Throwback Thursday: Iconic Fan Chants
Photo: JYP Entertainment
Have you ever been to a concert or watched a live performance and then heard the screams of fans chanting along to the beat? They may recite the name of the group, or the names of the members, or certain lyrics from the song. That is what is called a fan chant. During a performance, it is always so much fun to sing along to the music, but hearing the collective fan chants from a huge group of people will always send chills down your back. So, let’s take it back and talk about some fan chants that have changed our lives.
ATEEZ - “Guerrilla”
On July 29, 2022, KQ Entertainment boy group ATEEZ dropped their mini-album THE WORLD EP 1: MOVEMENT. On that EP is the striking, hard-hitting track “Guerrilla.” Seeing this track live is the most out-of-body experience. This rock-inspired track has a heavy bass, intense raps, and strong vocals. The fan chant for “Guerrilla” matches the energetic, powerful aura of the entire song. Throughout the track, there are points where the fans join in the song or act as an echo. For example, during the line “I got it back (back),” Atinys would say the second “back,” repeating the last word in that line. A part that stood out to many fans during this fan chant is during the bridge of the song. There is a nice build-up from the vocalists, and then we hear, “We are the Guerrillas,” and “The Guerrillas.” The moment that happens, fans join in screaming, “Break the wall!” It’s such an exciting moment during the song, and even at home alone, you will scream, “Break the wall!” at the top of your lungs.
SEVENTEEN - “Getting Closer”
On January 21, 2019, SEVENTEEN dropped their iconic mini-album SEVENTEEN 6th Mini Album ‘ YOU MADE MY DAWN’ - EP. Like many SEVENTEEN albums, this EP is a blend of genres, and one song that stands out is their powerful track, “Getting Closer.” Full of captivating beats, strong vocals, profound raps, and energetic choreography. The kings of synchronization truly take this choreography and make it the most extraordinary thing you will ever see. Similar to other fan chants, the fans perform it in a call-and-response manner. There is one part that, to this day, many fans from different fandoms are shocked at the sheer speed and articulate way they perform it. During the bridge of the song, there is a dance break, and the electrifying beat catches your attention instantly. While they dance, Carats will chant the names of all 13 members forward and backward at a rapid speed. It is one of the most amazing things ever to watch.
TWICE - “Cheer Up”
On April 25, 2016, JYP Entertainment mega girl group TWICE dropped their second mini-album PAGE TWO - EP. This upbeat, bubbly EP is home to many adorable, unforgettable TWICE songs like their title track “Cheer Up.” This track is lively, and the crowd interaction makes the experience even more exciting. The TWICE members are talented singers, rappers, and dancers, and in this song, the girls give an unforgettable performance. During the song, you can hear Once in the background singing along with the girls. The fan chant consists of repeated words sung along with the members. For example, when member Sana said her iconic “Shy, shy, shy,” the crowd sang with her. This fan chant is a lot of fun to do. It will make you feel like you're part of the group.
Edited by Bryn Claybourne