When it comes to producing truly standout tracks, there's no substitute for experience. The artists on this list have been perfecting their craft for years, and it shows. Their deep understanding of music, combined with the lessons they've learned over time, directly impacts the quality of their work. It's the kind of excellence that can only come from years of dedication and hard-earned knowledge. In an industry that often prioritizes flash over substance, these seasoned professionals prove that real talent and experience lead to the best results.
Here’s the list of songs released at the end of August and the beginning of September that we’re totally obsessed with!
1. BAEKHYUN - "Pineapple Slice"
One of the most addictive summer tracks, showcasing a mature side of BAEKHYUN. The song kicks off with a strong beat from the start, promising an enjoyable journey that makes you want to dance anytime, anywhere—even while grocery shopping, crossing the street, or at the office. We’re grateful to him for this fantastic contribution to his fans. The dance sequence at the end of the music video is a delightful surprise. BAEKHYUN, originally from EXO, has truly evolved. After returning from the military, he (mostly) parted ways with SM Entertainment and set up his own label, INB100. This track marks a fresh beginning for the seasoned artist.
2. CHANYEOL - "Black Out"
BAEKHYUN’s fellow EXO member, CHANYEOL, also delivered one of this summer’s standout songs. This track is a particularly mature offering with depth, featuring lyrics that resonate deeply with many listeners. The melody is soothing and addictive, making it the kind of song that sparks creativity. As we listened to it on our way home from work on the bus, its calm, reflective mood helped fuel our writing. EXO continues to prove that their extensive experience in the industry shines through in their music, marking them as some of the most talented and skilled artists around.
3. ONEW - "CHARM (Beat Drum)"
We had been eagerly waiting for this album, marking ONEW’s comeback after a break that clearly did him good. ONEW consistently delivers top-notch vocals, and his versatility allows him to pull off a wide range of genres. Our hearts raced as we pressed play on the video, syncing with ONEW’s heartbeat at the start of the song. Long-time followers know how excited we’ve been for ONEW’s album FLOW. "CHARM (Beat Drum)" was one of the songs we anticipated the most, and it didn’t disappoint. The song brings a refreshing twist, with captivating beats and a bold style we didn’t expect, making it one of the standout tracks of the season.
Adding to our excitement, ONEW's live performances of "CHARM (Beat Drum)" have truly impressed us. Even though we already know he has some of the best musicality in K-pop, his live renditions elevate the song to another level. His ability to deliver such powerful and emotive performances consistently reinforces why he’s a standout artist in the industry.
4. Woosung - "Day That I Died"
What more can we say about this outstanding artist who brings such emotional depth and unique writing? Woosung consistently delivers something different from the typical K-pop sound. "Day That I Died" is one of the most moving songs we’ve heard from him, giving off early Bruno Mars vibes with its heartfelt lyrics and smooth emotional delivery. This track is a must-hear, showcasing an artist we consider one of the most talented in the industry. We can’t wait for his next album, 4444, set to release on October 4 , 2024. Woosung’s fanbase also deserves praise—they are deeply respectful of his artistry and professional dedication.
We’ve already covered this track in more detail, and you can read our full review here: Woosung Unleashes Emotional Depth in New Single 'Day That I Died,' Giving Us Early Bruno Mars Vibes
5. DAY6 - "Monster"
DAY6’s enduring presence in the industry is a remarkable achievement in itself. Their success and evolution as artists are a testament to their dedication and innovative approach to K-pop. Following their military service, the release of their ninth EP, Band Aid, on September 2, 2024, marks a significant milestone in their career. Their songwriting is brilliant, and we’ve had extensive discussions about their latest album on our site. Picking the best track from their ninth EP, Band Aid (released on September 2, 2024), was tough. We were torn between "Melt Down"—a fantastic pop-rock track blending various styles—and "Monster," a song that deeply resonated with us. Ultimately, we went with "Monster," which leans more towards rock with a hint of darkness, reminding us of Radiohead with a touch of Sixpence None the Richer. The lyrics are exceptional, capturing a universal sense of isolation and the search for connection—a rare gem in today’s K-pop scene.
These tracks are proof that true excellence stands out, regardless of the hype. They’re not just promoted with big budgets—they’re backed by real talent and hard work. So go ahead, add these to your playlist, and enjoy the brilliant artistry of these seasoned K-pop stars!