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Playlist Sunday: Korean Rap Edition

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We’re going to take a quick break from K-Pop and highlight the amazing Korean rap scene. A lot of the time Korean rappers may go unnoticed to K-Pop fans. But, as I’m sure most of you are aware, the majority of these rappers are extremely talented and use both Korean and English rhymes, which adds texture and shows the amount of skill these artists have. For this Sunday’s playlist we want to show the rappers some love. From this playlist alone it is clear that each rapper has their own color and style, which is one of the reasons why we love Korean rap here at KultScene.

A popular theme in rap is asserting yourself as the best and/or different than other artists in the game, and that’s exactly what LOCO does with No Manners. The song is his manifesto that he’s going to “keep crossing the line” and

kill it, stomp the business unapologetically.

LOCO raps about how he’s not going to hold back in order to be number one, even if he’s perceived as rude and, well, with no manners. The rapper owns the criticism against him and cleverly uses it to his advantage. Other than that, the hook where he sings “no manners” is pretty infectious and the beat has great flow without being too overpowering; it is LOCO’s rap that is the highlight.

–Alexis

Also on KultScene: Let’s Discover: Crush

Gaeko makes up one half of the talented duo Dynamic Duo. His solo song Rhythm is Life expresses his feelings about his occupation and what people think of him and of Dynamic Duo. Gaeko is known for his singing as well as his rapping, but Rhythm is Life strictly showcases his talented rapping skills. His flow is unbelievable, the beat is unstoppable, and his lyrics give us an insight into his thoughts about his music career. It’s clear that Gaeko is doing what he loves and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Music is my playground, I’m like a mischievous child, running around and playing all night

Rhythm is Life addresses Gaeko’s thoughts about his long career, the new kids on the scene, the old people who don’t understand what he does, and all the haters. It’s a song that deserves undivided attention.

–Tara

Over from Epik High‘s 2010 Epilogue is one of Epik High’s few fully English language songs, and has a different feel from many other Epik High songs. Tablo’s rap dominated the song, and DJ Tukutz’ absence is noticeable, but there’s still an Epik High feel to it- the message of the song makes it 100% clear that Over belongs to the hip-hop group that criticizes many aspects of Korean lifestyle. The title revolves around being an overachiever, and Tablo’s soft spoken rap is an accusation towards everyone who “all you do is do.”

— Tamar

Also on KultScene: 8 Reasons To Watch ‘Love Cells’

Beenzino‘s Dali, Van, Picasso is one of my favorite songs ever. This track is Beenzino’s self portrait. He lists his art influences through the song and let’s the world know that Salvador Dali, Picasso, and Van Gogh’s work influenced him through his life.

–Alejandro

Who are some of your favorite Korean rappers? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

Playlist Sunday: Raunchy Tunes

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Not everything in K-Pop is cuteness and sweetness and retellings of innocent first loves. The genre does explore topics on the raunchy side like sex and usage of cuss words, but the references are often obscured or just don’t make it on music shows. But since we’re all adults here on KultScene we figured it was time to address more mature and naughtier songs for this week’s Playlist Sunday.

Seungri‘s Let’s Talk About Love should actually be called “Let’s Talk About Sex,” because that’s what he and his groupmates G-Dragon and Taeyang are singing about. They obviously never mention it directly, but with lyrics like these:

Past the stage of ecstasy, we’re trembling
From your head to your toes, I won’t miss a single part
Scream louder, I want to fly
You want to climax? I be ya thriller
Let’s talk about me? Let’s talk about you
Let’s talk about love? Let’s talk about X

… It’s like they’re just trying to hide it enough for it not to be banned or censored on T.V. The song is unmistakably an invitation for sex, but a fun, nice to dance to one. Besides, if any of the BIGBANG members would want to “talk about love” (wink, wink) with me, who am I to say no to them? Sex can be a little bit of a taboo subject to discuss but it is part of who we all are, however, it can be a dicey subject if a person may be having an ‘issue’ whilst in bed. Luckily help found at https://www.blinkhealth.com/viagra can assist with this need and eventually get people to talk about sex. Maybe this music will also help that along!

