《Kim Jiwon's Hidden Track》
‘2nd generation idol’ U-Kiss and Teen Top comeback
U-Kiss' 'You're Easy', Teen Top's 'No kidding', etc.
The new song is a chart failure
The results are disappointing, but the comeback that showed good health is meaningful
‘2nd generation idol’ U-Kiss and Teen Top comeback
U-Kiss' 'You're Easy', Teen Top's 'No kidding', etc.
The new song is a chart failure
The results are disappointing, but the comeback that showed good health is meaningful
《Kim Jiwon's Hidden Track》
Ten Asia reporter Kim Ji-won takes a closer look at the hidden stories of the music industry. We will vividly convey the facts and truth of the music industry issues.
The comeback was exciting, but the K-pop market these days wasn't easy. U-Kiss and Teen Top, who are considered second-generation idols, are reaping disappointing results that do not live up to their enthusiasm. Still, the public and fans who grew up listening to their music are happy just by the fact that it is their comeback.
U-Kiss released the mini-album 'PLAY LIST' on June 28th. Teen Top released their new album 'TEEN TOP [4SHO]' on the 4th. U-Kiss, which debuted on August 28, 2008, celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, and Teen Top, which debuted on July 10, 2010, celebrates its 13th anniversary this year.
Both groups had their ups and downs as they have far exceeded 10 years since their debut. U-Kiss debuted as a 10-member group, but this time they will promote as a 6-member group. Member withdrawal and recruitment were repeated, and there were times when there were three members. Teen Top was a 6-member group, but it was reorganized into a 4-member group starting with this activity: Niel, Chunji, Ricky, and Changjo. Even though she went through a lot of hardships, her will to work remained the same. In the recently opened showcase, both groups showed their enthusiasm.
The two groups were not 'top idols' at the time of their activities in the past. However, songs such as U-Kiss' 'You're Easy', 'Ringle', 'Noisy!!', Teen Top's 'Don't Spray Perfume', 'Girl with Long Straight Hair', 'No kidding', and 'Two You' gained popular popularity. These songs have rather become a hot topic in recent years. This is because it was mentioned in programs such as 'Civilization Express' and 'What are you doing when you play', and it was re-examined as 'breath listening myeong (hidden listening masterpiece)'. The direct lyrics, easy-to-follow chorus, cheerful melody and powerful choreography are the reasons why it was loved at the time. Even after 10 years, it still has a sophisticated atmosphere, yet the familiar rhythm and lyrics are the reason why it has been able to be loved recently.
It was worth looking forward to the chart-in of the new song as it was running backwards with the past song. The title song of U-Kiss' new album is 'I want to go!' in the genre of house pop sound, and contains a message of consolation to the weary modern people to forget everything and leave together, even for this moment. Teen Top's title song this time, 'Poof' is a funky track with a brass sound. Both groups presented new songs that emphasized fast beats, groovy rhythms, and straightforward lyrics, just like their previous hit songs. The choreography is also light and well-organized, as if showing off their rust-free dancing skills.
What is regrettable is that the music score did not keep up with their enthusiasm. Both groups' new songs failed to chart on major music sites. A lot of new summer songs with a similar atmosphere came out this year, and the public was happy because it was their 'memories song' and not a 'new song'. There are already too many 'new song options' for the public.
However, it is not possible to evaluate them simply by the sound recording score. Even if these people in their late 20s and early 30s became 'old idols', they only showed that they could still be active as idols. Hoon of U-Kiss said, "All of the current 4th generation singers have excellent skills and admit that they cannot win with their skills." Average age 32.8 years old U-Kiss and 28.8 years old Teen Top. The reason why they are still supported is that they have proven that they are currently progressive idols who are creating new careers without burying memories in the past.
Reporter Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia bella@tenasia.co.kr