Throwback Thursday: Latin Flavor
In recent years, the Latin influence on both K-Pop and even Western music has been undeniable. Known for chill guitars, rhythmic percussion, and broad instrumentation, Latin music is infectious. Combine that with K-Pop idols, and not only do you have a recipe for success, but also some of the most compelling songs in the industry.
“Potion” - Eric Nam feat. Woodie Gochild
Released in April of 2018, Eric Nam gave listeners one of the most Latin-influenced albums of the year with Honestly. The lead single off the album, “Potion,” is an acoustic break-up anthem filled with chill guitar riffs and lilting percussion as the singer laments over a failed relationship. Not only is the track filled with Latin vibes but the accompanying music video was actually filmed in Mexico and features traditional Latin-American elements.
“Everybody has secrets” - IU feat. GAIN
IU’s “Everybody has secrets” featuring Brown Eyed Girls’s GAIN is an upbeat mambo-influenced track from 2013. Known for her diverse musical repertoire, IU utilizes everything from piano to strings in this mysterious song that showcases both the singer’s enigmatic personality and her mature style.
“O Sole Mio” - SF9
In 2017, SF9 released their Latin-inspired take on a love song with “O Sole Mio,” where the group likens their loved one to the sun. With a running acoustic guitar that serves as the driving force of this smooth track, the song sounds like something straight out of a romantic movie.
“Dejavu” - NU’EST W
Groovy from start to finish and featuring arguably one of the best bass lines in K-Pop, NU’EST W brought us “Dejavu” in the summer of 2018. In the song, the boys sing of a toxic relationship wherein they are content living in their memories as long as they can be together with their loved ones. While the track itself isn’t exactly a happy one, there’s no denying its contagious style.