HYBE Boy B-Sides
The boys of HYBE Labels have been busy this year, with every group making a comeback within the first two quarters. From third generation to fourth, there are no signs of slowing down, but their respective albums have already been making a big impact across the globe. Today I’ll share some of my top B-sides of 2023 from TXT (Tomorrow x Together), BTS, SEVENTEEN, and ENHYPEN.
“Happy Fools” (feat. Coi Leray) - TXT (Tomorrow x Together)
“Happy Fools” is a hidden gem from TXT’s fifth EP, The Name Chapter: TEMPTATION. “Tinnitus (Wanna be a rock)” seems to be the fan-favorite B-side this time around, but the upbeat track featuring Coi Leray is surely a worthy opponent. The pop song takes inspiration from Bossa Nova and R&B with lyrics about letting go of all your worries for the moment. If you’re lucky enough to experience a live performance of “Happy Fools,” you won’t be disappointed. Yeonjun’s easy-to-follow dance challenge and the members’ contagious excitement will have you feeling like a happy fool in no time.
“Alone” - Jimin
Jimin’s debut album was short and sweet, but sonically it’s one of my favorite releases of 2023 thus far. “Alone” is a pop ballad with clear R&B influences. Jimin shows off his alluring lower register that perfectly conveys his brutally honest lyrics. It’s somewhat of a follow-up to the title track “Like Crazy,” telling the story of waking up after a night out and realizing the alcohol couldn’t erase the ever-present feeling of loneliness. The post-chorus ends with a promised, “it’s gonna be alright,” and is followed up by a muffled refrain of, “Lie, lie, lie, lie, lie, lie, lie.” It’s haunting yet beautiful when sung in Jimin’s angelic tone.
“SDL” - Agust D
“SDL” reminisces on past love in a way that is quintessentially Agust D. The lyrics acknowledge the difficulties of fostering meaningful relationships. While it holds a sense of sweet nostalgia during the chorus, the verses are rooted in reality. Do we really miss the past? Or are we simply glamorizing the memories as we look back on our happiest moments together? “SDL” poses these questions over a catchy R&B track as our world renowned rapper shows off his softer side with practiced vocals. It’s a breath of fresh air for long-time Agust D fans, and one of my favorite tracks of 2023.
“I Don't Understand But I Luv U” - SEVENTEEN
“I Don’t Understand But I Luv U” is a track from SEVENTEEN’s performance unit consisting of Hoshi, Jun, The8, and Dino. The song was inspired by a fan comment during one of the group’s livestreams. Hoshi was visibly touched by the simple sentiment, “I don’t understand, but I love you,” exclaiming how it would make a great song lyric. And thus, this R&B rock ballad was born. The lyrics describe a beautiful connection between people that transcends all boundaries. The members passionately sing, “Even though I don't understand, I can know you / The language barrier is just an illusion,” and it feels like a warm embrace between artist and fan.
“Chaconne” - ENHYPEN
“Chaconne” samples ENHYPEN’s first Korean OST “I Need The Light,” released in August 2022. The hip-hop track has a sinister edge, enhancing the meaning behind the lyrics. The term chaconne originates from 16th century Spain. It started as a “quick-tempo dance song, where the texts were mocking and the dance movements suggestive.” We’ll have to patiently await the start of ENHYPEN’s second world tour to see the choreography, but the song’s lyrics certainly carry a seductive edge. The members show off matured vocals as they sing, “Dance for me, like you're drunk and fascinated by me,” during a hypnotizing chorus. Unfortunately, it’s the sole B-side from Dark Blood that has yet to receive any sort of promotion or live performance apart from “Fate,” which serves as more of an intro, but I’m hoping “Chaconne” will soon have its moment in the sun.