AleXa to sing Star-Spangled Banner at the LA Dodgers vs San Diego Padres game, happening on September 29, 2021 at the Los Angeles Dodgers Stadium. Photo: AleXa_ZB/Twitter
As part of Dodgers’ Korean Heritage Night, K-pop star AleXa will sing The Star-Spangled Banner at the September 29 Dodgers vs Padres game. Check out the cute poster AleXa posted on her official Twitter account:
[ ✘ ] AleXa X @Dodgers – National Anthem of the United States
AleXa who was born in the US and moved to South Korea to pursue a career in K-pop. The idea that she will be singing at a major baseball game means that the soloist is now one of the most notable idols in the industry.
On July 1, AleXa released a new single album ReviveR with the title track “Xtra”. She later released a rock version of the song which served as a collaboration with the rock band Rolling Quartz.
But when can fans expect new music from AleXa? The solo artist has not yet confirmed whether she is currently working on her next comeback. However, A.I TROOPERs are hoping that AleXa will finally release a new album before the end of the year. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.
Featured image: AleXa to sing Star-Spangled Banner at the LA Dodgers vs San Diego Padres game, happening on September 29, 2021 at the Los Angeles Dodgers Stadium. Photo: AleXa_ZB/Twitter
STRAY KIDS was one of the main performers at KCON:TACT HI 5 – Live From The USA. However, the idol group had to perform with seven members as rapper Han bowed out of activities due to poor health.
On September 19, JYP Entertainment posted an official statement regarding Han’s health on the STRAY KIDS official Twitter account.
“Today, during rehearsals for KCON: TACT HI 5, Stray Kids member Han suddenly felt his health take a turn for the worse and it has been determined that he will not attend the scheduled event,” the statement read.
JYPE also assured fans that Han Jisung will get enough rest so he can continue promoting with the rest of STRAY KIDS soon.
“Since this was a decision made on behalf of the artist’s health, we ask for your understanding despite this sudden announcement. We will do our best to help our artist regain full health as fast as possible,” the statement read.
STAYS were understandably excited about KCON but they were also quick to wish for Han’s speedy recovery.
It’s unfortunate that Han had to miss out on the activities at KCON: TACT HI 5. Despite missing a member, Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N. still managed to turn in a great performance at the fan convention.
DAY 2 @Stray_Kids CHECK IN! See you on KCON:TACT HI 5 at 9 PM KST!
DAY 2 @Stray_Kids 체크인! 오늘 밤 9시 KCON:TACT HI 5에서 만나요!
Han’s recovery is even more important since STRAY KIDS are set for their next Japanese comeback in October. Here’s hoping that the 3RACHA member will feel better by then.
STRAY KIDS will release the Japanese single “Scars” along with “Thunderous (JPN ver)” on October 13, 2021.
ITZY's first album, Crazy in Love. Photo: ITZYofficial/Twitter
ITZY is taking its stage across the pond: Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna have been confirmed to perform on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” this September!
The official ITZY Twitter account tweeted a poster featuring the idol group, revealing that Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna will appear in the September 27, 2021 episode of “The Kelly Clarkson Show.”
It’s awesome news considering that ITZY did a comeback on Friday, September 24. The performance will reach the international general public and hopefully turn more people into MIDZYs. Although it is not yet confirmed, there is a huge chance that the girl group will perform their new single LOCO from the upcoming album Crazy in Love.
The idea of an American promotion is truly exciting for fans and MIDZYs clearly can’t wait to see ITZY’s performance. In addition to that, MIDZYs are already looking forward to meeting new fans of the girl group this week.
ITZY is set to be the fourth major K-pop act to perform on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Previous idols groups who have appeared on the show include MONSTA X, SEVENTEEN, and ITZY’s labelmate TWICE. It’s proof that ITZY is truly one of the artists to watch out for this year.
ITZY released its first full album Crazy in Love on September 24, 2021, debuting the MV of track “LOCO” on the same day.
Stay tuned as they perform on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” on September 27, 2021!
As someone who has followed MAMAMOO since their 2014 release Peppermint Chocolate with one of my favorite make singers, K.Will, I have dreaded the day the group releases a “greatest hits” album. After all, it is a common perception that a “greatest hits” or “the best” album would usually be for artists who are already riding their careers off the sunset. But then, I am game for any MAMAMOO release, so might as well give this one a listen.
