my craft.

Jiung: I was able to really dig deep into my work, writing lyrics and composing.

Intak: I didn't have a lot of ideas, but I also thought writing about COVID-19 could be a source of new ideas.

Soul: It was hard because I couldn’t really go to places that would usually help me get inspiration.

Jongseob: It was a bit difficult because I lacked having new experiences and meeting new people. My source of inspiration was also very limited, because I would just go to the same places.

11. How did starring in the film P1H: The Beginning of a New World prepare you for your debut as a K-pop boy band?

Keeho: I think it was a good opportunity for me to learn how to be more comfortable in front of the cameras.

Theo: I was able to gain confidence and felt a sense of pride knowing that we were the first ones to debut in a unique way with a full-length movie.

Jiung: I think it was a unique way of introducing us to the world and gave us the opportunity to learn how to be more focused and theatrical onstage.

Soul: It was a great experience, because it allowed me to learn the basic manners of the industry and the importance of staff members.

Jongseob: I think it helped us build a strong storyline and composition for our music. It will be easier to understand our music and its message if you watch the movie.

12. What do you want fans to take away from your mini-album Disharmony: Break Out?

Keeho: I believe it would depend and vary on how you interpret it, but we hope our listeners really enjoy our music.

Theo: I hope our fans and listeners gain confidence through our music, which is one of our strongest messages.

Jiung: I would like for our fans P1ece to really understand, take and gain everything from what we are trying to deliver in our message.

Intak: I would like for our fans to find the courage to speak up and have their own voice.

Soul: I just want our fans to be happy when they're listening to our music!

Jongseob: I think it depends on who is listening, but I hope our fans can take away anything and everything they can in a positive way and earn confidence as well.

13. Which song from Disharmony: Break Out is the most meaningful to you and why?

Keeho: I think it’s "If You Call Me" because it's a song that all six of us worked on together

Theo: I would like to pick "Reset," because I did so well in the studio while recording this song, so it means a lot to me.

Jiung: I’d say "Pyramid" because the lyrics "I’m on the top of the pyramid" helps me feel like I’m really the best and makes me want to live by that mindset. It definitely has become one of my favorite tracks.

Intak: I would pick "If You Call Me" for the same reason Keeho picked it. It’s a meaningful song to me because we all worked on it together as a team.

Soul: I think every single track on the album has a special meaning for me and because it’s all our songs, it’s a super difficult question to answer.

Jongseob: I think for me, our title track "Scared" is the most meaningful. The message of the song, which is not to be afraid to voice your own opinions and to live the life you want to live, is what I strongly believe in and that’s the kind of attitude I want to have.

14. Your debut EP Disharmony: Stand Out is much more hip-hop leaning, while your second features more R&B harmonies and EDM production while still refining the rap verses. What made you want to switch up your sound in only a manner of six months?

Keeho: I think we wanted to really make sure our message is being delivered clearly and strongly, so I think that’s why we picked tracks that were as strong with aggressive sounds.

Jiung: I don’t think we had a special moment or particular reason as to why we decided to do what. We just wanted to portray our feelings and thoughts that we felt at that moment while making music, and the time that we spent in between our albums, is what probably contributed to the change of sound as well.

Intak: As Keeho mentioned, I think we wanted to stand out a bit more with more clarity and distinct characteristics, which is what drove the aggressiveness and the slight change of sounds for this album.

15. Since you help choreograph and conceptualize your videos, what do you hope to convey in the accompanying visuals for Disharmony: Break Out?

Keeho: As you can see in our choreography for "Scared," we incorporated football into our routine. Football is a sport that is very aggressive and requires a lot of energy so we thought it was a good fit with our song. With these specific key points, we tried to really emphasize our message as well as our energy.

Jiung: I think our choreography, stage outfits, and concept all adds up and helps level up the intensity of the song as well as the message that we want to deliver. Our music video and choreography really turned out well, so I hope our fans appreciate and enjoy it!

16. Which artist is on your bucket list to collaborate with?

Keeho: Ariana Grande

Theo: BIGBANG, Taeyang, G.Soul, Dean

Jiung: Ty Dolla $ign

Intak: Justin Timberlake, A$AP Rocky

Soul: Les Twins

Jongseob: Penomeco, Smino

17. What’s one thing that even your most devoted fans don’t know about you?

Keeho: I really don’t like long nails. I just can’t stand it, so I tend to always keep my nails short.

Theo: I don’t really sweat. I don’t think I sweat at all.

Jiung: I have a habit of chewing the inside of my mouth, unintentionally.

Intak: My lips are naturally moisturized so I don’t need to use a lip balm to make them glossy!

Soul: I have dermographism, so even the slightest irritation like a scratch will leave a mark/scar for a while.

Jongseob: I have a slim waist and biggest feet of all members.

18. What movie, or song, always makes you cry?

Keeho: I don’t really cry, so I don’t think there’s a movie that ever made me cry.

Theo: The Korean movie Miracle in Cell No. 7 makes me cry every single time I watch it.

Jiung: Korean traditional children’s song "Daddy Cheer Up" makes me tear up.

Intak: I have a couple, but if I had to just pick one, it’d be the movie Forrest Gump.

Soul: I don’t cry like Keeho so I have never cried watching something and I just don’t like to watch sad movies.

Jongseob: "Falling Slowly"

19. What’s one piece of advice you would give to your pre-debut self?

Keeho: Don’t worry too much and work harder.

Theo: Think 100 times before acting on it.

Jiung: Are you truly sincere?

Intak: Enjoy life a bit more.

Soul: Be more emotionally stable.

Jongseob: It's never too late.

20. What does a successful 2021 look like for you?

Keeho: I hope to release as much music as we can!

Theo: I wish we can make at least 3 comebacks.

Jiung: I hope to gain more emotional peace and stability.

Intak: "Rookie of the Year" award!

Soul: There’s a necklace I really want to buy and I hope to buy it by the end of this year!

[unpopularkpop-opinions]

I honestly don't get the hype about bts. Yes, they have talent and work hard but so do all other groups. But they don't excel in anything compared to other groups. Their vocals are below average, they have good dancers but they are far from the best dance group. Their strongest point is rap/hiphop but they haven't been focusing on that for years and there are other idol rappers who are more acknowledged in the khiphop world. When it comes to producing/songwriting, they're good but also not /1

the best/most renowned. Some of their songs are meaningful and I see a lot of army say that's why they like them but pretty much all artist have some meaningful songs, especially about their main theme of loving yourself. Also, personally I find their songs quite bland sounding. And lastly, personality and entertainmentwise they don't do anything different than all other groups, they don't even go on variety shows. So I don't get why they got so big when they started out as just a tamer /2

version of bigbang, block b and b.a.p. The only thing I can think of that makes them stand out is a large and loud fandom.

[kpoptimeout]

Top 20 Most Underrated K-Pop Songs of the Decade (2010-2019) PART 1

The 2010s has come and gone before we knew it.  

Continuing with the K-Pop Timeout Tradition (see 2018 Ver) of listing the Top 10 Most Underrated K-Pop Songs because all the other sites are just bothered with the Top 10 that pretty much everyone will have heard of/have fan wars over, below we have created a list of the Top 20 Most Underrated K-Pop Songs of the Decade because 10 spots is not enough to cover the amount of talent slept on.

For these reasons, we will list 10 of them here in PART 1 and an additional 10 in PART 2. This is in alphabetic order NOT in the order of awesomeness because all of them are awesome. Also, all MVs are linked in the song titles because Tumblr won’t let me share that many videos in one post.