–Alexis

Also on KultScene: 5 Reasons To Watch ‘Abnormal Summit’

BEAST‘s So Hot is a very sexy ballad that talks about a one night stand. Through the song the listener is taken on the journey of a man who instantly lusts about a woman he just met at a club. As soon as he sees her he is taken aback by her sexy persona and beautiful eyes. By the end it, the narrative eventually leads into a one night stand, but the man realizes that he wants to turn their encounter into a long term relationship. BEAST’s smooth and sexy vocals really enhance the sultry raunchiness of the song.


–Alejandro

Jay Park‘s Welcome is, as he states, “…a rated R love song.” The whole song is about Jay welcoming his girlfriend to his bed. He sings about what he wants to do, touch her all over, keep the lights on so he can see her body, turn off her cell phone, and more. He can’t wait any longer, she’s driving him crazy, and his emotions and lust for her are taking over. The sexy lyrics are brought to life with the equally sexy music video. Welcome is an intimate love song that clearly expresses Jay’s feelings and thoughts at that time. All he sees is his girlfriend and all he wants is,

I don’t want anyone bothering us
I want to fall into a world of our own
This bed, your pillow, your body
I want to stay like this forever, I don’t wanna go to work
Making sweet love music
This is how we how we do it

— Tara

Also on KultScene: K-Pop Idols And The Formidable American Debut

Ga In‘s Fxxk U featuring Bumkey is one of the overly sexual songs out of K-Pop ever. The song is about abuse, of someone telling their lover that they don’t want to have sex right now. The music video has the two visually representing the lyrics in a dark, raunchy film that is both shocking and exciting. Fxxk U is different from the normal K-Pop song and approaches basic emotions and desires in an artistic way that makes it a fantastic song.

–Tamar

What’s you favorite raunchy K-Pop song? Share it with us and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr to keep up with all of our posts.

Playlist Sunday: Day of the Dead Edition

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Following the holiday theme for our Playlist Sunday, this week’s focus sets on The Day of the Dead. Although it may sound macabre, November 2nd is a day dedicated to remembering and honoring deceased loved ones. And while it’s very unlikely that K-Pop groups would have songs about the Day of the Dead, we’re interpreting it in our own way by choosing songs with similar festive makeup, about lost love, and saying good bye.

Even though it’s not a real Catrín (dapper male skeleton), Jay Park donned skull-like makeup for the music video of his album’s intro New Breed. The track was not a single, but Jay Park decided to release a video for his album’s intro by the same name with the eye catching makeup to further enhance his message of him being different to other artists in the game. The look was inspired by Rick Genest, aka Zombie Boy, rather than the Day of the Dead, but the similarities and loose connection to the Catrín are there. This song is full of curse words, so listeners wary and click play at your own discretion.

–Alexis

Also on KultScene: Why Hyomin’s ‘Nice Body’ Is Offensive To Women

 

My pick for this week’s theme is not related in any way to the Mexican holiday. Instead, I am playing off of the name “Day of the Dead” for my pick. Primary’s Poison featuring E-Sens talks about an array of feelings and emotions that make the narrator feel half dead and wanting to be more free. The lyrics show the pain the narrator experienced through a period of time. He went through a lot of dark and rough times and it took awhile for him to realize that he is in control of his happiness. He was in such a dark place that he didn’t realize all of the things he was losing. The end of the song brings some clarity in the form of these lyrics:

If I rush to follow along, I keep forgetting which one is me
If I rush to follow along, I keep forgetting which one is me
If you need to stop, then stop now
We lose too many important things in life
If I rush to follow along, I keep forgetting which one is me

— Tara

Nell’s The Day Before may not be exactly what The Day of The Dead is about, but the song’s video remind me of the feelings that someone has towards the passing of a loved one. The lyrics are seemingly about a couple that’s broken up, but Nell’s music video shows that the band wrote it with the thought of death in mind.

It was difficult at first
More than I will admit
It was burdensome
But after accepting it,
it makes me too sorrowful.

