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!
June 2009 Overall Thoughts
Whether accurate or not, I’ve always considered June to be an especially exciting month in K-pop. As the gateway to the summer season, the energy and excitement seems to kick up a notch this time of year. Because of this, I’m surprised how lacking 2009’s June was when it comes to releases. There just weren’t that many comebacks.
Luckily, the month was spearheaded by Girls’ Generation’s industry-defining Genie. This song alone lands June in the hall of fame, and easily eclipses everything else.
4minute’s Hot Issue has become iconic in its own right, and marks the debut of this much-loved group. Listening back to it now, it’s striking how much its delivery recalls K-pop girl group trends of today.
Elsewhere in this month, IU followed up April’s Boo with a rock mix of Hey. Girl group Mascara released a fun (slightly trot-influenced) dance track, while boy group Xing and Shinhwa’s Lee Minwoo opted for more trendy material.
Lurking around the corner, July was about to explode with a parade of retro-inspired hits, including a classic that gives Genie a run for its money.
Honorable Mentions
Brand New Day – Mascara (video)
Lee Minwoo – Minnovation (video)
Untouchable – Oh (video)
Xing – Hi-Five (video)
