The dominating phenomenon that K-Pop has become this year is mind-blowing to say the least. 2023 has given us collaborations that we never thought were on the cards. Each collaboration has brought forth unique sounds and cultural influences. Rolling Stone India has revealed the best K-Pop x Global Artists Collaborations of 2023 that have resonated with fans worldwide, breaking national borders and setting new benchmarks for musical synergy.
Here is a list, in no particular order.
'On The Street' - j-hope, J.Cole
To say 2023 was yet again owned by BTS, despite being on a hiatus, wouldn't be an understatement. All members embarked on their solo musical journeys and the first member to have a collaboration with a foreign artist this year was j-hope. He had always talked about being inspired by giant hip-hop artist J. Cole. The two collaborated on the hip-hop/rap song 'on the street,' which released on March 3. The fact that J.Cole doesn't feature on just anybody's single; it's safe to say that this was a huge milestone for the BTS member. It's not everyday you get to see an artist make a mellow, wonderful song with their inspiration. Their seamless blend sounded incredible and showcases a dynamic blend of lyrical prowess and rhythmic beats.
'Back For More' - TOMORROW X TOGETHER, Anitta
This song has you grooving. No doubts about it. The odd pairing worked wonders. With English and a few Latin sentences, these two acts are huge stars in their respective homelands. 'Back For More' released on September 15 and soon after even bagged a MTV Video Music Award. It is a captivating fusion, wonderfully blending TXT's dynamic sound with Anitta's infectious energy. 'Back For More' stands as a testament to the collaborative prowess of these artists, and because of its infectious hooks and lively beats, you will be coming back for more.
'One Of The Girls' - The Weeknd, JENNIE, Lily-Rose Depp
In the midst of conquering the world with 'Born Pink World Tour,' BLACKPINK's JENNIE had her acting breakout moment on the HBO series 'The Idol.' Despite the show's poor performance, its soundtrack was highly praised. JENNIE's skills extended beyond acting as she showcased her talent on the soundtrack, with 'One Of The Girls,' her electrifying collaboration alongside co-stars Lily-Rose Depp and The Weeknd, released on June 23. The seductive R&B, pop track worked extremely well on the show and proved that JENNIE's vocals can blend with multiple artists at once. Now, the song has its own EP, featuring the original version, sped up version, slowed version and an instrumental version.
'Slow' - Jackson Wang, Ciara
Individually, Jackson Wang and Ciara are artists with huge fan bases. Unexpected as it seemed, the fusion of these two artists into a single track was a surprise. Yet, their collaboration on 'Slow,' released on April 17, proves that sometimes, such unexpected things yield wonderful results. 'Slow' seamlessly fuses Jackson Wang's smooth vocals with Ciara's soulful delivery, blending R&B and pop into a perfect symphony. This track does nothing but evoke sensuality and undeniable chemistry. With its sultry vibes, you will find yourself humming this song without even realising it.
'Cupid - Twin Version' - FIFTY FIFTY, Sabrina Carpenter
Rookie group FIFTY FIFTY released a remixed version of their hit 'Cupid' with 'Nonsense' singer Sabrina Carpenter. Ever since its release on August 18, the craze for the single has not died down, and in all honesty, it shouldn't either. It's an enchanting collaboration between the popstars, intertwining their unique musical signatures. The track showcases a delightful blend of pop and some electronic elements, highlighting FIFTY FIFTY's dynamic beats alongside Sabrina Carpenter's melodies and harmonies. Though the music is the same as the original one, only the lyrics have been changed, but just as catchy. Personally waiting for a music video for this one!
'Better Things' - aespa, RAYE
Just like 'Cupid - Twin Version' feat. Sabrina Carpenter, aespa's 'Better Things' feat. RAYE has music as the original one, only the lyrics have been changed. The addition of RAYE has made the song somehow, catchier. The single stood strong on its own, but the inclusion of songwriter- producer RAYE, harmonising the girl group of four, elevated it to a whole new dimension. Released on September 29, this pop single has a fresh, vibrant energy to it. The tiny rap elements RAYE has added have come out to be wonderfully blended. A live performance of these two artists singing and grooving to this song would break the internet, that's for sure.
'Unforgiven' - LE SSERAFIM, Nile Rodgers
This collaboration stands out. The artists are unforgiven for this wonderful collaboration because who would have really thought Nile Rodgers, the legendary producer-guitarist, will find his place within the realm of K-pop, that too alongside LE SSERAFIM. Their track, released on May 1, samples Ennio Morricone's theme from 'The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly,' serving as a bold and fierce introduction to these girls, right before they sway you with their vocals and their moves. This collaboration merges the band's dominating melodies with Rodgers' subtle guitar riffs, crafting a symphony that brings two genres together. The song truly leaves a lasting impression on its listeners.
'Seven' - Jung Kook, Latto
Last but not the least, when you talk of K-Pop artists collaborating with foreign artists, you can't forget to mention Jung Kook. The golden maknae of BTS has given back-to-back collaborations this year, but nothing beats his debut solo single 'Seven' with Latto. Be it a Monday or a Friday, you can't stop loving it. This song, single-handedly, has broken records and won awards even on international platforms since its release on July 14. But it doesn't end with Latto. His album 'GOLDEN' sees many collaborations with Jack Harlow, Major Lazer, and DJ Snake. Other than that, he has also released remixed versions of his songs with Justin Timberlake, Usher, Alesso, David Guetta, and also featured as an artist on a song with The Kid Laroi and Central Cee. The best part? All of his collaborations have proven to be successful and are breaking chart records.
The fusion of K-pop artists with foreign artists has been a monumental stride. It has blended diverse cultures and gotten different musical genres to create one harmony, irrespective of the language barrier. These collaborations transcend borders and get creative in ways no one would have predicted. What brings these stars from all over the world together is their shared love for music.