Losing a loved one is difficult, but even after you accept that you will never see them, that pain never goes away. It’s hard and burdensome to love and lose someone, but as humans it is what we do.

–Tamar

Also on KultScene: 5 Reasons To Love Kim So Eun & Song Jae Rim On ‘We Got Married’

Day Of The Dead is a holiday to remember the loved ones that passed away. In HA:TFELT’s song Nothing Lasts Forever, she talks about losing someone you love and not being able to say goodbye to them. This song is very dear to my heart because I wasn’t able to say goodbye to my grandmother before she died, and listening to this song, it gives me a lot of peace. In her voice you can hear a very fragile tone and how regretful she is of not saying that last goodbye. She knows that even if she didn’t have the chance to say what she wanted to say, at least she has that last memory of her loved one. That’s what Day of the Dead is all about, knowing that your loved ones who have passed away are at peace and in a better place, even if it’s hard at first to accept it; you will always remember them.

–Alejandro

What’s your favorite Day of the dead-like K-Pop song? Leave your pick in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Playlist Sunday: Halloween Edition

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From the out-of-this-world fashion and costumes to the dark and creepy concepts artists undertake, K-Pop gives great choices for Halloween costumes and soundtracks. And since the holiday is rapidly approaching, KultScene decided that this week’s Playlist Sunday should revolve around things we associate with All Hallows Eve: creepiness, mysteriousness, and darkness… And yet, a lot of fun.

A mix of dreams and eeriness, Sunny Hill’s Midnight Circus is one of my favorite music videos. There’s a whole story going on here, and each member of the idol group has a role, whether it’s as the stars of the show or the ringmaster controlling each act. There’s one interpretation that the music video and song are about the hardworking life of Korean idols, who are controlled almost entirely by their entertainment agencies. Even if the song doesn’t have a deeper meaning, the song’s creepy accompaniment and the fantastical sets make Midnight Circus absolutely wonderful. The variety of sounds within one song and the imagery gained Sunny Hill a lot of attention, and Midnight Circus is still definitely one of the best K-Pop music videos ever produced. Bonus– Beast’s Kikwang makes a cameo as a weak “strongman.”

—Tamar

Also on KultScene: 4 Female K-Pop Idols With Unique Beauty

Snakes, blood, brains, sewing together skin, voodoo dolls, what more do you need for a creepy music video? VIXX‘s concepts are always different than the mainstream K-Pop music. They tend to stick to their alien/other worlds concept and do a great job with it. Voodoo Doll is no exception. When the music video was released, it was a new concept and an extremely catchy song. There’s even stabbing in the choreography that VIXX had to alter for their live stages. The fact that the members are tortured by a girl via voodoo dolls makes the concept creepy and, for some people, cringeworthy, but worth watching. The guys do a great job acting out being tortured throughout the music video and their vocals and choreography are reason enough to watch.

— Tara

K-Pop music videos are known for their colorfulness and vividness. Well, mostly anyway. But then BEAST comes into the picture and give the antithesis to that notion with last year’s Shadow. For starters, the video is film noir and relies on the mysterious, eerie, and haunting to best represent the sorrowful lyrics of the song. From the actual plot to the props used to the wardrobe, Shadow’s dark concept make it the perfect Halloween jam.

–Alexis

Also on KultScene: Music Video Fashion: BEAST’s “Good Luck”

SHINee’s album Chapter 2: Why So Serious?- The Misconceptions Of Me has a lot of tracks that have themes of paranormality, zombies, and vampires. In their track Nightmare, the listeners learn of a story of a man who falls in love with a beautiful vampire. The song is full of synths and sound effects that make you picture a very cold and eerie setting. The music really conveys the feeling of the song of being trapped in a nightmare, not being able to distinguish between the dream and reality.

–Alejandro

What’s your favorite K-Pop Halloween song? We’d love for you to share your picks with us, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr, so you can keep up with all our posts.

