#top music 2023 | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

choi-hae · 11 months ago

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Kenny's Top Music of 2023!

What's up, kids? It's that time of year again. How does every year keep getting better for music? Which in turn makes it harder for me to do this damn list. As always, I tried to listen to as much as possible to get the fullest experience in my music journey. I can’t possibly listen to everything, but I always try my best.

This year’s list is even bigger than last year’s. On top of adding multiple honourable mentions and modifying some categories to suit this year’s releases better, I added two new categories - the awaited MVs of the Year category and the much needed Singles of the Year category. Choosing for this year was harder than last year because everything is just too high quality. This list doesn’t even begin to encapsulate everything I loved, but once again, I did my best.

The rules I put upon myself in terms of choices are similar to last year’s, but please take note of them before reading further. Thank you in advance for reading my list!

RULES:

1. If an album was chosen for top album (group or solo), I tried to choose a different title from a different album OR a completely different artist all together for top title track (group or solo) to showcase as much variety as possible (and to challenge myself). If an album was chosen, it can be assumed I love all, if not most, of the songs on that album anyway. 2. Top b sides are okay to chosen from top albums, as it only makes sense, and there can be multiple from a single artist but only ONE SONG per album. 3. None of these lists are in any particular order. It’s hard enough to choose top of anything, let alone put them into a numbered order.

And with that, here's my top music of 2023!

Top 6 (+1) Group Albums/EPs

5-Star - Stray Kids

Between the two albums SKZ released this year, I chose 5-Star. S-Class is great, not my favourite title from them, but the b sides on this album really elevate the whole project and are easily some of my favourite SKZ songs to date.

New DNA - XG

What a year for XG in general. They really hit it out of the park with this EP. Every song is title track worthy, and it’s so many different vibes that all still work together as a project. Seriously, they killed it.

Harmony: All In - P1Harmony

Their only big release this year but a banger nonetheless. This EP is so cohesive - Jump is such a fun title, and all the b sides are a similar energy that only enhance the whole experience.

Chill Kill - Red Velvet

This album really floored me, even though I should never be surprised when it comes to these girls. Chill Kill is easily one of my favourite titles this year, and then every b side on the project happens to also be a hit? Such a stunning album.

The Name Chapter: TEMPTATION - TXT

It’s hard for me to explain how much I love this EP. I don’t even fully stan TXT but Sugar Rush Ride dropped and I was like, “oh they really did it with this one, didn’t they?”. And then the rest of the EP was also full of bops. Phenomenal project - A+.

MY WORLD - aespa

Another case of the title track is not my favourite from them this year (still love it) but the b sides really elevate the project. One specific b side, which I will discuss later (spoilers), is enough to put this EP here, but I do love the whole vibe of this project from start to finish.

Icky - KARD

The first honourable mention of the post goes to this EP because KARD is changing the game, folks. This is the sexiest project of the year and it’s a breath of fresh air - it’s different, it’s fun, it’s unafraid. They didn’t have to go this hard but I’m glad they did.

Top 6 Solo Albums/EPs

IN the mood - Wheein

Would it be one of my lists without a Wheein mention? I’m always in love with everything she releases, and this album is no different. Every track is so her and it’s all I ever want - those floaty vocals and chill vibes.

OO-LI - Woodz

Every project from him is incredible, and somehow he keeps getting better. Once again, there’s one b side (spoilers) that really elevates the whole thing for me, but every other song in the EP is its own beautiful journey (ha) and I expect nothing less from him.

Game Plan - Somi

The queen. She was finally able to grace us with a little EP and it was phenomenal. The title is a complete bop, all the b sides are beautiful and so her. I honestly feel so blessed this year to get such a great project after almost 2 years of drought.

To Die For - B.I

Another year, another B.I mention. He’s knocked it out of the park again with all his releases this year, but this one in particular is my favourite. The album itself includes his past EP, Cosmos, but all the new tracks are fantastic and include some really great collabs.

Zone - Jihyo

Another queen! Jihyo absolutely murdered this solo debut. The title is fantastic, all the b sides are bop after banger. At this point, she is the blueprint. Also that one fit in the MV - the baggy jean one piece with the boots? Slay.

Letter with notes - Young K

Of course he releases a full album almost immediately after returning from military service. And of course it’s incredible. The entire album is filled with beautiful tracks, upbeat tracks, rocking tracks. He’s a man of many vibes after all. Welcome back, king.

