Throwback Thursday: Best of 2017! Part 2
It’s the last week of 2017! Time sure has flown by, especially in K-Pop! Continuing from last week, this Throwback Thursday is dedicated to some of the best releases of 2017! For this particular piece, we will only be looking at promoted tracks and singles released by artists throughout this year.
Disclaimer: Songs are listed in no particular order.
“Ko Ko Bop” - EXO
It comes as no surprise that EXO has also had an eventful year, seeing as they have recently come back with their winter/Christmas album. But no one can deny that EXO released another hit with “Ko Ko Bop,” a song perfect for the summer. Filled with bright, summery colors and an addictive sound, it’s no doubt one of the best from this year.
“As If It’s Your Last” - BLACKPINK
The cute and sexy girl crushes of BLACKPINK have done it again with another smash hit. As the only track that the girls have released this year, “As If It’s Your Last” is fun and upbeat, and it will get listeners on their feet dancing along. Fans can anticipate their next comeback, as they are currently preparing for their return in the first half of 2018!
“MOVE” - TAEMIN
Arguably one of the best solo releases of the year, TAEMIN made his solo comeback with “MOVE.” Audiences were given yet another sexy and sultry track that just oozes charisma. With smooth choreography to complement his velvety vocals, TAEMIN has fans weak in the knees with “MOVE” and the rest of his album. It is highly recommended that you give it a listen, and don’t forget to watch the music video too.
“Don’t Know You” - HEIZE
HEIZE is another soloist who has made big waves this year, earning herself several awards, particularly during the Mnet Asian Music Awards 2017. “Don’t Know You” is a feel-good R&B track that highlights the soloist’s smooth vocals and rap. Check out HEIZE’s “Don’t Know You” music video and listen to her if you haven’t already!
“Don’t Wanna Cry” - SEVENTEEN
While we can all agree that SEVENTEEN’s recent release “Clap” is a great song, we have to acknowledge that “Don’t Wanna Cry” is just as great. SEVENTEEN showcases a more mature look and sound with “Don’t Wanna Cry,” and the song has also earned the group a few music show wins, as well as a couple awards from this year’s Mnet Asian Music Awards.
“Home Is Far Away” - Epik High
Epik High made their long-awaited comeback this year after a two-year hiatus. It comes as no surprise that the album immediately topped charts worldwide upon its release. Fans simply cannot get enough of Epik High, and “Home Is Far Away” is one of the best tracks off their latest comeback. The album overall is highly recommended and truly worth a listen.
“Plz Don’t Be Sad” - HIGHLIGHT
2017 saw the return/debut of HIGHLIGHT! After departing from Cube Entertainment, leaving their former group name BEAST, and starting up their own agency, HIGHLIGHT made their way back onto the K-Pop scene with “Plz Don’t Be Sad.” This track in particular is super upbeat and addictive, so much so that you can’t help but jump around and dance. While the group released a couple more songs this year following “Plz Don’t Be Sad,” this particular track leaves a lasting impression, as it’s their first song under their new group name.
Honorable Mentions:
“Palette” - IU
“Hands Up” - B.A.P
“Shall We Dance” - Block B
“Fingertip” - GFRIEND
“Lonely” - SISTAR
“Babe” - HyunA
“Likey” - TWICE
“Goodbye” - 2NE1
There are many other worthy songs that were released this year, though we simply cannot list them all. That’s it for the last Throwback Thursday of 2017. Stay tuned for the next installment that will be released in 2018! In the meantime, please let us know what tracks you think were the best of 2017. Happy New Year! See you in 2018!