Throwback Thursday: Best of 2PM
Back in the days of the second generation of K-Pop, 2PM was one of the groups that reigned supreme. With dozens of awards and successes credited to their name and an even more extensive career, you’d be hard-pressed not to know of JYP Entertainment’s famous boy group. Originally part of the JYP supergroup One Day alongside brother group 2AM, the group saw their official debut in 2008 and set precedents with their tough, masculine image. The group has been on hiatus since 2017, so as a way to pass the time until their next release, let’s take a look back at some of 2PM’s greatest hits!
“HANDS UP”
“HANDS UP” is the title track of the group’s second studio album of the same name. Released in 2011, the track has 2PM’s signature hype-dance sound throughout, with bright synths and a high-energy beat fit for a rave. With one of the catchiest choruses in K-Pop, this party anthem will have you “putting your hands up” in no time.
“10 out of 10”
Back in 2008, 2PM was brand new to the K-Pop scene with their debut single “10 out of 10.” Full of groovy rhythms and gritty guitars, the single solidified not only 2PM’s masculine bad-boy image but also their dance-focused presence. The choreography opens with mind-blowing acrobatics from the entire group; even with just moves like that, it’s no wonder they left an impression on the industry.
“Heartbeat”
“Heartbeat” comes off of 2009’s 01:59PM, the group’s first studio album. Released amidst controversy regarding then-leader Jay Park’s departure from the group, the album went on to become 2PM’s most successful to date, ultimately earning them multiple awards at year-end shows including the coveted “Artist of the Year” award at the 2009 Mnet Asian Music Awards. In comparison to the rest of their singles, “Heartbeat” is on the softer side, though still definitely a dance track. The song also saw the first music show win for 2PM, ultimately earning a “triple crown” on SBS Inkigayo.
“Again & Again”
If you only know one song by 2PM, it’s probably “Again & Again.” The song was the group’s first number one single and was also recognized as the “Song of the Year” at the end-of-the-year KBS Music Festival. Whereas the music video for “Heartbeat” was re-filmed in order to cut Jay Park’s appearance after his departure from the group, all seven original members appear in the video for this iconic song. “Again & Again” is quintessential 2PM and a requirement on any K-Pop fan’s playlist.