100% “U Beauty” (2014)

TOP Media has really failed to make their groups successful since TEEN TOP (and have not really promoted TEEN TOP these days either) and 100% was the first group to fall victim to TOP Media’s poor promotions. Debuting in 2012, the group had so much potential and talent. Rockhyun is arguably one of the best K-Pop main vocals of his generation (which global superstar Rain concurs as a coach on KBS’ “The Unit”) but most K-Pop fans won’t even know.  Out of their repertoire, we found “U Beauty” to be worthy of being in the Top 20 most underrated tracks of the decade because of how catchy and wholesome the song is - boy groups often go for either a very cute or very powerful sound and this was a perfect balance of the two. The boys are able to show their cool and manly side through the powerful choreography and the soothing bridge while the rest of the song is cheerful and sweet. It blows our mind that these boys did not receive more attention in 2014 following such a great track. The boys are still an active boy band so go support their latest releases and check out this underrated gem called “U Beauty”!

A-JAX “INSANE” (2013)

A promising boy band which debuted during DSP Media’s more problematic years (essentially this whole decade until 2016/17), A-JAX never got the promotions they deserved. “INSANE” could have been the right direction for the group to pursue (except DSP gave them cute songs afterwards and later no songs at all). Perhaps because this song was slept on at the time of promotions (the album only sold around 2000 copies) that DSP did not try the sound again. However, it is powerful, slightly dark, yet poppy and fun with a good amount of EDM thrown in. We have had lots of quirky sounding girl groups like f(x), Orange Caramel, Red Velvet and Oh My Girl but not many quirky sounding boy bands since SHINee. “INSANE” was a unique song that could have paved the way for A-JAX to have gone down such a path. While the group has officially disbanded this year, “INSANE” is without a doubt one of the top underrated bops of the decade that you should check out!

B.A.P “WAKE ME UP” (2017)

B.A.P had a great start during their early days and were essentially EXO’s rivals in the 2012-13s and brought the powerful self-produced boy band sound before BTS’ debut. However, likely due to a combination of TS Entertainment being shit and them being shittier after the members sued them during 2014-15, B.A.P never reached the heights of their early 2010s popularity again after returning in 2016 and have officially disbanded in 2019. While B.A.P dropped many underrated bops in their final years, we found “WAKE ME UP” to be the one making our Top 20. Not only was this song wonderful to listen to with the haunting repeats of “WAKE ME UP” in the intro and chorus, but it also has a brilliant message as one of the first K-Pop MVs to clearly illustrate different types of mental illness. Especially since the lyrics also spoke to some of the members, especially leader Bang Yongguk’s own mental health struggles, it was frustrating seeing such a good and heartfelt song receive so little attention in South Korea. If you love meaningful K-Pop tracks, you would love “WAKE ME UP”!

C-Clown “Shaking Heart” (2013)

C-Clown was one of the many amazing new groups in 2012 and had a clear sound and direction of ballad-pop bops. “Shaking Heart” was the last song they made in that style before their company made them go for the more generic mainstream hip-hop heavy sound and it definitely one of the best songs of the decade that was heavily slept on. It showcased the vast talents of the group - Kangjun and Ray’s amazing vocal colour and range (and lowkey still most visually powerful vocal line from a small label), Rome and TK’s contrasting rap styles, Siwoo’s consistency and Maru’s potential in becoming a golden maknae. The group has unfortunately disbanded in 2015, only 3 years after their phenomenal start. While most of the members appear to be doing quite well, with Rome (now going by his birth name Christian Yu) having founded DPR and being a famous K-Pop MV director, Kangjun having a solid modelling career and Maru re-debuting as the main vocal for RnB trio TREI, the group itself could have done so much more if more people took notice of what a bop “Shaking Heart” is and gave them the opportunity to do more tracks of that style. Hence, if you enjoy boy band tracks that combine more ballad styles with pop, this is the song for you!

Dalmatian/DMTN “E.R.” (2012)

Dalmatian, later styled DMTN, was famous K-Pop producer MC Mong’s boy band that was gaining positive attention until member Daniel’s marijuana scandal. Member Simon often still does impromptu fan meets when he travels for work (he is now a coach and producer for idol groups in Japan) but the group has been inactive following 2013. While DMTN may now be a group of the past, their music was without a doubt amazing, with “E.R.” being a perfect example of the epitome early 2010s K-Pop sound (those who heard the DMTN “E.R”/B2ST “Fiction” mashup back then knows what’s up). The song had an emotional chorus filled with amazing ad-libs and beautiful piano instrumentals, a subtle yet sexy choreography and dramatic MV. If you love the early 2010s K-Pop sound, you would love this underrated bop!

GLAM “I Like That” (2013)

Many new K-Pop fans either don’t know them or only know them as the reason Big Hit Entertainment has not been recruiting female trainees for many years now (because one member went off to blackmail world star Lee Byunghun - you can learn all about the drama here). However, GLAM was actually an extremely promising girl group and the first idol group fully produced by Bang PD under Big Hit. Like their now world-famous brother group BTS, GLAM was a group with great vocals and rap, with no problem going hard in choreography and making woke statements (their debut song includes lyrics about being down to kiss boys or girls). “I Like That” was a perfect example of their style and abilities. While the song was just a remake of 1990s K-Pop track "Why Do You" by Chuli and Miae, it was done so well it was essentially GLAM’s own song. It is fun, it is catchy and just a strong and confident girl group bop that existed early in the decade when most girl groups besides 2NE1 and 4Minute did not go hard but cute or sexy. If you love powerful girl group tracks, you would love “I Like That”!

HISTORY “DREAMER” (2013)

The first boy band ever debuting under LOEN Entertainment (now Kakao M), the 5-member group of all visuals had many amazing tracks usually in the vein of dark and sexy concepts. The members were also active in song production and choreography and honestly had everything one could ask for to create a successful group. However, South Korea and overseas K-Pop fans both did not seem to have noticed the existence of such a talented and consistently awesome group and they disbanded in 2017. “DREAMER”, their debut track, is arguably one of the best songs of the decade because of the stage musical style of the song - the piano instrumentals in the verses and the marching band inclusion in the buildup to the chorus, with the crazy smooth footwork and wonderful harmonisation of the boys. There is no other K-Pop boy group song like this. If you are a fan of musicals, this is the song for you!

Ladies’ Code “Galaxy” (2016)

Ladies’ Code had a strong debut, being one of the top rookies in 2013 along with current superstars BTS. While their developing career took a huge blow after the car accident which claimed the lives of two members, EunB and Rise, the remaining girls Ashley, Sojung and Zuny powered on to continue creating amazing music. It is painful to see how their excellence is still ignored by the K-Pop fan base at large. Even Billboard listed “Galaxy” as the #19 best K-Pop track of the decade and very deservingly so. “Galaxy” was their first return as a 3-piece and see the girls take a darker and more mature sound following their earlier fun and quirky retro bops. This transition was done well, as more retro sound choices like jazz instrumentals and 80s chime synths were still used in this comeback as a bridge between the sounds of the two Ladies’ Code eras. The song also complements main vocal Sojung’s exceptionally raspy and low voice very well. These girls are still active and deserve so much more. If you enjoy the darker experimental tracks of f(x), Red Velvet and LOONA, “Galaxy” would be your jam! 

MYNAME “Baby I’m Sorry” (2013)

Debuting in 2011 under legendary Korean RnB duo Fly to the Sky’s Hwanhee’s label, MYNAME was the boy band you knew could sing. And damn they could sing so well. Even the rappers of MYNAME sing typical K-Pop lead vocal quality. For this reason, it made a lot of sense for MYNAME to go for a more ballad-pop sound and flourish in such a musical environment. While they did produce a lot of great songs of that sound, the lack of attention from the Korean public pushed them to go for a more generic hip-hop based boy band sound in 2015. “Baby I’m Sorry” was an example of the greatness of their earlier sound which was just brilliant Korean action drama OST material. The MV was also one of the rare story MVs that make it seem like you are watching a movie (plus the boys acted well). While MYNAME is still active, they now pretty much exclusively promote in Japan, where they are actually appreciated and chart high. In Korea, the members gave their last shot as being idols in KBS’ poorly received survival program “The Unit” and now just act sometimes or model. If you love dramatic ballad-based boy band tracks, you should check out MYNAME’s “Baby I’m Sorry”!

