Throwback Thursday: Best of the Decade
The 2010s have been an explosive decade for K-Pop. From viral sensations to unstoppable fanbases, the 2010s saw K-Pop grow from its more humble beginnings in South Korea into a full-blown cultural phenomenon. It’s been an incredible past ten years with some of the most beautiful, hard-hitting, and unforgettable music, so for the last Throwback Thursday of the 2010s, jump into our Kraze time machine and take a look back at some of this decade’s best.
Georgia, Writer
“Crazy” - 4Minute, 2015
“This song is iconic and it’s literally one of the most hyped songs I've ever heard. From HyunA's opener right to the very end, ‘Crazy’ is a wild ride that I never want to get off.”
Jay, Outreach Director
“Warrior” - B.A.P, 2012
“Probably one of the most iconic and powerful debuts of the decade. From concept to song, ‘Warrior’ left such an impact on the industry.”
“Gangnam Style” - PSY, 2012
“PSY was the first Korean artist to go insanely viral and further jumpstart the Hallyu movement internationally. He may not have paved the way initially but he definitely broke a lot of boundaries (and records).”
Jean, Photographer
“Fantastic Baby” - BIGBANG, 2012
“It will always be known as one of K-Pop’s iconic songs.”
Kelly, Writer/Editor
“Spring Day” - BTS, 2017
“On top of charting in Korea for almost three years now, ‘Spring Day’ has gotten me through some of my darkest days. I loved it instantly and though it’s been years, it’s still remained my favorite song. Whether it’s the heartfelt lyrics or its distinctive tone, no song will simply ever compare for me. I even have the lyrics tattooed on my forearm—another way I know the song will stay with me forever.”
“Congratulations” - DAY6, 2015
“There’s something to be said about the quality of a song when a band performs it every concert throughout four years. There’s something more to be said when it’s that band’s debut single. DAY6’s ‘Congratulations’ is the debut song others wish they had and it just gets better with each passing year. As bold of a statement as it may be, I think it’s no stretch to say ‘Congratulations’ is the best debut song of the decade.”
“Red Flavor” - Red Velvet, 2017
“Red Velvet’s ‘Red Flavor’ is literally summer in song form. This song will never get old and I’ve got the Korean music charts to back me up. Between having an incomparably catchy chorus and hands down the best bridge in K-Pop, ‘Red Flavor’ left its mark on the 2010s and is sure to stick around for the next decade.”
Emily, Writer
“I Am the Best” - 2NE1, 2011
“It is such an iconic song for K-Pop that will also bring you confidence every time you listen to it.”
Anthea, Writer
“Miss Right” - TEEN TOP, 2013
“The present generation needs to know that such songs exist. TEEN TOP is one among the prominent groups who graced the industry with some really good releases and I feel there is always less attention given to them. Their songs are really catchy and I hope I will see more rookie groups covering their songs in the future. They deserve the recognition.”
“Lucifer” - SHINee, 2010
“Every K-Pop fan of the decade will know how impactful "Lucifer" is in SHINee's career. From the fashion to the addictive tune, everything from the song hooked listeners. I am 100% sure that even the youngest generation of today will become a fan of the title, as it is the power that the track beholds.”
“Love Ya” - SS501, 2011
“This title from the second generation artists SS501 is one of the initial songs that introduced us to dark concepts of K-pop music videos. The orchestra of violins playing behind the bombastic track stuns me even today. Personally, the song was my first K-Pop music video, so the track remains close to my heart.”
Aleena, Writer/Editor
“I Got A Boy” - Girls’ Generation, 2012
“The 2012 song really changed the way K-Pop songs are typically heard. The change of beats per minute and genres really makes this song stand out as the ultimate girl group anthem. To this day, it's hard to find a song that rivals the upbeat, fun, crazy mix of tunes, melody, and beats, complete with a colorful music video. I can never get tired of this song.”
Mary, Writer
“Move On” - BTS, 2015
“I like the nostalgic feeling of the song. It helps me look back at the past with fond memories.”