K-Pop Covers - Part Two
In part one of my K-Pop covers series, I presented you with some great covers of Western songs performed by K-Pop artists. This time round, we will look at some amazing covers of K-Pop songs that have been performed by other K-Pop artists who have put their own spin on the works of their industry peers.
“How You Like That” - Gaho & KAVE
Originally sung by K-Pop girl group BLACKPINK, this cover of "How You Like That" gets a brilliant rock treatment thanks to Gaho & KAVE. Throughout his career, Gaho has shown versatility with his vocals and song styles, showing that he can perform just about any genre from pop to R&B to now rock music. There's really not a style Gaho can't cover! This cover of "How You Like That" begins with a soft and delicate approach, as if heading down a pop route, displaying his stunning vocals. Gaho and KAVE then switch things up, adopting a dramatic and edgy rock style that makes this one of the best covers you will hear.
“TOMBOY” - Xdinary Heroes
Whether it be a song of their own or a cover of another artist’s track, Xdinary Heroes always understand their assignment and deliver a standout performance every time. This cover of (G)-IDLE’s “TOMBOY” is just one of those performances that exhibits the band’s greatness, expressing each of the members’ phenomenal instrument playing and extraordinary vocals. The rich growls of Jooyeon, stunning high notes from him and Jungsu, as well as the addictive “la la la” lines sung by O.de through a megaphone, and the other members' skills give the song that perfect Xdinary Heroes rock-pop spin.
“Perfect Man” - BTS
If it wasn’t for BTS and this cover, many young or new K-Pop listeners would likely have never have heard of this incredible track by first generation K-Pop boy group, SHINHWA. Originally released in 2002, BTS performed this song at MBC’s Korean Music Festival in 2015, lending their vocals to this iconic pop-R&B track that carries that nostalgic music vibe. While keeping the composition and melody the same as the original, like all BTS tracks and performances, this cover highlights the group’s inspiring stage presence that, along with the audience’s reaction, provides a small glimpse into why BTS has become as successful as they have today.