Throwback Thursday: ‘90s Vibes
Along with the birth of modern K-Pop, the 1990s gave us many iconic groups including S.E.S., SHINWA, H.O.T., and more. Just like Western music has seen a recent resurgence of ‘90s influences, K-Pop seems unable to part with its ‘90s R&B roots. We here at The Kraze are here to help you hold onto nostalgia with these tracks that prove the 1990s never go out of style.
“Be Natural” - Red Velvet
Red Velvet’s second single “Be Natural” sounds like something plucked right out of TLC’s discography with its sleek synths and muted brass. Released in 2014, the track highlighted the group’s token “velvet” side. Followed up by 2015’s “Automatic” with the addition of member Yeri and many songs since, the ‘90s R&B style complements Red Velvet’s modern vocals almost “naturally.”
“Night Rather Than Day” - EXID
As of late, EXID have been retro queens gifting us with tracks like 2017’s “Night Rather Than Day.” With a laid-back groove and more soul than you can find in most groups nowadays, “Night Rather Than Day” is full of telltale ‘90s instrumentation, including a saxophone hook that sticks with you long after the song is finished. Throw in oversized colorful suits, lots of denim, and some retro sets, and the music video looks like it’s come straight out of the 1990s.
“1 of 1” - SHINee
In 2016, SHINee released their fifth studio album 1 of 1, featuring a title track by the same name, and somehow managed to give us a concept more ‘90s than the 1990s itself. Fueled by electronic drum beats that could give New Kids On The Block a run for their money, SHINee’s characteristic synth-infused house style suits the ‘90s aesthetic so flawlessly that it makes you wonder how we lived without this match made in heaven for so long.
“Platonic Love” - SNUPER
Were the previous recommendations not ‘90s enough for you? If so, look no further than SNUPER’s “Platonic Love.” Released in 2016, the track is layered with twinkling synthesizer riffs that evoke early 1990s pop music like no other. Even better is the ‘90s-inspired music video that comes complete with VHS-like effects and even a roller-skating rink setting.