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  • LUCY Give Us One Last Taste Of Summer With FROM.

    LUCY Give Us One Last Taste Of Summer With FROM.

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    It’s been a minute since LUCY’s last mini-album, almost a year to the day. But LUCY has been busy releasing incredible OSTs and mindblowing singles, and of course, going on their first world tour. While we love all these things, there’s always something extra special about the atmosphere LUCY creates with their mini-albums. And the newest one, FROM., encapsulates everything we love about LUCY’s music: from comfort songs to upbeat crazy songs, and instrumentals to get obsessed over. FROM., along with its title track ‘Villain,’ is another example of why everyone should be listening to LUCY. It’ll simply make your life better.

    Image source: MYSTIC STORY

    ‘Villain’

    ‘Villain’ is the perfect mixture of soft, hopeful music and rock music, something that LUCY has mastered like no one else. Once again, the instrumental is mindblowing and to die for. With its stripped-back beginning, it builds up in a song that is genuinely unique to LUCY: the complexity and warmth in the instrumental, the mixture of soft and impactful vocals, and the unique yet relatable beautiful lyrics. While ‘Villain’ has LUCY’s signature sound, it also has one of their most unique and special bridges, which makes the song hit even more. ‘Villain’ is a comfort song in the same way that it is a heartbreaking song about self-doubt. The song and the music video are about how life can bring you down, but it’s eventually about accepting yourself the way you are and trusting yourself.

    ‘Villain’ has a beautiful message and is a masterful song in the same breath. It’s in brand with LUCY’s genius.

    FROM.

    LUCY built their mini-album around ‘Villain’ in the best way. FROM. continues to be extremely high in energy. While ‘Villain’ has a mixture of softness and rock, ‘Complex’ and ‘Doggaebi Dance’ are straight-up energy boosters. ‘Complex’ starts strong with a fun and impactful bass line, soon enough mixed with the violin, making it an instant highlight. The instrumental bridge is yet again proof of their genius as a band. It is mind-blowingly good. While ‘Complex’ is upbeat, it completely clashes with its lyrics about self-doubt and self-hatred. Happy sound with sad lyrics is hands down one of our favorite genres, and LUCY has always mastered it. ‘Doggaebi Dance’ is even more energic with its grandiose and insane production. Yes, it’s about being self-conscious, but it’s also about embracing not knowing who you are. Once again, the instrumental is absolutely everything, and the effect and atmosphere they create are unique and irreplicable.

    It wouldn’t be a LUCY release without a song to tug at your heartstrings like no other. Let us introduce you to ‘Burn it.’ It starts softly and lowkey with beautiful melodies that are already enough to lure us in. The build-up is what makes it even more impactful and unique. ‘Burn It’ is that type of ballad only LUCY can really give us. And it is followed by possibly the most special song in FROM.: ‘Falling Flower.’ LUCY initially played this song during their tour, and words cannot explain how happy we are to finally have it in streaming platforms so that we can loop it with no end. This song is peak LUCY: it’s everything we love the most about them. ‘Falling Flower,’ paralleled to their debut ‘Flowering,’ is about finding hope after falling down. It has that anthem and hug feel to it. ‘Falling Flower’ is the perfect comfort song. And LUCY is the perfect band to wrap up the summer with.

    Is ‘Villain’ your new favorite LUCY title track? What’s your favorite song out of FROM.? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.

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    Juu

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  • Let’s ‘Dive’ Into ASTRO Yoon Sanha’s Solo Debut

    Let’s ‘Dive’ Into ASTRO Yoon Sanha’s Solo Debut

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    It seemed like it was only a matter of time before we got to see ASTRO‘s Yoon Sanha debut as a soloist. And our days of waiting are finally behind us! Sanha just debuted as a soloist with ‘Dive’ and his first mini-album DUSK, giving us everything we expected, everything we wanted, and so much more. DUSK is personal, vulnerable, intense, and a perfect encapsulation of how far Sanha’s talent can go as an artist, singer, and idol.

    ‘Dive’

    ‘Dive’ feels different and refreshing right from the beginning. It starts all stripped down with only a guitar and Sanha‘s distinctive voice, and it’s enough to establish a vibe and so many different emotions. ‘Dive’ has one of the most satisfactory builds up: the chorus is absolute pop excellence with the way it explodes and explores the push and pull of emotions between love and hate. ‘Dive’ truly has so many layers to it and ends up hitting in the perfect way. All this gloomy, angsty energy is perfectly translated into the music video as we see Sanha walk down the streets of London, seemingly lost and directionless. The aesthetic really made ‘Dive’ go even harder. It’s dark, angsty, infectious, and a song we can’t see ourselves getting tired of any time soon.

    DUSK

    While ‘Dive’ is a definite highlight of this release, Sanha truly put all of him in DUSK. And we simply cannot talk about this amazing title track without talking about its b-sides. DUSK opens with probably the most important song in the album. Opening the album with a ballad might feel strange, but this had to be the opening song. ‘Yeowoobyul’ is just a guitar, some drums, Sanha‘s soft voice, and some of the most gorgeous and heartfelt lyrics he wrote for his members, specifically Moonbin. It sets Sanha’s mini-album as something personal, vulnerable, and extremely real to him. This vulnerability is also shown through other b-sides, like ‘Losing My Mind,’ a beautiful piano ballad that showcases even more of the power and emotion in Sanha’s voice.

    More B-Sides

    ‘BITTERSWEET MISTAKE’ switches the tone of DUSK with its R&B vibe, but it remains equally vulnerable through a more mysterious and dark sound. It builds right into ‘Dive’ and the track ‘BLEEDING’ keeps that intensity and energy. If you love some of the most iconic songs from Moonbin and Sanha‘s sub-unit like ‘WHO,’ then ‘BLEEDING’ will be the one for you. It’s dark, enticing, and addictive – truly a highlight in DUSK. Meanwhile, the closing track, ‘Rain Down On Me,’ brings something entirely new for the album. The vibey, slowed-down, sexy R&B style is not something we’ve seen Sanha do before, but it’s excellent proof that he’s always open to new things and can fit everything.

    DUSK shows us not only what we already knew Sanha was all about, but it’s also about him exploring new things and putting himself out there. And it paid off because DUSK is already an unforgettable mini-album and solo debut.

    Was Sanha’s solo debut what you expected? What’s your favorite song in DUSK? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.

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    Juu

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  • EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Lay Zhang On His Growth And How ‘Fresh’ Took Him By Surprise

    EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Lay Zhang On His Growth And How ‘Fresh’ Took Him By Surprise

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    Yep, you read that correctly. We got the opportunity to exclusively interview Lay Zhang, and we’re going to be pinching ourselves over this one for a while.

    Back in June, Lay Zhang released his latest album, STEP, which was his first entirely in English. You may have come to know Lay through this, or its singles ‘Run Back To You’ or ‘Psychic,’ or you might’ve known Lay for over a decade now as part of K-Pop juggernaut EXO. Regardless of when you got here, we can all agree that Lay is a force to be reckoned with. It was an honor to ask Lay Zhang about STEP, his growth since his rookie days, and how mentoring young artists inspires him, all in this exclusive interview!

    Lay Zhang x THP Exclusive Interview

    Lay On STEP

    Huge congratulations on the release of STEP! How does it feel to have the whole album out in the world?
    Thank you! It feels incredible to finally share this album with everyone. I’m excited for fans to hear it.

    What makes now the right time for you to release your debut all-English album?
    It felt like the perfect moment to connect with a broader audience and showcase my growth as an artist.

    You worked with some amazing artists and writers on the album. What do these collaborations mean to you? And how did they come about?
    These collaborations mean a lot to me. They came about through mutual respect and a shared vision for the music.

    Lay On ‘Fresh’

    Was there a song you were most nervous for fans to hear? Or one where the reaction has taken you by surprise?
    I was a bit nervous about ‘Fresh’ because it’s different from what I’ve done before, but the positive reaction has been amazing.

