Edited by Han Sung Soo
Translated by Eungee Joh
It’s becoming increasingly common for idols to branch out from their groups and sign with new labels to pursue solo careers in the world of K-pop. HyunA of 4minute has joined @Area, Yves of LOONA has partnered with PAIX PER MIL, f(x)’s Krystal has signed with BANA Records, and BEAST’s Jang Hyunseung has teamed up with AP Alchemy.
These K-pop stars, who have garnered global acclaim, have carefully selected labels that align with their unique styles and aspirations. @Area, founded by the producer team Groovy Room, specializes in trendy hip-hop and R&B, while PAIX PER MIL, led by the exceptional producers MILLIC and IOAH, emphasizes artist individuality and embraces an alternative sound. BANA Records, the label of Krystal‘s choice, houses 250 and Frank, the talented producers behind HYBE’s global K-Pop group NewJeans, and AP Alchemy, where Jang Hyunseung has landed, represents the forefront of Korean underground hip-hop.
Just like Yves from LOONA said when she joined PAIX PER MIL, “I felt that PAIX PER MIL was the right company to help me expand my musical spectrum, and I chose them because they have talented producers,” the expertise and distinctive style of a label’s producers play a crucial role in K-Pop idols’ choosing a new label.
So without further ado, let’s jump right in and listen to some hit songs from these labels to understand what kind of music and potential is attracting these global stars.
PAIX PER MIL
MILLIC – EVERLASTING / SEA ANEMONE
IOAH – FACELESS
AT AREA
Gemini – Attention
BLASÉ – Drop IT
AP Alchemy
AP Alchemy – No One Likes Us
SILKYBOIS – BOMAYE
BANA Records
250 – Bang Bus
XXX – Sujak
