Just in case you were wondering what August sounds like...
August was a movie, and these songs were the soundtracks. Then again, August could also have been a country, with these tunes as the national anthems. But what if August was a galaxy? Would these melodies be the stars? Okay, we'll stop now...
Last month was a remarkable timeline peppered with comebacks from some of the most talented K-Pop artists. With SEVENTEEN sounding ironically happy while crooning about the potential end of the world to Aespa telling us that there are always "Better Things" on the way, August was a 31-day long playlist.
Ready to hear how August was built by a thousand harmonies? Let's play.
PopMachine Playlist: The Best K-Pop Songs of August
★ KD'S PICKS:
Even If the World Ends Tomorrow (IMA) by SEVENTEEN
Not that we're keeping count or anything, but how many times did we think the world was going to end?
From the Y2K Bug and Halley's Comet to the 2012 chaos, people were (luckily) always wrong about the world coming to an end. Now according to SEVENTEEN, the world could end tomorrow. While we certainly hope it won't, the message that this sad/happy song conveys reminds us to cherish the people we have and the moment we're in. In this profound song, SEVENTEEN sounds unorthodoxically happy about a last dance at the end of the world...but in a beautiful way. "Even If the World Ends Tomorrow" is one of those rare masterpieces that can break your heart as much as it warms it.
Did we mention that the stunning music video hurts you in all the right places too?
Anyway, even if the world won't end tomorrow, don't underestimate the value of the current moment.
Remember to heed the word of the fortune cookie: today is bad luck, do it now.
2. Don't Leave Yet by Eric Nam
When an Eric Nam song plays at a party, you definitely should not leave yet. In fact, if this song plays anywhere, you stay put and listen.
For life's lowkey moments when you want to dance with highkey energy, stream "Don't Leave Yet" by the one and only Eric Nam.
3. Well Done, Guys! (수고했어요, 우리) By Lee Seung Gi
If you haven't watched Bro and Marble yet, you can't sit with us.
Kidding aside, Lee Seung Gi is a master of the mic, both vocally and MC-wise. Starring as the game master/banker in the hit reality series, Bro and Marble, the multifaceted star is a marvel to watch. Double that down with this playful soundtrack, and you've got entertainment gold in the sparkly sands of Dubai.
Whether you're a fan of SEVENTEEN's Joshua and Hoshi, Ji Seok Jin of Running Man, Lee Dong Hwi, Yoo Yeon Seok, Jo Se Ho, or Super Junior's Kyu Hyun, this TV program will make you wanna roll the dice.
4. Love Lee by AKMU
There has never been a brother and sister duo quite like AKMU. Lee Su Hyun and Lee Chan Hyuk prove time and time again that the talent that runs in their family is strong.
"Love Lee" is a cute tune with a quirky double meaning, and when you listen to it, spring seems to last forever.
5. You're Beautiful by The Rose
If The Rose says that you're beautiful, then you better believe it.
Paired with a picturesque music video, "You're Beautiful" is a treat for both your ears and eyes.
★ LULUA'S PICKS:
Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife Remix by
Imagine your favourite K-pop tracks getting a fresh twist, courtesy of the one and only Demi Lovato. LE SSERAFIM has teamed up with Demi Lovato to create a remix that's as enchanting as it is electrifying. A real musical kaleidoscope, the remix blends the voices of these talented artists with a touch of Demi's signature magic. The result? A sonic journey that'll have you dancing through the cosmos, with beats that resonate across the globe.
2. Fast Forward by Jeon Somi
Jeon Somi's comeback is here, and it was definitely worth the wait! After what felt like forever, the soloist is back with yet another viral song, and her latest offering is a delightful blend of uniqueness, intrigue, and catchiness that's impossible to ignore. In this comeback, she embraced heavy dance sounds with universal appeal. Throughout the song, there are electronic drops that hit you like a bolt of musical lightning. It's the kind of drop that sets your heart racing and your feet moving, effortlessly blending elements of EDM with the signature charm of K-pop.
3. Horizon by Jaehyun of NCT
Jaehyun of NCT is back with his solo track entitled “Horizon”. As we gear up for the much-anticipated NCT 2023 project later this month, Jaehyun is giving us a taste of his musical prowess through the NCT Lab platform. Jaehyun's vibe is filled with the aura of a magnetic voice and an aura that just draws you in. But here's the twist – the song is more of a gentle meander through musical landscapes. It serves as a soothing balm for your pop-loving soul.
