What I love about any kind of art is seeing how people take it and bend it in different ways. Combining traditional sounds and modern expression, trying a beloved song in different formats, pairing a behind-the-scenes video with a popular B-side — all of these variations found their way onto my YouTube feed and I had to share. Come and see if you like them as much as I do!
Looking for something different to listen to? Try out my Playful Maknae playlist on Spotify!
Yeeun Ahn – “Kakotopia”
Such a HUGE voice out of a tiny person! Yeeun has a strong trot vibe to her unique voice, and I love how she’s paired it with modern dance and postmodern destruction. It’s a fascinating video to watch.
Gaho – “Start”
I’m a huge rock fan AND a huge Gaho fan. Imagine my delight when the two were combined in this version of “Start” from the Itaewon Class OST! Plus there’s a great section where Gaho lets his vocals fly that isn’t found in the original version. LOVE IT.
2Z – “Keep the Promise”
I love 2Z so much! They’re all in school right now, so I’m waiting patiently for new music by listening to their album over and over. I love this behind-the-scenes MV that they put together over “Keep the Promise”, the last track on their debut album. It’s such a genuine song — I suggest listening to it at least twice.
Henry – “Thinking of You”
If this smooth groove is representative of the work that Henry is producing now that he’s his own company, then I am HERE for it. I love how he incorporates the violin into this song — it just fits so well. (Wouldn’t it be interesting to get him and Lindsey Stirling on stage together?) Click play and see if you like this new path Henry is taking with his music.
MONSTA X – “You Can’t Hold My Heart”
Monsta X’s dive into an all-English album has been delightful — it really suits their sound. Check out “You Can’t Hold My Heart” and see what you think about this move on their part.
BONUS TRACK: V – “Sweet Night”
SPOILERS for Itaewon Class in this MV, so just close your eyes and listen to it if you don’t want to be spoiled. You really shouldn’t miss out on this amazing song. V’s dark and lovely vocals are one of my favorite sounds.
What do you think of this week’s variations, k-fans? I’m loving them, but I’m a huge fan of variety and change. Do you agree? Do you have variations that you love that I need to know about? Then drop down in the comments and let me know!
Until the next record spins, I remain —
Karie the Maknae
Dramas with a Side of Kimchi