Nine Muses “Wild” (2013)

Once known as the real generals of the Korean military due to their huge fan base among conscripted soldiers, Nine Muses was THE sexy girl group of the decade who somehow always existed between real fame and nugudom during their active years from 2010-2019. Like they have dedicated fans but they never win music show #1s. And the song that should have really put them on the map for all Koreans and K-Pop fans is their 2013 comeback “Wild”. This was just pop perfection - it is catchy, showcases each of the 9 members’ unique vocal colours and performance style, and had some of the sharpest and most in-sync girl group choreography execution of all time. It was also one in a long line of Nine Muse songs that sound like high fashion runaway music and arguably one of the peaks due to the specific line-up of members at the time. Check out “Wild”, if you would like to listen to one of the best K-Pop girl group tracks of the decade!

The other 10 Top 20 Underrated K-Pop Tracks of the Decade are listed in PART 2.

[itsbap]

[INTERVIEW] KCrush Interview with Rapper and Songwriter Bang Yong-guk

As a Korean rapper, songwriter, and record producer, and former leader and main rapper of K-Pop group B.A.P, Bang Yong-guk has had a storied career, and he’s not even 30-years-old (born March 31, 1990)! In 2008, Yong-guk made his debut in the underground Hip-Hop group Soul Connection using the pseudonym “Jepp Blackman,” and since then, he’s become a popular figure in the Korean music scene, especially for international fans who enjoy his artistic flair and meaningful songs.

On August 19, 2018, Yong-guk’s contract with TS Entertainment ended, so he is now free to pursue his own music and projects. 2019 marks Yong-guk’s new beginnings as a soloist without the K-Pop chains.

On January 20, 2019, he made his solo comeback with the single, “Hikikomori,” his first comeback since “Drunkeness” back in May 25, 2018. We were lucky to be able to attain an interview from Bang Yong-guk, while awaiting his HIKIKOMORI single to be dropped on the 20th of January 2019.

*Thank you so much for taking time out for a KCrush Interview. Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers please?

– Hello, this is Bang Yong-guk. It’s nice to meet you all.

*You have a new single is out on the 20th of January, tell us why did you choose “Hikikomori” as the title and the meaning behind the cover.

– Hikikomori is based on my own story which expresses the inner loneliness and confusion from my experience.

I tried to express the feelings I get when I look in the mirror and see my real self when I am off-stage, the fear I have towards the people in the outside world, and the disturbing feeling that I get from being confined in a room that seems like it is protecting me but, at times, it just feels like imprisonment. I put in the effort to put music, artwork, photography and video together. As to the artwork on the cover, I initially did the drawing and the design was developed on it.

*Your Instagram and MVs focus a lot on aesthetics and art, especially black and white images. Does art hold a lot of significance for you?

– I began using the black and white filter when uploading my photos and I continued using it.

At first, I selected the filter because I felt somewhat uncomfortable with the colorful photos seen on the social media. It really doesn’t hold any special meaning or significance, but I like the fact the black and white filter seemed to convey more colors for me personally. However, I think using black and white for other data other than my own photos may seem a bit too stubborn of me, so I am trying to use less these days. But I still like black and white.

*What kind of music are you into these days?

– Since I was working on my studio album, I didn’t get to listen much of other artists’ music other than my own. I usually enjoy listening to James Blake when I’m working. I tend to listen to the song, “Don’t Miss It” the most. James Blake is an artist who really inspires me and for that, I am very appreciative.

*It seems you’ve taken up tennis. Could we ask how good you are at playing the sport?

– I’m still a beginner. Tennis was a sport that I wanted to learn since I was young but I couldn’t make the time for it while I was active in the group.

When I left the company, tennis was the first thing I began learning. At the time, I thought to myself that I should do what I want to do when I first bought a tennis racket.

*You have a few noticeable tattoos; do they hold any particular meanings to you?

– I don’t necessarily enjoy getting myself tattooed but I have the tendency or just a weird habit of wanting to leave a trace on my body whenever I experience certain incidents.

I never got a tattoo thinking that they’d look cool on me or anything like that. When I made up my mind to get one done, I think that it was usually because I was out of control and they weren’t always done due to good memories.

*If you were a character of an anime or a video game, what would you be and why?

– That seems like a difficult one to answer. I’m just too ordinary to be like a character of any kind, and not a likely candidate to appear in an anime or a video game. If I ever thought of wanting to be one… Because I enjoy playing soccer video games, I’ve wanted to be one of the referees in a soccer video game, rather than the cool-looking soccer players.

*Which characteristics do you and your twin share and what are your differences?

– Well, I find it amusing that we have the same voice, height, and face but our personalities are completely the opposite. I like staying at home while my twin brother likes to go out and hang out with his friends.

*Will you be collaborating with any of your former group members in the future? And if you could collaborate with an American artist, who would it be?

– I always have in mind that I would be doing some great projects with the members in the future. The American artist I would like to collaborate with is Joji. Everything he has done is art.

*Do you have any movies, books or musicals that you’ve enjoyed recently?

– The Shape of Water.

*Do you have a preference to a color and what colors don’t you like?

– My wardrobe is just filled with black and white. I don’t think I like any colors that stand out in the crowd.

*What do you do to maintain your health and to release stress?

– My way of managing my health is not to pay much attention or care into it, but I would not recommend that.

I don’t know how to releasing stress, so I always keep it inside, and that’s how I am able to produce songs in the studio.

*What did you like the most about touring? How are the Babyz overseas different from the Korean Babyz?

– The tours that we’ve done have always been a joy for me. Whether it was on or off stage, they were the only times when I felt I could really breathe. And those times are filled with great memories for me. I do not think the fans outside of Korea are particularly different from Korean fans. I’m just so grateful that they love me and support what I do. I can feel they truly care about me.

*Who do you respect and feel the most grateful towards?

– My grandfather is whom I respect the most and the one I am the most thankful for. Although he is in heaven now, I still think he’s guiding me. My grandfather is practically a religion to me, and I love him.

*Please tell us about your future plans, goals and hopes for this year and beyond.

– I wish to begin this year by showcasing everything that I have to offer. My studio album is almost complete, so please show support.

I will also be doing new projects with friends who are artists to produce music, pictures, photographs, videos, fashion, designs, writing…

If any of you would like to participate, please contact me.

Now that I’m free, I think I will be able to do anything. Thank you.

Kcrush would like to thank Bang Yong-guk for his time and wish him much success with his single “Hikikomori” plus his upcoming album.

[always-wishing-for-rain]

rules: you can usually tell a lot about a person by the type of music they listen to! put your music on shuffle and list the first 10 songs, then tag 10 people! no skipping!

Tagged by: @stantalentstantarget (thank youuu i love these types of games uwu)

1. IMLAY feat. Yangyang - Asteroid ( omg yees our baby is singing in this one asfgshfgs uwu)

2. Nu’est - Bass (ah shit Nu’est is like...the epithome of talent and sexiness i can’t with them #kings)

3. Fall out boy - Hold me tight or don’t (eyyy FoB is like my constant savage mood, i really love their fuck this bullshit style)

4. Daughter - Glass ( daughter has been such a huge part of my teenage years, their lyrics is so poetic and amazing and no it wasn’t LIS that introduced them to me xd)

5. B.A.P - Wake me up ( oh my god... their story is one of the biggest tragedies of kpop, this is actually the song that introduced me to them and their talent, it means a lot because this was the first song that actually spoke to me)

6. CHUNG HA - Gotta go (omggg safhfjahhjasbfa my QUEEEN i love her so much she is actually the first soloist i started to stan and the first female idol too, i love her so so muuuch *-*)

7. CHUNG HA - Chica (ayee it’s my queen again with her song about female empowerment and self-love ahhh keep slaying!!)

8. Bishop Briggs - River (wow i haven’t listened to this song for a while now, but i remember i kept replaying it, so catchy uwu i think i heard it in vampire diaries?hmm)

9. Au/Ra - Assasin (eyyy this girl, when everyone was all over billie eilish i was listening to her, she is very talented and she has such meaningful lyrics too)

10. VIXX - Scentist (aaaand we are ending with a boom *sigh* i only started stanning them recently but honestly..damn the only thing i regret is not listening to them sooner #sensualsexiness)

tagging: @kpop-daze @mayrubyy @cbxtual @metalszofi @christina-dh @kimjongdaely

asdsds i don’t know enough people hereee xddd have fuuuun!

