In December of 2023, I talked about some B-sides with strong title-track energy. Since then, so many songs have been released that make me think, “This would be such a good title track.” There are so many that I had to split this into sections. So, today we will talk about those boy group B-sides that would have made great title tracks. 

NCT Dream - “Irreplaceable” 

On May 10, 2021, NCT Dream dropped their hard-hitting first album, Hot Sauce. Banger after banger, it was hard to choose which song would be the perfect title track, and with an already unforgettable title track, “Hot Sauce,” I had to put in the work. The song that won is “Irreplaceable.” This upbeat track is bright, bubbly, and full of that signature NCT Dream sound we love. This is the track you play on a sunny day with the windows down, and with a big smile on your face. This masterpiece showcases the members’ phenomenal vocals and is super addictive. When I first heard this, I felt like I was levitating, and the bridge and final chorus are heaven-sent. It’s a great song with an even greater aura. 

ATEEZ - “Blind” 

On May 31, 2024, ATEEZ dropped their jam-packed mini-album, GOLDEN HOUR: Part 1. - EP. This Latin-influenced album has hit after hit, and one song that stood out so much is their track, “Blind.” Listen to this song and tell me it does not carry big title track energy. I can definitely see them promoting this track on music shows, having a big elaborate music video, and performing it on many tours. The moment it starts, you are hit with an addictive beat that makes you dance. The verses are striking: the moment you hear the chorus, you are hooked. Then there is that final chorus. Would it be ATEEZ if they didn’t have a fun ending? “El amor es ciego, eh, oh, eh. Es ciego, eh, oh, eh” will be stuck in your head all day, and it is worth it.

xikers - “Red Sun” 

Speaking of party endings, on March 8, 2024, KQ Entertainment hype boy group xikers dropped their electric dance inducing EP, HOUSE OF TRICKY: Trial And Error. This EP is hard-hitting from the moment it starts, but there is one song that I thought was the title track. “Red Sun” is the third song off the EP, with an addictive drill beat. I found myself making this scrunched up face while listening. The rappers go off in this song, and that drill beat with a mixture of rock makes you want to jump around your room. I just know this song live would go so hard, and that ending just sends you into a rush of adrenaline. The change from the more tame bridge to the party ending will make your head spin, but it’s so good. This would have been such a great title track.

WAYV - “Poppin’ Love” 

This song is so WayV coded. On November 1, 2023, WAYV dropped their amazing second album, On My Youth. When I tell you I am obsessed with this album, I mean it. Every song is so good, and one song specifically gave such title track energy. I want them to re-release it as a title track. “Poppin’ Love” is the second song off this album that is so much fun to listen to. I have voiced my love for this song before, and if you haven’t heard it yet, pause what you’re doing and listen to this track. That bridge is something you’ll have to run and tell someone about. “Ain’t it poppin’ love, poppin’ love, poppin’ love, yeah” will be on repeat in your brain all day, and you will want to bust a move while listening. This would have been such an amazing title track.

Edited by Cara Musashi