    We can’t stop listening to ‘Fresh!’ What are some things that make you feel “fresh and brand new?”
    Thank you! Traveling, trying new experiences, and connecting with fans always make me feel rejuvenated.

    The moment we heard the title track ‘STEP,’ we knew the performance would be amazing, and the official dance video proved us right! What can you tell us about the experience of recording this song?
    Recording ‘STEP’ was a dynamic and energetic experience. The dance video was a lot of fun to create, and I’m glad fans are enjoying it.

    Lay On Tour & TV

    Congratulations on the start of the Grandline 4 Tour, too! How does it feel to be back on the road and sharing the new album with fans in person?
    It’s thrilling to be back on tour and connect with fans face-to-face. Their energy makes every performance special.

    Show It All aired earlier this year. Of course, you were a mentor, but is there anything that you learned or took with you and brought to your own performances since the show?
    Mentoring taught me a lot about patience and perspective. I’ve definitely applied some of those lessons to my own performances.

    How did you find the experience of being a mentor, especially while you are still very active in the industry yourself?
    Being a mentor was rewarding. It was a balancing act, but it also gave me a new appreciation for the industry.

    Lay On His Career

    How do you think you’ve changed the most since your own rookie days? And what do you think your rookie self would think of the Lay Zhang of 2024?
    I’ve grown a lot in terms of confidence and skill. I think my rookie self would be proud and inspired by the journey.

    As a singer, dancer, rapper, actor, producer, and businessman, it feels like there’s no creative outlet you’re too afraid to try! Are there any other creative avenues you’d love to explore?
    I’m always open to new creative challenges. Exploring more in the realms of film and fashion interests me.

    What message would you like to give to new fans who discover the world of Lay Zhang through STEP?
    Welcome! I hope my music inspires and brings joy to you. Thank you for joining me on this journey.

    And what would you like fans who have followed you for over a decade now to take away from this release?
    Thank you for your unwavering support. This album is a testament to our journey together, and I hope it resonates deeply with you.

    Thank you again to Lay Zhang for chatting with us in this exclusive interview! Now, we gotta go show STEP even more love.

    What did you think of our chat with Lay? Are you as obsessed with STEP as we are? Are you, like us, among the fans showing ‘Fresh’ the love it deserves? Let us know over on Twitter @thehoneypop, and you can also talk to us over on Facebook and Instagram!

    Want more Lay Zhang in your life? We got you!

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    Anna Marie

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  • Dreamcatcher Fight For ‘JUSTICE’ In VirtuouS

    Dreamcatcher Fight For ‘JUSTICE’ In VirtuouS

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    Dreamcatcher surprised us with the first installment of a new series with VillainS and ‘OOTD.’ They tried something new in their sound by presenting themselves as the villains. And now, Dreamcatcher are back with the second installment, presenting itself as quite the opposite. Showcasing their signature rock sound, Dreamcatcher are here as the heroes with VirtuouS and ‘JUSTICE.’ And we can’t look away from the masterpiece they’ve just given us.

    Image source: Dreamcatcher Company

    ‘JUSTICE’

    ‘JUSTICE’ screams Dreamcatcher in every way. They went back to their rock sound, yet gave us something new and unique. ‘JUSTICE’ can only be described as grandiose and empowering. Instead of being the villains, this time Dreamcatcher are the heroes and warriors fighting for justice with power and rage. The chorus is the key element as they belt out “Justice makes me fight” accompanied by a kick*ss instrumental. It’s a chorus not many groups could pull off much less by having most vocalists belt it out. And that chorus builds even more with its masterpiece of a bridge: the last chorus is everything – the high note, the grandness, the feeling. There’s no way to listen to ‘JUSTICE’ without getting goosebumps.

    Dreamcatcher‘s music videos are always a big part of their releases and they never disappoint. So we know how much weight it has to say that ‘JUSTICE’ has some of the best aesthetics Dreamcatcher has ever given us. But it’s no exaggeration. The incorporation of paintings, sculptures, and works of art is genius and gives ‘JUSTICE’ even more of a meaning. Everything about ‘JUSTICE’ is top tier.

    VirtuouS

    The beauty of this release is that Dreamcatcher tells us a story through every single song. VirtuouS is a whole story on its own. Indeed, ‘STΦMP!’ builds on the idea of heroes and warriors, fighting for justice from the title track. This song has a striking chorus with such a genius build-up, making it hit even more. ‘STΦMP!’ feels powerful, but it also empowers the listener. It’s a perfect example of Dreamcatcher‘s unique sound even through their b-sides.

    ‘2 Rings’ is an instant highlight in VirtuouS. The guitar riff that opens the song is enough to let you know this one will hit. It’s full of Dreamcatcher‘s overflowing confidence and unique attitude. The song is all about moving forward without fear as a team. ‘2 Rings’ can be considered the song in VirtuouS that retails the actual fight, and it’s done in a genius way, making the song so incredibly addictive and genuinely bad*ss.

    But of course, it wouldn’t be a Dreamcatcher release without a ballad to break our hearts. ‘Fireflies’ is the moment when everything is stripped down, the fight is over, and Dreamcatcher lets their amazing vocals shine on their own. It’s an ode to what was lost, what remains, what is dear, and what truly matters. It’s a song of support and a song to feel comforted by.

    Dreamcatcher has yet again given us a perfect mini-album, pushing forward their art and vision for the story they want to tell. VirtouS is a great example of Dreamcatcher‘s unwavering artistry. They’re always here to give us real music, and we’ll always be here to listen to it.

    What is your favorite moment in the ‘JUSTICE’ music video? What’s your favorite b-side out of VirtuouS? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.

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    Juu

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  • TXT Celebrate Their Bond In ‘We’ll Never Change’ And CHIKAI

    TXT Celebrate Their Bond In ‘We’ll Never Change’ And CHIKAI

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    Another TOMORROW X TOGETHER comeback, another arrow straight to our hearts! Back with their fourth Japanese single, CHIKAI, TXT has continued the trajectory they began earlier this year with TOMORROW, by which we mean they’ve decided to hit us where it hurts.

    CHIKAI translates to ‘oath,’ and that’s exactly what this single album is. Across three tracks, the members restate their dedication to one another, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. TXT are always busy, but 2024 is proving to be one of the most intense yet. Following the back of TOMORROW‘s global success, TXT are in the middle of their third world tour, ACT: PROMISE. They’re also developing more and more notoriety in the fashion space and have attended Paris Fashion Week twice so far this year, and three of the five members have launched their own solo variety shows. See what we mean? You couldn’t dedicate yourself to all of that unless you really meant it.

    TXT continues to grow but don’t worry, they’ll never change…

    ‘We’ll Never Change’

    First of all, can we take a moment to appreciate how gorgeous that harp is? We absolutely love that TXT emphasizes it in the choreography, which is as ethereal and dainty as the song deserves.

    The layers in both the vocals and the track are stunning, we’re obsessed with the delicacy of the guitar, and overall the song is just so soothing. The tape sound effect in the production adds to the wistful sentimentality, and we couldn’t love it more if we tried. A reverent homage to friendship, ‘We’ll Never Change’ is the latest in a long list of nostalgic TXT songs.

    Even at a distance, even as we get older, one oath, we’re never, we’re never, we’re never changing.

    ‘We’ll Never Change’ lyrics

    Our tubatu sing of “Blending into each other, filling each other’s gaps,” as “love sparkles,” and we couldn’t agree with them more. As a group with distinct personalities, performance styles, and musical tastes, MOA has long known how well TXT balances each other out. After all, as they say, “Our ‘difference’ is not ‘wrong.’”

    ‘We’ll Never Change’ Music Video

    And as for the ‘We’ll Never Change’ music video? It’s delicious agony from start to finish. It opens with a flying light very similar to the fox from the ‘Deja Vu’ music video, and that’s not the end of the links. Just as ‘Deja Vu’ referenced so many of their Korean music videos, ‘We’ll Never Change’ does the same for TXT’s Japanese discography.

