Since the start of The Bias List in January 2016, I’ve always looked back at my three favorite title tracks by K-pop artists each month. Now, it’s time to look even further into the past, one month at a time. And, yes, the top three rankings count toward The Bias List’s personal artist scorecard!
April 2009 Overall Thoughts
While April didn’t offer a Gee or Sorry Sorry level classic, it was a solid month with plenty to enjoy. And though newer fans might not recognize a lot of the names here, many of these artists are still working today – at least in one form or another.
For me, April was dominated by another Sweetune-produced track. I know… shocker, right? But unlike other Sweetune acts, A’ST1 are not a household name. Even so, Dynamite is a total jam and deserves renewed attention.
With their first comeback, 2PM scored an iconic hit. Again & Again feels like a template for their sound going forward, and is still covered by boy groups today. The battle for third place was very, very close, and pretty much shifts depending on my mood. Both Diva and Boo are instant mood-lifters, with the former’s heavy autotune actually contributing to its cheesy appeal.
We also have the solo debut of Beast/Highlight’s Gikwang as “AJ.” The oft-mocked Dancing Shoes isn’t particularly great, but I find it to be a guilty pleasure. Other solo releases from Lee Minho and Lee Junki are emblematic of this era’s sound, while rapper Shin Gun brought a surging dance club energy reminiscent of some of Bigbang’s early work.
Finally, we have songs by the always-popular SG Wannabe, Davichi and Younha, who were all in their prime during this time.
Honorable Mentions
AJ (Gikwang) – Dancing Shoes (video)
Davichi – My Man (video)
IU – Boo (video)
Lee Junki – J Style (video)
Lee Minho – Extreme (video)
SG Wannabe – My Love Cry Baby (video)
Shin Gun – Bye Bye (ft. J) (video)
Younha – 1.2.3 (video)
