K-pop Classics
Some of the most important tracks in k-pop history, from the first generation to the fifth. From 1992 to now. If you’re looking to get into the genre, these are good places to start. (Note: these aren’t necessarily my personal favorites, but more songs that made a large impact, were important to the development of the genre, or broke records. Though I do like quite a few of them, ofc)
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GEN #1
The beginning of it all, taking from American hip-hop, rock, R & B, and J-pop, with some definite social messaging and very little filter (for better or for worse). The legends–SHINHWA, Seo Taiji, S.E.S., and BoA–all got their start here, with songs like Perfect Man, Come Back Home, Be Natural, and No.1. 1992-2005.
GEN #2
More organized, more smooth, more colorful; inspiration from disco and synth, and still with a bit of a fun edge. Really the start of the infamous trainee system. The birth of royalty: SHINee, SNSD, 2NE1, and Wonder Girls, with songs like Lucifer, Gee, Go Away, and Nobody. 2006-2012.
GEN #3
A breakthrough to the West, with a separation into “cutesy”, or more poppy and childish, and “mature”, or more electronic-based and dark, groups. Most people’s introduction to k-pop: BTS, BLACKPINK, TWICE, and Red Velvet, with songs like DNA, Boombayah, What Is Love, and Russian Roulette. 2013-2017.
Generation #4
A darker era in the timeline, defined by trap, EDM, and so-called “girl crush”. Both a time of idols starting to have more creative control and inspiration from genres around the world. Stray Kids, (G)I-DLE, TXT, and ATEEZ find popularity with songs like God’s Menu, Tomboy, Lovesong, and Halazia. 2018-2021.
Generation #5
Defined by social media and a more focused appeal to those outside of Korea. Very much run by girl groups. More minimalistic, light, and confident. You’ve probably seen them up on your recommendeds: Le Sserafim, New Jeans, IVE, and RIIZE, with songs like Fearless, Super Shy, I Am, and Get A Guitar. 2022-present.
