It is difficult, nigh impossible, to talk about K-pop without mentioning BTS. Therefore, this post is all about BTS that recently, and finally, conquered the Billboard charts. Variety has the exclusive covers and the main article devoted to this super group.
“Big Hit, and the K-pop music business in general, have proved just how much a band, and a company, can prosper through a direct-to-consumer relationship, driven by digital platforms and dedicated apps with lots of behind-the-scenes content that keeps fans emotionally involved. It’s engagement on a scale that no Western artist has ever achieved, despite decades of radio promotion and the best retail strategy.”
Vox has an interesting take on its recent chart topping hit Dynamite, and the trajectory of BTS to reach the number 1 spot on Billboard.
“It’s America refracted, then refracted again, then placed onto the shoulders of a bunch of sophisticated international musicians whose artistry is so high that they somehow managed to transform it from a kitschy mess into one of the most solid hits of the year.”
I always say that big hits (no pun intended) reflect the milieu that thrive on. So there’s a lot to unpack, and to expect from BTS for the years to come.