Jung Yong Hwa’s ‘Your City’ resonates with its poignant message, as the artist’s delivery instills a sense of hope, even in the face of parting. Meanwhile, Dynamicduo and Lee Youngji‘s ‘Smoke’ experienced a resurgence, not only with their classic collaboration ‘AEAO’ but also through the viral dance challenge inspired by ‘Smoke’.
So!YoON! and RM’s collaboration, ‘Smoke Sprite’, weaves a psychedelic narrative within a crunchy composition, creating a twisted fairytale romance. iKON’s ‘U’ introduces a new sense of fun and freedom while maintaining the group’s signature confidence in rap and vocal sections.
LE SSERAFIM’s ‘Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife’ invites listeners to dance with thumping beats and house-inspired elements, showcasing the sextet’s cool vocal delivery and control. SEVENTEEN’s ‘Super’ seamlessly blends anthemic EDM vibes with a party-rap rhythm, demonstrating the group’s versatility in genre transitions.
Crush’s ‘Hmm-cheat’ channels the hip-hop-inflected boy band pop of the ’90s with cowbell percussion, beatboxing, and a gurgling bass line. IVE’s ‘I Am’ exudes unstoppable energy with a stomping beat, sing-song chorus, and soaring vocal harmonies.
Jimin’s ‘Like Crazy’ captivates with neon-swept production, creating a world of majesty and mystery. The song, reminiscent of “Blinding Lights”, features Jimin’s delirious vocals conveying a perfect blend of terror and seduction.
NewJeans’ ‘Super Shy’ emerges as the crowning jewel, offering a refreshing take on drum and bass and juke music from the late ’90s and early 2000s. The song, part of a larger project, encapsulates the innovative spirit of K-pop in 2023, leaving an indomitable imprint on the musical landscape.