5 Overlooked K-Pop Singles

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Have you ever been extremely excited when a K-Pop group releases a great single and then disappointed in humanity when it doesn’t become as popular as it deserves? Well, we’re right there with you here at KultScene and below are only a fraction of K-Pop singles that deserve much more love. So read on to see if your favorite overlooked single made list, and hopefully we can introduce you to some new tunes as well.

Artist: Ajax
Album: 2MYX
Song: 2MYX

Let’s start this article with some ‘80s throwback music. Ajax’s 2MYX is laden with ‘80s sounds musically, and I absolutely love it. The beat, the synths, the drum beat, everything is great. The chorus is extremely catchy, and the members’ vocals are pretty impressive as well. The music reminds me of a Michael Jackson tune along the lines of Why You Wanna Trip On Me. The rapping fits well with the song; there’s a slower part with the accompaniment of an electric guitar that continues throughout the remainder of the song. All in all, 2MYX is a great jam if you’re feeling like a throwback day musically.

Also on KPOPme: 9 K-Pop Songs for Twerking

Artist: Roh Jihoon
Album: The Next Big Thing – EP
Song: Punishment

I thought Roh Ji Hoon was going places, and I’m surprised he hasn’t had a comeback recently. Punishment showcases his single abilities beautifully and that handsome face of his. Aside from his handsomeness, the piano in Punishment sets the tone for the song and is prominent throughout. Roh Ji Hoon beautifully executes his notes and manages to put emotion into Punishment.

The video views from Cube’s channel and 1thK’s channel add up to around 1.5 million views, which makes Punishment the most viewed video on this list. But it didn’t catapult him to stardom like I anticipated it would.

Artist: Able
Album: Able의 1’St 앨범
Song: 미스테리 (Mystery)

To be honest, I’m not sure how I found this song, but I’m happy I did. Mystery has the ‘90s boy band backing music and vocals. The English may not be as clear as it could be, but that doesn’t matter. The guys sing the song very well and the style of the song is quite enticing. The quick beat and pace of the song will also keep listeners interested until the end. Mystery is just a fun song with a great beat. You may forget about it after listening to it, but when it pops up on your shuffle it’s a must to listen to.

Artist: Bigstar
Album: Hang Out EP
Song: Run&Run

Yes, Bigstar’s Run&Run is the second most popular song on this list in terms of video view counts. However, they just have over 1,00,000 views in over a year since release. When Run&Run came out, not many people knew about it and it took awhile to gain some popularity. Bigstar is a talented group and this song showed their fun, goofy side as a group. The video is fun to watch and the chorus and choreography (the easier parts) are extremely addictive.

Run&Run is one of those songs that needs to be listened to while watching the music video (at least once) so listeners have an idea of what is going on in the song. The video helps to clarify the story within the song.

Also on KPOPme: M.I.B & 4TEN Shine At The NYC Chuseok Festival

Artist: Wonder Boyz
Album: 타잔 Tarzan – Single
Song: Tarzan

Tarzan is my favorite Wonder Boyz song. It was the first time that I really noticed them. I had their previous mini album, but didn’t pay much attention to them. This song boasts great music, a great beat, great vocals, and great rapping. The flow of the song is quick and memorable. Not to mention the choreography in the video is also pretty great. Moreover, the English lyrics are easy to sing along to and follow as well.

The dance version of the music video only has over 600,000 views, and it deserves much more. There are two music videos for the song, the dance version (below) as well as the story version. Both of which are quite enjoyable. Tarzan is an extremely catchy song that sounds amazing with the volume turned up as loud as you can handle.

Stay tuned for more overlooked K-pop singles. What are some of your favorite singles that just didn’t receive the love they deserved? Share your thoughts in the comment section below and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Playlist Sunday: Haters Gonna Hate

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Haters will always be around and we can either become consumed with their negativity or brush it off and continue to live our lives the way we want. This week’s Playlist Sunday is all about shutting up those haters and showing them that we don’t give a damn about their pessimism and snide remarks. With the help of Beenzino, CL, G-Dragon, and Teddy, Epik High (with some friends), and MBLAQ let’s all forget about the haters and enjoy the music.