    TXT all play football together, just as they do in the ‘Run Away (Japanese Version)’ video, but this time Beomgyu is properly in the group now (and doesn’t fall off a bike in this entire MV, which feels like the biggest miracle of all). They all seem to have grown-up jobs now (boo), but what hasn’t changed is their love for their friendship. Yeonjun, who cleans a cinema, sheds tears as he watches their memories on the big screen. It adds to the lore theory that the members only exist inside his head, which makes us wanna bawl our eyes out, TBH.

    ‘Deja Vu (Japanese Version)’

    One thing you should know about ‘Deja Vu?’ It’s a triple threat. One of the best K-Pop songs of 2024 now has three versions! We’re so happy to add the Japanese version to our playlist rotation alongside the original and the ‘Anemoia Remix.’ Sandwiching it in between the other two tracks on CHIKAI really emphasizes its emotional intensity, whilst allowing the other songs to be more gentle, light-hearted moments.

    ‘Kitto Zutto (きっとずっと)’

    Is it really a TXT comeback if there isn’t a pop-punk-inspired b-side? We guess we’ll never know. ‘Kitto Zutto’ was produced by the one and only diamond maknae, Huening Kai! He adds this to his list of credits including the likes of ‘Dear Sputnik,’ and it’s so cool to see his identity as a producer becoming more and more distinct.

    Lyrically, TXT continues to twist the nostalgia-imbued knife. ‘Kitto Zutto’ or ‘きっとずっと’ approximately translates to ‘undoubtedly always.’ Is it just us, or did you immediately think of TOMORROW b-side ‘Miracle,’ too? TXT was singing about how the biggest miracle in their daily life is each other (‘Miracle’) and they promise their future is “you” (‘Deja Vu’), and now they’re doubling down on it with lyrics like this…

    I promise, no matter what, surely, always, I will be right beside you

    ‘Kitto Zutto’ Lyrics (translation credit)

    See? We weren’t exaggerating when we said that TXT is out to hit us in the feels with CHIKAI, and basically everything else they’ve done in 2024.

    So, what’s next for our tubatu? All five members (including Beomgyu, despite his injury!) are currently in Japan promoting ‘We’ll Never Change,’ and then TXT will embark on their first dome tour across Japan, starting in Tokyo on July 10th.

    What’s your favorite track from TXT’s CHIKAI? Are you drowning in nostalgia like we are? Let us know on Twitter @TheHoneyPOP! You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram!

    Want more TXT? Luckily for you, we’ve got that covered.

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  • How aespa’s ‘Hot Mess’ Connects To The Rest Of Their Discography

    How aespa’s ‘Hot Mess’ Connects To The Rest Of Their Discography

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    It’s been almost four years since aespa (and their aes) started lighting up our lives, yet they’re still finding innovative new ways to show us new sides of their art while also building on the worlds they’ve already created. Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning’s debut Japanese single, ‘Hot Mess,’ is such a fun addition to their catalog that includes throwbacks to many of their past songs! Whether you’re a new MY or a longtime fan and just want to make sure you’ve caught everything, here’s our breakdown of the references you can keep an ear (and eye) out for.

    “A hot mess…”

    From pretty much the beginning of aespa, MYs have had a joke that Giselle is the resident Hot Girl of K-Pop because of her talent and the fact that her high school yearbook quote was Paris Hilton’s “that’s hot” catchphrase. Since then, it’s made its way into their music in the form of Giselle’s ‘2HOT4U’ solo, as well as the OT4 songs ‘Next Level,’ ‘Spicy,’ and ‘Supernova.’ 

    Giselle is the only Japanese member of aespa, so it’s cute that aespa made the name of their Japanese debut tie into one of her inside jokes!

    The first of a few different references to aespa’s Drama mini-album and era! The girls remind us not to blink and miss something important after warning someone not to let their guard down on ‘Don’t Blink.’ 

    “If you likе it, I can take you to MY WORLD…”

    Face it, everyone loved it when aespa took us to their world on the MY WORLD mini-album last year! With songs like ‘Spicy’ and ‘Thirsty,’ it really was one of the most iconic eras of the girls’ career so far. Another iconic aespa song notably references MY WORLD, but we’ll get to that shortly…

    “Hidden ænergy, dream designer…”

    From the first time we heard ‘ænergy’ on aespa’s 2021 Savage mini-album, we know it’d go down in history as one of the best opening tracks in K-Pop history! It set the scene for a powerful EP that let aespa show off their fierce personalities, and the title describes their strengths and charms. Here, they’re flaunting how those strengths and charms have let them design the life of their dreams.  

    “Drama has begun, this is not fiction…”

    We think the strongest ties ‘Hot Mess’ has with any past aespa song are with ‘Drama!’ Not only is there this name-drop, but both songs reference MY WORLD and there are a whole lot of connections in the ‘Hot Mess’ music video. Let’s break them down!

    During the first chorus of the ‘Hot Mess’ video, one shot shows Winter through a car backup camera that says, “Check surroundings for your safety.” It kind of reminded us of the ominous message we got in the beginning of the ‘Drama’ music video: “Please follow [these] rules while watching the Drama. Look back immediately when you feel a presence in the dark. If your reflection in the mirror tries to shake your hand, do not let it.” 

    Winter winds up freefalling off a building during the bridge of ‘Hot Mess,’ much like she does in the ‘Drama’ music video after Ningning seems to drop her. Later in the ‘Drama’ video, Winter refuses to let Karina fall the same way, and keeps a tight grip on her wrist.

    Finally, the last chorus of ‘Hot Mess’ shows aespa as giants in a modern city. Yup, you know where we’re heading with this: it almost definitely connects to the Giant teasers from the Drama era! We think this is the most clear confirmation that ‘Hot Mess’ and ‘Drama’ belong in the same universe.

    The animated characters in the ‘Hot Mess’ music video also reminded us of the ones we see in the ‘Savage’ video, and ‘Drama’ mentions ‘Savage’ in its chorus! Could this be another connection? Maybe each of these three songs take place in the same section of aespa’s multiverse, and these animated characters are their versions of aes…

    Which track on aespa’s Hot Mess single album is your favorite? Did you notice all of these references on your own? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! 

    Check out more sweet aespa content! 

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    Madison Murray

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  • Feel The ‘Strawberry Rush’ With Chuu’s Second Mini-Album

    Feel The ‘Strawberry Rush’ With Chuu’s Second Mini-Album

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    Chuu’s first mini-album was a perfect release to introduce the world to who she really is as an artist. While we still haven’t gotten tired of those incredible songs, Chuu isn’t wasting any time, and she’s back with her first solo comeback, Strawberry Rush! And yes, it’s just as good as (if not better than) Howl…

    The Title Track

    After ‘Howl,’ Chuu taps into retro and city pop for her new title track, ‘Strawberry Rush.’ The song is energetic and fun but still has undertones full of hope and emotions. The surprising rap parts are a cute highlight of this song. ‘Strawberry Rush’ is all about support, love and reassurance. It embodies Chuu’s positive side perfectly – it’s sweet, full of flavor, and full of love. Overall, it’s such a fresh and addictive song, perfect for the summer.

    Right from her debut, Chuu created a visual world of her own with her music videos, and the music video for ‘Strawberry Rush’ continues in that world. In ‘Howl,’ Chuu comes out of the dark and embraces the idea that life comes with uncertainty but also beauty. With ‘Strawberry Rush,’ we’re thrown into a world full of color, fun animations, and creativity. If ‘Strawberry Rush’ didn’t give you the serotonin boost you needed by itself, its music video will do it.

    The B-sides

    Chuu stuck to the style and energy she had displayed on her first mini-album and we love that. But she still manages to give us fresh and unique songs in Strawberry Rush that expand her range. ‘Honeybee’ is a sweet, summery track clearly inspired by bossa nova. It showcases the softer, more lowkey side of her vocals, and the play on words all throughout the song makes it even better.

    Chuu has been known for always bringing happiness and spreading positivity. And that’s precisely what she does with her music, but even more so with ‘Daydreamer.’ In this b-side, Chuu sings about romanticizing everyday life, seeing the bright side of things, and daydreaming about a beautiful world. ‘Daydreamer’ captures the magic of creativity and finding beauty in everything, both in the lyrics and the instrumental.

