Throwback Thursday: TXT (Tomorrow x Together) Edition
Photo: BigHit Entertainment/HYBE
On March 4, 2019, the well-known Big Hit Entertainment/HYBE boy group TXT (Tomorrow x Together) made their debut. The members, Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taehyun, and Huening Kai, from the very beginning, proved their talents to the public. Since then, the group has maintained a steady upward trajectory, releasing multiple albums, mini-albums, and singles, as well as four major world tours, with another on the way. TXT has a way of making every release memorable, and their artistic evolution over that span has been remarkable. So, let’s take it back and talk about the iconic group TXT.
“CROWN” - The Dream Chapter: STAR - EP
On March 4, 2019, TXT debuted with their upbeat and cheerful EP The Dream Chapter: STAR. This lighthearted release features five songs, each a joy to listen to. From the start, listeners gravitated toward the boys’ bright energy, which comes through in every verse. Tracks like “Blue Orangeade,” “Cat & Dog,” and “Our Summer,” for example, are propelled by driving percussion and bright melodic hooks that invite movement. One track that stood out most was their debut, “CROWN.” From the opening Morse code, listeners are drawn in, and when the instrumental comes in, they are ready to dance along. Throughout the song, the members' bright vocals carry listeners through each verse. “CROWN” not only captivates listeners, but it also inspires fans to replicate the emotion it conveys. When this track is performed, the entire arena is on its feet, singing along with the members in excitement. Watching them perform this track is also an emotional moment for many, because it marks the beginning of TXT, and seeing where they are now can bring a tear to many eyes. It’s a monumental moment and will always be a well-loved track from them.
“Puma” - The Dream Chapter: ETERNITY - EP
On May 18, 2020, the boys released their quirky and eerie EP The Dream Chapter: ETERNITY. A departure from their bright debut, this EP revealed a darker sonic palette. A concept the group would revisit throughout their discography was a drastic switch-up from the beginning, and this EP is one for the books. With tracks like “Can’t You See Me?,” “Fairy of Shampoo,” and “Eternally,” listeners can tell this release was something new for the boys, and they executed it with confidence. One song that really showed fans that TXT can cover any concept was their well-known B-side “Puma.” It is a hard-hitting rock track driven by deep bass lines, showcasing the members' vocal range and high-energy choreography. The track is compelling from start to finish. From Yeonjun's striking rap in the second verse to the ad-libs from Taehyun and Huening Kai, this track stands the test of time for many MOAs and will always be a definitive fan favorite.
“Happily Ever After” - The Name Chapter: FREEFALL
On October 13, 2023, TXT released their jam-packed album The Name Chapter: FREEFALL. The album pulses with uptempo production and layered synths that push listeners toward the dance floor. With tracks like “Chasing That Feeling,” “Back for More (TXT Ver.),” and “Do It Like That,” fans can’t help but get out of their seats and bust a move. Another song on the album that tends to bring out the excitement in all fans is their well-known B-side, “Happily Ever After.” The moment listeners hear that opening “Oh my god,” they know it’s time to party. The track blends Jersey drill percussion with pop songwriting to create a high-energy dance record. This is another track that, if performed live, gets the entire arena jumping up and down. Everyone's light sticks wave in the air, and fans sing along with the members. The song is so much fun and will always be a fun song to listen to.