[zelos-official-armrest]

You know TShit is literally from the deepest depths of hell when the sell With You, yes, let me repeat, WITH YOU OF B.A.P AND BABYZ for other groups to perform at their debut showcase. This is the most meaningful song for our fandom and for B.A.P and they just did this to us.

[noonanana24]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by B.A.P ZONE (@noona.nana24)

AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO'S SOBBING IN THE CORNER NOW?😭 ❣ His first solo stage after officially out from T$! So emo!😢 This song.. "WITH YOU" is an Anthem song for BABYz in this fandom. And I always cry automatically every listen to it! Coz it's so deep.. and meaningful!💕 ● ● ● ●B.A.P UPDATE● 190309 DAEHYUN's 『NEW START : THREE COLOR CONCERT 🎵WITH YOU』 UPDATE ●●● 📷© PUZZLEPIECE9394 (TWITTER) ●●● #BAP #びえぴ #BestAbsolutePerfect #YONGGUK #HIMCHAN #DAEHYUN #JUNGDAEHYUN #DAEHYUNonly #YOUNGJAE #JONGUP #ZELO #비에이피 #방용국 #김힘찬 #정대현 #유영재 #문종업 #최준홍 #Kpop #KpopVideo #BapVideo #BABY #OT6 #ForeverWithBap #onlyBAPbabyhyun https://www.instagram.com/p/BuymqccgBPY/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=meb4pigwz49i

[everythingbap]

🎤 View of the Arts: Bang Yongguk: The Mind Behind the Music – Exclusive Interview

Bang Yongguk, a Seoul-based artist, first gained recognition as the leader of the boy group B.A.P. Before that, he was active in the underground hip-hop scene under the name “Jepp Blackman.” His rise to prominence began in 2011 with his feature on Song Ji-eun’s hit Going Crazy, and later, with his solo work and collaborations like I Remember and Bang & Zelo. Through contemplative works such as Hikikomori and his 2019 self-titled album, Bang Yongguk, he showed that he is an artist with a voice and vision. After serving in the military, the artist returned with fresh releases, including Race and the EP 2. Known for his diverse influences and personal conscious-driven lyrics, Bang has continued to evolve, intertwining his past experiences into his current creative pursuits.

In 2023, after signing with YY Entertainment, the artist has been actively pursuing his music career, releasing works such as THE COLORS OF LOVE and 3. The latter represents a bold evolution in his sound, featuring EDM influences that display his ability to blend fast-paced electronic elements with his signature style. On top of this, he has reconnected with members of B.A.P for new music, with Zelo currently serving in the military. Following his successful The Colors of Bang Yongguk tour, he is preparing for a European tour in October 2024, hitting cities like Cologne, Warsaw, Paris, Helsinki, and London.

Ahead of this tour, View of the Arts enjoyed catching up with Bang to discuss his latest projects, including his EP 3, and his upcoming ventures.

Bang Yongguk on His Music and Life

Reflecting on the past year, it’s been a rollercoaster for Bang. At the beginning of 2024, he wrapped up a U.S. tour and collaborated with Jung Dae Hyun, Yoo Young Jae, and Moon Jong Up on new music. As he prepares for his European tour, he shared, “It seems like 2024 is quite a busy year for me. I haven’t had the chance to take a proper vacation yet. However, I’m having some personally meaningful experiences. Looking back, I think this year will be one to remember for a long time. I’m planning to share all the tracks from EP 3 during the tour, and if the response is good, I hope to perform songs from my upcoming album as well.” Bang Yongguk / Image © YY Entertainment

His latest EP, 3, offers daring experimentation with genres. For instance, MOVIMIENTO incorporates intense EDM, which Bang had previously avoided. “I think I had a preconceived notion that fast tempos don’t mix well with my top-line flow. That’s why I hesitated to explore EDM or house genres,” he explained. “But with recent albums, I’ve used more melodic elements, which made me realise it might be worth challenging myself. My priority was to work on a track that, when you listen to just the instrumental, you wouldn’t immediately think, ‘This is Bang Yongguk’s music.’” The result was an unexpected track that expanded the horizons of his sound.

Another song, BAD, featuring YOUHA, introduces a pop-rock influence that Bang skillfully incorporates with his recognizable style. When discussing the collaboration, he shared, “When I was working on GREEN for EP 2, I started to feel that my voice blended well with that sound. BAD is the result of my efforts to create something more mainstream. YOUHA was the first artist that came to mind for a female vocalist, and after completing the initial draft, I sent it to her. Her involvement marked the completion of my favorite track on this album. BAD is a song that expresses how foolish a man becomes when he’s in love. The illusion of remembering the worst moment as the happiest one is also a hidden aspect of love. I wanted to weave these lyrics into a lovely melody.”

Songs like IXLU and BUSS IT DOWN emphasise Bang’s talent in combining different musical styles, integrating elements of drum and bass, pop, and hip-hop. Without a doubt, these songs illustrate his endowment to experiment across genres while keeping his music fresh and dynamic. “For IXLU, I varied the drum line in each section, which required the top-line structure to be diverse as well,” he said. The song’s complexity reflects Bang’s ambitions to create multi-layered compositions, an approach that required collaboration with both Korean and foreign writers.

Bang’s personal experiences are a driving force behind his work, and 3 is no exception. “This album personifies the theme that, in art, one must not confine themselves within self-imposed boundaries,” he said. “It’s no longer a hard task for me to infuse my personal experiences into my music because it naturally reflects my life – after all, it’s the music I create. However, there are times when I only create what I’m good at or what I want to show. That’s usually when I become too serious. Starting with my last EP, I tried not to take things too seriously, and that approach has permeated this album as well. But when I eventually grow tired of this concept, I’ll likely become very serious again. The way I express myself must always be fresh and original. Artists, don’t trap yourselves within walls.”Bang Yongguk / Image © YY Entertainment

Moreover, Bang continues to challenge the traditions of hip-hop, mixing his music with different genres. His track NUMB is a key example of this innovative approach. While the lyrics maintain a hip-hop vibe, the sound leans more towards pop and rock. “The key thing about this song is that it doesn’t contain a single line of rap,” Bang explained. “In music, anything is possible. I enjoy singing on a three-minute hip-hop track without rapping at all, just as it’s possible to rap throughout an entire three-minute traditional track. We approached this project with more freedom, without being trapped by any specific rules. For NUMB, I needed the ideas of other writers more than my top-line concepts. I remember when my friends sent me a melody line, I replied, ‘Great. I’ll try singing it in my own way.’ So, I didn’t rap a single line. I think we ended up with some free-spirited and creative melodies, which became the core element of this track.”

Another song, BUSS IT DOWN, takes an energetic leap with its Drum & Bass sound, specifically made for live performances. “I aimed to create a hip-hop track that was louder and more hyper than any of my previous ones,” said Bang. Reflecting on its impact during his U.S. tour, he shared, “I want everyone listening to this song to close their eyes and dance right in front of me.” The intense energy of this track has made it a fan favourite, and Bang looks forward to seeing how European audiences will react during his upcoming tour.

The title 3 is a reflection of Bang’s internal journey. “The meaning behind ‘3’ is to express my internal struggle to break free from preconceived notions about myself,” he said. The number also holds multiple interpretations, representing the three distinct elements that define his artistic identity, a continuation from his previous EP, 2.

