Back in February, we talked about the year 2018, and how many consider that the best year for K-Pop. While that may be true, we can never forget about 2019. The two years were back-to-back and gave us hit after hit. In 2019, we were given many iconic songs that still hold a special place in our hearts. So, let’s take it back and talk about some bangers from 2019. 

“I’M OK” - iKON 

On January 7, 2019, former YG Entertainment boy group iKON dropped their album, NEW KIDS REPACKAGE: THE NEW KIDS, featuring their track “I’M OK.” This beautiful ballad is bound to bring a tear to your eyes. The song shows the members in a vulnerable state, and they express so much emotion that you can’t help but grab at your heart. The members put their all into this song. The vocals are captivating and strong. The raps are striking but tell a story. When this song dropped, many were shocked. This wasn't the same iKON that we’re used to, and it was awesome to see them try a new sound compared to their hard-hitting tracks. If ballads are your thing, this song is for you. 

“Say My Name” - ATEEZ

On January 16, 2019, KQ Entertainment's hit boy group ATEEZ had their first comeback. The mini-album, TREASURE EP. 2: Zero To One is jam-packed with banger after banger. Their title track “Say My Name” is one of their biggest tracks to this day. “Coming to you. I won’t give up. Everybody, say, yeah. ATEEZ present!” This track is so much fun to listen to. The beat is hard-hitting and makes you want to bust a move. ATEEZ are amazing performers, vocalists, rappers, and storytellers. The pirate storyline is shown throughout the video, and you start to connect the dots to their previous videos. It was hard to choose just one song off this album, but picking “Say My Name” was the right choice. 

“Psycho” - Red Velvet 

Angelic, magnificent, and beautiful, are only a few of the words I use to describe this song. On December 23, 2019, SM Entertainment girl group Red Velvet dropped the finale to their three-part album, ‘The ReVe Festival’ Finale - EP. On this EP, we got their ICONIC track, “Psycho.” I don’t think I’ve had a more out-of-body experience before listening to a song until I heard this one. “Psycho” is a fan-favorite amongst Revluvs. A masterpiece in the eyes of many, “Psycho” has all the requirements to make a great track, from strong vocals to addictive raps, and a captivating video. Red Velvet are amazing vocalists, and in this song, we got to hear angelic falsettos and powerful belts. “Psycho” will go down in history as a great song, and will always be a favorite amongst us all. 

“FANCY” - TWICE  

I hear this song and think of fun. It’s time to get up and dance. On April 22, 2019, JYP Entertainment’s mega girl group TWICE dropped their mini-album, FANCY YOU - EP. Their title track “FANCY” is a certified banger known by everyone, no matter the fandom. Everything about this song is engraved into our heads. The lyrics, the choreography, and even the bright and colorful music video. “FANCY” is the perfect combination of girlie-pop fun and award-winning vocals. These girls are super talented and they gave us a banger that we will never forget.

Edited by Bryn Claybourne