10 Iconic K-Pop Songs From 2021 — aespa ‘Next Level,’ ENHYPEN ‘Drunk-Dazed,’ MORE!

Can you believe 2021 was already three years ago? Let's take a trip down memory lane with these iconic songs released that year!

1. IU - 'LILAC'

IU released "LILAC" on March 25, 2021, as the lead single of the studio album of the same name.

This upbeat pop song has a unique nostalgic sound, with a thumping drumline and cool guitar rythm. In the song, IU acknowledges that life does not always imitate art; it does not imitate art that is always neat and ties its threads in a systemic way. Instead, life is memorable and unpredictable, which is what makes it so special.

2. Jeon Somi - 'DUMB DUMB'

Jeon Somi released the single "DUMB DUMB" on August 2, 2021.

"DUMB DUMB" was Somi's first release in over a year. While the song starts off cutesy, the chorus shifts the whole tone of the song, showing how, though she has a crush on someone, she is the one with the upper hand. Her voice is alluring and captivating, keeping you hooked all throughout the song.

3. Weeekly - 'After School'

Weeekly released "After School" on March 17, 2021, as the lead single of the EP "We Play."

This pop number is mixed with different genres, namely reggae and trap. This dynamic song is Weeekly's biggest hit. Lyrically, "After School" talks about enjoying precious time with friends after school.

4. ENHYPEN - 'Drunk-Dazed'

ENHYPEN released "Drunk-Dazed' on April 26, 2021, as the lead single of their EP, "BORDER: CARNIVAL."

"Drunk-Dazed" is a pop-rock song with 808 bass sounds. The song talks about ENHYPEN's honest and sincere feelings about the unfamiliar experiences they encountered following their debut. HYBE Labels CEO, Bang Si Hyuk, helped produce the song.

5. aespa - 'Next Level'

aespa released the single "Next Level" on May 17, 2021.

What really sets "Next Level" apart is the bridge. While the rest of the song is hip-hop heavy, the bridge switches to an upbeat jazz composition. Two different genres, yet they work so well together! Lyrically, "Next Level" talks about aespa's journey to find their enemy, the Black Mamba.

6. TXT - 'LO$ER=LOVER'

TXT released "LO$ER=LOVER" on August 17, 2021, as the lead single of their repackage album, "The Chaos Chapter: Fight or Escape."

"LO$ER=LOVER" leans heavy on emo pop-punk sounds. It is an explosive energy that screams teenage energy. The song talks about TXT's desire to become a lover who saves you, their only world and savior. Yeonjun helped pen the lyrics for the song.

7. STAYC - 'ASAP'

STAYC released "ASAP" as the lead single of their single album, "Staydom."

This song is STAYC's first comeback from their debut and helped leave their mark on the K-pop industry. The song is a mixture of cutesy bubblegum pop and a sensual summer banger. "ASAP" helped shape STAYC's identity, and they have been sticking with their cute concept ever since.

8. THE BOYZ - 'THRILL RIDE'

THE BOYZ released "THRILL RIDE" on August 9, 2021, as the lead single of the EP "THRILL-ING."

"Thrill RIde" is a unique hip-hop summer song that is bouncy and energetic. The constant change in rhythm keeps the listener on their toes. Members Sunwoo and Eric helped pen the lyrics for the track. Lyrically, "Thrill Ride" compares the emotions of thrills to a fun amusement ride.

9. IVE - 'ELEVEN'

IVE released "ELEVEN" on December 1, 2021, as the lead single of the debut single album of the same name.

This dance-pop anthem utilizes several unique elements, including oriental instruments and marimba melodies. What makes the song so addicting is how the song slows down at the pre-chorus before ramping up to a catchy chorus. Lyrically, "ELEVEN" sings about the heart of a girl in love.

10. NCT Dream - 'Hello Future'

NCT Dream released "Hello Future" on June 28, 2021, as the lead single of a repackaged album of the same name.

Released soon after "Hot Sauce," "Hello Future" is a refreshing musical change. This hip-hop dance track has a powerful synth sound and trap rhythm. Lyrically, this inspiring song bears a hopeful message of overcoming struggles together, building a bond built with love and trust.

KpopStarz Owns This

Written by Alexa Lopez