Bang Yongguk in London – Show Review

Looking ahead, Bang hints at new possibilities. “There’s a possibility that I might release the single album I’ve been preparing after finishing my solo tour – or I might not,” he joked. However, he also recognises the need for rest and balance, saying, “I haven’t had a chance to truly rest this year. I think I’ll need some serious time to reflect on myself. I’ve been finding it quite challenging to balance both being an artist and a producer lately. I’m hoping for something interesting to look forward to as well.”

Bang’s evolving sound, tireless work ethic, and passion for music remain at the heart of his artistry. His upcoming tour promises to be another exciting chapter in his journey, with us, and fans, for that matter, waiting to see where his music will take him next.

Written and interviewed by Maggie Gogler

Translator: Kim Sang Yeon

Featured image © YY Entertainment

View of the Arts is an online publication that chiefly deals with films, music, and art, with an emphasis on the Asian entertainment industry. We are hoping our audience will grow with us as we begin to explore new platforms such as K-pop / K-music, and Asian music in general, and continue to dive into the talented and ever-growing scene of film, music, and arts, worldwide.

[fuckyeah-yongguk]

KCrush Interview with Rapper and Songwriter Bang Yong-guk

As a Korean rapper, songwriter, and record producer, and former leader and main rapper of K-Pop group B.A.P, Bang Yong-guk has had a storied career, and he’s not even 30-years-old (born March 31, 1990)! In 2008, Yong-guk made his debut in the underground Hip-Hop group Soul Connection using the pseudonym “Jepp Blackman,” and since then, he’s become a popular figure in the Korean music scene, especially for international fans who enjoy his artistic flair and meaningful songs.

On August 19, 2018, Yong-guk’s contract with TS Entertainment ended, so he is now free to pursue his own music and projects. 2019 marks Yong-guk’s new beginnings as a soloist without the K-Pop chains.

On January 20, 2019, he made his solo comeback with the single, “Hikikomori,” his first comeback since “Drunkeness” back in May 25, 2018. We were lucky to be able to attain an interview from Bang Yong-guk, while awaiting his HIKIKOMORI single to be dropped on the 20th of January 2019.

*Thank you so much for taking time out for a KCrush Interview. Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers please?

– Hello, this is Bang Yong-guk. It’s nice to meet you all.

*You have a new single is out on the 20th of January, tell us why did you choose “Hikikomori” as the title and the meaning behind the cover.

– Hikikomori is based on my own story which expresses the inner loneliness and confusion from my experience.

I tried to express the feelings I get when I look in the mirror and see my real self when I am off-stage, the fear I have towards the people in the outside world, and the disturbing feeling that I get from being confined in a room that seems like it is protecting me but, at times, it just feels like imprisonment. I put in the effort to put music, artwork, photography and video together. As to the artwork on the cover, I initially did the drawing and the design was developed on it.

*Your Instagram and MVs focus a lot on aesthetics and art, especially black and white images. Does art hold a lot of significance for you?

– I began using the black and white filter when uploading my photos and I continued using it.

At first, I selected the filter because I felt somewhat uncomfortable with the colorful photos seen on the social media. It really doesn’t hold any special meaning or significance, but I like the fact the black and white filter seemed to convey more colors for me personally. However, I think using black and white for other data other than my own photos may seem a bit too stubborn of me, so I am trying to use less these days. But I still like black and white.

*What kind of music are you into these days?

– Since I was working on my studio album, I didn’t get to listen much of other artists’ music other than my own. I usually enjoy listening to James Blake when I’m working. I tend to listen to the song, “Don’t Miss It” the most. James Blake is an artist who really inspires me and for that, I am very appreciative.

*It seems you’ve taken up tennis. Could we ask how good you are at playing the sport?

– I’m still a beginner. Tennis was a sport that I wanted to learn since I was young but I couldn’t make the time for it while I was active in the group.

When I left the company, tennis was the first thing I began learning. At the time, I thought to myself that I should do what I want to do when I first bought a tennis racket.

*You have a few noticeable tattoos; do they hold any particular meanings to you?

– I don’t necessarily enjoy getting myself tattooed but I have the tendency or just a weird habit of wanting to leave a trace on my body whenever I experience certain incidents.

I never got a tattoo thinking that they’d look cool on me or anything like that. When I made up my mind to get one done, I think that it was usually because I was out of control and they weren’t always done due to good memories.

*If you were a character of an anime or a video game, what would you be and why?

– That seems like a difficult one to answer. I’m just too ordinary to be like a character of any kind, and not a likely candidate to appear in an anime or a video game. If I ever thought of wanting to be one… Because I enjoy playing soccer video games, I’ve wanted to be one of the referees in a soccer video game, rather than the cool-looking soccer players.

*Which characteristics do you and your twin share and what are your differences?

– Well, I find it amusing that we have the same voice, height, and face but our personalities are completely the opposite. I like staying at home while my twin brother likes to go out and hang out with his friends.

*Will you be collaborating with any of your former group members in the future? And if you could collaborate with an American artist, who would it be?

– I always have in mind that I would be doing some great projects with the members in the future. The American artist I would like to collaborate with is Joji. Everything he has done is art.

*Do you have any movies, books or musicals that you’ve enjoyed recently?

– The Shape of Water.

*Do you have a preference to a color and what colors don’t you like?

– My wardrobe is just filled with black and white. I don’t think I like any colors that stand out in the crowd.

*What do you do to maintain your health and to release stress?

– My way of managing my health is not to pay much attention or care into it, but I would not recommend that.

I don’t know how to releasing stress, so I always keep it inside, and that’s how I am able to produce songs in the studio.

*What did you like the most about touring? How are the Babyz overseas different from the Korean Babyz?

– The tours that we’ve done have always been a joy for me. Whether it was on or off stage, they were the only times when I felt I could really breathe. And those times are filled with great memories for me. I do not think the fans outside of Korea are particularly different from Korean fans. I’m just so grateful that they love me and support what I do. I can feel they truly care about me.

*Who do you respect and feel the most grateful towards?

– My grandfather is whom I respect the most and the one I am the most thankful for. Although he is in heaven now, I still think he’s guiding me. My grandfather is practically a religion to me, and I love him.

*Please tell us about your future plans, goals and hopes for this year and beyond.

– I wish to begin this year by showcasing everything that I have to offer. My studio album is almost complete, so please show support.

I will also be doing new projects with friends who are artists to produce music, pictures, photographs, videos, fashion, designs, writing…

If any of you would like to participate, please contact me.

Now that I’m free, I think I will be able to do anything. Thank you.

Kcrush would like to thank Bang Yong-guk for his time and wish him much success with his single “Hikikomori” plus his upcoming album.

[inthewoodzz]

My Favourite Albums

As requested by @huluhal

( This list is not in any particular order )

-

1. The Great Seungri - Seungri

I listened to the title tracks when they were first released but never checked out the full album until last week. This whole album is very “Seungri” and I’m glad he’s doing R&B as well. This whole album is just perfect for giving you energy while not being overpoweringly EDM.

Favourite Track: Alone

-

-

2. Red Diary ( Page 1 and 2 ) - Bolbaggan4

This technically counts as 2...but they’re a whole series and you should totally listen to them back to back. BOL4 is a group i don’t know much about, but their music is amazing and I’ve probably listened to all their albums now.

Favorite Tracks: Clip and Lonely

-

-

3. Play - Akmu

I think if you like AKMU then you’ll like BOL4 and vice versa. Akmu is such a talented group, and this was their debut album. All their songs are so distinct and they are all written and composed by Chanhyuk ( the brother ).

