Just as fast as it came, 2021 is already coming to a close. It was filled with many ups and downs as the world faced its second year into the COVID-19 pandemic. For BTS and ARMYs, music has remained a constant, accompanying both the group and the fans through these tough times. So, what better way to celebrate the year that has gone by than to remember the songs that made BTS’ and ARMYs’ days special:
• “Blue Side” (Extended Version)
On March 1, kickstarting the year with a surprise celebration of the third anniversary of the mixtape Hope World, J-Hope released the extended version of the already beloved outro “Blue Side.” Further delving into the themes of nostalgia, J-Hope’s new verses explore a symbolism of the color blue that represents both the sadness in the present and the happiness in the idealized past. Tying it all up, dream-like vocals submerge the listener in an ocean of quiet feelings and atmospheric soundscape.
• “Film out” (Japanese Single)
On April 2, BTS came out with their Japanese ballad “Film Out,” as a collaboration with the rock group Back Number for the soundtrack of the movie Signal, directed by Hajime Hashimoto. The song was featured in the compilation album BTS: The Best and had member Jungkook as one of its composers. Once again, it’s an emotional song about memory and loss, punctuated by poignant vocals and melodious rap.
• “Don’t“ (eAeon ft. RM)
Korean singer-songwriter eAeon, who had been featured on the mixtape mono., collaborated with RM for the second time on the single “Don’t,” for his album Fragile. Released on April 30, the song draws on the hurt and pain of not wanting to let go of a doomed relationship, encapsulating the longing and yearning with an airy atmosphere and lyrics that are a straightforward plea to that same significant other.
• “Butter“ (English Single)
The Billboard number 1, Grammy-nominated single “Butter” was released on May 21, after many teasers that left ARMYs on the edge of their seat. The song didn't disappoint with its playful sexiness and catchy beat, amplified by the feature with American rapper Megan Thee Stallion, on August 27. It quickly became a party staple, and ARMY has been stepping right left to its beat 'till this day.
• “Bicycle” (RM)
Following the traditional celebrations for the group’s anniversary, Festa came and gave ARMYs another gift: “Bicycle,” released on June 6 by RM, is an ode to the simple pleasures in life: riding a bike and feeling the wind as it manifests. The light melody and calming beat make this song a perfect match for a stroll in the park, touching ARMY's heart with its undeniable Kim Namjoon-ness.
• “Permission to Dance” (English Single)
“Permission to Dance” is a song about hope and carefreeness. It came out on July 9 as the band’s third English single. Right from its release, BTS made sure to establish this as a song for healing – for many, the happy pop sound did exactly that, with lyrics that celebrate freedom and joy representing good times in the form of music.
• “My Universe” (Coldplay with BTS)
Released on September 24, “My Universe” was a collaboration between the superstar bands Coldplay and BTS. Merging everything about them – from vocals to styles and even languages – the collab was part of the 2021 Coldplay album Music of The Spheres. Chris Martin, the British vocalist, went as far as to visit Korea for recordings to fully seal the partnership. The result? An exciting song about crossing bridges for love, colored with galactic synths and a concert-like soundscape.
• “Yours” (“Jirisan” OST)
“Yours” is the original soundtrack for tvN’s anticipated Korean drama “Jirisan,” by Jin. The song is a powerful ballad that displays the member’s sweet and powerful vocals and talks about distance, heartbreak, and all the pain that comes along with it. It came out on November 7, being widely loved all over the world.
• “Super Tuna” (Jin)
Nothing screams more “Kim Seokjin” than a trot song about fishing for tuna – and it is exactly what ARMY got on December 4, the member’s birthday. With a sound that came straight out of an anime opening and lyrics about fish, this very short yet powerful song displays Jin’s versatility and fun-loving personality, while energizing anyone that listens to it. Despite his best efforts to keep it on the low, the craze caught on quickly – no one could resist that catchy (pun intended) tune about tuna.
• “Girl of my Dreams” (Juice WRLD ft. SUGA)
Part of the second posthumous album – Fighting Demons – of the rapper Juice WRLD, who passed away in 2019 due to an accidental overdose at age 21, “Girl of my Dreams” was released on December 10. The project is meant to honor the artist’s legacy and deliver important messages about the struggles of mental health and of substance abuse. This song, specifically, travels between the good and difficult parts of love with great sensitivity and immersive instrumentals.
• “Christmas Tree” (“Our Beloved Summer” OST)
Closing off the year with another original soundtrack, V sets the scenes in the Korean drama “Our Beloved Summer” with his sweet falsetto and romantic tone. The song was released on December 24, finishing off 2021 and preparing the band for a new and exciting 2022.
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Written By: Carol
Edit By: Vera
Checked By: Aury
Perfect summary of 2021! Happy holidays!