2 weeks Ago By [email protected](KoreaTimes)
K-pop act BABYMONSTER / Courtesy of YG Entertainment By Pyo Kyung-min Aiming to build on the success of YG icons like BLACKPINK and 2NE1, BABYMONSTER — the label's newest act — is stepping up with its first full-length album, "DRIP." Dropping just three months after its last release, the group is now set to bring YG's signature hip-hop style into a new era with a fresh flair. Since debuting in April, the seven-piece act quickly gained recognition for its strong vocal abilities — a hallmark of YG artists — setting itself apart from other rookie K-pop groups by consistently using handheld microphones during live performances.
The group's recent guest performance at 2NE1's 15th anniversary concert drew notable attention and praise, with its members' rare stage presence quickly going viral online. During a press conference held Friday at YG headquarters in Seoul's Mapo District to celebrate the release of the new album, the seven BABYMONSTER members — Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Ahyeon, Rami, Rora and Chiquita — shared their thoughts over the experience of performing alongside YG family seniors. "It was an incredible opportunity that allowed us to learn so much.
It was an honor for us, and it really helped us grow," said Rami, one of the group's vocalists. Rora added, "Watching 2NE1 and BLACKPINK perform, I admired their immense stage presence, their approach to using the stage, and their overall professionalism. We want to become juniors who can live up to their legacy and hope to be a group that connects with fans and brings energy to every stage.
" K-pop girl group BABYMONSTER / Courtesy of YG Entertainment Aiming to follow the success of their predecessors, BABYMONSTER's newly released nine-track album "DRIP" features two title songs — the namesake track "DRIP" and "CLIK CLAK." Describing the album as "a blend of YG's original hip-hop style with a fresh edge," the members noted it captures a "quintessential teenage appeal." "The album highlights YG's signature charm, which comes from the cool, effortless simplicity of its music," Ahyeon said.
"We believe true hip-hop is about telling our story in our own way, and this album embodies just that spirit." The album's lead title track, "DRIP," is an EDM dance tune with exotic bass sounds unique to the label. Notably, former YG senior G-Dragon added a special touch, contributing to its composition.
"When we first heard G-Dragon's demo, we did our best to capture his style and swag," said Asa, one of the rappers, adding that the senior singer's demo was "simply perfect on its own." The second title track, "CLIK CLAK," is an intense hip-hop song featuring some strong rapping from all seven members, making it another standout track in the album. Additional tracks include "Love, Maybe," a vocal-centric piece accompanied by guitar; "Really Like You," with 1990s hip-hop influences; "BILLIONAIRE," a bold R&B track backed by 808 bass; the upbeat "Love In My Heart;" "Woke Up In Tokyo (RUKA & ASA)," a hip-hop track highlighting the Japanese members and previously released songs "FOREVER" and "BATTER UP (Remix) - Bonus Track.
" BABYMONSTER plans to follow the album with a world tour next year, building anticipation among international fans. Rora shared her excitement about joining the ranks of YG artists such as BLACKPINK's Rose and Jennie, who are currently achieving high rankings on local music charts. "As YG juniors, it would feel like a dream if our new music performs well on the charts," she said.
"All seven of us share the same goal of going on a world tour. With fans eagerly waiting and supporting us, we're excited to prepare a fun concert. Please do look forward to it!".