I have divided the tracks into the must-listens, the good, and the negligible. Without further ado, here are my no-holds-barred, thoroughly honest thoughts of the 23 songs included in the I Say Mamamoo: The Best album:
The Crème de la Crème
Gogobebe (Rock Version)
Something I could listen to regularly. The original song is already one of my favorites; the rock arrangement only enhanced my listening experience.
Egoistic (Blistering Sun Version)
Something very concert-worthy, like listening to the girls in one of their concerts or live performances. The arrangement gives the song a tad more oomph, and who doesn’t like MAMAMOO with more oomph?
Hip (Remix Version)
This is one version you’d wish was the original version. Earworm alert.
Décalcomanie 2021
This reminds me of the rearranged version the group performed in awards shows and end-of-year concerts the year the song was released. Just outstanding.
You’re the Best 2021
I was too busy listening to the girls to note the changes to the song’s original arrangements. But then, this is THE quintessential MMM song, so unless they did something overly drastic (which they didn’t really), You’re the Best continues to be… the best.
Yes I Am (Funk Boost Version)
Funk boost, indeed. Versions of the group’s songs done like this remind us why we love MAMAMOO and why they are the queens of power vocals in K-pop.
Starry Night (Orchestra Version)
Better orchestral rendition compared to Paint Me. Starry Night is one of those songs that are dramatic from the onslaught, so any added drama to this one is always welcome.
The Good Calls
Destiny (Extended Version)
Very reminiscent of their Queendom victory. Best listened to live.
Aya (Traditional Version)
Reminds me of the ballsy move Oh My Girl did to the Lovelyz track Destiny in the reality show Queendom, which MAMAMOO won. Another great reinterpretation of their song, although I wished for the traditional elements to have been pushed just a bit more.
I Miss You 2021
The rearranged version has additional musical breaks, which allowed the girls to display their prowess – vocal runs galore.
Piano Man 2021
That this bordered on being overly produced suits the song to a tee. It’s exactly what the song needs: a pinch of camp and an overamplification of its jazzy elements.
Mr. Ambiguous 2021
This harkens back to the classic MAMAMOO of their debut. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Um Oh Ah Yeh 2021
This sounded more of a polished version to me. But then, I’ve always liked this song, so a streamlined-cum-live arrangement doesn’t change my love for this song.
Peppermint Chocolate (MMM Version)
I remember liking the original version of this song with K.Will. The new version still reeks of MAMAMOO excellence, except that I would have loved a little more energy in the choruses like some harmonies, perhaps?
Wind Flower (Dramatic Version)
Not really a dramatic version, more of a loungy, lazy Sunday afternoon track with a weird tempo change towards the last 3rd of the song. I was so ready to add it to my favorites until the tempo change, which was jarring to me.
Paint Me (Orchestra Version)
Too many orchestral breaks, it felt like they just added orchestral elements (and quite a lot at that) to the original song.
Mumumumuch
This feels like a pre-release, like Star Wind Flower Sun or Midnight Summer Dream. Beautiful song but not particularly as strong as their other title tracks.
The Negligible Ones
Don’t be Happy 2021
If there is a template for a MAMAMOO song, this would be it. It’s just fine.
Happier Than Ever
It was okay; not something that pops out on the first listen.
Heeheehaheho Part 2
The original version features Louie and Lil Boi of Geeks, so this new version had some huge shoes to fill. Unfortunately, not as effective as Part 1.
Ahh Oop! 2021
The song sounded rushed and also didn’t do much to change my thoughts about the original version.
Words Don’t Come Easy 2021
A bit redundant; reminded me of why this was a B-track. The update didn’t do much to make the original version.
A Little Bit 2021
Filler. You’ve been warned; this is a thoroughly honest review.
So, with this conspicuous release and Wheein’s move to THE L1VE, say it with me: MAMAMOO MUST NOT DISBAND!
Wonho’s new single, Blue, is finally out and WENEEs are loving the second mini-album Blue Letter. But what’s with the obsession with the color blue? The former Monsta X member revealed that blue is an important color for him that is connected to his fans. In addition to that, Lee Hoseok has confirmed that he’s already hard at work on his next comeback.
