Global icons BTS are about to make their much-awaited comeback with ARIRANG, their first group album since their 2022 hiatus for mandatory military service.
The 14-track project which is expected to focus on traditional Korean vibes and cultural significance is a return that has all the makings of being a historic musical event.
Ahead of a new chapter in the legendary group’s musical journey, we honour the incredible legacy of a band that continues to define K-pop by looking back at some of our favourite songs from their awe-inspiring 13-year career.
From early-career songs that hinted at the makings of stars to seminal productions that elevated them to global sensations, here are seven BTS songs we can listen to as we wait for ARIRANG to take over our playlists, hearts and lives!
“Attack on Bangtan” – O!RUL8,2?
Tapping into the gritty, anthemic underground style that BTS shaped as their early signature, “Attack on Bangtan” in 2013 from their first extended play O!RUL8,2? is an energetic production that immediately established the spark of a young, ambitious band with a hard-hitting sound that immediately stood out.
“Danger” – Dark & Wild
Carving a distinct space for themselves with a hip-hop-leaning musicality, “Danger” from their 2014 debut studio album Dark & Wild established BTS as the representatives of rebellious, turbulent teenage love. With dark edges delivered with youthful swag, the track with its booming soundscape and sleek choreography sets your hearts aflutter even tuning into it today, 11 years later.
“I Need U” – The Most Beautiful Moment in Life, Part 1
Considered a career-defining single “I Need U”, the lead single from the band’s third EP, The Most Beautiful Moment in Life, Part 1 in 2015, kicked off an expressive cinematic storytelling arc in their career that began to open up the horizons of BTS into the global music scene. With slower instrumentals and emotive vocals matched by an intriguing conceptual music video, “I Need U” remains one of BTS’ most iconic and memorable offerings to date.
“Blood Sweat & Tears” – Wings
Delivering a sultry blend of Moombahton, Trap, and Tropical House, BTS began showcasing their versatility and their full musical potential with “Blood Sweat & Tears” from their 2016 studio album Wings. Drawing inspiration from Hermann Hesse’s coming-of-age novel Demian, the sensual soundscapes and alluring visuals encapsulated themes of temptation and loss of innocence unveiling the sonic maturity of a band making international waves.
“Mic Drop” – Love Yourself : Her
Swivelling back into the high-energy hip-hop signature that defined their initial music, “Mic Drop” from their 2017 EP Love Yourself : Her is a defiant celebration their global success and accolades. Framed by self-confidence, charisma and just the right dose of wit, the track acknowledges the work they put into achieving the great heights they did.
“Anpanman” – Love Yourself: 轉 ‘Tear
Inspired by the classic Japanese superhero Anpanman, this anthemic energy B-side track from their 2018 studio album Love Yourself: 轉 ‘Tearis energetic, playful and uplifting all at once. Offering us a reminder that we are all have purpose and can make an impact even if feel imperfect, “Anpanman” is the sort of hopeful, catchy production that instantly puts us in a good mood.
“Mikrokosmos” – Map of the Soul : Persona
Honing in on the power of intimacy, the track from their 2019 mini-album Map of the Soul : Persona is an ode to ARMY, bringing everyone together in their exploration of self-worth and mutual support. Inspired by the concept of microcosms, where a small group or individual reflects a vast universe beyond it, “Mikrokosmos” is a celebration of the deep, lasting bond between BTS and ARMY as well as an homage to the universe they’ve built together.
(Featured Image by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
So, as we await the drop of ARIRANG, let us know what your favourite song from BTS’ discography is? Visit Lyrical Muse for more music coverage.
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