Top 6 Hip-Hop/R&B Albums/EPs

Yunhway - Yunhway

Her first full album and she killed it. I’ve loved Yunhway's stuff for a few years now but she doesn’t drop things too frequently. A full length project like this, in all English as well, was a breath of fresh air for me. Absolute masterpiece.

The Drift - Mirani

Another bad ass rapping lady, another banger of an album. I’ve really fallen for Mirani’s style lately - it’s chill but intense and she knows how to ebb and flow between the two. This project was such a hit for me when it first dropped, and I still have multiple of the songs on my playlists.

Pop Off - pH-1

This man only knows bangers. Whether it’s his own stuff or he’s featuring, he only knows pure bops. This little EP is no different - every song is so on point in terms of vibes, and many different vibes as well. A+.

Sailing - Hoody

A vibe switch but a well needed one. As always, her vocals on this album are phenomenal and the chill vibes are just what I needed on those days when shit was just too much. The whole album, from start to finish = chef’s kiss.

Last Winter - Heize

A last minute entry but she stole my heart with this one. Another beautiful voice graces my ears with every song on the EP and I am calm. Her album from last year acted very similarly for me and I’m so happy to have more from her to end off this year.

Dear Insanity - DPR IAN

What can I say? This guy knows how to make good music, and music that makes me visualize, which is an important sort of sub genre for me. I’m an incredibly visual person and Ian’s stuff is so beautifully cinematic. You can physically feel his music. It’s always a journey, an experience.

Top 6 (+1) Girl Group Titles

Sweet Juice - Purple Kiss

I remember thinking when this dropped, “I can’t believe Purki went and released a title track of the year in February”. I really love how their voices carry the melody. Like the song itself is pretty stripped back. And the MV is gorgeous as well. They really killed it with this one.

Cake - ITZY

ITZY’s title tracks have been pretty divisive lately but Cake is easily my favourite title from them. Something about this song makes me so happy. I love the choreo, I love the MV, the girls sound great on it, and the message is so positive! That’s all I need.

Bad News - Kiss Of Life

These girls!! I’ll get into it a little more later (spoilers) but I’ve completely fallen for them and their music. This title feels so unique to me and showcases their talents so well. If you don’t know, I love a song that makes me feel like a bad bitch, and this is it.

Drama - aespa

It’s actually really hard for me to explain how much I love this song. It’s dark, it’s playful, it’s cinematic at times. It’s so purely aespa but with a new twist. When that final chorus hits, I feel like I’m floating. It’s just a perfect track.

Love Me Like This - NMIXX

My girls killed it this year and you will see them multiple times on this list. Before this comeback, NMIXX had been very divisive for lots of people but I think this song showcased their skills on another level without the distraction of an intense mix pop feel. It’s an absolute winner.

OOTD - Dreamcatcher

Another bad bitch track. Dreamcatcher always has this spice that no one else really has, and I think this song showcases it in a whole new way. It’s still heavy with rock influence like we know them for, but there’s an extra bit of experimentation slipped in that they just completely murdered.

Slay - Everglow

I’m including this as a special honourable mention because what a comeback to come back with after almost two years. Another one that’s a little dark, a little playful, and makes me feel like a bad bitch. Like yes, all my girls slay. I absolutely adore it from start to finish.

Top 6 Boy Group Titles

LALALALA - Stray Kids

From the intro of this song alone, it become a favourite title from them very quickly. Call me dramatic, but it felt like I was experiencing a life challenging event. The energy is on another level and I’m in love with it. The choreo is phenomenal and when that final chorus into post chorus hits, it’s over. A++ from me.

Crazy Form - ATEEZ

It was hard for me to decide between this and Bouncy because both bang so goddamn hard. I’m finding I really love tracks that are more stripped back and the members carry it well with their voices and attitude. Also it’s a little more of an ass shaker and we love that.

Ay-Yo - NCT 127

I couldn’t believe how much I loved this song. It completely snuck up on me. Something about the melody just hits. I still can’t fully understand what it is about it - the chorus is epic. Something about that piano in the verses too. I dunno, man. It’s a bop.

U - iKON

Their first comeback after leaving YG and it did not disappoint. I feel like they really needed that freedom and I’m so happy they got it because we got this song. It was the perfect song to lead into summer. It’s a song that’s really associated with happiness for me so it’s gotta be here.

Beautiful Liar - Monsta X

I can’t lie, I did forget about this comeback. With all the enlistments, I feel so sad thinking about MX and their music because I miss them. But looking back on this song, god it is such a banger. I love when MX adds rock elements to their music. The guitar is such a good vibe for them. I need them back.

