Numerous K-pop groups and soloists made our 2021 less stressful with their new music, particularly new albums. Every album contains not only the title track but also one or more B-side songs, which deserve a spotlight as well. So with that, we have put together this list to talk about some of the best B-sides that you might love.
10 of the Best K-pop B-sides by Groups and Soloists Released in 2021 You Should Include in Your Playlist
Jeon Soyeon "Is this bad b****** number?" Featuring Lee Youngjo & BIBI
"Is this bad b****** number" is one of the B-sides from (G)I-DLE Soyeon's first solo mini-album "Windy," which came out in July 2021. "Windy" marks her first-ever comeback as a soloist since her solo debut in November 2017.
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This 2021 K-pop B-side song never disappoints thanks to the synergy of the three female artists. On it, (G)I-DLE Soyeon showcases her mic skills with a fast-paced closing verse, while Youngjo's deep and steady voice complements the light and playful chorus of "Is this bad b****** number?" Meanwhile, BIBI's incredible timbre helps create the song's overall texture.
Red Velvet Joy "Je T'aime"
In May 2021, Joy became the second Red Velvet member to make her solo debut after Wendy. She released her debut EP "Hello," which features the B-side track "Je T'aime."
Red Velvet Joy's "Je T'aime" is just one of the sweet songs you can find in "Hello." It's a remake of a 2001 song of the same name that now includes plenty of string instruments. As it is a bright song, it will make you visualize Joy smiling while singing and motivates you to start the day smiling as well.
EXO Baekhyun "All I Got"
EXO member Baekhyun dropped his last album, titled "Bambi," in March before his military enlistment. And, one of the tunes in the album is the R&B song "All I Got." This 2021 K-pop B-side song is packed with amazing adlibs and impressive falsettos that only Baekhyun can pull off.
SHINee Taemin "Light"
Like Baekhyun, SHINee Member Taemin also made his final solo comeback prior to his military service. He released his third mini-album "Advice" in May. The album has five total songs including the B-side track "Light."
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Taemin's "Light" kicks off slow then it will be followed by groovy synth sounds while his vocals intensify. It will then conclude with how it began. In the verses, it appears like the SHINee member combined his singing and rapping skills.
TWICE "F.I.L.A (Fall in Love Again)"
TWICE wrapped up 2021 by releasing their third studio album "Formula of Love: O+T=<3," which contains the B-side track "F.I.L.A (Fall in Love Again)," which band member Nayeon wrote.
"F.I.L.A" is one of the girl group's best disco tracks that prove TWICE and this genre are perfect for each other. It contains metaphorical lyrics about getting through a hopeless relationship and gives off a vibe of a '70s urban nightlife that makes the track a must-listen-to tune.
ENHYPEN "Upper Side Dreamin'"
One of the 2021 K-pop B-side songs that deserve more attention is ENHYPEN's "Upper Side Dreamin'" from the group's million-seller album "DIMENSION: DILEMMA." This electro-funk track has an interesting hook on the chorus that will get stuck in one's head.
Also, the seven members' charming vocals will make you have second thoughts about the track coming from a rookie group.
Red Velvet "Pushin' and Pullin'"
With their latest comeback album "Queendom" (released in August 2021), Red Velvet once again proved that they have one of the best discographies in the K-pop scene. And, one of their best latest tunes is "Pushin' and Pullin'."
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This 2021 K-pop B-side song starts in something like a spoken word verse that talks about being in a relationship with someone who has no interest in you. The track then builds into a dreamy R&B melody filled with the members' spectacular vocals.
SEVENTEEN "Crush"
SEVENTEEN had plenty of new splendid songs released in 2021 so it's hard to choose which one is the best. One of those is "Crush," which boasts a perfect combination of R&B and hip-hop elements. It is characterized by an 808-style base and synth-wave beat and is about making a direct confession to your crush while avoiding not being too overwhelming.
SHINee "Body Rhythm"
2021 saw SHINee's long-awaited comeback as a full group following the members' military enlistment. In February, the quartet released their seventh studio album "Don't Call Me," where one of the tracks is titled "Body Rhythm."
SHINee's "Body Rhythm" has a sexier concept compared to the synth-pop songs in the album. With their amazing vocals, Taemin, Minho, Key and Onew appear to be seducing listeners. The blending of their voices in the chorus will surely leave you speechless.
ITZY "Shoot!"
The final 2021 K-pop B-side song on the list is "Shoot!" from ITZY's fourth mini-album "GUESS WHO," which arrived in April. Although it's not a typical ITZY song, "Shoot!" only proves that the quintet is starting to explore musically. This sexy banger stands out for its seductive, infectious R&B elements and powerful percussion and attractive vocals.
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Written by Mhaliya Scott