BTS, English Songs and Authenticity

AUTHENTICITY

Authenticity within the music industry has long been a hot topic of discussion. Likewise, the notion of authenticity in relation to BTS and their music has been raised on many occasions by fans and non-fans alike. Before launching into this blog, however, it is important to highlight that authenticity itself is very much a subjective experience and as such, there is no “one” definition to “rule them all.” Rather, one constructs their own definition and understanding of authenticity over a period of time, based on a number of influences. These influences exist in multiple forms, including but not limited to: personal values, cultural beliefs, ideas regarding artistic freedom, opinions about industry requirements, views on consumer expectations, and current social trends. Add to this the fact that the artist also has their own interpretations of authenticity, which may (or may not) resonate with fans, industry “experts,” or the general public. With BTS’ rise in global popularity, it’s not surprising that numerous discussions have taken place with them at the center of the “what is authentic and what is not” debate.

In 2020, as part of our “Check Yourself: Facts” series, Borasaek Vision explored authenticity in relation to what it means to be a K-pop group after the debut of a UK-based pop girl group created waves across the K-pop community. At that time, we stated that one of the key distinguishing factors of K-pop groups was the Korean language and asked if a K-pop group could release an all-English song or album and still remain authentically K-pop. Our response was: “Yes because their primary base is still Korean.”

ENGLISH SONGS

More than a year later, we are once again revisiting this topic of authenticity in relation to language. Since early 2020, along with their other works, BTS has released three brand new singles and a Japanese album. The peculiarity of the new releases lies in the fact that all three of the singles were written and performed entirely in English, unlike previous works which had Korean as their main language with English portions mixed in.

Needless to say, the three singles stirred quite a buzz, especially amongst international fans who greatly appreciated the group’s efforts in providing them with an expression of care during these trying times. However, the newly-released singles also left the big question of “why” in their wake.

Exactly why has BTS started singing in English?

As expected, the question was presented to the boys after the release of their first English single, “Dynamite,” at their September 2020 press conference, prior to the release of the music video. According to Jimin, the BTS members felt empty and powerless due to the pandemic preventing them from being on stage and close to ARMY. As a result of that feeling, the group decided to release their next song in English as a gift to ARMYs all around the globe who diligently support BTS despite the language barrier.

This satisfied the question until the septet released two more full-English songs this year: “Butter” and “Permission to Dance.” Subsequent speculation over the change in, not only the language but also the lyrical feel of the songs, came with these new releases and many listeners wondered if this is an attempt at appealing to American media or even a move for the golden gramophone, the Grammy.

As previously touched upon in Borasaek Vision Magazine’s article (volume 1, issue 2) “The Golden Idol,” Western award show committees “have historically been comprised of white males and have notoriously excluded women, people of color, and foreign acts.” Therefore, it made sense to many in the community, ARMY and non-ARMY alike, that these singles were aimed at more than just the pandemic situation. In fact, earlier this year during the “Butter” press conference, Suga, in addition to hoping that this song would bring ARMY plenty of joy said, “Yes, we are going for a Grammy.” Suga saying this shows the transparency of BTS’ intentions. After presenting an award at their first Grammy experience, they openly shared their desire to perform on stage. After performing with Little Nas X during their second Grammy experience, BTS told us that they wanted their own BTS performance, fully aware that the only way to do so was with a nomination. Having experienced their first nomination with “Dynamite,” we now know that BTS would like to win their next Grammy nomination. As artists aspiring to be the very best that they can be, setting their sights on a Grammy is a worthy pursuit. However, it doesn’t negate the fact that the group has repeatedly stated that the main reason for the language change is indeed the COVID-19 pandemic and an attempt to more easily connect with their audience abroad, too.

BTS

As musicians, artists, and performers, BTS sing, dance, and rap. They also contribute to the composition, writing, and production of their own music, and through the art of storytelling, BTS has captured the hearts and minds of their listeners. Highlighting this, writer Courtney Lazore has published several BTS-related pieces, including an article from this year that examined how storytelling contributes to their success. In this article, she cites authenticity and sincerity as key components, reiterating Bang Sihyuk’s only requirement of the BTS members — that they share “stories that contain their inner selves.” BTS have remained faithful to that request since their debut. Speaking the truths that they as BTS want to speak — whether it comes in the form of their songs, interviews, acceptance speeches, or public announcements — is non-negotiable; BTS have demonstrated this time and time again. Yet for some, the choice of communicating those truths in the English language somehow diminishes BTS’ level of authenticity as musicians and artists. Ironically, the same concerns don’t seem to be an issue when all-Japanese albums are released, whereas “Dynamite,” “Butter,” and now their most recent release “Permission to Dance” have all seen BTS’ intentions questioned.

The criticisms BTS have received for their three all-English songs might seem unjustified considering they have also released multiple albums entirely in Japanese. So why is BTS’ authenticity called into question when they sing and perform in English, but not in Japanese? Perhaps fans are worried that BTS are becoming too influenced by Western standards and will compromise themselves in order to fit Western ideals of success in the music industry? Writer Ana Ribeiro also refers to this criticism in an article on “the role of multilingual songwriting in the global brand” of BTS, but she further highlights that BTS continues to stay true to their Korean heritage while also trying to cater to their international audiences.

Regardless, stepping outside of their comfort zones is never something that BTS has avoided, no matter how difficult it may be. In fact, this is probably a pivotal ingredient of the “Who is BTS?” narrative and one of the main reasons as to why they are now sign-posting their own way forward, rather than walking in the shadow of someone else’s footsteps. What they do and how they do it is uniquely and distinctively “BTS,” right down to the choice of language(s) used in their music. Whether it’s Korean, English, Japanese, or Spanish, an entire song, verse, or just a line, BTS will continue to do what they believe is right for them and their music at any given moment in time.

Accolades or criticisms, blessing or burden, the seven BTS members continually strive to remain true to themselves and each other. By doing so, they have been able to connect to their listeners across the globe, sharing inspirational messages of hope and resilience to all who would take the time to listen and receive. As fans, we all have our own beliefs and views of this notion of authenticity. Likewise, BTS also has theirs, and while the language of choice right now is English, their primary base is still Korean.

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Written By: Shelley & LP

Edited By: Anna Moon

Checked By: Esma