Watch It - The Boyz

I know very little about these boyz but hell, they release some smooth and groovy tracks. I chose this one over Roar and Lipgloss because Watch It feels so weirdly cinematic that it tickles that dopamine part of my brain. And that “hi, hello~” part is too smooth to ignore.

Top 6 Solo Titles

Rover - Kai

It’s hard for me to think of words on why I love this song because how can you not? It absolutely took over when it first dropped and rightfully so. I think Kai has this ability to make any beat smooth and sexy as hell, and that’s what makes this song so unbelievably catching and hypnotizing.

Twenty - Swan (Purple Kiss)

This was such a surprise release but oh my gosh, a beautiful surprise it was. I love Swan’s voice so much and to hear her go off on such a bright and groovy track, I felt blessed. I do hope we get more solo stuff from her sooner rather than later because I can’t get enough of her vocals.

Overdrive - I.M

It’s so sexy! Not surprising coming from him but I love it. It’s a vibe that he does well. One of the ways I describe I.M’s music is that it’s perfect for night driving. This song feels like I should be in a car driving too fast on an empty highway, in the best way possible.

Freedom - Joohoney

My god, this song. I think as the title for his solo debut, it’s perfect. It’s so him and there’s really no other way to describe it. The track moves through so many vibes and feelings, and I think he’s a man with a lot of those things. I’m also really glad we got to hear his beautiful vocals in this.

SOS - Kang Daniel

The chorus of this song feels so weirdly nostalgic. The sound of it reminds of music I used to listen to and I think that’s what makes me love it so much. Like it’s giving Three Days Grace in some ways. Daniel always does such a great job in trying new things - this felt like something new for him and he killed it.

Agassy - Soojin

The return of a queen! I missed her so much. Despite what happened, it was tragic that such an incredible performer was forced to take a hiatus for so long. She came back with such a beautiful song with beautiful choreo that really showcases her skills. I am beyond happy for her.

SPECIAL: Band Comeback Honourable Mentions

Xdinary Heroes - Deadlock & Livelock

Both of their comebacks this year were amazing. With every passing year since their debut, they’re settling more into their unique sound and it’s such a fun journey to watch. The titles were great but the b sides really elevate both projects for me, favourites being Good Enough on Deadlock and Again? Again! on Livelock.

The Rose - Dual

A comeback from The Rose is always expected to be amazing, and this time is no different. Every song on the album is beautiful in its own way. The titles with MVs - Back To Me, Alive, and You’re Beautiful - were all phenomenal. Cosmos and Lifeline are fantastic with their EDM vibes - they’re easily my favourite of the b sides.

Rolling Quartz - Fearless

Unfortunately just a single from them this year but a great one nonetheless. It’s another bad bitch anthem for me somehow. And that’s what I’ve always loved about Rolling Quartz - they have an energy that is so empowering, like I can take on the world. I’m hoping for more from them in the new year.

ONEWE - XOXO

This was a nice surprise release. With two members doing service, I didn’t expect something to come out under the band name. For the title, Giuk and Dongmyeong’s voices go so well together. The progression of both the title and the b track are very upbeat and hopeful, which are nice vibes to give to the fans.

LUCY - Insert Coin & Boogie Man

I know I’m missing a comeback here but I really wanted to talk about these two in particular. Unbelievable as the title for Insert Coin was very impactful, especially with the MV. Boogie Man also felt very impactful, because of the MV but also because the song feels a bit different than what I’m personally used to from them. It was a nice surprise and I felt they did such a good job with it.

Top 6 Boy Group B Sides

Crescendo - Monsta X

Finding out this song is a Joohoney produced track was not surprising at all. I tend to love his tracks the most. It gives me the same vibes as Beastmode from Fatal Love, but instead of in your face powerful, it’s this silently powerful sexy vibe that felt new but also felt very MX. It became an instant favourite.

Super Bowl - Stray Kids

It was tough choosing only one b side from 5-Star, because I love all of them so damn much, but I had to go with this one if only for the fact that it was the original God’s Menu. It’s sexy, it’s playful and fun, and “all this shit’s so bussin’”. It’s also in all English so I can fully sing along. It ticks all the boxes.

Good Enough - Xdinary Heroes

As mentioned above, this was my favourite b side on the Deadlock album. I’m completely in love with the stripped back vibe that lets their voices just float through the melodies. This song is so perfect in showcasing their softer side, as opposed to the title tracks which are much more energetic.

