Is Jungkook an American Pop Star?

I struggled with what I would say when reviewing Jungkook’s new song, ‘3D’, on this week’s podcast. He was my first K-pop bias, and I’m so eager to see him succeed, but truth be told, I don’t love this song. It’s formulaic, manufactured, American pop.

To be clear, I like a lot of formulaic pop songs! I grew up listening to Britney, Christina, Backstreet Boys and NSYNC. There’s nothing wrong with fun, mindless pop music. But for Jungkook, royalty in K-pop, I want and expect more.

3D doesn’t showcase his vocal color and talent like some pop songs can. During this week's podcast episode, I compared his solo debut to Justin Timberlake’s ‘Justified.’ The difference is Pharrell Williams left enough soul and personality in Timberlake’s vocals to make that a standout debut album.

I agree with the controversy surrounding Jack Harlow’s feature. For a song about sex, the lyrics are anything but sexy. His verses were juvenile, not to mention offensive and misogynistic. Jungkook doesn’t need an American feature on every song. In fact, he doesn’t need features at all! His reputation and talent ensure ARMY will get him to #1 time and time again.

Instead, the product has been watered down to appease Western audiences who have become accustomed to the bare minimum regarding artistry. It’s a shame for those of us who know how capable Jungkook is. That said, the song will do impressive numbers, set records, and maybe even win awards.

He is now an American pop star. I got into K-pop because I was tired of American pop stars. So, this full circle moment doesn’t sit right with me. I’ll always cheer for Jungkook; I wish I liked the music.

DAWN’s ‘Narcissus’ Blew Me Away

Thankfully, the other music on this week’s podcast is great! Do you know how talented DAWN is?? I’m blown away by ‘Narcissus.’ Here, we have an artist stepping into his authentic self and producing a truly great EP. His growth from being a rapper in Pentagon to this type of solo artist is impressive.

Kep1er kept me in a good mood all week with ‘Galileo.’ They really nail the happy concepts. I loved ‘Giddy,’ and ‘Galileo’ is on the same plane for me. I hope they stay together longer than the standard Girls Planet contract.

ONEUS delivered interesting choreography in ‘Baila Conmido.’ While I always enjoy quick, precise dance moves, the more fluid, rhythmic stuff is what excites me. In this music video, they showed us a sexy, cool chorus choreography with Latin dance flare.

Time names Stray Kids “Next Generation Leaders’”

For those of you who have followed me for years, you know I’ve been a fan of Stray Kids since 2020 when I reviewed ‘God’s Menu.’ During that podcast, I boldly predicted, “This group will be the biggest group in the world in a few years.”

TIME has caught on along with millions of people around the world, publishing an article naming the group as Next Generation Leaders. Stray Kids are special, and I’m happy they’re getting the credit they deserve.

They never pandered to a specific audience. Instead of watering down their product for Americans, they boldly performed S-Class at the MTV VMAs. In creating their own music, they can be who they want. They also have the taste to create and release good music.

Their comeback, ‘Rock Star,’ will drop on November 10th. Of course, I’ll be reviewing it on the podcast!

Freddy’s Debut

Speaking of solo debuts, my dog Freddy debuted on the podcast this week! Like his mom, he LOVES music. Some of his favorites are Kacey Musgraves, Miles Davis, and Eddie Murphy’s ‘Party All the Time.’

Interestingly, we don’t always have the same music taste. While I’m a romantic at heart, Freddy is more aggressive. In fact, he didn’t seem to mind the lyrics in ‘3D.’ But he does appreciate certain tones and voices more than others. Keep an eye on the podcast and social media to see more of Freddy and his favorite songs.

Congratulations to The Rose for their Billboard 200 debut! Hard work pays off. If you missed my review of their new album, ‘DUAL,’ be sure to check out last week’s episode with my guest, Meg.

I’m happy to share my love and passion for music with you again! Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and subscribing.

Songs I’m Obsessed With This Week

Galileo - Kep1er

Simulation - ONEUS

Heart - DAWN

So I Danced - DPR IAN

Somebody - D.O.