Back in August, Wonho announced his second mini-album Blue Letter will be released in September. Like the previous two-part EP Love Synonym Pt.1: Right for Me and Love Synonym Pt.2: Right for Us, the new album has a blue theme.
So why is there so much blue? Wonho told NME that the color holds a special place in his heart since it reminds him of WENEEs.
“When I look at my fans, they remind me of the color blue. I can see the color blue when I see my fans. That’s how I started using the color blue [in my concepts]. It’s since become my signature color… and my fans love it too. Blue is also a color that’s able to best represent the emotions that I feel, so that’s why I keep using it,” Wonho said.
He further explained that blue is usually associated with being sad but Wonho was determined to change that.
“I wanted ‘blue’ to serve a double meaning of ‘feeling blue’ and… to flip the meaning of feeling blue to ‘feeling loved’, in context of the album,” he said.
This is especially true with Blue Letter, which Wonho says is a gift for WENEEs who are going through some hardships.
“It’s my message to those who are feeling lost, depressed or having a hard time,” he said. “I hope they get good vibes and positive energy from listening to my album and gain strength to overcome what they’re going through.”
If it sounds like WENEEs are a truly spoiled fandom, that’s because Wonho is determined to keep making his fans happy. The soloist stated that he is now working on new music for his supporters and even revealed some details about the next album.
“I’m actually already planning for my next album at the moment,” Wonho said. “I’m exploring a stronger, hip-hop sound, and I can’t wait for my fans to listen to it.”
There’s a good reason why Wonho is all about his fans. The former MONSTA X member had previously admitted that it was the support from his fans that helped him get through his own troubles. This is why he wants to give back all the love he has received during those dark times in his life.
Wonho’s second mini-album Blue Letter was released on September 14.
AESPA is ready for a comeback and this time, they’re releasing a mini-album! Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning have announced Savage, their first EP that’s dropping in October.
The official aespa Twitter account had previously teased the comeback with a visual teaser. MYs were mystified by the video which showed a floating Savage avatar and fans were hoping it meant another comeback this year.
Luckily, aespa made it official as it was confirmed that Savage will be the girl group’s first mini-album, to be released on October 5, 2021.
aespa to release their first mini album ‘Savage’ on 10/5! To bring another mega hit after ‘Next Level’! Pre-orders to be available from today!https://t.co/jMIK9NwhlU#aespa#æspa#에스파#Savage
It will be the girl group’s first EP since they debuted with Black Mamba in November 2020.
aespa’s first physical album will have six songs, and SM Entertainment has confirmed that pre-orders for SAVAGE are now available.
That gives MYs a lot of time to prepare for the comeback and the fans are thrilled that Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning will be back this October.
Why do we need to have high pre-orders especially on the first week???? It's to determine how much copies will be printed! So, pre-order immediately MYs! We can surely use this to increase aespa's points in music shows and award shows too! Let's make SAVAGE ERA full of wins!
Aespa debuted on November 17, 2020 with their hit single Black Mamba. They followed it up with Next Level in May this year, and have dropped the Habstrakt Remix on September 14.
Aespa’s first physical album Savage and its title track of the same name will be out on October 5, 2021.
I SAY MAMAMOO: THE BEST album, out now. Photo: RBW_MAMAMOO/Twitter
The year 2021 was supposed to be scary for MooMoos. It’s MAMAMOO’s seventh year in the industry, and, coincidentally the dreaded time when the quartet must decide about contract renewal. We all know what that means: the 7-year curse.
No one could have predicted what’s to come for the group. No matter what decision, though, MAMAMOO’s success is undeniable. Despite being from a relatively smaller company than the likes of the Big 4, MAMAMOO steadily rose to fame throughout the years and carved their own unique space in K-pop.
Mamamoo is known for serving some of the best vocals in the industry. You can hear the harmonies as early as in their group intro. The group also got more popular after their win in the idol survival show, Queendom. They also broke barriers in KPOP by bravely taking on sexier and more mature concepts. Not to mention their push for body positivity, women empowerment, and feminism among their fans.