More Than Words - P1Harmony

Out of all the b sides, I definitely gravitated towards this one the most. The opening verse has such a nice melody and the chorus is too catching. I really love them on this type of track - that’s a bit softer but still upbeat where they can float and bounce as they please. It felt like this one was fun to record.

ARRIBA - ATEEZ

Okay so I thought Emergency was my favourite, and it’s still great and I love it, but ARRIBA snuck up on me big time. The beginning tune that sounds like it’s being played out of a shitty radio is such a cool vibe. The whole track is just a cool vibe. And who doesn’t love a good skrrt skrrt skrrt?

Blind Spot - Stray Kids

Oh wow, Kenny couldn’t stop herself from choosing two SKZ b sides, what a shocker. This song is just so upbeat. It’s so fun and uplifting in its message. It’s giving montage in a teen coming of age film. I think it’s so perfectly Stray Kids, which is stupid to say because everything they release is so uniquely them.

Top 6 (+1) Girl Group B Sides

Either Way - IVE

Let me start this off by saying: IVE wins best B SIDES of the year. Either Way is my favourite for its floatiness and beautiful emotional vocals, but I need you all to know that in the process of making this list, IVE had SEVEN contenders for this category between their two album releases this year. They’re the b side queens.

Welcome to MY World (feat. navis) - aespa

I alluded to this earlier in the list during the top album section. This is the one b side that elevates the MY WORLD album for me. It has this dark undertone that gives me the best kind of chills. Their vocals are incredible throughout the track. The instrumental is cinematic - it gives me visuals. It’s just a perfect b side for me.

MALA - GOT the beat

This one is coming way out of left field. This unit/mega group was obvious great - lots of fantastic women - but I didn’t expect to love any of the songs. But here we are. This song scratches an itch in my brain. It’s the bass but also that weird flute and the way the vocals just blend. I dunno. It’s a banger.

Biscuit - Purple Kiss

The chorus of this song is so perfect to me and that’s enough for it to land a spot here. I’m obsessed. I’m noticing a pattern with the girl group b sides on this list and a lot of them are super vocal focused, and this one is no different. It reminds me of the feeling Summer Rain gave me, which was on last year’s list.

Underwater - Red Velvet

When I first heard this song, I knew it was going to be on this list. It’s that dark undertone again, with the floaty vocals. It’s sexy and sensual and beautiful. I really feel like I’m underwater while listening to this song. Floating in the middle of a deep ocean. It’s so perfect.

Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife - LE SSERAFIM

So this is on everyone’s lists, right? I feel like this is easily a lot of peoples’ song of the year. It was, and still is, so beyond popular - rightfully so because this song is so catchy. The choreo is addicting. The song also got so many remixes and my favourite one is not on Spotify, and that will be my villain origin story.

We Are Young - Dreamcatcher

Another honourable mention, mostly because this song makes me want to cry. It feel beautifully nostalgic in a way that really makes you miss youth (as if I’m that old). The EDM elements give it club vibes. If I saw them live and they played this, I would be sobbing. Crying in the club. What a gorgeous track.

Top 6 Hip-Hop/R&B B Sides

GOAT - Yunhway

All the songs from her album are great however there’s something about this one. It’s giving drinking a glass of whiskey in a lounge vibes (I don’t drink). It simply feels classy with a hint of hip hop and I think that’s a very unique vibe.

Make U Mine - Mirani

This song. THIS SONG! I’ve found that this year, I’m really into the quick drum-and-bass sort of vibe and this is it, plus a very chill and uplifting sort of melody. The auto-tuned vocals in the chorus are also such a nice touch.

Welcome To The Other Side - DPR IAN

Of all the songs on the album, this one feels like it encapsulates the project really well. It didn’t get an MV but it’s cinematic enough that you can visualize yourself what it would look like based on the MVs we did get. And that’s so like him to make a song like that.

One Last Poem - BIG Naughty

I would love him to do more songs like this. It’s very rock influenced and his voice is so perfect for it. The emotion in the last chorus, it feels like this boy went through six different heartbreaks and it’s all coming out through this song. Phenomenal.

Fantasy - Hoody

It was hard to just pick one from her album because I love so many of the songs. Her voice is so beautiful and calming, and yet every song has its own vibe. With this one, it’s a Cha Cha Malone produced beat, which automatically brings it up, but I really love how groovy it is and how Hoody lets her voice really carry it.

Baby Back Home - Mirani, Leellamarz

More Mirani? And not even an official release? This is my list, I do what I want. This came out as a part of SWF2 and they release some bangers for this show, but this one really hit different. The way they mixed her laugh into the beat sends me in the best way possible.