    ‘Lucid Dream’ has to be one of the main highlights of Strawberry Rush. In this beautiful song, Chuu sings about embracing her dreams and believing in herself against all odds. ‘Lucid Dream’ has a certain vulnerability to it, both with its vocals and melodies, all while remaining optimistic. It’s a true celebration of Chuu’s path, dream, talent and art.

    Strawberry Rush closes with ‘Chocolate’ and its English version, a special single Chuu released for Valentine’s Day earlier this year. It’s a cute, addictiv,e and upbeat love song. Even months after its release, we’re still obsessed with this one. With the video game motifs, ‘Chocolate’ fits perfectly into Strawberry Rush, making it an even brighter release.

    Chuu continues to brighten our lives with her music and expands her world through her music, music videos, and artistic vision. Strawberry Rush is a perfect mini-album for the summertime and a killer first comeback. Chuu is a solo artist everyone should have in their playlist right now.

    Are you loving ‘Strawberry Rush’ as much as we are? What’s your favorite b-side on Chuu’s new mini-album? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Need more K-Pop coverage? We got you!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CHUU:
    FACEBOOK | OFFICIAL INSTAGRAM | PERSONAL INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE

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    Juu

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  • 3 (G)I-DLE Summer Anthems To Get You Excited For I SWAY

    3 (G)I-DLE Summer Anthems To Get You Excited For I SWAY

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    Summer may have just started, but (G)I-DLE are already bringing the HEAT! Miyeon, Minnie, Soyeon, Yuqi, and Shuhua are releasing their seventh mini-album, I SWAY, on July 8th, and they’ve been absolutely spoiling us with gorgeous concept photos! We’ve gotten three sets altogether: Wind version, Wave version, and Beat version.

    First, the Wind version photos offer a spunky Y2K theme, with the members of (G)I-DLE posing in a convertible. From their hair (Minnie’s curls instantly jumped out to us!) to the effortlessly cool styling, these pictures got us so hyped for this comeback. 

    Image Source: Cube Entertainment

    Next, the Wave version photos kind of reminded us of the ‘Queencard’ era, with a more beachy feel! We adore the colorful outfits and fun platform shoes, not to mention the sweet freckled makeup. They’re ready to hit the beach and we’re a liiiiiittle sad we didn’t get an invite!

    Image Source: Cube Entertainment

    Finally, we’ve arrived at the Beat version photos! This set embraces the Y2K theme once again with such fun styling, including lots of denim and even some lace and bows. It’s trendy yet timeless, and we know we’ll see some fans recreating these standout looks at (G)I-DLE’s next tour. 

    Image Source: Cube Entertainment

    Nevies, are you buzzing as much as we are to listen to I SWAY this July? While we wait to hear (G)I-DLE’s new comeback, let’s recap some of their past hits that you need on your summer playlists! 

    ‘Queencard’

    We couldn’t make this list without including the song that was all over every K-Pop fan’s playlist and FYP last summer! ‘Queencard’ should definitely be your summer anthem if you’re looking to have your self-confidence glow-up this year. Remember, you’re a “star, star, star” no matter what you look like or where you’re going in life. 

    “Blue champagne prepared for this party
    Celebrating being born, every day…”

    ‘Never Stop Me’

    Need some motivation while getting over a breakup or reaching towards your goals no matter what issues you might face? Then ‘Never Stop Me’ is for you! Its guitar-tinged sound is so energizing and we love how the lyrics acknowledge the pain of heartbreak while refusing to stay stuck in it. Make this the summer you make your dreams come true and don’t let anything stop you!

    “Let me put on leather jacket
    Mama, don’t ever, ever stop me…”

    ‘DUMDi DUMDi’

    Of course, we have to spotlight the (G)I-DLE summer song! ‘DUMDi DUMDi’ is all about soaking up the sun and making the best summer memories you can. So grab your besties and seize those sunny days! Bonus points if you all get together and learn the iconic choreography.

    “Dance until the palm trees shake
    In the festival with fireworks, I clear my head
    Like crazy music turned up…” 

    Which of these (G)I-DLE songs do you think screams “summer” the most? Are you looking forward to the release of I SWAY on July 8th? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! 

    Check out more sweet K-Pop content! 

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT (G)I-DLE:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE

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    Madison Murray

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  • Matching Red Velvet’s Cosmic Songs To Zodiac Constellations

    Matching Red Velvet’s Cosmic Songs To Zodiac Constellations

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    Our love for Red Velvet is nothing short of cosmic, and that’s especially true now that we’ve heard their latest EP, Cosmic. Ever since their debut in 2014, they’ve consistently delivered incredible songs, music videos, and more that have cemented their way into K-Pop history. Cosmic is a stunning culmination of a decade of hard work, success, and magic that’s guaranteed to win over any girl group fan! 

    The Cosmic mini-album celebrates the group’s 10th anniversary with a beautiful fusion of their Red and Velvet concepts, mixing their signature harmonies and R&B influences with bubbly energy and sparkling excitement. This duality also pops up in the era’s visuals – most of the concept photos were space-themed and ethereal, while the ‘Cosmic’ music video takes place in a meadow à la Midsommar. 

    With the cosmic theme in mind, venture “through the solar system” and into the cosmos with us as we assign each track on Cosmic to a different zodiac constellation! 

    ‘Cosmic’

    Our first peek into Red Velvet’s latest era came with the title track ‘Cosmic,’ which is a sparkly anthem for summer love! Throughout the song, Red Velvet likens their hearts to a star that “tells [them] she’s a bit lonely” as they start falling for someone. They’re ready to take on the world with this new lover by their side! And the chorus’ “riding your rhythm through the solar system” lyric is a fun nod to their 2022 song ‘Feel My Rhythm.’ 

    The Gemini constellation would be a great match for this song since it’s about connection and unity! That symbolism comes from the Greek myth of Castor and Pollux, who were twin brothers despite having different dads. It reminds us of how the members of Red Velvet are like sisters now, even if they aren’t related!

    “‘Come with me,’ you say
    ‘Discover things no human eyes have seen,’ you say
    I just can’t say goodnight…” 

    ‘Sunflower’

    ‘Sunflower’ is an energetic, adorable song about the thrilling rush of love. It’s as bright as a ‘Sunflower!’ If someone wrote something this sweet about us, we think we’d collapse on the spot. The “I’ll find you in my dreams, driving forward” lyric might be a callback to ‘In My Dreams,’ one of our all-time fave Red Velvet songs, which makes us love this track even more. Our constellation pick for this one is Aries, since it often symbolizes new beginnings and adventure. What an exciting way to describe a new relationship! 

    “I might melt away in your universe
    You got me hypnotized…”

    ‘Last Drop’

    Is it really a Red Velvet EP if we don’t shed a few tears? We think not, and ‘Last Drop’ was the song that brought on the waterworks! Full of pretty synths and guitar strums, it’s all about Red Velvet’s love and appreciation for Reveluvs who have supported them over the years. Even with how difficult it can be in the music industry, they promise to keep delivering amazing music for us and giving us every last drop of effort. We also love how the “dazzling night festival” lyric references their iconic The ReVe Festival albums.

    Our official constellation choice for ‘Last Drop’ is Cancer, which symbolizes loyalty. We’ll always be loyal supporters of Red Velvet!

    “I’ll fly lightyears to find you
    To you, who made me shine bright in the boundless night
    To you, my universe and the only reason I exist…”

    ‘Love Arcade’

    ‘Love Arcade’ has already become one of our favorite Red Velvet b-sides thanks to its creative theme and production! The song compares love to a game that the girls are ready to take on, and its retro pop sounds that sound like a classic video game soundtrack will make you feel like you’re really in a fun arcade. We think the Scorpio constellation would be the best match – it symbolizes passion, strategy, and power, which are three important things when you’re playing a game. 

