K-Pop Conversion Step 4: The Game-Changers

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 are 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 week four, we review some of K-Pop’s best that will convert even the most stubborn anti-fan.

“BANG BANG BANG” - BIGBANG

“Fantastic Baby” was a classic from BIGBANG, but “BANG BANG BANG” is the game-changer. Calling “BANG BANG BANG” a smash hit of 2015 is almost an understatement, as the song was heard everywhere for months. The addictive melody is impossible to get out of your head once it’s in there, and before you even know it the song is your favorite. It’s impossible not to get sucked into the hype of this remarkable track, no matter how hard you fight it.

“Fire” - BTS

Some could say that BTS is annoyingly popular; while that may be true, there’s good reason for it. BTS continues to successfully bridge the gap between East and West when others have failed to do so in the long term. While that is in part due to their character and meaningful concepts, their title tracks these days often have mass appeal in sound. “Fire” was the beginning of this movement, and still holds the power it had in 2016 today. I mean, don’t we all feel like setting something on fire after one listen to this intense track?

“Zero for Conduct” -  Block B Bastarz

While not nearly as widely known as other choices in this piece, Block B Bastarz’s “Zero for Conduct” is the definition of the ultimate banger that holds the potential of mass international appeal. Rapper P.O.’s fierce verses and fast moving chorus push the otherwise potentially forgettable melody over the edge into excellency, and is guaranteed to win over even the most stubborn.

“BOOMBAYAH” - BLACKPINK

It’s no secret that BLACKPINK has taken the world by storm since their debut, and that everyone and their mother anxiously waits for their next comeback. YG producer Teddy is famous for his catchy and addictive tracks, and that certainly shows with “BOOMBAYAH.” The worldwide appeal of the track shows on music charts from when it was first released, and continues to be a staple banger to return to. No one can resist this catchy tune.

“Bad Boy” - Red Velvet

“Bad Boy” was without a doubt Red Velvet’s most dark and edgy concept, but it was also their first shot at it, since many of their other concepts were far lighter. The group proved their versatility and earned the title of concept queens after conquering this concept. Red Velvet is arguably SM Entertainment’s biggest girl group right now, and they continue to gain momentum in popularity with each comeback. Their concepts are fresh and unique, but “Bad Boy” might be their best yet. It’s almost impossible not to get infected with Red Velvet fever after experiencing this track.