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The Light 2020 Needed: BTS’s “Dynamite”

With their unparalleled worldwide fame, the inevitable English release from BTS has been a long time coming. And yet, the unexpected announcement of the group’s first English single “Dynamite” came as a shock in the form of the most pleasant and groovy surprise of 2020.

Aside from their artistry, perhaps the most compelling aspect of BTS as performers is their charisma. Ever since the group’s debut in 2013, these seven boys have brought a breath of fresh air to the K-Pop scene—a sentiment that has only multiplied over time with their newfound global popularity. The group has always been very clear on their stance towards their music: they just want to make people happy. And the disco-infused “Dynamite” does exactly that.

The boys have had their fair share of funky releases with tracks like “Dope,” “Look here,” “134340,” and every j-hope solo, but “Dynamite” takes it to the next level with BTS trying their hand at the disco genre. The song has exactly what you’d expect from a classic disco release, with everything from a catchy running bass line to a bright brass accompaniment to—get ready for it—even a key change. Lyrically, the chorus is one of their most infectious, and it might just be because it’s easily one of their most fun. Just try to hold a straight face while singing “shining through the city with a little funk and soul.” Even if you happen to succeed, the joyful “dynnnnnanana eh” will have you cracking a smile right after.

2020 has been a rough year for many, and while the joie de vivre of “Dynamite” is healing in itself, the music video for the track is straight-up serotonin. The video opens with a modern-day Jungkook dancing by himself in a bedroom before drifting to the other members going about their day-to-day in retro-inspired settings, such as RM in a record store. As the song builds and the members come together, the colors begin to brighten in hue, with the boys donning vintage clothing straight out of the ‘70s. By the end of the song, the setting is a bonafide utopia, bursting with color and overflowing with happy vibes.

Disco is an inherently happy genre, and it’s no surprise that the always invigorating boys of BTS pull it off well. In a year when it feels like the sun has forgotten how to shine, it’s good to know that BTS is still here to help light things up. 

Check out the video for “Dynamite” below.