    “Everything is ready, there are no rules (Make a new stage)
    Should we end this boring quest?
    Let’s go to the top…” 

    ‘Bubble’

    ‘Bubble’ is an energizing, synth-infused track about exploring the world and embracing all its possibilities with the right person by your side. And since this is RV’s anniversary comeback, we think it’s about the group themselves! They’ve made the global music scene their “shiny” stage together and it’s been so fun to watch over the years, especially with how many different sounds and concepts they’ve explored. We’d match up ‘Bubble’ with the Sagittarius constellation, which represents exploration! 

    “I want to be with you wherever you go
    Following your light because all dreams become clearer…” 

    ‘Night Drive’

    The Cosmic mini-album ends with ‘Night Drive,’ a midtempo synthpop song with a relaxing edge, which would make the perfect soundtrack for an actual ‘Night Drive’ down a city street. It tells a story about enjoying a night drive with someone you care about, possibly as a celebration of Red Velvet’s members or Reveluvs. We think ‘Night Drive’ would totally pair well with the Pisces constellation, which is associated with love and escapism! The symbolism comes from a Greek myth in which Aphrodite and her son, Eros, escape a monster by turning into fish. 

    “You tell me, ‘I’ll always be by your side, I promise…’” 

    Which track on Cosmic do you get the most starry-eyed for? Did we match up your fave with the constellation for your zodiac sign? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! 

    Check out more sweet K-Pop content! 

     TO LEARN MORE ABOUT RED VELVET:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

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    Madison Murray

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  • Find Your Perfect Bass Guitar Based On Your Favorite RIIZE RIIZING Song

    Find Your Perfect Bass Guitar Based On Your Favorite RIIZE RIIZING Song

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    One thing about K-POP phenomenon RIIZE is that they love their instruments, especially those guitars. How do we know? Well, we’ve all heard their irresistible song ‘Get A Guitar,’ and we’ve all witnessed that epic MMA performance in 2023 where Wonbin rocked the stage with his guitar.

    Plus, if you’re like us, always keeping up with all things RIIZE on social media, you’ve seen them flaunting their colorful bass guitars while promoting their latest single, ‘Boom Boom Bass.’ This track both completes and marks the arrival of their first mini album, RIIZING, which we’re here to celebrate in style. To mark the release of RIIZING, we’re matching you with a bass guitar inspired by your favorite song from RIIZE’s first mini album, RIIZING.

    ‘Boom Boom Bass’

    Kicking off the album is ‘Boom Boom Bass,’ a pop dance anthem with funky disco beats and a groovy bass line that screams excitement. It’s got catchy melodies and insane dance breaks and features choreography by members Shotaro, Sungchan, Wonbin, and Anton. If ‘Boom Boom Bass’ is your favorite song from RIIZING, we’re pairing you with a blue and green bass guitar, where the colors collide like those abstract vinyl pressings. Inspired by the opening of the music video, where we see a guitar dramatically descending to earth, it’s the only fitting choice.

    ‘Siren’

    ‘Siren’ is an icon and a must-have on any RIIZE playlist. It’s bold and confident, demanding attention. Plus, it’s a classic for any BRIIZE. So, if ‘Siren’ is your top pick, a deep red bass guitar is your match. We’re inspired by the impact of the song and the album artwork for this one, so going red will make your guitar as striking and unforgettable as the song itself.

    ‘Impossible’

    ‘Impossible’ has become the summer anthem of 2024. Everyone loves it, and we mean everyone! Even the pets of social media are living their best lives with ‘Impossible‘ as the soundtrack. With its vibrant summer vibes, we’re pairing you with an orange-bodied bass guitar. This choice is inspired by the sunny scenes of Lisbon’s colorful Alfama neighborhood, which sets the scene for the ‘Impossible’ music video.

    ‘9 Days’

    If ‘9 Days‘ is your favorite track, you’re a hard worker with clear goals and a passion for creativity. So, we’re paring you with a white bass. It’s clean and versatile, reflecting the song’s beat and endless possibilities for customization. Just like RIIZE are on their own creative journey, your white bass can be customized to represent you and your personal journey.

    ‘Honestly’

    We can’t blame you if ‘Honestly’ tops your list. The ethereal vibes from the boy’s harmonies and vocals make us feel like we’re floating. For this dreamy track, we’re pairing you with a gold sparkly bass guitar. Think Taylor Swift’s Fearless but in guitar form – those gold sparkles are like the rush of emotions we get from the song.

    ‘One Kiss’

    ‘One Kiss‘ is wholesome and refreshing, just like a bright new day. The music video’s fun and lively waterfront scenes inspired us to match this song with an ocean-blue bass guitar. It’s the perfect reflection of the boy’s playful energy on this track.

    ‘Talk Saxy’

    Moving onto such a classic in RIIZE’s discography, choosing the body color of a bass to represent ‘Talk Saxy’ was a challenge. But we’ve settled on midnight black with silver sparkles that glimmer in the light and give it that extra sexy flair. It’s sleek, stylish, and oh-so-RIIZE!

    ‘Love119’

    ‘Love119‘ gives us cozy winter vibes; perhaps it’s that album artwork we can’t stop thinking about. This soft song calls for a unique ice blue bass with hints of purple and, of course, a textured heart stamped on the body to capture the charm this song holds.

    With every release, RIIZE carry themselves with such sophistication you’d think they’ve been in the industry for decades. Now we’re passing the mic (or should we say guitar) to you. What are your favorite songs on RIIZING? What bass did we pair you with? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter, Discord, Facebook, and Instagram.

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT RIIZE:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE

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    Joanna Rose

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  • EVERGLOW Show Their Darker Side With ‘ZOMBIE’

    EVERGLOW Show Their Darker Side With ‘ZOMBIE’

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    There’s never been any instance of EVERGLOW not blowing our minds, but their newest comeback, ‘ZOMBIE,’ takes us to a whole other level. The girls had their big comeback last year with ‘SLAY,’ and now they’re back with something completely different from anything they’ve done before to prove that there’s nothing they can’t do. Their single album, ZOMBIE, gave us a new side to EVERGLOW and two of their b-sides in their discography!

    The Title Track

    ‘ZOMBIE’ is unlike any of EVERGLOW’s previous title tracks. It’s unique in EVERGLOW’s discography, with its gritty, creepy, and mysterious vibe. EVERGLOW went all in with the zombie concept and served us a song perfect for the Halloween season – yet, ‘ZOMBIE’ feels fresh and new. Starting with satisfying pop melodies, the song goes into an intriguing chorus that ties the concept together. They use the imagery of how love can destroy someone until they feel they’ve become a zombie. The song is, therefore, full of heartbreak but in a creepy and addictive way – and we’re obsessed.

    EVERGLOW‘s music videos have always been a highlight of their releases, with their great aesthetics and mind-blowing performances. And ‘ZOMBIE’ is no exception. The music video took the concept even further, to the point we could consider this one of their top three music videos of all time. The creepy and horror essence of ‘ZOMBIE’ gets portrayed perfectly. EVERGLOW simply ate this concept.

    The B-sides

    As much as we love ‘ZOMBIE,’ a big highlight of this single album are the b-sides: ‘Colourz’ and ‘BACK 2 LUV.’

    It’s really no exaggeration to say that ‘Colourz’ could easily be a title track. This b-side is everything we love about EVERGLOW‘s most powerful songs, such as ‘DUN DUN’ and ‘FIRST.’ It’s full of confidence that feels empowering. The energy in this track is off the roof with EVERGLOW’s unique color. And ‘Colourz’ is so addictive because of its built-up and the saxophone. Seriously, this song is almost too good to be a b-side.

    ‘BACK 2 LUV’ showcases EVERGLOW’s more laid-back side, yet it’s full of personality. It’s a truly sweet and vibey song about meeting a lover again and giving love a second chance. If you love their early b-sides like ‘MOON,’ you’ll fall in love instantly ‘BACK 2 LUV.’

    EVERGLOW never let us down with their comebacks. With ‘ZOMBIE,’ they took their dark and girl crush image to another level, owning the zombie concept. EVERGLOW continues to prove their one-of-a-kind girl group that everyone should listen to now. EVERGLOW not only never let us down, but they continue to get better with every comeback.