Top 6 Solo B Sides

Aphrodite - Wheein

It was hard to choose since I adore all the songs. At first, I’d fallen for On The Island but this one really snuck up on me and it became my favourite so fast. It’s so floaty and light and bright and beautiful. The only crime is that it’s so short.

Drowning - Woodz

Woodz was made for rock music. His voice was built for this shit. When I heard this song for the first time, I felt like I was falling in love with his voice again. Like I already loved his music, but this song felt so new and intense and beautifully painful. He really killed it with this one.

Pisces - Somi

This song is so beautifully upbeat and adorable. I missed her voice so much and this really gives me what I was missing. The fact that it’s called Pisces and she participated in the writing as well, it makes it feel that much more special of a song.

Cherry Blossom - Bobby

More rock vibes from a guy that I would love to hear more rock vibes from. I think his voice is so perfect for this vibe. It’s also a really sad song? Sad but pretty at the same time. The bass in the back of the track tickles my brain just right as well.

Closer - Jihyo

Sexy. Beautiful. Stunning. Lowkey an ass shaker. I’m so glad she did performances of this one because it needs choreo and I wasn’t disappointed. This is probably everyone’s favourite so I’m not unique in saying this but what a BOP.

The Island of Misfit Toys - B.I

I think it’s the synth with the drums that make me love this song. Obviously I love B.I and his voice, his rap, but the instrumental for this one really sells it. It’s so fun and upbeat, and when he says 같이 가자, like yes let’s go together. I’m vibin’.

Top 6 (+1) Collab Tracks

Stray Kids - Topline (feat. Tiger JK)

We had to squeeze another SKZ song in here, huh? This collab is legendary. If people don’t know, Tiger JK is like the grandfather of hip hop in Korea. So for SKZ to get a collab with him, that’s HUGE. It’s also a banger. When Felix goes bass boosted “bom digi digi bom bom bom bom”, it’s over.

B.I - Dare to Love (feat. BIG Naughty)

This is some lore about me that people might not know but I love the vibe of steel drums. Anything that sounds similar to it, I’m all in. During the chorus, I really fell in love with this song. Also I love both of these guys and I love them together. Their voices mesh so well.

Bobby - Drowning (feat. SOLE)

I love sexy k-pop and this song is criminally underrated for that. It’s a bop for sure. I don’t know much about SOLE but her voice is so gorgeous on this track. The MV also features DK and Bobby’s rap team of TBZ’s Sunwoo and SF9’s Hwiyoung from that one Kingdom mission, so really this was a huge collab.

Hyolyn - This Love (feat. Paul Blanco)

This song reminds me that I’m painfully single and I don’t even care. Both of their voices are incredible and to have them together on a track is just the most beautiful thing. It’s such a great upbeat song.

LOCO - Not Okay (feat. Minnie of (G)I-DLE)

This is a collab that I never would’ve expected, and it’s on such a sad song. But it’s only so sad because it’s so real. I think Minnie was a great choice for the feature - her voice is really beautiful on here. Loco did a great job as well with the whole vibe of the track.

pH-1 - Rosetta (feat. MILLI)

Another unexpected collab but I don’t know why I didn’t expect it because these two flow together so well. pH-1’s flow is perfect on this one and then Milli comes in for her verse and she’s barking? And she goes off, just spittin’. It’s incredible.

BIBI - Amigos (feat. Becky G)

Another unexpected collab! And another honourable mention for the list. This is such a cool and sexy collab. Bibi hasn’t released too much this year so I was really missing her vibes. Becky G is so perfect - a couple of powerful women on a track. We love to see it.

SPECIAL: Rookie Honourable Mentions

Kiss Of Life

Out of this list, these girls are easily my rookies of the year. They are so beyond talented and charismatic - they feel like veterans. The music is fantastic, the MVs are cinematic and tell stories that are real and pretty unique. I 100% believe these girls are gonna take over the world.

MAVE:

I am mostly intrigued by the idea of virtual idols. I mean, this isn’t the only virtual group that exists, and you can liken it to the idea of VTubers to some extent. But it’s a little fascinating. Their debut was great as well - the song was catchy and the MV was gorgeously animated. I look forward to seeing more.

Xikers

These kids are energy incarnate. I get exhausted just watching them perform. Their music is good, although none of it has truly captivated me, but I simply love seeing them perform. They were made for it. You can see the talent and charisma pouring out of them. They’ll do great things.