Favourite Tracks: Galaxy and Melted

-

-

4. Winter

I know, but AKMU is truly a great group. This album really gives you “winter” vibes if you get what i mean. It’s just a very distinct atmosphere of nostalgia and warmth. You can really feel a lot from AKMU’s songs even without the lyrics

Favourite Track: Last Goodbye

-

-

5. Brother Act - BTOB

11/10 would recommend for studying or any tasks that require focusing. It is not disturbing at all and it IS BTOB so of course it ‘s good. It tells us a story through the songs, even without requiring the lyrics.

Favourite Track: Missing You

-

-

6. Replay - Super Junior

This is technically a repackage, but I think the inclusion of Lo Siento makes it all the better. This album not overpowering in its music, but will definitely get you hyped for whatever you’re doing. The second half of the album is really good for studying since it’s on the softer side.

Favourite Track: One More Chance

-

-

7. Yellow Flower - Mamamoo

Same situation with BTOB. They are Mamamoo so their albums are going to be fantastic. This album in particular is very calming in a sentimental way, much like Brother Act. This album makes you feel like you’re atop a hill reminiscing about your past lover.

Favourite Track: Spring Fever

-

-

8. Blue - B.A.P

If you are my follower then you would know that no list is complete without B.A.P dropping in somewhere. This album — like most of theirs — is pretty short, but all the tracks are special int their own way and are all candidates for title track. This embodies freedom for B.A.P from all their pains.

Favourite Track: All the Way Up

-

-

9. Verse 2 - JJ Project

This album is my definitely one of my faves among this list. GOT7’s songs ( besides 7 for 7 ) is known to be a lot more EDM and upbeat. This album gave me a lot of what I wanted to see form GOT7. The lyrics are very meaningful and inspiring and the songs very much embody that.

Favourite Tracks: Tomorrow, Today**** and Icarus

-

-

Honorable Mentions: Since tumblr doesnt allow me to post more pictures, have some names of other noteworthy albums.

Shangri la - Vixx

1 of 1 - SHINee

Recollection - B.A.P

Sunrise - Day6

Moonrise - Day6

The War - Exo

[angelhyunjin]

oooo top 5 skz songs ??? also tell us about the sweetest (or fondest) memory you have (if you wanna share it or just share a nice memory !!!) also ily bunches angel hope ur well 🌙💖💕 - britt

britt!! 💕 okay this isn't in order but my top 5 skz songs? insomnia, broken compass, mixtape #2, voices and yayaya (but also grow up ahhh)

i actually have a lot precious memories its hard to choose, one of them was my first ever kpop concert! that was b.a.p together with one of my dear internetfriends (whose puppy is currently sleeping on top of me), its such a precious memory to me and it was such a good concert, b.a.p will be always meaningful to me i miss them a lot (also daehyun made me cry that day with a highnote dhjdj), non kpop related my 18th birthday where my best friends did a surprise party for me & designed shirts for us?? they're the absolute cutest!! 🐥 and ofc i have a lot of travel memories like when we visited a little samurai town in japan or when we saw dolphins in new zealand or my american school exchange (okay i could go on like this i will stop now hfjdjd)

🌜sleepover with me🌛

[ducky-kay]

My K-pop group recommendations for newbies

Hey guys, I am back with a new list of which I made on my old blog however, since then all seems to have gone downhill with a lot of my group listings… I still have a basic list and have also updated it. 

As I have said before this is based off of what I would recommend to a new k-pop fan. 

Thank you!

EXO

Debuted in 2012, under SM, EXO is a boy group that consists of 9 members. (Formally 12) They are well known for Growl, Call me baby and Monster. 

Twice

Twice is a 9 member Girl Group under the label, JYP.  The songs with Music Videos that should be checked out at the moment is Like Ooh-Ahh, Cheer Up and TT.

BTS

BTS debuted back in 2013 with 7 members under the label, BigHit. Since then, I feel the group’s fandom has grown, a lot, to the point that they have pretty much swept the US! This group’s top song in my point of view would be I Need U, DNA and Spring Day. However, you should really just check them out in general.

Got7

Got7 is another JYP group. They are a 7 member boy group that debuted in 2014. These boys are known for A, Girls Girls Girls, and You Are.

Vixx

Vixx debuted in 2012 with 6 members. The are a part of jellyfish Ent. and recently had a comeback with The closer… Chained up, Error and G.R.8.U are some songs that you should listen to to get a rough idea of the different concepts.

SHINee

To begin with, I was actually uneasy to place this in here but I feel people should know about them. Even though Jonghyun has passed away, SHINee I feel will always be there.

SHINee, also under SME, are a five (Now four) member boy group of whom debuted in 2008. In my opinion, these boys have a lot of good songs. I find some of their better music is called View and Tell me what to do. At the moment, I think they are some of the best. However, you should listen to their debut song, Replay or some of their older songs like Dream Girl or Lucifer. (And let’s not forget the legendary Ring Ding Dong.) 

Infinite

Infinite consists of 6 members (formerly 7)  and debuted back in 2010 under Woollim ent. The boys have released quite a few songs. Back, The Eye and Bad are a few you should check out. Also recently they have had their first comeback since the departure of Hoya called Tell Me.

F(x)

F(x) are another SM group. The group has 4 female members (Formally 5) and debuted in 2009.  I suggest four walls or electric shock.

B.A.P (My UB) 

B.A.P are a 6 member boy group who debuted in 2012 under TS ent. Young Wild & Free, 1004 (angel) and Skydive are some of my favorites. There is a lot of concepts and very meaningful lyrics. Hands up too!

Red Velvet

Red Velvet is one of my favorite girl groups currently. They debuted in 2014 with 4 members, later becoming 5 with the addition of yeri. Once again these girls are under SM. A few of their songs are Ice Cream Cake, Russian Roulette and Peekaboo.

Seventeen

Seventeen in may 2015. This group consists of 13 and are owned by Pledis. The way the group and name works is 13 members + 3 subgroups (Hip-Hop, Vocal & Performance.) + altogether the group makes 1! So 13+3+1=17 even though the group originally was to debut with 17 members.

I highly suggest Mansae, Pretty U, and BoomBoom. Also if you get into sub-units, Highlight.

Highlight

Highlight formerly known as B2st are a 5 (formerly 6) member group from Around us. After their departure from Cube ent, they formed their own ent and here we are today. I recommend Plz don’t be sad, Calling you and Can be better. 

Block B

Block B is a 7 member boy group of whom debuted in 2011. This group have plenty of good songs but, if I have to pick a title it would have to be Toy or Her! Or their recent Don’t Leave.

CNblue

Under FNC ent, Cnblue consists of 4 members and debuted in 2009. These are a band who are more pop/rock so if you like bands I really recommend Cnblue’s Cinderella, between us or my favorite is Go your way.

EXID

EXID currently operate as a 5 member girl group under Banana ent. Some of their iconic songs are Up&Down, ah yeah and their latest DDD.

Monsta X

This is a seven member boy group under Starship. The group itself has many good songs such as Hero, Dramarama and Beautiful. 

Shinhwa

This group is probably old enough to be quite a few of your dads but they are ICONIC. Making their debut in 1998 with ‘Resolver’ the group have stayed together as 6 for 20 years now and probably for more. They also have made many songs such as This love, T.O.P and Perfect Man.

Super Junior

It’s kind of hard for me to get into depth about member history but this group is one of the best in music production. They are under SME. Some of their best songs in my opinion consist of Sorry Sorry, sexy free and single but also their recent, black suit. 

BigBang

This group is technically on hiatus due to current or upcoming military service, however, they are still a group. 

Under YG ent, this boy group are probably one of the most well known idol groups. I suggest their songs fantastic baby, FXXK IT and Last dance. These are some of their biggest and latest. For an older song I would definitely suggest Haru Haru. (Day by Day)

FT Island

This is another rock band under FNC and operate as 5 members. The group themselves contain a much more rock sound compared to CNBlue and I extremely recommend Take Me Now. Alongside another few songs for example, Pray and Love sick.