    How much are you loving ‘ZOMBIE?’ Which one is your favorite b-side? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Need more K-Pop content? We got you!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EVERGLOW:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | MEMBERS TWITTER | OFFICIAL TWITTER | YOUTUBE

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    Juu

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  • We’re Playing Yves’ Solo Debut On LOOP

    We’re Playing Yves’ Solo Debut On LOOP

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    Since her reveal as the ninth LOONA member, we’ve come to know and fall in love with Yves’ charm and overflowing talent. And we’ve known for a while that she would come out with a solo debut like no other – and the day is finally here!

    Yves delivered LOOP as her first mini-album and her official re-debut as a solo artist, and it was everything we expected and so much more. Working with artists from within her label, Yves was able to bring to life her vision of the artist that she wants to be and deliver incredible music in the process. LOOP shows who Yves truly is as an artist, and let us tell you: everyone should have their eyes on her.

    Image Source: PAIX PER MIL

    The Title Track

    The title track, ‘LOOP,’ can only be described as an absolute banger. ‘LOOP’ is the perfect mixture of a nostalgic and refreshing sound. This song is simply excellent. With ‘LOOP,’ Yves served us the perfect club track with heavy house influence and a fun and dynamic chorus that will not leave your mind. The feature of the Korean-American rapper Lil Cherry really adds an extra spark to the track to an already perfect song.

    And, of course, Yves served with the music video. We didn’t expect anything less from her. The looks, the atmosphere, everything about this music video add even more to ‘LOOP.’ Yves is known for many things: one of those things is just how much of an amazing dancer she is. To see her back at it, better than ever, makes this even more satisfying. ‘LOOP’ is truly a gem in every way you look at it.

    The B-Sides

    It’s not only the title track that is a gem, though. LOOP expresses every side of Yves’ artistry. The four tracks explore different influences and styles, giving us a perfect look into Yves’ mind and art.

    ‘DIORAMA’ serves as a perfect opening track with its dreamy energy. Yves truly taps on R&B influence with this track and gives us perfection. Meanwhile, ‘Afterglow’ truly sets itself apart with its pop-rock influence. The instrumental, especially with how raw the guitar sounds, mixed with her most vulnerable and powerful moments vocally make this track an easy highlight. ‘Afterglow’ hits in all the right ways.

    Finally, ‘Goldfish’ serves as closure to this gem of a first mini-album. The track slows down as it’s an acoustic ballad full of emotion. It’s the only track in LOOP entirely in Korean, giving it an extra-personal feel. ‘Goldfish’ is a beautiful moment in LOOP that brings so much comfort through the lyrics and melodies. It’s the perfect way to end this gem.

    Yves’ aim with this release was to express her authentic self and explore all the sides of her artistry, and we can assure you that LOOP does just that and so much more. Yves is a unique artist, and this is clearly only the beginning.

    Was ‘LOOP’ what you expected for Yves’ solo debut? What’s your favorite song out of LOOP? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Need more K-Pop content? We got you!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT YVES:
    INSTAGRAM

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    Juu

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  • “Who’s There?” 9 BOYNEXTDOOR Performances You Need To See

    “Who’s There?” 9 BOYNEXTDOOR Performances You Need To See

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    When you think of a boy-next-door, what springs to mind? Probably someone approachable, friendly, cute, and charming. And all of these things are true of BOYNEXTDOOR, too! However, whilst all of these might be BOYNEXTDOOR attributes, if you’re not ONEDOOR, you might not know how lowkey anarchic their performances can be, too. Honestly? They’re kinda the cheeky chaps of 5th Gen.

    As well as their iconic energy, we think BOYNEXTDOOR are criminally underrated. They’re great vocalists, dancers, rappers, and are predominantly self-produced! We’re here, along with ONEDOOR, to give them the appreciation they deserve with these nine BOYNEXTDOOR performances that need to be celebrated!

    ‘Pretty U’ (SEVENTEEN Cover) On Music Bank

    We’re starting off with one of our favorite K-Pop covers! BOYNEXTDOOR are known for their approachable, cutesy energy, so it makes sense that they would absolutely kill this performance of SEVENTEEN’s ‘Pretty U.’ Each member tackled their parts so well, and the live vocals were out of this world.

    ‘But Sometimes’ On Studio Choom

    It would be basically impossible to have any list of K-Pop performances without including Studio Choom, right? We always love the staging and camera work, and ‘But Sometimes’ is no exception! BOYNEXTDOOR are underrated dancers TBH, but watching this video would fix that. Plus, we love how it shows the ties between the lyrics and the choreo (see wide shoulders and standing in the metro), especially in the first verse!

    ‘Serenade’ On It’s Live

    Another performance we always look forward to? Any time that our faves appear on It’s Live! BOYNEXTDOOR are particularly well-suited to this style of performance, and we absolutely adore how ‘Serenade’ showcases the rapline’s vocals.

    ‘Smart’ (LE SSERAFIM Cover) On BOYNEXTDOOR TONI3HT

    We could hardly leave this out, could we? From their ‘Earth, Wind & Fire’ era comeback show, this LE SSERAFIM cover is on a whole other level. BND’s leader, Myung Jaehyun, wrote his own rap verse for this version, and honestly? We’ve never been the same since. He’s the greatest and the Gatsby!

    ‘Earth, Wind & Fire’ On INKIGAYO

    Yes, we’re still upset over the end of Yeonjun, Jihu, and Woonhak’s time hosting INKIGAYO, thanks for asking. At least to ease the pain, a week after their final time hosting, we got Woonhak returning as a special MC for BOYNEXTDOOR’s comeback, and performances of ‘Earth, Wind & Fire’ and ‘OUR.’ It might not have healed our hearts, but it did distract us whilst we tried to learn the ‘EW&F’ post-chorus.

    ‘Standing Next To You’ (Jungkook Cover) On MCountdown

    Ok, so this technically isn’t a BOYNEXTDOOR performance, but if we talked about INKIGAYO Woonhak, then it’s only fair that we mention MCountdown Myung Jaehyun too, right? This collab stage to introduce two new MCA MCs – Jaehyun and RIIZE’s Sohee – really showcased their individual styles. Plus, knowing that Jaehyun is genuinely a huge fan of Jungkook only makes ONEDOOR love this performance even more.

    ‘So let’s go see the stars’ On It’s Live

    We tried so hard to not put another It’s Live performance on here. Actually, no, we didn’t, and we’re not sorry about it. ‘So let’s go see the stars’ is one of BND’s most overtly romantic songs, and we love how gorgeous that electric guitar sounds here. This performance really, really showcases BOYNEXTDOOR’s vocals, too – we told you they were underrated! Are you hearing Leehan and Riwoo’s high notes?!

    ‘DOPE’ (BTS Cover) At KCON Hong Kong

    From SEVENTEEN to BTS! With their emphasis on artistry and self-produced music, it’s no wonder that BOYNEXTDOOR would gravitate towards these two groups. It’s a more aggressive performance than most people probably expect from BND, but that’s exactly what makes it so impressive. From cute to cool, they can do it all!

    ‘One and Only’ On Studio Choom

    Anyone who thinks ‘One and Only’ is cheesy just doesn’t understand it like we do. It was a perfect debut for this team and their concept! It’s relatable and hopeful, (who hasn’t been nervous seeing their crush before?) just like a boy-next-door should be. And yes, whilst it is cute, the declarations of “Representing KOZ” and “Hello world, this is BOYNEXTDOOR” are actually total power moves.

    So there you have it! Which of these BOYNEXTDOOR performances is your favorite? Did we miss something critical off our list? Let us know in the comments or tweet us @thehoneypop! You can also chat all things K-pop with us over on Facebook and Instagram. 

    In the mood for more K-pop? We’ve got you covered!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BOYNEXTDOOR:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

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    Anna Marie

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  • ‘How Sweet’ Is NewJeans’ Latest Comeback?

