As time goes on, more and more idols are expanding their repertoire of talents by venturing into music production. In addition to famous idol producers like SUGA of BTS and ZICO of Block B, many have tried their hand at composing or writing lyrics for songs, offering a new level of enjoyment to K-Pop tracks we already know and love. Though self-producing artists are growing in prominence, idol producers are not a new trend. Check out some of our favorites from years past!

“Look at Me” - Jewelry

The lyrics for Jewelry’s 2012 hit “Look at Me” off of their mini-album of the same name were penned by none other than EXID’s LE. LE has written and composed for many other artists including the likes of HyunA, FIESTAR, and DIA. With its spunky rhythms and brass line, “Look at Me” is the kind of song that could probably still do really well nowadays. Throw in Jewelry’s girl crush concept with LE’s commanding lyrics and you’d have a hit set for 2012 or 2019.

“Beautiful” - PENTAGON

The closing track off PENTAGON’s 2017 release CEREMONY, “Beautiful,” was produced by Ilhoon of BTOB. PENTAGON is a group known for their vocalists and between harmonies and sustained high notes, their talents are utilized wonderfully in this track by Ilhoon. The composition of the track truly is lovely, featuring beautiful piano and string lines that take PENTAGON’s vocals to the next level. On top of his credits with BTOB, Ilhoon has also worked with CLC and Samuel among others.

“Energetic” - WANNA ONE

Speaking of PENTAGON, anyone that’s ever stepped foot into the K-Pop world has probably heard WANNA ONE’s debut single “Energetic,” but most may be surprised to know it was composed by Hui of PENTAGON with lyric help from Wooseok. Not just the leader and main vocalist of his own group, Hui has written several of PENTAGON’s tracks and even songs for Produce 101 and Kriesha Chu. The immense success of “Energetic” is a credit not just to WANNA ONE’s talent but also to Hui’s incredible production skills.

“Beggin on my Knees” - GOT7

Off 2016’s FLIGHT LOG: DEPARTURE, GOT7’s “Beggin on my Knees” was actually written by Young K of JYP Entertainment labelmate DAY6. Though just a B-side from the album, this high-energy song about a push-and-pull relationship is full of frustration that only Young K’s lyrics could evoke. Known as the main lyricist for DAY6, Young K has an overwhelming amount of credits to his name with some of the most moving lyrics in today’s industry.