Beenzino’s Up All Night talks about a different kind of hate and how the narrator deals with it. He just lost his lover and he hates everything and everyone. He just wants to go out, get drunk, have fun, and forget everything else, especially his love situation. He hates love songs and dealing with a breakup, and he makes it more intense during the bridge when he adds some cuss words. At the end of the song, he clearly states how much he hates his haters while continuing his use of profanity, but lets his fans know that he does everything for them.

–Alejandro

If we’re going to talk about haters, there’s probably not two people in K-Pop who have gotten more hate than G-Dragon and CL. That’s why in The Leaders, the idols, together with YG Entertainment producer Teddy, came out with a song celebrating themselves. In the song, they talk about being on top of their game and not being fazed by any haters. The Leaders has the best one liner disses in english ever, making it the reason I love this song. It’s a very smug song, but true nevertheless.

–Alexis

[Note: The following song contains explicit content.]

Epik High celebrated their 10th anniversary last October with the release of an exclusive track on their Soundcloud. The song, 420, was produced by DJ Tukutz and highlights Tablo’s and Mithra’s rapping. But this song isn’t just Epik High, seven other rappers join the hip hop group. Double K, Yankie, Dok2, Sean2Slow, Dumbfoundead, TopBob, and MYK all have a verse in the song.

The song is about Epik High’s rise from the bottom and how they’re still here and the same group as when they started. Each verse gives listeners brief insight into each rappers’ career, beginnings, and feelings about the hip hop scene. The beat is addictive and everyone’s verses flow well together. 420 is not for the faint of heart, but it’s definitely worth listening to and understanding the lyrics.

— Tara

MBLAQ’s known for its dance and R&B songs, but Run is one of MBLAQ’s most powerful, epic songs as well as by any idol group. It serves as the introductory song on MBLAQ’s 100% Ver, and sets the mood for the entire album- the idea that MBLAQ loves what it’s doing, and doesn’t really care what your reaction to the album is.

MBLAQ has done a lot of experimental stuff, and Run is the group’s anthem saying that it doesn’t really care what your reaction is, but MBLAQ is going to overtake you. Run is the intro for an album with a multitude of song styles including This Is War, Hello My Ex, and Scribble, and the variety is a bit overwhelming. Run knows that not everyone will be comfortable with every song, with every style that MBLAQ includes in the album, but MBLAQ is ready for both criticism and competition.

–Tamar

What’s your favorite song that sticks it to the haters? Be sure to share it and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Playlist Sunday: OST Favorites

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Whether Korean dramas got you into K-Pop or the other way around, one thing’s for sure: they’re both inevitable gateways into each other. Maybe your favorite idol was in a drama, or maybe that group you’re listening to participated on an OST. Since K-Pop is mainstream music in Korea, it comes as no surprise when idols sing OSTs, even if they don’t act in them.

And since we’re all K-drama addicts at KPOPme this week’s Playlist Sunday is dedicated to a few of our favorite OSTs.

When Jonghyun’s (CNBLUE) character was introduced in A Gentleman’s Dignity, I did not expect the My Love OST. The scene of him playing guitar and singing on the street is the first time we hear the song. As soon as I saw this scene and heard this song I was hooked. My Love showcases Jonghyun’s gentle and innocent vocals. It’s a beautiful song performed by a beautiful man with beautiful vocals. I can’t get enough of the song and as soon as I heard it in the drama, I loved it.

–Tara

Few dramas tugged at the viewers’ heartstrings like Rooftop Prince, and Ali’s song Hurt is one of the songs that helped set the tone. Ali’s deep voice portrays the emotions of someone full-heartedly in pain, making the melancholy ballad the perfect backdrop to the pain and suffering of the couple in both Joseon and present times.

— Tamar

Boys Over Flowers was the first Korean drama that I ever watched, and SHINee was the first K-Pop band that I fell in love with. So naturally while watching the drama and heard the song, I was hooked. Stand By Me really brings out the softness in Onew’s vocals. They may not be as powerful as in other songs, but for this type of song, it was perfection. Jonghyun, Taemin, and Key lead you perfectly to the chorus, and once you hear this song, the soothing melody will make you never forget it.