VCHA

This group wouldn’t be here if I hadn’t watched the survival show. Their music is hit or miss but I got attached watching them through the show so I’m a little invested at this point. The idea of global groups through the k-pop system is still pretty new but I see the potential so I look forward to seeing more from them.

Babymonster

Slight disappointment with their debut. As a Blink, it was hard for me to watch their debut, and not think “oh they’re just a BP clone”. HOWEVER I look forward to seeing how things go moving forward. I think they have so much potential if YGE gets their shit together and showcases these girls in the way they deserve.

NEW CATEGORY: Top 6 MVs of the Year

Shooting Star - XG

This is the video that made me finally make this category. I’m so in love with this MV - the aesthetic is so pretty, I adore the styling on the girls. The sets and effects are fun and interesting. The editing is sooooo clean. Favourite shot of the whole thing is during the second chorus when they cut to a strange close up side angle of Maya and then cut out in the same angle to all the girls doing the choreo together. It’s such a unique shot, I’ve never seen it before. It’s an absolutely gorgeous video.

Roar - The Boyz

This MV is kind of insane because I’ve never seen a video like this from The Boyz. First off, the editing in general is flawless, but also the transitions!! I’m a sucker for good motivated transitions in a MV and this was the first one of the year that had my jaw on the floor. You can tell so much thought and care was put into this video, from start to finish. I also loved any time they used footage from, what I assume is, a camcorder type camera. It’s jarring but still aesthetically matches the vibe they’re going for.

Rover - Kai

There’s a lot of things to love about this music video. The biggest for me is the way it’s shot. This is something I’ve noticed - MV directors are utilizing the static camera more often and I fucking love it. When used well, it adds such a different feel. This MV uses it so well in the way that the video is meant to be kind of creepy. It adds to the the storytelling. There’s also quite a few quick out of focus shots which add similar feelings but in a more chaotic manner. The static and chaotic then compliment each other and make a sweet as hell MV.

Knock - Lee Chaeyeon

Another MV that I adore the cinematography. The way the camera moves - they either have a special rig OR all the movement is done in post, which my mind is blown if that’s the case because it feels organic enough to be from a rig. It’s super unique and matches the choreo incredibly well - an asset for her because she’s an incredible dancer. It highlights her and her movements. Favourite shot goes to during the second chorus where it’s a static shot of her surrounded by mirrors while dancing. Clearly some VFX work but it’s done fantastically - the mirrors match really well and, by the end, change to be a different scene. It’s so creative.

OOTD - Dreamcatcher

Another one with fantastically creative transitions. I love the use of behind the scenes stuff, like shots of the program or camera preview screens or straight up the green screen during the bridge. I know the use of these things goes with the message of the song as well, so that’s added points. It’s just great storytelling. Everything looks good too - sometimes overuse of VFX in MVs can be hit or miss, depending on how much money the company is willing to spend. But they clearly worked hard to make sure this one looked good. Creatively stunning video.

LALALALA - Stray Kids

Are we surprised that I could get SKZ in here one more time? They always have phenomenal MVs. The effort put into them is always so evident, from editing and transitions, to the individual shots and how they’re filmed. Because SKZ tells stories with their music, the MVs have to compliment that. With this video specifically, you can tell they spent a lot of time on atmosphere. Each set and scene are curated to give a certain emotion - emotion being the core of the story. The director did a fantastic job at this. Favourite shots are the underwater ones because just look at the bubbles they put in to match the movement of the choreo to make it look like they’re underwater. That shit’s not easy. That’s dedication.

NEW CATEGORY: Top 6 (+1) Singles of the Year

A Midsummer NMIXX’s Dream - NMIXX

This feels like cheating because this is technically a single album and includes two songs but it’s my list and I’m gonna do it. I love these songs. They make me so happy. They’re so upbeat. The girls sound great on them. The MVs were cute too. A++.

Gum - Jessi

Her only release this year and what a release it was. This song is so good. The challenge got men to shake their asses, and we love that. Jessi is so good at making viral catchy music, like what is this magic she has? I’m really hoping for more release from her this year.

Zero (J.I.D Remix) - NewJeans

Specifically this remix version. When the original came out, I didn’t love it. It had potential but it felt too empty. They fixed it with this version. J.I.D’s rap section is pretty good too, but what really sells this for me is the fact that they made the chorus a lot more full instrumentally. It’s exactly what was missing.

Amnesia - Woodz

This song, y’all. THIS SONG. I cannot believe he dropped this before leaving to serve. King, you’ve served enough with this one, please don’t go. I’m not exaggerating when I say this song is an experience for me. The chorus is like I’ve fucking died and gone to heaven. His voice is so perfect for this track.