Final note: There may be a part 2 in the future containing more of the rookie or underrated side of kpop for fans to discover. Please keep an eye out! I also didn’t realize how much ‘formerly’ I put in this list. Please don’t bash me for any errors as I wrote this during college class. 

[cassie-babyz]

[TRANS] haru*hana (vol. 47) - B.A.P, Announcing a Solid 3rd Album

Releasing their newest Japanese album that gathers the fan favourites! 

B.A.P will release their third album in Japan on March 28!

―― Please tell us some listening highlights of this album. ZL: Centering around fan favourites from the songs we’ve released in the past 2 years in Korea, we’ve recorded them in Japanese. I didn’t expect “ALBATROSS” to be included in the Japanese album; it’s so incredibly fast that I can’t even remember how I sang it (laughs). I thought ‘how am I going to do this?’, but I’m happy the recording went well. HC: “YOUNG, WILD & FREE” is a deeply meaningful song that enabled us to promote again, so having that as the title track for our Japanese album meant a lot.  DH: It’s a special song to me too, and to sing it after a while felt new. This album was purely catered to the fans, so I’d be happy if they like it. 

―― Daehyun, you were performing in the musical “ALL SHOOK UP” recently. DH: To be honest, I think it was the toughest period in my life. I like to take on difficulties and tribulations and surmount them to overcome it, so it felt like I was hit by a freight train the whole time. 

―― Himchan performed in the play “Yeodo” didn’t you. HC: I majored in traditional music so I’m used to hanboks, but it was fun to wear them since it’s been a while. Like I thought, it’s different when I’m standing on stage as an actor and as a singer. There was a separate charm to it.  DH: Jongup and I watched Himchan hyung’s play. And only Himchan hyung came to watch my performance (laughs).  JU: I thought a periodical play would’ve been a little difficult for Himchan hyung, but I was very moved [by his performance]. I hope he can perform in another good production like this. Since I can get free tickets if he’s performing, I’d like to go and watch again (laughs). 

―― Siding to the album’s title, what are the “MASSIVE” charms of the each of you? ZL: My dreams are massive. It’s my dream to perform on the Victoria’s Secret stage. It’s a stage where only globally recognised artists can stand.  JU: I think my dullness is massive. Rather than dull, it’s more that I forget things quickly. I forget bad things and things that anger me quickly.  HC: That’s fine but I hope you’d remember our meeting times (laughs). JU: I said I would go watch Daehyun hyung’s play but I forgot (laughs). YJ: I’d say my steady efforts to raise my own worth are massive (laughs).  YG: The recent skills that I’ve acquired aren’t massive at all, but I’ve become better at cleaning the bathroom than anyone else (laughs).  ALL: Hahahaha! 

―― Please tell us your thoughts on your concert starting in April. HC: We’re about to begin preparations for the concert in full from now, and we want to create something that the Japanese audience will like. We’re releasing a new album, so we want to sing many new songs. ZL: Our concerts have been focused on performances with less talk sections, but we want to relax a little and prepare events to enjoy with the fans, and have a concert where we can synchronise our breathing with them.  YG: We’ll show you in action rather than sentences of words. Please look forward to it!

A or B? Investigating the member’s likes based on the album’s lyrics!

Keyword questions based on the lyrics from the songs of the new album! We asked them to tell us why they chose that answer and about any relevant episodes!

Q1. #HANDS UP Which makes you subconsciously high spirited and gets your “hands up”? A: You can order whatever dish you want today! B: The morning schedule for tomorrow is now in the afternoon! YJ: Everyone is B! DH: What would you do if the schedule was cancelled and have free time? YJ: I would go and meet friends, rehearse and compose. I love sleeping in to my content and leisurely heading to the afternoon schedule.  JU: Me too. I’ll sleep more.  HC: I’ve had many schedules lately, so I’d like to watch movies and sleep deeply to relax when I have the time.  DH: I’d think I’d either be relaxing or rehearsing.  ZL: Writing lyrics, meeting the hyungs and chatting about music... I think I’d be the same. YG: If that happened, I would stay at home and play by myself (laughs) ZL: By the way, when we had a bit of time during the lunar new year, I went to another region where I could feel the wind! DH: Call it Busan. Why’d you call it another region (laughs). ZL: Ok, I went to Busan for the first time (laughs)! YG: Did you go to Haeundae?  ZL: I didn’t. YG: That’s a shame. ZL: I ate yummy foods, visited the seaside and went around everywhere with a hyung that I know in Busan.  DH: I want to go on a solo-trip in spring. I’d wanted to do so for a long time but I never quite got the chance and gave up on it.  JU: I want to go to the cherry blossom festival. Let’s go together!

Q2. #HONEYMOON From “Paint the world in my own colour”, what would be your own colour? A: Red or yellow, warm colours like pastel tones B: Monotones like white or black DH: I’m A. I’ve been interesting in clothing and shoes lately and I feel the the colourways of A make me look better.  YG: I’d be B. Like plain t-shirts, I like basic items for anything related to fashion.  YJ: I’d be B too. When choosing clothes as well, I prefer modern and classic items.  JU: I chose A at first but it’s B (laughs). My fashion style is always monotone too. My favourite are pants and shoes. The mature-feel is the point.  HC: I’m in between A & B. Monotones are nice, but I like pastel tones too. I think I will like anything if I find it beautiful.  ZL: Same. I like various colours. I’m somewhat attracted to the atmosphere, and like the vibes given off by pastel tones. 

Q3. #Young, Wild & Free Which do you think “that’s cool!”? A: A wild and courageous woman. B: A free woman who’s not bound by the norms. HC: It’s A for me. A woman who’s like my mom. My mom’s wild and courageous.  YJ: It’s B for me. I think I’d find a woman who is free and intelligent, whilst staying true to their own beliefs and values to be cool! YG: B. I think a lady like this will surely match my personality well. I think people who hold their head up high and have their own voice are cool.  DH: B as well. I think women who live their life freely are cool.  JU: I chose A, but I think a woman like B is also wild and courageous. It’d hard to choose. I feel like they’re both cool.  ZL: A & B. I chose the middle. Because I think a woman with both A & B’s qualities are cool!

Q4. #HANDS UP When you can’t sleep you? A: Try to get sleepy by listening to music and such. B: Give up and don’t sleep and watch a movie or such.  HC: A. I don’t listen to music and just close my eyes and try to sleep without thinking about anything.  DH: A for me as well. I listen to jazz when I can’t fall asleep.  ZL: A as well. I listen to “Lofi Radio” on youtube. But it’s only sometimes that I’d fall asleep listening to music. Usually don’t listen to anything and force my eyes shut.  YG: I’m B. I’m addicted to black and white movies lately, regardless of the genre. I received a lot of inspiration from “Schindler’s List”. My average sleeping time is 3~4 hours? I gain on my sleep on the weekends or off days.  YJ: [B] I’d sleep about 7~8 hours~ The movies I’d watch to go to sleep would be anything but horror. I like everything other than that genre. I recently watched “Kimi no Suizou wo Tabetai” [Let me eat your pancreas], it was a very beautiful and nice film.  JU: [B] I watched “Last Vegas” recently. It was a good movie that got me thinking about my life’s journey. 

“Everyone, let’s meet more than we’ve done before♡” - Himchan

Q1. What things or episodes come to mind when you hear “MASSIVE”? YG: The fans. I was able to open my eyes to the wide world thanks to the fans. I believe that exactly because of everyone’s love, we we able to grow.  HC: B.A.P. The experiences I’ve had since becoming a B.A.P member have changed various parts of my life. DH: The musical “All Shook Up” was a massive experience for me. It’s been my biggest role ever, and the stage too was the most large-scale, so it was an even greater responsibility than before. Learning things that I wanted to, and things I hadn’t even considered, realising many things, it all made my heart full. There’s probably still a lot that I don’t know, so it made me think to work even harder. YJ: B.A.P. And touring. Visiting various countries and coming in contact with multiple cultures; it’s opened my eyes. I think I was able to broaden my vision too as a singer through the many concerts.  JU: B.A.P. I’ve gained rather precious experiences whilst promoting, and it’s really opened up a huge path for me, so in the end,  I think what’s big(massive) for me if B.A.P.  ZL: I wonder... (DH: Height.) Ah, my height is massive (laughs). As expected by now, I’ve stopped growing. I’m still often asked “are you still growing taller?”, but please stop asking me that now (laughs). It’ll only be a bother if I grow any taller than this (laughs). 