4. Love Me Again by V of BTS
The BTS solo journey keeps gaining momentum, and this time, it's V taking the spotlight as he gears up to drop several tracks before his debut album's September release. V's distinctively rich and velvety vocals have long been an ace up the group's sleeve – a captivating timbre that injects depth and nuance into every note it caresses. And they did exactly that for "Love Me Again"! V's enchanting vocal charisma meets its fullest potential in his latest single, serving up a soothing, gentle breeze, especially in recurring chorus.
5. Peanut Butter & Tears by DPR IAN
DPR IAN masterfully captures the essence of fleeting youth and the tumultuous journey of self-discovery. Through a repetitive yet irresistibly captivating production, he conjures a persistent sense of nostalgia while the lyrics guide you through the labyrinth of uncertainty. As you delve into the accompanying video, a fascinating revelation unfolds: the chaos that engulfs one character is intricately linked to the actions of another. It's a visual representation of the intricate web of life's complexities. The lyrics themselves mirror the unravelling of youth, bearing the raw struggles of growing up.
DPR IAN ingeniously transforms a simple childhood delight – peanut butter – and the child-like emotion of crying into a profound analogy for the uncharted territory of life's uncertainties. It's a testament to his lyrical prowess and ability to convey deep concepts through relatable, everyday experiences. One word for this release would be "wow."
★NIKITA'S PICKS:
Contradicting by Hyunjin of Stray Kids
Hyunjin's solo track, "Contradicting", is a mesmerizing journey through his inner conflicts. The singer blends haunting melodies with powerful rap, unveiling the intricacies of his emotions.
2. NEW DANCE by XG
"NEW DANCE" by XG is an electrifying dance anthem that'll have you moving to its infectious beat from the very first note, making it an instant party favorite.
3. Hip-Hop by Joohoney of Monsta X
Joohoney's "Hip-Hop" is a blazing showcase of his lyrical prowess, delivering rapid-fire verses and fierce beats that redefine the boundaries of hip-hop.
4. Spoiler by Viviz
Not to give you a spoiler, but this new Viviz track is a tantalizing combo of R&B and pop. As an OST for the hit series, My Lovely Liar, "Spoiler" weaves a seductive narrative that leaves listeners hanging onto every note, just like a thrilling story yet to unfold.
5. Dang Dang by Mamamoo
Mamamoo's "Dang Dang" is a vibrant, feel-good anthem filled with their signature powerhouse vocals and a catchy chorus. This is guaranteed to uplift your spirits and get you grooving.
★ DHIVYA'S PICKS:
Death or Paradise by HORI7ON
Like a cryptic riddle, their lyrics beckon you to ponder life's choices - Narcotic dope or merciful hope?
The septet bridges the gap between light and entrapment, inviting you to ride the waves of their electrifying sound. Will you choose the path of 'death' or 'paradise'? Dive into their captivating world and discover your own musical paradise!
2. Better Things by Aespa
In this track, Aespa will motivate you to tap into your inner empowerment! This vibrant anthem that celebrates self-worth and independence tells a story of moving forward, leaving behind those who doubted you. Aespa's infectious energy and catchy rhythm will have you dancing and singing along in no time!
Join the party and discover your own 'Better Things' to do with your time as Aespa takes center stage.
3. Stupid Cupid by Aylah
Hold onto your heartstrings as Aylah cranks up the fun factor with "Stupid Cupid." This spectacular song invites you to embark on a musical adventure that mirrors the wild ride of love. From dizzying infatuation to heart-pounding heartbreak, it's all here...and it's all outrageously catchy.
"Stupid Cupid" is your vivacious anthem for navigating love's thrilling twists and turns.
4. Slay by Everglow
Prepare to be blown away, because Everglow came to "Slay." This dynamic song is a fearless declaration of strength and confidence, as the lyrics tell a tale of empowerment and determination. Everglow's unstoppable energy and bold sound will have you on your feet, dancing to the infectious rhythm.
"Slay" is more than a song; it's an attitude, a statement, and an anthem for everyone ready to break free from limitations. Let Everglow's music ignite your inner fire and inspire you to conquer the world!
5. Starlight by Secret Number
"Starlight" is a celestial journey of light and hope. This magical harmony transports listeners to outerspace, as the lyrics paint a vivid picture of reaching for distant stars and embracing the unknown.
Secret Number's newest track is your ticket to a world where dreams take flight, and the universe unfolds before you. Add this song to your playlist if you want city lights and galaxies collide.
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