Genre Taster - 5 Songs to Get You Into K-RnB
So your Spotify Wrapped (or Apple Minutes) came out and you've come to the realization that you've been stuck in the same genre for months on end. If you're feeling that itch to diversify your music listening, this genre taster will be introducing five songs by different K-RnB artists to give you an insight into the K-RnB scene as a whole and hopefully leave you with a new genre of interest. If you like to listen to RnB and are familiar with western RnB artists like Sza, The Weekend, or Frank Ocean perhaps the K-RnB genre is for you! Influenced by the ‘rhythm and blues’ of western artists in the early 2000s like Lauryn Hill and Usher, the K-RnB scene first emerged in Korea as a fusion of singing and rapping. The genre is often associated with the Korean Hip Hop/Rap scene, as a lot of the songs include rap alongside melodic sections. In comparison to western RnB, what separates K-RnB - other than the language differences - is the free-flowing rhythms that have a trendy, cool feeling to them. K-RnB is music that can be described as ‘easy listening’ because it can be fitting for any vibe, whether it’s studying at a cafe, chilling with friends, or walking in the park.
We Don’t Talk Together - HEIZE, GIRIBOY (prod. SUGA)
Sung by HEIZE, a singer also known as Jang Da-hye, “We Don’t Talk Together” is a song that talks about the awkwardness of reconnecting with someone that you previously loved. Despite the sad connotation of the lyrics, the beat is very much similar to pop songs with an upbeat tempo and driving synth guitar. This song is a great example of a crossover between a solo K-RnB singer, HEIZE, and a K-Hiphop artist by the name of GIRIBOY. In his verse, GIRIBOY’s rap is a response to HEIZE’s melodic lines, adding a more dynamic sound. A final point to highlight is that the song was also co-written and produced by BTS member SUGA, which is another common aspect of the K-RnB genre to not only have featured artists but also producers as well. SUGA’s production in this song is very reflective of his own music style, emphasizing the intricate melodies and rhythmic flow of the beat.
Selfish - APRO (feat. BIBI and Colde)
Coming off of APRO’s newest album in 2022, “Selfish” is a collaboration between some of the most recognizable voices in the K-RnB genre. The song has a traditional rock and roll beat in combination with more electronic-based melody lines. It is a fusion of sounds to convey the message of the song to be selfish when it comes to prioritizing oneself in a relationship. BIBI, the first artist heard on the song, exemplifies a sultry RnB style with her own South Korean flair. Not to mention BIBI has become extremely popular, crossing into the western music scene as a partner artist of 88rising. Colde, who melodically raps the second half of the song, brings a whole new vibe of powerful vocals.
Camping everywhere - George
Known for his laid-back vibe and chill melodies, K-RnB singer George combines a vocal soulfulness with an acoustic sound. “Camping Everywhere” is a showcase of George’s ability to sing, rap, and melodically rap all in one song. Referred to by fans as the Frank Ocean of Korea, George is able to consistently sing and rap in a variety of styles. This song highlights his ability to maintain a soulful bass vocal in his verses and counter that with a falsetto chorus. It’s a chill song that can be enjoyed anywhere.
AURA - JUNNY (feat. pH-1) (prod. GXXD)
This song, just like its title, has the aura of the K-RnB genre. JUNNY, the song’s lead vocalist, has a soft, honey-like tone that fits the concept of a lingering memory of someone’s aura. Featured in this song is pH-1, a popular rapper in South Korea known for his comedic ‘talking’ styled rapping. Both artists play off of each other so well, their layered adlibs adding some interesting dimensions to the song. From start to finish, it showcases the new, modern version of K-RnB with driving 808s and electronically produced melodies.
Put My Hands On You - DEAN (feat. Anderson .Paak)
Released in 2015 “Put My Hands On You” is a relatively older song, but it encompasses everything that a K-RnB song has to offer. DEAN, who sings this song, is known as the prince of Korean RnB throughout Asia. His smooth vocals and catchy melodies have established DEAN as one of the most popular artists to represent the K-RnB genre. This song itself is upbeat and has rhythmical layers thanks to Anderson .Paak’s feature (you can even hear him rap in Korean). The song seamlessly blends DEAN’s effortless falsetto tones with .Paak’s catchy drum lines. Not to mention this collaboration marked the start of many more collaborations between East and West artists/styles as the K-RnB genre has become more globally listened to.
Hope you enjoyed this Genre Taster and learned more about K-RnB. For more updates and insight into the K-RnB community, start by listening to artists you like and adding songs to your regular playlist mix. If you liked the recommendations from this Genre Taster article be sure to check out my K-RnB playlist on Spotify! Some additional things to look out for in the K-RnB scene if you are interested: the K-RnB group DPR (Dream Perfect Regime) will be performing at Coachella in April, singer-songwriter, Jey came out with a new album titled “Algorithm” (which is great), and female rapper, Lee Young Ji recently won the popular Korean rap contest, “Show Me The Money”. Lastly, the K-RnB community is full of creative artists who are always coming up with innovative concepts so there is always something new to enjoy!