“I hope only good things, only blessed things will happen! Thank you, I love you!” - Daehyun

Q2. If you were to prepare a massive surprise or present for Babyz, what would you do? YG: I’ll clean all the fans bathrooms... (laughs). Lately, that’s what I’m best at (laughs). ...That was a joke, I choose a song!  HC: I want to give them a hug that holds all the gratitude we have towards the fans. Free hugs! (laughs) DH: I want to show them my songs. I’ll sing with all my heart for the fans. YJ: Happiness and smiles. I want to make the fans happy through me, and I want them to smile too.  JU: I want to gift them flowers. I want to give each fan a stalk of rose.   ZL: The upcoming tour! I’ll definitely make the fans have a good time!

“Everyone! I really miss you! I’m coming to see you so please wait a little!! I love you♡“ - Youngjae

Q3. From “HANDS UP”, what’s something you want to put up your hand to recommend?  YG: I want to recommend a method to not catch a cold during the changing seasons. Airing out the room for 15~30 minutes after waking, keeping your hands and feet clean after going outdoors, and to brush your teeth and use mouthwash. Please be careful of catching a cold! I don’t often go out so I keep it in my mind to ventilate the room at the least (laughs).  HC: The power of affirmation. Positive thinking. If you turn negative, please try to think of only the good things. For example, don’t think “I only have 10,000 won in my wallet”, but “I have 10,000 won!”. (JU: You said “I only have 100,000 won in my bank account” the other day!) I just happened to really not have it that time (laughs). But, even so, having that much was a blessing (laughs).  DH: I recommend myself (laughs). Trust me and follow along (laughs). I’ll work hard to be able to make all the fans happy! YJ: The secret to happiness! Eating delicious foods, enjoying your hobbies and meeting with people you like. I want to express that you can feel happiness from various ways. Standing on stage is what gives me the most joy. I’m happy too when I accomplish something well like finishing a recording without hitches.  JU: I watched the movie “Last Vegas” recently and it was really fun. It’s a good movie so I recommend it to everyone. The story revolves around a retiree, but since we all age, it’s a good movie that you can sympathise to. ZL: Instagram live. Live broadcasts through Instagram live have really taken off. It seems like many people watch the live broadcasts of their favourite artists, and I too receive many messages when I do a live broadcast. The fans really enjoy it so I want to do them often. 

“I love you everyone” - Jongup

Q4. From “HANDS UP”, the moment where you think “I put my hands up in defeat!” is? YG: Recently, I went to a Japanese preschool to pick up an acquaintance’s son. Many parents came to collect their children, and as I stood at the entrance to wait, I thought “I put my hands up in defeat“ when someone asked me “you have a song at such a young age? (laughs). I was suddenly talked to when I was just picking him up in stead (laughs).  HC: There was a time where I lost my voice the day after performing in the play. I was quite nervous at first, and then I lost my voice when acting in that mindset. It really shocked me. Then I went to the hospital. I haven’t particularly taken care of my throat till now, but ever since then, I’ve come to drink lots of water.  DH: I looked up many things since I wanted to get a puppy, but I decided against it since I live alone and may give the dog a tough time. But I’d wanted to get one for a long time and pondered... When I had the time by chance, I visited the pet shop and it was so cute “I put my hands up in defeat” and decided to get it and brought it home with me (laughs).  YJ: I tried to take 6 of my nephews and nieces who are preschool-aged to the convenience store, but I couldn’t control them at all and had “put my hands up in defeat” (laughs). I wanted to buy them something yummy, but it was too impossible and only brought the eldest with me in the end (laughs).  JU: I visited a cat cafe for the first time the other day, and the kittens were so cute that “I had my hands up in defeat” (laughs). I like cats originally, but maybe because they were kittens, they’d come closer and give me their paw when I moved in closer to them, and that surprised me. I thought cats were chic animals, but who’d knew they would respond (laughs). They were really cute.  ZL: When I went home the other day, my mom had brought our dog to be groomed, and “I had my hands up in defeat” at his adorable super cute bear-likeness. I make Americanised reactions when I’m even slightly surprised, so I thought “wow!” at that moment (laughs). 

“Let’s always be healthy and happy. I love you♡” - Zelo

Source: aigatto_BAP Translation: cassie_babyz

Please take out with full credits

[itsbap]

B.A.P Relays Sincere Messages To BABYz For 6th Debut Anniversary

In honor of their sixth anniversary, the members of B.A.P delivered some heartwarming messages to their fans.

The following is Bang Yongguk’s message:

“To our fans who have been with B.A.P for such a long time, I want to say that I love and respect all of you. There were some difficult moments, but we’ve also made many good memories. Through our sixth debut anniversary, I’ve realized once again that B.A.P received so much love and happiness from you guys for all these years.

“This is actually the studio where B.A.P’s many songs were produced, so it feels really special that I’m using this space right now to talk to you guys on our sixth anniversary. I always feel the love you guys give to all the music we make, and I’m really thankful for that. Producing more music is a bit hard right now, but we’ll definitely continue to work towards becoming respected musicians. I will always be here, so I hope you guys will look forward to us. Thank you.”

The following is Himchan’s message:

“I want to say the same to our fans. To be honest, I think you guys have it harder than we do. We’re really thankful that you guys are always by our side. You’ve worked really hard. Being able to see each other like this isn’t something we should take for granted. It’s not easy to consistently come out and see us, but thank you for always going through it all. I hope we can keep seeing each other. Please stay by our side; I will also do the same. Thank you.”

The following is Daehyun’s message:

“Our BABYz. I always want to do more for you guys, see you more often, and give you better music. You guys are the most precious people to me, so I only want you guys to see good things. I’m 26 years old now, but I started this when I was 20, back when I didn’t know anything. You guys were with me for all these years, so I have a lot of trust in you. As of now, I don’t really want to say more deep and meaningful things because I still believe that I’m just getting started [with my career]. I want to be with you guys for much longer, and I just want to say I love you.”

The following is Youngjae’s message:

“I debuted right when I became an adult, but six years have already passed. I’ve always been thankful for our fans, but as time goes by, you guys are becoming more and more precious to me. I was thankful for you guys when we debuted, too, but the support you give us now is much more precious and deeply moving. The six years that we’ve spent with you guys were full of happiness, so thank you. I hope I can become a source of happiness for you. Please don’t be sick. I love you.”

The following is Jongup’s message:

“So much has happened during these six years. Whether they were good or bad, we’ve made so many memories that we can look back upon. They were the most youthful and passionate moments of my life, so I’m thankful to my fans and fellow members for that. I really enjoy my life, and I think it’s a successful one. Six years can seem like a short amount of time, but it was a very active and exciting period for me. I hope we can continue to make more memories, and I hope I can return with more solo activities. Thank you.”

The following is Zelo’s message:

“Six years have already passed, and I am now at the age of our oldest member back when we debuted. It’s 2018 and I’m 23 years old now. I debuted when I was 16, and just like what the adults would always say, time goes by in a flash. I can’t believe it’s already been six years. Thank you for staying with us, loving us, and supporting us for six whole years. I wonder everyday how we can repay all this love, but being with the members at this point, I think the only thing we can do is release good music and see you guys face to face. Since I’m still young, I will think of more ways to see you. I will always work hard. I love you all.”

trans by soompi