While BTS and Bolbbalgan4 have been dominating charts like Bugs!, Gaon, Genie, Instiz, and MelOn for the past month, this week’s new releases have contributed to a little switch up, with other songs that have lingered for months transitioning into the season to diversify the sound of summer.  

BACK TO BLACK(PINK)

Almost a year since their last single release, BLACKPINK returned more powerful than ever with their first EP, SQUARE UP. The killer quartet achieved an all-kill with “DDU-DU DDU-DU” on music charts upon its release, with their three B-sides following suit on the Instiz weekly iChart. The long awaited comeback has both BLINKS and non-fans rejoicing in their return, so we do not expect to see the girls leaving the charts any time soon.

BEAT THE HEAT

Amidst the hot and fiery summer beats, BTOB cools things down, adding a more romantic flavor to the chart mix with their latest EP, This Is Us. Their pre-release single, “The Feeling,” ranks seventh on Bugs! while their promoted track, “Only One for Me,” debuts at number 10 this week on Instiz. The boys’ smooth harmonies sung alongside sentimental lyrics on both pop ballads will have listeners seeking out love on these warm summer nights.

GIRL GROUP GEMS

You can always count on girl groups to pump up the charts with catchy tunes, smooth vocals, and infectious rhythms. Pre-summer releases remaining in the Top 20 of various music charts showcase the fact that girl groups always bring the party with them no matter the season. MOMOLAND’s Euro-dance track “BBoom BBoom” became an iconic sleeper hit that still remains at the top of the charts six months after its release, and it’s quickly transitioning into a summer favorite. “Starry Night” by MAMAMOO has also stayed in the Top 20 within Genie and MelOn charts; it’s a Latin-influenced power ballad that definitely suits the season. (G)I-DLE proved their monster rookie status with their debut song, “LATATA,” appearing at number 13 on Gaon and globally at number five on Billboard’s World Albums chart. The group has been going strong on the charts since then with their addictive tropical track that exudes the quintessential summer essence. Lastly, a new duet from Gummy and Ailee produced through Mnet’s music collaboration show The Call tops the Bugs! chart at number two, with these ladies seducing listeners with song “Jealousy.” While the track does not top other music charts, the sensual R&B song is a hidden gem with these two vocal powerhouses, adding a unique layer to the usual summer vibe.

As the temperature rises, so does our anticipation for upcoming summer releases. You can expect to add new jams to your summer playlist with DAY6 coming soon and SHINee wrapping up their three-part album series. Don’t forget to look forward to more girl group domination with new releases by both MOMOLAND and TWICE meant to keep listeners cool and refreshed despite the summer heat.