Is BTS’s IDOL (feat. Nicki Minaj) their best collab with a Black artist?
The list of BTS collaborations with Black artists is short, but does IDOL ft. Nicki Minaj take the cake?
Honorable Mention aka “Slept On” track
If you’re a new BTS fan, then you probably haven’t heard of this track. “Change” by RM and Wale came out in March of 2017. The song speaks on the issues the rappers have dealt with in their respective countries. In an interview with Taylor Glasby for Teen Vogue RM (fka Rap Monster) said,
When he [Wale] suggested the collaboration, that was a real shock. I thought about it, [and was] like, should we do a party song? But I wanted to do something different. The title is “Change” — in America. They’ve got their situations and we’ve got ours in Seoul, the problems are everywhere and the song is like a prayer for change. He talks about the police, and problems he’s faced since he was a child. For me, I talked about Korea, my problems, and about those on Twitter who kill people by keyboards. (Source)
I, personally, really enjoyed the visuals for this video, particularly the part where both artists raise their hands in reference to hands up don’t shoot. Visuals aside, the combination of instrumentals and beat really set the mood. The songhas an overall uplifting message that can resonate with listeners in all walks of life. There is a lot going on in America and Korea politically and socially, so its a very relevant track.
The One That Changed It All
When it was announced BTS would be collaborating with Steve Aoki and Desiigner, anticipation was sky high. As we’re all aware, they did not disappoint. “Mic Drop” was inspired by President Obama’s literal mic drop during the 2016 White House Correspondents dinner. This song really changed the K-music game because it made BTS the first K-pop group to reach Number 1 on the iTunes charts, in a matter of hours of its release might I add. Steve Aoki definitely gave the track a sound that made it accessible to Western/New to BTS listeners.
Desiigner really hyped up the song in his verse. Lyrically, it was very on brand for him, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. When his fans listen to the track, maybe they’ll consider joining A.R.M.Y because of him.
The Monumental Track (And Winner)
“IDOL” featuring Miss Onika aka Nicki Minaj music video has officially dropped and Nicki’s fans can not get enough. The MV has only been out for about six hours are its already upwards of 3 million views. Looking at the video, there are a lots of similarity between this version and the version that came out about a week ago. The song and video takes inspiration from Africa and Korea. In the video, BTS is seen wearing traditional African patterns and Korean garments. The group’s choreography even features the South African dance, “gwara gwara”. This dance move has become popularized in the US thanks to artists like Rihanna and Childish Gambino. The track itself features “South African beats, traditional Korean instrumentation, and a boisterous house flow.” (source)
A.R.M.Y don’t come for me, but this song was a grower. It had to grow on me before came to fully appreciate it. Now, I can’t get enough. Nicki’s verse fit in so seamlessly, it’s almost too perfect.
If I missed a song or should consider an honorable mention, let me know in the comments.