Sugar-holic - ITZY

Cheating once again - I’m counting this as a single because it came out as a single before the Japanese album release. I was and still am obsessed with this song. It’s so beautiful. The melody is addictive and gorgeous. The track itself is very chill and so my style. It might be one of my favourite ITZY songs ever.

Die 4 You - DEAN

Four years and bro comes back with a masterpiece. This song is so goddamn pretty, and his voice is so perfect on it. It’s one of those songs where I feel like I’m floating - it’s so calm and beautiful. He really lets his voice carry as well. Incredible.

I ≠ Doll - Huh Yunjin

This girl is going to change the industry. This song is so real and raw and she’s so fucking cool for putting something like this out. I think a lot of k-pop fans could stand to listen to this song and remember that idol does not mean your doll to fuck with. And for all those reason, it gets the last honourable mention.

If you've read this far, thank you for your time! I'd love to hear what your favourites of the year were. Do we have similar choices? Are they completely different? Did I miss a song that you absolutely loved? Feel free to let me know! I'm always open to listening and talking about all music.

And with that, 2023 is over. It's been a phenomenal year for music all around. Again, I definitely missed lots because there's just so much that comes out. I feel incredibly lucky to live in a time where I can listen to so many incredible things and where the possibilities for music are endless. I can't wait to see what 2024 will bring! 💕

#once again this list is very specifically kpop or kpop adjacent or korean music in general #it's really all i have time to listen to these days #no time for the same western shit over and over #it's always difficult to do these but so much fun #i feel proud i could get it done despite having covid over this holiday season #top music 2023 #2023 music #top list #kpop list #new year new music #music #text #lists

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beautifulpersonpeach · 1 year ago

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Bpp I'm dying to know your song rankings in chapter 2 now they've all debuted. What are your top picks this year? I miss your writing and hope I can coax you back with 'a fun ask'

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Okay. :)

Since you asked...

Top 10 Non-BTS K-pop Songs in 2023

10 - Watch It - The Boyz (this song just dropped and it's already in my top ten, yes)

9 - Seoul - H1-key

8 - Ay-Yo - NCT 127

7 - Sweet Venom - ENHYPEN

6 - Neverland Farewell - TXT (Say whatever you like about BigHit, they know how to make good music. Soobin sounds incredible on this song. Beomgyu too. Really, they all do.)

5 - Cool With You - NewJeans

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NewJeans isn't going anywhere, so everyone else really should get comfortable with the idea of seeing them at the top. That's all there is to say.

4 - Crying - BOYNEXTDOOR

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I don't know where my head was at when I ranked this the worst song on the album. Clearly, I was wrong. This song was a pleasant companion during the autumn months, and I can't wait to see what else they come out with.

3 - Chaconne - ENHYPEN

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Do you know what a chaconne is? That's not a rhetorical question btw. No shade either, I'm just curious. For those who don't know, a chaconne is a rhythmical and harmonic motif over a pronounced bass-line. That's my leftover understanding from music classes taken a lifetime ago. According to google, a chaconne is also "a slow, solemn dance in 3/4 time, of Spanish or Moorish origin, similar to the passacaglia." For a non-k-pop example, I recommend Hilary's rendition of Bach's chaconne (more leftover knowledge from a lifetime ago).

Anyway, this likely isn't important context. The use of "chaconne" in the song probably has more to do with how it sounds in the song, than what it means. In any case, Enhypen earned a gold star from me with this pantydropper anthem.

2 - Criminal Love - ENHYPEN

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I'm not sure how many of you were here when Heartbeat and Dream Glow were released. What I remember was shock, pure incredulity that BigHit would release songs of that quality for game OSTs. From ARMYs and k-pop stans alike, this was the sentiment. It was like a flex that BTS had such a peerless discography they could make songs like this for a side gig.

That's immediately what I was reminded of when I first heard Criminal Love, released as the OST for Enhypen's webtoon. It's moody, vampy, seduction in a song. That's what that song is. Sad too, when you hear the lyrics. Watching the live performance only drives it home.

1 - Blind - ENHYPEN

This song has given me one of the best auditory experiences I've ever had in k-pop. Which is a bit odd because yes a lot happens in the production, but the switches are so subtle you almost don't notice it.

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Heeseung, Ni-ki, Jay, Sunoo, Sunghoon, Jake, and Jungwon - all outdid themselves on this song. Vocally, they sound incredible. The writing, (again) is top notch. This is one of the only songs released this year that I genuinely struggle not to loop.