    ‘How Sweet’ Is NewJeans’ Latest Comeback?

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    You are reading a post ‘How Sweet’ Is NewJeans’ Latest Comeback? that first appeared on The Honey POP and has not been approved for reposting. If you’ve enjoyed this post, you can follow The Honey POP on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.

    Sweeter than ‘Bubble Gum!’

    You are reading a post ‘How Sweet’ Is NewJeans’ Latest Comeback? that first appeared on The Honey POP and has not been approved for reposting. If you’ve enjoyed this post, you can follow The Honey POP on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.

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    Madison Murray

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  • ITZY Own The Algorhythm With Their Newest Japanese Comeback

    ITZY Own The Algorhythm With Their Newest Japanese Comeback

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    2024 started on a high for ITZY with their second full-length album, BORN TO BE, and their second (still ongoing) world tour! And while we’re still not over how massive and impactful BORN TO BE is, ITZY are back with their newest Japanese comeback, their third Japanese single album: Algorhythm!

    ‘No Biggie’

    Before the official release of Algorhythm and the title track, we got the surprise of getting the b-side as a pre-release. ‘No Biggie’ is the perfect soft, laid-back, yet addictive pop song. The song is about finding the bright side of things when you’re with someone who matters to you and makes life much happier. ‘No Biggie’ has this immaculate positive energy about it that makes it impossible to listen to the song and not feel like your day is going to get ten times better. 

    ‘Algorhythm’

    ITZY have been different since day one. Even their debut title track’s title, ‘DALLA DALLA,’ translates to ‘Different Different’ in English. Since then, ITZY have embraced that side of their identity and expanded even more on it. ITZY are truly marching to the beat of their own drums, and that’s what ‘Algorhythm’ is all about. The play on words is glaring: ITZY aren’t following the algorithm, they’re following the path they make for themselves.

    The music video for this fun, lighthearted, yet powerful pop song has to be one of our favorites by ITZY. The music video can be interpreted as a criticism of an overcontrolling industry where every aspect of their dancing, singing, and appearance is controlled. Eventually, ITZY manage to break free and be themselves, finding true happiness and success. ‘Algorhythm’ is not only a banger, but it also has an incredible message. ITZY are out here making their way just by being themselves, and it’s beautiful to see!

    Which song is your favorite? ‘Algorhythm’ or ‘No Biggie?’ Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Need more K-Pop content? We got you!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ITZY:
    FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE

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    Juu

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  • 82Major Bring “Fearless Attitude” In New Album BEAT by 82

    82Major Bring “Fearless Attitude” In New Album BEAT by 82

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    82Major are back with their new album, BEAT by 82, and it’s nothing short of a slam dunk! Their highly anticipated return follows the wave of success after their debut. With this new album, the six-member group seamlessly blends hip-hop and K-Pop into a sound that solidifies their standing in the industry. On BEAT by 82, the guys seriously do a bit of everything, from infusing those Troy Bolton basketball vibes to their hands-on involvement in the songwriting process. And, of course, their vocals, rap, and choreo all blend together, being effortlessly cool. Even if they’re standing on a giant basketball (we’re looking at you, Yechan.)

    ‘Choke’

    BEAT by 82 starts off strong with the title track ‘Choke,’ which literally has you in a chokehold from the get-go. Don’t miss the clever nod to their name and South Korea’s country code (82) with the phone dial that opens the song. ‘Choke’ by 82Major is everything fans love about K-Pop title tracks, featuring that great contrast between a delicate pre-chorus and a severe chorus. The punchy choreography, the “fearless attitude” within the lyrics, and the transitions between black-and-white shots and modern choreography in the music video elevate the experience.

    ‘Birthday’

    The second song on the album, ‘Birthday,’ is the ultimate anthem for celebrations. Forget the traditional ‘Happy Birthday’ song; 82Major gifts us a new track that embraces that special day, appropriately titled ‘Birthday.’ On the song, the guys sing about making every day feel like a birthday for their lover, truly making sure they always feel spoilt and loved. And to that, we say, say less. With a bridge that begs to be played during those candle-blowing moments, the track is a gift in itself!

    ‘Illegal’

    Bringing back bold and powerful vibes, the next track on the album is ‘Illegal.’ Yechan sets the pace, opening with “pedal to the metal,” and the song follows suit. The steady hip-hop beat meets bold raps, with Seokjun’s deep register adding layers of confidence. The track itself is about the guys’ joint efforts to reach new heights as a group, leaving no doubt that they’re destined for greatness.

    ’82’

    Closing the album, ’82’ is the rap-heavy partner to the smooth predecessor, ‘Illegal.’ The collective chants in the chorus give it a playful energy. In fact, we’re picturing how fun this will be for fans to sing along with live on their upcoming tour. ’82’ is full of fiery verses and football references that reinforce the sporty aesthetic of the comeback.

    With BEAT by 82, 82Major don’t only make music, they make a statement. Each track showcases their versatility and fearless nature, solidifying their status as rookies to watch in the K-Pop scene. What’s your favorite song on BEAT by 82? Let us know in the comments on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. 

    Want to know more about 82Major? We’ve got your ultimate guide!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT 82MAJOR:
    INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

    Featured Image Source: Jen Southern for THP!

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    Joanna Rose

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  • When Will BTS Break Up? Answered | The Mary Sue

    When Will BTS Break Up? Answered | The Mary Sue

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    A photo of the seven members of BTS in a purple studio released for the 2023 BTS Festa

    ARMYs enter at different points in the fandom of BTS, and some don’t usually keep up with the frequent V Live streams or their social media at all. But compared to the previous years, it seems like this phenomenal band from South Korea hasn’t been posting music videos together as a group. That’s not to say that the individual members haven’t been dropping great bops as solo artists.

    Jungkook dropped “Seven” feat. Latto and another music video with Jack Harlow titled “3D.” BTS’ V released three solos this year alone, while SUGA produced music for Diablo IV in collaboration with Halsey. They’re all doing solos, which might be why some think that they’ve broken up. The reality is far from that, and this band is far from over.

    When will BTS break up? They’re not disbanding, but they’re going on a temporary hiatus as a group because of mandatory enlistment. All South Korean men must undergo military enlistment from ages 18-35, and there are exemptions to this rule. Many international fans hoped for this day to come later rather than sooner, but BTS member Jin chose to enlist immediately. J-Hope and Suga have also entered the military.

    The remaining members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have all chosen to enlist early and they’ll be off to the military by the end of the year 2023. They chose to enlist early so that they could reunite as a band (and with their ARMYs) faster. That’s not to say fans won’t miss them, and many have been missing the group since Jin joined the military. But in the meantime, there won’t be new chart-topping music from them and updates will be seldom.

    Many fans have gone into military wife/husband mode, but they’ll be back stronger than ever with greater music in store for ARMYs. Just don’t count the days, because they’ll feel longer. Listen to “Spring Day” on a quiet park bench during the sunset. Winter is coming, but spring will be worth seeing.

    (featured image: HYBE)

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    Vanessa Esguerra

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  • After 11 Years, K-Pop Group SISTAR19 Has Reunited. Here’s What They Had To Say About Their New Single

    After 11 Years, K-Pop Group SISTAR19 Has Reunited. Here’s What They Had To Say About Their New Single

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    Hyolyn: I think branching out to do more of our individual work has
    brought us closer together this time around. Because of that, we were able
    to become more genuine with the conversations we had together. But at
    the same time, we never stopped talking or hanging out, so it also feels like
    no time has passed. Of course, there will always be obstacles, but we’re
    overcoming them together day by day.

    Bora: We haven’t had any obstacles in communicating with each other
    individually, but because we are working with different agencies, it’s
    between them to make it work for this comeback. We’re looking forward to
    having a lot of fun working together again — especially working with Hyolyn. I’m very excited!

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  • Are There Stray Kids Tickets 2024? Answered | The Mary Sue

    Are There Stray Kids Tickets 2024? Answered | The Mary Sue

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    Hyunjin from Stray Kids featured in the Step Out 2024 video.

