Top Kpop Global Collaborations Of 2023
The beats of 2023 brought a global K-Pop wave like never before. It wasn’t just music; it was a cultural symphony breaking borders and setting new standards. Rolling Stone India took note and compiled a list of the best K-Pop x Global Artists Collaborations, a unique blend of sounds and cultures that echoed worldwide.
- ‘On The Street’ – j-hope, J.Cole
BTS might’ve taken a hiatus, but their sway continued into 2023. j-hope, one of BTS’s gems, stepped into a collab with hip-hop giant J.Cole for ‘On The Street,’ dropping on March 3. A milestone for j-hope, the track effortlessly mixed lyrical finesse with rhythmic beats, creating a chill vibe inspired by his hip-hop idol.
2. ‘Back For More’ – TOMORROW X TOGETHER, Anitta
September 15 witnessed a surprise hit with TOMORROW X TOGETHER teaming up with Anitta for ‘Back For More.’ English and Latin vibes collided in this dynamic fusion, earning not just acclaim but also an MTV Video Music Award. A testament to the magic that can happen when global stars join forces.
3. ‘One Of The Girls’ – The Weeknd, JENNIE, Lily-Rose Depp
BLACKPINK’s JENNIE, beyond her musical prowess, made a mark in acting on HBO’s ‘The Idol.’ ‘One Of The Girls,’ dropped on June 23, showcased her vocal prowess alongside The Weeknd and Lily-Rose Depp, creating a seductive R&B-pop anthem. A proof that JENNIE can harmonize effortlessly with diverse artists.
4. ‘Slow’ – Jackson Wang, Ciara
April 17 gifted us an unexpected gem with Jackson Wang and Ciara’s collab on ‘Slow.’ A perfect symphony of R&B and pop, blending Wang’s smooth vocals with Ciara’s soulful delivery. The sultry vibes and undeniable chemistry make ‘Slow’ a tune that lingers, leaving you humming unknowingly.
5. ‘Cupid – Twin Version’ – FIFTY FIFTY, Sabrina Carpenter
August 18 brought a twist to FIFTY FIFTY’s ‘Cupid’ with Sabrina Carpenter in the ‘Twin Version.’ A dynamic blend of pop and electronic elements, highlighting beats and melodies, promised more than just a catchy tune. Fans eagerly await the music video for this lyrical enchantment.
6. ‘Better Things’ – aespa, RAYE
September 29 marked a fresh vibe with aespa’s ‘Better Things’ featuring RAYE. While the music remained true to the original, RAYE’s touch added an extra layer of catchiness. This collaboration showcased a harmonious blend of girl group vocals with RAYE’s songwriting and producing skills.
7. ‘Unforgiven’ – LE SSERAFIM, Nile Rodgers
May 1 brought a standout moment with LE SSERAFIM and Nile Rodgers on ‘Unforgiven.’ Sampling Ennio Morricone’s theme from ‘The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly,’ this collaboration merged dominating melodies with Rodgers’ subtle guitar riffs. A bold introduction to K-Pop’s diverse world.
8. ‘Seven’ – Jung Kook, Latto
July 14 turned the spotlight on BTS’s golden maknae, Jung Kook, with his solo ‘Seven’ featuring Latto. Breaking records and winning awards internationally, Jung Kook’s versatility shone. The collaborations kept coming, breaking chart records and promising a vibrant future for the artist.
Final Thoughts
In 2023, the fusion of K-Pop with global talents was monumental, transcending borders and creating a harmonious blend of diverse musical genres. These collaborations, fueled by a shared love for music, not only entertained but united fans worldwide. As we bid farewell to 2023, the legacy of these collaborations will echo in the global music landscape, setting the stage for even more exciting partnerships in the future. Cheers to a year of global harmony!
