During K-pop's continuous growth in terms of musical identity and popularity, fans have heard numerous debuts throughout the years.
No one can emphasize how important a debut track is for any artist in the K-pop industry, as first impression is a must. Not only will a good debut song will get an artist an immediate mark on the K-pop map, but can also establish one's starting point on musical direction.
Here are some 8 iconic K-pop debut songs which left an impact on the K-pop industry!
1. 'FIRE' by 2NE1
2NE1's debut song "FIRE" was truly ahead of its time. With the song's sizzling synthesizers, 2NE1's distinct vocal tones, and a whole lot of attitude, the track remained as one of the best K-pop singles until this day. This legendary track also played a vital role in shaping the era of second generation K-pop, highlighting its impact on the industry.
2. 'Hype Boy' by NewJeans
On K-pop's fourth gen, NewJeans caused a viral trend across the music market with one of their lead singles titled "Hype Boy." The group's release of their first mini album "New Jeans" emphasized on how they were going to rise above the trends.
However, the recognizable melody of "Hype Boy" started a domino effect, evident with the amount of dance covers made by numerous fans and idols across social media.
3. 'Replay' by SHINee
SHINee's "Replay" will always have a special place on everyone's hearts. Apart from being graced with SHINee's killer vocals, the song is also successful on bringing back nostalgia every time it plays.
4. 'Energetic' by Wanna One
The year 2017 was a good year for K-pop, especially for project boy group Wanna One, who released their debut song "Energetic." The song has spawned lots of covers, from idols dancing it on variety shows, to fans on public random play dance sessions.
5. 'La Vie en Rose' by IZ*ONE
IZ*ONE made an iconic entrance on October 29, 2018, with their first-ever title track "La Vie en Rose." During 2018, the song peaked on numerous domestic charts such as Bugs, Genie, MelOn, and more. It also cemented IZ*ONE's aesthetic concept, which matched the members' elegance and charisma.
6. 'I'm A Loner' by CNBLUE
CNBLUE's debut track "I'm A Loner" made a legendary impact on the industry. Armed with its funk-rock sound, the song led CNBLUE to commercial success, as well as the band's first two music show wins on KBS's "Music Bank" and SBS's "Inkigayo."
7. 'Bad Girl, Good Girl' by Miss A
The impact that Miss A gave with their debut track "Bad Girl, Good Girl" will always remain unrivaled. No words can express how iconic it was for a debut track to win Song of the Year in the 2010 MAMA Awards.
8. 'Into the New World' by SNSD
SONEs will always have a soft spot for SNSD's "Into the New World." Its legacy is obvious on how many artists have performed the song on survival shows, awarding ceremonies, and special stages. Furthermore, it also marked the start of the "Nation's Girl Group."
Which K-pop debut songs on the list are your favorites? Do you have any other songs in mind? Let us know in the comments below!
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