–Alejandro

Monstar was one of those dramas with idols who are in a fictitious band. This time, said idols were BEAST’s Junhyung and BTOB had a few scenes since they were in the band, but not relevant to the story. After Time Passes was the song that played anytime there was a bittersweet moment. And what makes this song stand out from others in the drama is that Junhyung sings rather than raps in it. The lyrics talk about still being hung up on a girl, but anticipating getting over it and thinking less and less of her as time passes. The track is very mellow, making it an easy listen for whenever.

–Alexis

What’s your favorite OST? Be sure to share it and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Playlist Sunday: Bad Girls Club

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The good, cute girl image seems to be the norm and a favorite among the female K-Pop groups, but what about those who take a walk down the bad side? For this week’s playlist theme we chose groups and solo artist who aren’t scared to explore and show their bad girl images.

The Bad Girl image isn’t necessarily one you associate with K-Pop darlings Girls’ Generation, but that’s exactly what they tried to do back in 2011 with their Japanese single. Soshi went the cliché route by dressing in lots of pleather, posing in motorcycles, and dancing in an empty garage. But whether the concept was successful or not, there’s no denying that Bad Girl it’s an incredibly addicting song because of the repetitive “oh’s” in the hook.

The lyrics talk about being “bad” for a guy –the most perfect he’s ever seen, actually. You could even say it’s a complete 180 turn from Genie; the first is about dominance while the second is about compliance. Girls’ Generation might not have stuck with the naughtier image, but Bad Girl will always be “that time the girls went bad,” and who doesn’t like a good girl gone bad?

–Alexis

Brown Eyed Girls is definitely a group that epitomizes the Bad Girl theme. Their songs often depict mature content as seen in their music videos and choreography, and heard in their lyrics. For this week I chose BEG’s Kill Bill. The song has a story version music video as well as a performance version, both of which show off BEG’s “bad girl” personalities.

The lyrics are about a girl finding out about the unfaithfulness of her lover. Throughout the story version music video, each member is involved with the killing of a man and eventually themselves. Along with the lyrics and music video plot is the provocative choreography. The mature idols show off their sex appeal and that they are comfortable with themselves through the choreography for Kill Bill. BEG is the queen of mature and bad girl content.

–Tara

Good girls become bad girls for a reason, and NS Yoon-G isn’t staying quiet about who is to blame for the dramatic change. The Reason I Became A Witch is not only a great song, but the music video is perfect for October, with NS Yoon-G wearing her Halloween appropriate black-and-white tights. She starts the video behind a curtain of white, showing her demure self, before she turns into some S&M goddess who could be playing Catwoman in a Batman (or a female version of Fifty Shades of Grey). In The Reason I Became A Witch, NS Yoon-G doesn’t just bring sexiness, she brings fierceness and shows how a good-girl-gone-bad will never be controlled by a guy ever again.

–Tamar

Ladies Code Bad Girl talks about a man that mistreats a woman. The man keeps telling his lover that she is weak and pitiful, so the girl is ready to be alone, but he just doesn’t want to leave her. After continuos name calling, she becomes strong and tells him that she is not that girl, that she is actually a bad girl and demands him to start calling her that. The video has the girls styled beautifully and accompanied by many men. The video is serious at times, but then It gets really fun, especially when they are putting makeup and wigs on the guys. It’s so cute and funny.

— Alejandro

What’s your favorite bad girl song? Be sure to share it and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

5 K-Pop Songs For Morning Commutes

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Getting out of bed is only half the battle during the week, but actually making it to work in a relatively decent mood is the next step. Music can serve as a great pick me up, so when you’re on your morning commute to work or school, listen to some of our favorite K-Pop songs. For people who like to take the day more slowly, there are some songs for you, while those of you who need something fast-paced to get you really revved up, there’s also that. Whether you’re in a car, on public transportation, or your own two legs, these songs will really hit home. If your morning commute doesn’t involve driving (or if it does then you can have a look at it later), then you may wish to pass the time reading a blog about motorists and their music habits. If this is something that you think you might be interested in, then you can find it here.

