Music has always been a constant companion in my life, a source of comfort, reflection, and endless entertainment. For years, the iconic Prince was the driving force behind my deep passion for music. His artistry was a world in itself, and for anyone curious about my long-time admiration, you can read more about it here.
When Prince passed away in 2016, it felt like a part of my musical world went silent. For a long time afterwards, I couldn’t bring myself to listen to music at all. The vibrant soundtrack of my life faded into a muted gray. Then, one day, a few years later, while watching television, a commercial changed everything. It featured seven young men with striking, colorful hair, singing and dancing with captivating energy. Initially, their visual presentation caught my eye. Each member possessed a distinct type of handsomeness, almost ethereal in their beauty.
However, it was more than just their looks that drew me in. There was something undeniably captivating about their voices and the fluidity of their movements that truly hooked me.
It didn’t take long to discover their identity: BTS, the global K-pop sensation, also known as Bangtan Sonyeondan. The more I explored their music, the deeper I fell into their world. It was an incredible journey! Unlike the song featured in the commercial that first introduced me to them, the majority of their discography is in Korean. But language proved to be no barrier. Their lyrics resonated with a powerful emotional depth. Their voices filled me with immense joy and warmth. Their melodies moved me in profound ways. I was even more impressed to learn that they are actively involved in writing and producing many of their own songs.
And their dance performances? Absolutely mesmerizing.
If you believe K-pop is solely for a younger demographic, I urge you to listen to this group. If you think K-pop idols are just manufactured personalities, take a closer look at BTS. Currently, BTS is on a period of hiatus, taking time for individual pursuits and to fulfill their mandatory military service over the next few years. Although they are not actively performing as a group, each member is embarking on solo ventures, releasing individual albums, engaging in modeling, and becoming prominent brand ambassadors for luxury fashion and jewelry houses. There’s no need to feel their absence just yet.
Perhaps this pause was necessary. They have been consistently active in the music industry since their debut in 2013. In retrospect, I almost regret not discovering them sooner. However, a common sentiment among fans is that you find BTS exactly when you need them most. Today, mirroring my past dedication to Prince, I proudly identify as a certified ARMY—the collective name for BTS’s devoted fanbase. It still amazes me that, much like Prince did years ago, BTS—Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—have, in a way, rescued me and reignited my passion for music.
