In the first airing of our episode “Taking Pop Seriously,” I delved into the world of K-pop, the rise of BTS and my discovery of my favorite group, LOONA. Since then, so much has changed.
The members of BTS are currently on hiatus and pursuing solo projects. Most recently, Jungkook launched his solo career with his song “Seven” featuring rapper Latto and claimed the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This is the first solo from a BTS member to reach No. 1 on the charts.
Orbits rejoice! The girls of LOONA filed lawsuits against their company, BlockBerryCreative, and won. Now two of the members have gone solo and the other 10 members have split off to join two separate companies. Fans long worried if they would ever hear new music from the moon girls again. But finally, the subunit trio ODD EYE CIRCLE had their first comeback with “Air Force One.” The song and music video have many nods to their lore and storylines. The title itself refers to the iconic Nike shoe, a change from their usual Converse chucks. Though not all 12 members are making music together, this song marks a hopeful step forward.
Lastly, the world’s hottest K-pop girl group at the moment is undoubtedly NewJeans. The quintet captured the “Attention” of the K-pop world with their surprise debut a little over a year ago. This year, after dropping huge singles “Ditto” and “OMG” they are back with their 2nd EP “Get Up.” My favorite off the album is the song “Super Shy.” It’s a dreamy serenade blending a bumping Jersey club beat and with UK garage drums. And let me tell you, the dance is an arm workout.
– Angelo