K.Will – A Bright Day

Before getting into anything that will definitely wake you up, take it slowly. Listen to A Bright Day; think about what the day ahead of you will hold. Will it be a great day, an okay day or, unfortunately, a difficult one? Hopefully, it will be a fulfilling one, and make this commute well worth it! Mediate for a few minutes while listening to K.Will, and then move on to some other songs in this list that are a bit more upbeat.

MBLAQ – R U Ok?

You’re already awake and on your way, but you may not be completely awake. The soft snapping and piano instrumental at the beginning of R U Ok? transitions into a faster beat that will wake you up a little bit, to the point where you may be bobbing your head along to it.

 

Also on KPOPme: 8 K-Pop Jams For Your Next Workout

EXO-K – Angel

If you still have gunk in your eyes and you’re not so sure if all of your buttons are done properly, you’re probably not ready for something really loud and wild. EXO-K’s Angel, from the group’s debut album, is a simple ballad that has some great high points throughout the song that will definitely lift up your mood.

Roy Kim – Love Love Love

The singer’s acoustic guitar and gentle voice will gently raise your level of awareness. The melody has its fast points and also soft, harmonious moments that ends in a crescendo that will result in anybody feeling a bit more awake after listening.

Also on KPOPme: K-Pop Songs to Start Your Morning

SHIMMixes – K-Lubbing

This song is a bit jarring, so this may actually be a great replacement for coffee. It’s not a K-Pop song per say, but one of the greatest mash-ups of songs from May-September 2013 by SHIMMixes. The entire mix will have you dancing in your seat, so that by the time you’re at work you’ll be pumped.

What’s your favorite song to listen during your morning commute? We’d love for you to share your picks, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Playlist Sunday: Fall Songs

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With summer coming to an end, we decided to choose a few fall songs for this week’s Playlist Sunday. But, what exactly are “fall songs?” Truth is, there’s no definite answer. Each writer interpreted that concept and came out with these songs, which are a mix of heartbreak, warm, and laid-back songs.

Touching lyrics aside, Super Junior’s A ‘Goodbye’ is a chillingly wonderful song. The Korean title is literally “the day of the break up,” and the calm, melodic approach of the speaker to the heartbreak is what makes this song so memorable. The shift between softness and a more upbeat sound is unsettling, which reminds me a lot of an autumn day, where the weather is chilly one moment and then the sun starts shining the next.

The song also functioned as leader Leeteuk’s farewell song when he joined the Korean army, which he joined during the fall of 2012.

–Tamar

Clazziquai Project’s Come on and Go with Me has an extremely laid back and smooth sound that is perfect for fall. The duo’s vocals are also soft, but powerful in their own right. Come on and Go with Me is a great song to listen to as you’re walking through the park with the beautiful leaves falling all around. The chill song will put you in a great mood every time you listen to it.

–Tara

When I think about a song for fall, I couldn’t think of any other than 2NE1’s It Hurts. The song is a very sad ballad, but it has a very soothing feel to it. Bom’s voice really stands out on this track accompanied by the beautiful piano and bass guitar. Not only the song but also the video give you the perfect portrayal of fall. The girls stand on a rooftop while leaves start to fall while styled in gothic lolita outfits. As the song’s title says, it really hurts listening to this song. They emotions really flow through the song and with the video those sad emotions increase. Sorry to get your mood down, but this song is just perfect for the fall.

— Alejandro

It may be because the weather’s colder, but fall makes you want to have someone to hold, like EXO sings in Moonlight. The song has a very warm feeling, being a plea for the girl to not leave. The softness behind D.O and Baekhyun’s voices give the track a nice flow that also makes it feel sincere. And even without reading the translation of the lyrics, you can feel the longing in Moonlight, making the vocalists successfully transmit the message through emotions rather than words.

–Alexis

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