    STAYS (Stray Kids fans) have been rejoicing over the Stray Kids 2024 World Tour. This announcement trended on many social media platforms, with STAYS hoping for the group to tour their countries. Compared to their 5-STAR Dome Tour and MANIAC World Tour, the upcoming 2024 World Tour could have a broader reach.

    After speculation from a JYP document, the STAYs were able to predict the possibility of an upcoming World Tour in 2024. Speculations of the country list soon trended, but JYP has yet to confirm any official country list.

    Nevertheless, any STAY excited to see the group wouldn’t want to miss out on ticket sales. For any STAY who has plans to attend the Stray Kids World Tour 2024 concert as their first concert, there are several good sites they can visit for fair pricing. Although tickets aren’t on sale yet, it’ll be good to keep an eye out for releases on these sites.

    SeatGeek is a well-organized ticketing site where STAYS from the US can grab tickets. The site already has Stray Kids listed, and it’s easy to check tour dates and locations. STAYS from Indonesia can watch ticket sales go live at tiket.com, and fans from the Philippines can anticipate another war at the SM ticketing website if Stray Kids tours there again. Singapore had MANIAC World Tour tickets on Klook, but fans could also access tickets from the Live Nation site. It’s unclear if other Southeast Asian STAYs could buy tickets from Klook for Stray Kids outside of Singapore.

    Japan has StubHub and STAY Japan, while South Korean STAYS can access the Yes24 site for World Tour 2024 tickets.

    For international fans hoping for Stray Kids to land on their shores, Ticketmaster is also a good site to keep an eye out for, just in case. Thai fans can also access Thai Ticket Major, which is also owned by Ticketmaster.

    (featured image: JYP)

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    Vanessa Esguerra

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  • 2023 Grammy Nominations: Snubs and Surprises

    2023 Grammy Nominations: Snubs and Surprises

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    It is with an apprehensive and tired sigh that I announce: the 2023 Grammy nominations are out.

    The Grammy Awards are music’s most exhilarating and disheartening night of the year. Year after year, we’re all forced to sit through hours of pomp and ceremony. At the end of it, stars are disappointed by losses and audiences are disappointed by the boring spectacle the show has become.

    There was a time when The Grammys felt relevant and important. I believe that era ended in 2013 when Macklemore beat out Kendrick Lamar for Best Rap Album. Now, we’re questioning how much authority the Grammy Awards actually hold. Major stars like Drake, The Weeknd, Frank Ocean, and more have stopped submitting their tracks for consideration. And even more musicians have spoken out about being unfairly categorized or snubbed.

    This is especially true of Black Artists. While Jay Z and Beyonce now hold the record for most Grammy nominations of all time, their list of wins deserves to be higher. Sure, their trophy cabinet is already heavy with awards. Let’s not forget that their daughter, Blue Ivy, has a Grammy of her own — but the annual event often comes with major snubs. For example, Beyonce’s never won Album of the Year. Despite the fact that Lemonade exists … much to think about.

    In fact, only 11 Black artists have ever won Album of the Year. Since 2000, there have been only four Black winners: Outkast in 2004 for Speakerboxxx/The Love Below; Ray Charles, posthumously in 2005; Herbie Hancock in 2008 for a Joni Michael cover album; and, most recently, Jon Batiste in 2022.

    On Tue, November 15th the 2023 nominations were announced. Once again, they’ve prompted equal parts celebration and confusion. It’s a fool’s errand to try to guess what the Grammy voters are thinking. And this year is no exception. The disappointment starts early.

    Read the full list of nominations here.

    But here are the biggest snubs and surprises of the season:

    Snub: Taylor Swift’s Red (Taylor’s Version)

    Yesterday, Taylor Swift fans were fighting a war with Ticketmaster, virtually fighting and clawing for tickets to her upcoming The Eras Tour. And it’s a good thing they were distracted because Taylor’s Red (Taylor’s Version) was notably missing from nominations for the Album of the Year.

    Swift is one of four artists to win Album of the Year three times — along with Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, and Frank Sinatra — but since she was shut out of album categories this season, this year will not be one of them. While the original recording of Red was nominated for AOY, the latest version was not. The 30-song tracklist consists of new songs — some of which were given nods like song of the year for “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” and best country song for “I Bet You Think About Me. But even if Red (Taylor’s Version) wasn’t considered Album-of-the-Year-worthy, it deserves a shot at Best Country Album.

    Her most recent offering, Midnights, doesn’t qualify for this year’s Grammys, but we better see it in 2024. Next target on Taylor’s next revenge album: The Grammy voters.

    Surprise: Jack Harlow

    It seems the Grammys have fallen victim to the Jack Harlow trap, an affliction that usually befalls college girls in their Nike Air Force Ones. Harlow recieved a nomination for his sophomore album Come Home the Kids Miss You for Best Rap Album. And his single “First Class” — which samples Fergie’s “Glamorous,” went TikTok viral landed a nom for Best Melodic Rap Performance. Honestly, this is simply humiliating. It only proves that the Grammys still know nothing about rap music. And they’re starting to prioritize streaming, charts, and — heaven help us — TikTok in their considerations.

    Surprise: Gayle

    Another TikTok surprise was Gayle’s nod for “abcdfu” — nominated for Song of the Year. If the TikTok star’s already wondering how to follow up that viral hit, the bar has been raised. So, I bet you a buck, we’ll be seeing a lot of TikTok songs among future Grammy Award noms. Choose your TikTok sounds wisely.

    Snub: Megan Thee Stallion

    Megan is not just one of our favorite rappers, she’s one of the best. Indisputably. The only people who don’t understand that are Academy voting members. They awarded Megan Best New Artist in 2021 … but since then they haven’t found her albums worthy of nomination. Her striking debut only received one nomination in 2022. And despite the acclaim for her sophomore album, Megan was ignored this year. Traumazine was poignant and electric, and deserves better.

    Snub: The R&B girlies

    Other neglected Black female artists include Summer Walker and Tems. Summer Walker is now on her second album, but it seems the Grammys haven’t heard. They’ve never even whispered her name, despite her established place as an R&B mainstay.

    Tems is one of the most fantastic artists to emerge over the past few years. We all expected her to earn a Best New Artist nom at the very least. She wrote Rihanna’s smash-hit for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. And worked with artists like Drake, Future, and Beyonce on chart-topping tracks. So what does it take?

    Snub: Charli XCX and Florence and the Machine

    Other industry mainstays include Charli XCX and Florence and the Machine, and Mitski. All are veterans of the indie/alternative scenes, and all released career-defining projects this year.

    Charli is one of the hottest names in the industry, not just as a performer but also as a writer. Yet, the Grammys love to ignore her — despite her “considerable impact on the music landscape” and her own genre-bending, soaring work. She was nominated for Iggy Azalea’s “Fancy” in 2016 but since then, silence.

    Florence is an indie darling, and her most recent album is a stunner — which is saying a lot. Yet, this indie-alt triumph got scarcely any love from the Grammys. Astounding.

    Snub: Where are the Indie girls at?

    A number of our favorite indie/alt albums of the year were nowhere to be found in the nominations list. Artists like Maggie Rogers and Lizzie McAlpine dominated the indie scene but when it came to the nominations? Crickets.

    Another major snub? Mitskian — an indie-alt favorite foreverrr. But after touring with Harry Styles, she certainly “achieved a ‘breakthrough’ into public consciousness and impacted the musical landscape” this year reaching a thrilling new fanbase. So she should be a shoo-in for the Best New Artist category. Justice for Mitski.

    Snub: Blackpink

    Arguably the most famous girl group performing right now, Blackpink deserved some kind of recognition. C’mon. They’re selling out global stadiums and they can’t even get a stinkin Grammy nomination? Someone introduce the Grammy voters to KPOP, stat.

    Surprise: Viola Davis

    This Grammy season, the actress is on the precipice of an EGOT. She’s nominated for Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording for her memoir, Finding Me. Hopefully, we’ll have something to celebrate come the 65th Grammy Awards.

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    LKC

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