Top 5 BTS Solo Songs

5 - Yes or No - Jung Kook

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This is one song I'm praying and begging that we get thousands of remixes of. HYBE, please work your magic and give us 10 remixes of Yes or No. I need it. This is the perfect pop song in that it makes you crave more. I know it's got a predictable, common almost, chord progression in VI -> V -> I -> IV, but it's perfect in that it's impossible to get sick of it. It just worms itself into your head and all you can think of is all the ways to sing all over those chords.

Jung Kook's vocal work on that song is irreproachable. He's really set himself apart with this album and I'm glad he did it.

4 - Snooze - AGUST D, ft. Ryuichi Sakamoto & Woosung

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HUH?! should be here, as should Amygdala so consider this a triple entry: HUH + Snooze + Amygdala. The reason why is self-evident (I hope).

Anyway... I want to talk a bit about Snooze.

Yoongi loves using the piano. He likes the sound of it, and you can tell in songs like Snooze. He has such a profound love and respect for that musical instrument that it only makes sense a man like Ryuichi acknowledged Yoongi before he passed.

With everything that happened this year, remembering Moonbin, and knowing that Yoongi made this song for his juniors... the first time I heard this song it completely destroyed me. Anyone who hasn't paid attention to the lyrics yet should check it.

When I casually listen in to TXT, SVT, Enhypen, BoyNextDoor, and see the work they're doing, putting out easily some of the best music and performances in their generations, I hope and pray they develop a support system that genuinely values them, soon. I hope they survive this industry, and thrive in it.

3 - All Day - RM ft Tablo

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Not to be that person (since he's canceled for reasons and it actually makes sense why), but when I first saw the song title All Day, I immediately remembered All Day by Kanye West - one of the sauciest and meanest songs he's ever made. I was worried, given the tone of the album to that point, that Namjoon was going to give us his take on Ye's original. Joon is more than capable of dropping a track just as mean if not more. I didn't put it past him to pay homage to the Kanye joint by taking a spin on it. But, thankfully, All Day is nothing like Kanye's song, and it's my favourite song on Indigo because it's the best.

Joon's diction on this track is *chef's kiss*. His voice.... that outro, and thank goodness, Tablo came through. He actually has a presence on the track and made it even more worth the listen.

It kills me that we don't even have a visualizer for this masterpiece.

2 - Set Me Free Pt 2 - Jimin

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Thank you for giving me another chance to talk about Set Me Free Pt 2.

One reason all the anxiety and fear-mongering around Jimin seems insane to me is because Jimin dropped this song and ended k-pop in 2023. He literally has no real competition. He came in, showed out, and left. That song is the sexiest joint out of Korea this year. It's so nasty. He's absolutely disgusting on this song in how brutally he makes rubbish of everything beneath him. Like, he literally has people bowing down to him in the choreography. Bobbing their heads like Funko Pops, while he sings to be set free. I'm going on a bit of a tangent here, but I want to say something. There's a cruelty in the way Jimin speaks. Whether to someone else or to himself. It's often (somewhat) restrained, born of the way he sees the world I think, and it was especially brutal in their early days, but he's toned it down significantly since 2016. It's virtually non-existent in his speech patterns and word choice now. Jimin of the last few years communicates gently, directly, tactfully, and at worst, bluntly. A lot of that cruelty is toned down but he unleashes a whisper of it on SMF Pt 2. Just listen to what he's saying on that song. That autotune effect on his voice was for our benefit and safety. Nothing can convince me otherwise. And we haven't even yet gotten into the full symbolism of the MV and his lyricism...

The moment I heard this song I knew I would bias Jimin. He's a man who knows what he's doing.

Jimin is a one of a kind wonder. Real magic in a person. An artist. He proves it on Set Me Free Pt 2. Kudos to PDogg too - the GOAT.

1 - On The Street - j-hope ft J. Cole

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When it comes to song construction, I have to give credit where credit is due and the fact is Hoseok outdid himself with this song. It is perfect, my top pick for a k-pop song in 2023. Jermaine did good on it too. But, you know... Hoseok.

The whistle melody he came up with, the beat, the vocal layering, the mixing, the MV direction - all of it is perfect. If we were giving scores based on separate components, OTS would get 10s in every category.

Honestly, Hoseok coming out at number 1 is kind of expected of him lol.

#bts #bpp music posts #hoseok #jimin #namjoon #yoongi #jungkook #jikook #the boyz #newjeans #enhypen #nct 127 #h1key #txt #kpop #kpop music #2023 top 10

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