From Mala Taste to SKZHOP HIPTAPE, Stray Kids Continues Their Rise
On November 14, the K-Pop giant announced the launch of an innovative new music project titled SKZHOP HIPTAPE "合 (HOP)" Logo Splash, which released on December 13.
An Innovative Project
This project takes its name from the combination of the group’s initials “SKZ” and the term “hip-hop.” Described by their agency as an attempt to create a “new genre,” it eludes traditional classifications. This initiative illustrates Stray Kids’ desire to once again push musical boundaries while exploring new artistic dimensions. It evokes and takes us back to the emergence of the new genre “mala taste” that had marked its time. This term, inspired by “malatang,” a spicy Chinese soup known for its intense and varied flavors, symbolizes a bold blend of genres. Stray Kids use this approach to concoct a unique style, combining disparate musical elements, which results in an explosive artistic expression.
In addition to the title track, the album also includes other notable tracks such as "Bounce Back" and "U" featuring Epik High's leader Tablo, a highly anticipated collaboration. Indeed, the latter was subtly hinted at in the lyrics of their track "Megaverse," where the members discussed influences and connections with other visionary artists in the music world. Tablo's appearance adds lyrical and musical depth to the project, reinforcing Stray Kids' reputation as creative pioneers collaborating with iconic Korean hip-hop artists. This partnership is seen as a bridge between generations and styles, symbolizing innovation and authenticity in today's K-Pop music. The album also features solo cuts that highlight the members' individual talents. The project was also well-received, quickly reaching the top of iTunes charts in 28 countries, while the music video for "Walkin on Water" topped the trending music video list on YouTube.
“Walkin On Water”
The album HOP represents a milestone in Stray Kids’ artistic evolution, combining intense sounds with bold creative explorations. The title track, “Walkin On Water,” is enhanced by a captivating music video featuring the members performing impressive choreography, set against a backdrop that seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary elements. The setting is somewhat reminiscent of the music video for their biggest single, “Thunderous,” where lightning and lightning are featured at the beginning and end of the song. The lyrics, rich in metaphor, explore universal themes such as perseverance and freedom, reinforced by the fluid and captivating imagery of moving water.
A Discography That is Part of an Initiatory Approach
Stray Kids build their musical journey like a true epic, where each album reveals a facet of their personal and artistic evolution. From their difficult beginnings in the Survival show, they have stood out for their tenacity and creativity, achieving worldwide recognition with projects like GO LIVE and their emblematic title "God's Menu." This song, with its assertive egotrip, depicts their unique identity and celebrates their perseverance, represented by the idea of "feeding God" with their hard work while exploring intense flavors, symbolized by the concept of mala taste.
The HOP album is part of this continuity. The title track, "Walkin on Water," could evoke powerful representations, reminiscent of Jesus walking on water. This metaphor positions the members as quasi-divine figures, demigods of K-Pop, capable of transcending musical and cultural norms. This analogy reinforces the idea that they dominate their art with extraordinary qualities, exploring new musical terrains.
Stray Kids continue to dominate the global K-Pop scene with massive hits. Recently, the group performed at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards, where they won the “Top Global K-pop Artist” award, cementing their status as one of the genre’s leading lights.
With these achievements, Stray Kids continue to mark their evolution, constantly supported by their loyal fan base, STAYs, who follow their meteoric rise.
Edited by Bryn Claybourne