Meanwhile, their solo careers are never a miss. Every member carries hits, OST singles, and mini-albums under their arms—Hwasa’s TWIT and Maria, Solar with Spit It Out, Moonbyul’s Selfish and Eclipse, and most recently, Wheein with‘water color. Everything’s going well for the ladies, right? But then again, success and constant activity can’t really determine the group’s fate. (Missing GFriend and IZ*ONE!)
News about each member’s contracts didn’t come in one go: Solar and Moonbyul acted fast and renewed with RBW Entertainment back in January 2021. Then, Hwasa followed them last March. As for Wheein, though, she decided to leave the company last June. Wheein then signed with VIXX Ravi’s label, THE L1VE.
Luckily, this didn’t trasnlate to bad news for Moomoos. Wheein’s exit wasn’t the end for MAMAMOO’s OT4. Despite leaving the company, Wheein agreed to stay in the group and to promote with the girls ‘til 2023.
MAMAMOO breaks the 7-year curse
Back in June, they gave fans a full-group comeback with the mini-album WAW. And the group didn’t stop there! On September 15, they celebrated their seven years together with the release of their I SAY MAMAMOO: THE BEST album.
Named after their group intro, MAMAMOO’s 23-track compilation album is made of new songs, genre-shifting renditions of fan favorites, and 2021 versions of their hits. With the combination of reimagined tracks and fresh, new ones, it feels like every song brought something new, each standing out in their own ways. Both old and new Moomoos would also be able to listen through the evolution of the group’s music through this album.
The album starts with the new mumumuch, a chill track that’s full of funky beats, smooth runs, and fun parts that feels like their onstage adlibs. This is followed by the mellow and sentimental Happier Than Ever, another new song with lyrics that looks back at the good days of a newly ended relationship.
MAMAMOO did genre exploration for their songs, which felt reminiscent of their Queendom performances. Paint Me and Starry Night were accompanied by an orchestra, gogobebe felt like a rock concert, HIP went with a hipper remix, and AYA had traditional instruments in the background.
And those are just a few of the tracks! Unsurprisingly, every version showcased the group’s amazing vocals in different ways.
It’s amazing for a group this young to release a jampacked compilation album. Usually, Western artists would wait decades to compile golden tracks to put on their “Best of” albums. But then again, if we look at Mamamoo’s discography, they already gave us 3 studio albums and 11 mini-albums, which can be considered as enough material for a “Best of” compilation.
With every album run-through, it felt like hearing details that you didn’t notice last time. The compilation also veered away from merely being a group of old songs strewn together. MAMAMOO rearranged and rerecorded everything to create a diverse addition to their discography, giving Moomoos a familiar yet refreshing plunge.
Featured image: I SAY MAMAMOO: THE BEST album, out now. Photo: RBW_MAMAMOO/Twitter
BTS at the 76th United Nations General Assembly. Photo: United Nations/YouTube
BTS made history once again as they carried out their first official duty as “Special Presidential Envoy for Future Generations and Culture,” as appointed by South Korean President Moon Jae In. They stood in front of world leaders at the 76th United Nations General Assembly in New York, and talked about the younger generation’s experiences during the pandemic.
Serving as the youth’s representative, BTS presented #YouthToday stories through their own creative collages.
Your participation made this speech possible. We were thrilled to have the honor of telling the world the stories of #YouthToday together with you. We will always be by your side.#YourStories are just beginning.#BTS#방탄소년단pic.twitter.com/hdNF2QY6jA
Giving more perspective on what the pandemic “took away” from the youth, Jungkook mentioned the canceled important events such as graduations and concert tours, leaving a hole in our hearts and a gap in our lives.
They went on to discuss other pressing matters, such as taking the environment for granted. Suga and Namjoon explained that despite everyone mourning for the earth, the youth is out here looking for ways to extend its life for future generations.
Refusing to call the youth as the lost generation, Jimin and Jin talked how the “welcome generation” adapts to the lockdowns and quarantines. They showed the UN that young people are finding new ways to get the most out of this new normal.
The group also highlighted the importance of getting vaccinated, with J-Hope announcing that all the members got their shots while V/Kim Tae Hyung explained that vaccines can help in making face-to-face events happen again. A reassuring message for the vaccine-hesitant population.
