Rolling Stone has released their list of the "100 Greatest K-pop Songs in the History of Korean Pop Music," drawing attention from K-music stans.
Since K-pop has evolved drastically from its roots that date back in the 80's to 90's, it also adapted into current trends in today's music style variety. Apart from the fact that fans of K-pop are increasing, the main core of this surge is due to the songs dropped by our favorite artists.
Here are the top 10 best K-pop songs in history from Rolling Stone's list!
1. 'Gee' by Girls' Generation
Girls' Generation, or also known as SNSD (Son Nyeo Shi Dae), made it on Rolling Stone's list of 100 best K-pop songs in history with their iconic song "Gee."
During the golden era of second-generation K-pop, not only did "Gee" propel SNSD their way to success, but also imprinted a legacy over the industry and community.
The song, which is one of SNSD's legendary hits, is both well-loved by fans and idols due to its catchy sound, charms, performance, and most of all, its memorable Crab Dance!
2. 'Candy' by H.O.T
Released in 1996, SM Entertainment's first-ever debuted artist H.O.T stormed the music industry with their playful track "Candy," which will forever be treasured as one of K-pop's precious gems.
3. 'Good Day' by IU
"Good Day" is a beloved hit piece by IU, which doesn't just showcase her impact in K-pop, but also displays the soloist's talent and vocal range. With the song fusing whimsy orchestral sounds and R&B, the song closes the curtain with an impressive three high-note spectacle from IU.
4. 'Spring Day' by BTS
BTS's "Spring Day" is an all-time favorite within ARMYs, since the song displays the group's serene vocals and rap, accompanied by a sentimental ballad genre.
5. 'Short Hair' by Cho Yong Pil
Cho Yong Pil made buzzworthy impact during the 80's when he released his synth-based and retro track "Short Hair."
6. 'DDU-DU-DDU-DU' by BLACKPINK
The year 2018 was one of the best eras for K-pop, when third-gens made their own marks and reached peak after peak. Along the long roster of third-gen groups, BLACKPINK became a viral sensation in terms of impact and streaming performance with their smash hit "DDU-DU-DDU-DU."
7. 'Haru Haru' by BIGBANG
Everyone is well-aware of how the year 2000s became the golden year for pop music. The same also applies for K-pop, and is evident with BIGBANG's "Haru Haru" (2008), where they shined with their vocals, rap, and recognizable ballad execution.
8. 'I AM THE BEST' by 2NE1
In less than five seconds on its intro, everyone's jaws drop upon hearing the recognizable sound of 2NE1's "I AM THE BEST." This just shows how legendary the song is, since it's also one of the era-defining tracks in K-pop which proudly screams "second-gen."
9. 'I Know' by Seo Taiji and Boys
Seo Taiji and Boys made waves in their song "I Know," merging hip-hop, new jack swing, and guitar instrumentals, which kickstarted the modern sound template in the Korean music market.
10. 'Nobody' by Wonder Girls
On the year 2008, K-pop saw a doorway outside domestic areas with Wonder Girls' chart-breaking "Nobody," which dominated on international music charts. With its catchy melody and recognizable tune, Wonder Girls became the first K-pop act to enter the Billboard Hot 100 in 2009, marking a historic feat.
The song didn't just boost Wonder Girls across foreign countries, but also inspired many artists with the dream to hit big. "Nobody" also became an example of how K-pop can also extend its reach across audiences around the globe, leading to the foundation of its prominence today.
To see the full list of 100 best K-pop songs, click here!
Which K-pop songs on Rolling Stone's list are your favorites? Do you have any other songs in mind you wish to add? Share your thoughts on the comments below!
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