B-Sides: K-Pop Conversion Step 2: Easing Them In
The K-Pop community continues to grow, reaching as far as the other side of the world. With more acts breaking into the Western music scene, audiences are increasingly becoming aware of K-Pop and rapidly showing interest. Time and time again, this specific formula concerned with dragging others into the hype of the Hallyu Wave has proven totally successful. For the second week in a row, we’re highlighting some of the songs that will pull intrigued loved ones further into the scene.
“Growl” - EXO
The song that definitely launched EXO into superstardom, “Growl” may be one of their catchiest releases to date. Anyone who likes good music is bound to get addicted to “Growl” from the very first listen, and it’s also an excellent segue into EXO as a group, arguably one of the larger K-Pop acts of today. Side note: my mom loves this song. Convert all the moms to K-Pop with “Growl.”
“Hello B*tches” - CL
Yet another big name that may ring a bell is CL, former leader of 2NE1. CL has been attempting to bridge the gap between East and West with her solo work, though nothing has had quite the same impact as “Hello B*tches.” By this point, your chosen victim is likely still warming up to the idea of listening to songs entirely in Korean. Worry not, for “Hello B*tches” is another Korean/English hybrid track to help feel more at ease. Besides, it’s a perfect car-blasting song that anyone can get addicted to.
“Hero” - MONSTA X
Let’s face it, “Hero” changed the game and none of us saw it coming. If MONSTA X can shake up the K-Pop world with this single release, then they’re sure to have some appeal outside our little sphere. There’s a musical quality to “Hero” that’s difficult to articulate, though it’s much easier understood after experiencing it for the first time. It’s that song. Everyone is sure to be enthralled by this unexpectedly fantastic track, musical preferences aside.
“Good Boy” - G-DRAGON and Taeyang
Doing a little more name dropping here with the famous BIGBANG leader G-DRAGON and his partner Taeyang. “Good Boy” is another example of a hybrid between the East and West, boosted in popularity by the notoriety of G-DRAGON worldwide. There really is no need for name dropping, if we’re being honest—just blast “Good Boy” at your next party and I promise you’ll have people questioning where this song has been all their lives.
“Roll Deep” - HyunA
Pull out the big guns with HyunA’s “Roll Deep” and you’re guaranteed to get a response. This song has not only drawn fans into the world of 4Minute, but into the realm of K-Pop itself. “Roll Deep” has a badass beat and chick vibe that no one can resist, not to mention a rather awesome verse from fellow labelmate and BTOB main rapper Jung Ilhoon.