Ending the speech, the group showed a special video of “Permission to Dance,” where they performed the song at the UN Headquarters.
BTS performs Permission to Dance at the UN Headquarters
And the internet went wild, of course.
They take over the UN complex for 'Permission to Dance' 🤯🤯🤯
Perform in stadium ✅ Perform in football field ✅ Perform in airport ✅ Perform in palace ✅ Perform in UN complex ✅#BTSatUNGA
"but what will happen if bangtan sonyeondan rises?” then they’ll speak & perform at the United Nations Headquarters #BTSatUNGApic.twitter.com/L3jRkQOG6l
Imagine being on such a level where you're giving speech at the UN General Assembly and the world leaders are filming you. Things only @BTS_twt can relate
This isn’t the group’s first time at the United Nations Headquarters. Back in 2018, they went in front of world leaders (and the whole world, tbh) to speak about self-love and bullying within the youth. BTS broke barriers by being the first K-Pop idols to be at the UN and by being vocal about these very relevant topics in South Korea.
BTS isn’t a stranger to speaking up and supporting advocacies. Since their 2013 debut, the group stood out by pouring their hearts and sending strong social messages in their lyrics. Off-stage, the boys never stopped in showing support and generosity to causes like Black Lives Matter, Anti-Asian Hate, and their Love Myself campaign.
Featured image: BTS at the 76th United Nations General Assembly. Photo: United Nations/YouTube.
Have a safe flight, Bangtan Boys! BTS airport fashion as they head to NY for the UN General Assembly. Photo: BTS_twt/Twitter
“ARMY wish (sic) BTS a safe journey as the group travel (sic) to New York for the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly,” it reads on Twitter.
And here you can see more of BTS’s airport fashion:
“Have a safe flight” trending is as poignant as it is comforting. Who would have thought we will miss BTS airport fashionand saying “have a safe flight” to them this much?
Bangtan first graced the United Nations in 2018 for Generation Unlimited, following their “Love Myself” campaign with UNICEF. Unlike their first appearance, they are now speaking as diplomats, representing South Korea as “Special Presidential Envoy for Future Generations and Culture.”
Have a safe flight, Bangtan Boys! We’ll root for you as you change the world, with ARMY right behind you.
IU's 5th studio album, Lilac. Photo: _IUofficial/Twitter
IU is celebrating her 13th anniversary in the most generous way possible. The charismatic multi-hyphenate has donated over KRW850 million (US$70,000) worth of goods to several charities and organizations in South Korea. The donation will help underprivileged people especially children and teenagers.
IU’s agency EDAM Entertainment confirmed the news, revealing that Lee Jieun made the donation happen on her own. The Hotel Del Luna actress reportedly spoke with companies she has promoted, convincing them to aid in her cause. As a result, IU was able to collect several donations that will be given to numerous organizations.
The full list of IU’s 13th-anniversary donations is listed below.
2,000 coats and winter gear from BLACKYAK for children and teenagers in shelters ahead of the winter season
2,000 Banolim pizzas for children and teenagers in shelters
2,000 first aid kits from Kyungdong Pharmaceutical to health centers
1,000 pairs of New Balance sneakers to teenagers who are nearing the end of their allowed time at shelters
30,000 bottles of Jeju Samdasoo Water to health centers
300 Evezari blanket and bedding sets to health centers
This isn’t the first time that IU has gone all out on donating to the less fortunate. The singer-songwriter has consistently made donations throughout her long career. In May 2021 alone, The Nation’s Sweetheart donated KRW10,000,000 to Yangpyeong county to aid single-parent families and grandparents raising grandchildren. IU had donated a total of KRW500,000,000 to several organizations and charities aiding women and children.
IU debuted in 2008 at the age of 15 and has since gone on to become one of South Korea’s most successful celebrities. But all that success has never gone to her head and that’s why she’s still considered The Nation’s Sweetheart.
IU is celebrating her 13th anniversary since her debut on September 18, 2021.
![[마마무] '하늘 땅 바다만큼 (mumumumuch)' Performance Video](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/kRjGnDcab_0/hqdefault.jpg)
