G
Galaxy
Guest"PLUS DAYS" SPECIAL ARTICLE - SPRING PLAYLIST
Written by: Galaxy, miatheikonic, Nara and Timingil
With the help of HallyuPlus' users!
In late March, the Press Team asked you to help us create the perfect Spring Playlist. Among the thirty-six suggestions we received, four of us (Nara, miatheikonic, Timingil and Galaxy) had the difficult task to pick only a few to feature in this article. So, what are the songs that we think are perfect to enjoy the first warm rays of sunshine of the year? We hope you will enjoy this selection!
#1: SEVENTEEN - FALLIN' FLOWER (suggested by: @wonwoo)
Nara: ‘Falling Flower’ is the title track of Seventeen's Japanese single album that was released on April 1st, although the music video was dropped a week prior on March 24th. The music video is scenic with the members surrounded by beautiful flower petals. The atmosphere shows the beauty of spring ― blooming flowers and colorful surroundings. Listening to the song gives you a liberating and soothing feeling that reminds you of springtime. The choreography is also notable because it's as if they are flowers themselves that are floating and eventually falling. The song's lyrics tell us that even though we are falling, it is a new beginning, just like flowers that bloom again. The instrumentations are enchanting and their heavenly vocals are a nice touch. The chorus is also very memorable with its repetition of ‘Fallin’’. If you would like to listen to a spring song with an elegant vibe, don’t miss ‘Fallin’ Flower’!
#2: SOHLHEE FEAT. TAEIL OF NCT - PURPLE (suggested by: @Belrockangel)
Timingil: This song is one that could, really, be described as a collection of strange choices. A looping melody, a droning sort of backing track, lyrics akin to a chanted prayer ― these aren't the typical array of musical elements you'd expect, or even really want, from a pop piece. But I promise you that, somehow, it just works; the song is like an experiment in repetition ― and a wildly successful one at that. The listening experience is almost hypnotic, trance-inducing, meditative (in other words, a perfect distraction in times like these). Speaking in more concrete terms, the quality of production is flawless (as one would expect from SM). A simple jazz piano sample ebbs and flows through a synth-heavy, funk-esque arrangement ― all within a singular, unchanging musical motif. Meanwhile, in perhaps an intentional act of mirroring, Solhlee's sullen, talk-singing swells beautifully into Taeil's sweet croons (like the ripening of summer fruit). A perfect selection for all your languid-spring-afternoon-desires.
#3: BUSKER BUSKER - CHERRY BLOSSOM ENDING (suggested by: @cabb)
Galaxy: While going through everyone's suggestions, I learnt about the existence of Busker Busker, an indie band that participated in the 3rd season of "Superstar K", along with their song "Cherry Blossom Ending", which was released on March 2012. I was apparently alone in my ignorance, as the music video for this song has cumulated more than 23 million views on Youtube. "Cherry Blossom Ending" is an alternative rock track that screams "spring" from the very moment it starts — from its cheerful but very calming melody to its music video that invites us to go outside and enjoy the first warm rays of sunlight of the year, it's the perfect song to add to your current playlist!
#4: ZHU ZHENGTING - BE WELL (suggested by: @miatheikonic)
miatheikonic: This release doesn't seem like your regular choice for a spring song. It lacks those elements that you would expect a spring song to have ― vibrant colours, a cheerful undertone, and some cutesy elements. "All Good" is a ballad with a music video that is filled with earth tones. Even the month of release is weird for a spring song ― October. Nevertheless, I found this very fitting for this year's spring. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, we can't enjoy all the charms of spring. However, that doesn't mean we can't find other blessings like the warmth and hope ― the two things we need the most right now ― that this song's lyrics and sound offer. Zhu Zhengting's visuals and singing that are out of this world are also a big plus to keep us entertained when we struggle to find entertainment!
#5: PARK BOM FEAT. SANDARA PARK - SPRING (suggested by: @Nara)
Nara: ‘Spring’ was released by Park Bom featuring Sandara Park last year, just in time for the eponymous season. The music video shows them in beautiful floral gardens. This is a pop ballad that showcases Bom’s emotional vocals and Sandara’s calm vocals, which blend well together. Bom’s high notes throughout the song also give a nice touch. The synthetic instrumentations in the background give a carefree feeling that's perfect for springtime. This song has a deep meaning when considering Bom's history. This is her first song released since 2011, especially after her huge setbacks in 2014, and now she wonders if spring will come again. In a way, spring symbolizes reblossoming of her career in the industry. There is a message of hope that things will get better in time and that spring will come back to our hearts. Spring is the most pleasant season of the year, where the plants come to life again. Treat yourself to this emotional ballad that talks of hope and renewal.
#6: MONSTA X - I DO LOVE YOU (suggested by: @BlessMeAchoo)
Nara: ‘I Do Love You’ is a special track released for the fans last year and the music video features Minhyuk and Kihyun from Monsta X, as well as former member Wonho. The music video, which was filmed in Holland, gives off a spring vibe, showing green sceneries as they are walking around on a beautiful sunny day and passing along colorful buildings and windmills. The acoustic instrumentations in the background throughout the song give a cheery vibe, while their refreshing and charming vocals harmonize well with each other. In the music video, they’re having fun sightseeing, which makes the viewers also want to go on a vacation, and their friendship with each other is beautiful to watch. This song makes your heart flutter, and listening to this gives a dreamy and upbeat feeling that is perfect for spring.
#7: FLOWER - BLUE SKY BLUE (suggested by: @demasta)
Galaxy: Another group that I discovered thanks to your suggestions is the Japanese girl group Flower, who released "Blue Sky Blue" in April 2015. This mid-tempo ballad is the perfect addition to a spring playlist — from its music video's beautiful aesthetics to its melancholic lyrics, which are brought to life by the members' enchanting voices, "Blue Sky Blue" is the song you will want to listen to while taking a walk in nature. Whether it's something you can do these days or it is the first thing you plan on doing when better days come, don't wait anymore and (re)discover this amazing song now!
#8: LABOUM - HWI HWI (suggested by: @Still Disappointed)
miatheikonic: "Miss This Kiss" is the second mini-album of the girl group Laboum, and it was certainly a breakthrough moment for them in many ways, from gaining a large following to getting their first-ever music show win with the album's lead single "Hwi Hwi". And as if they knew it would mark the springtime of their career, this release is full of the girls' adorable charms, fresh and vibrant colours, and an addictive and repetitive chorus. It is just like Laboum's own renaissance, which spring also is in some way. And what better to season your spring than a cheerful, hopeful, and colourful release?
#9: THE BOYZ - BLOOM BLOOM (suggested by: @Kim Yohan)
miatheikonic: In most of their discography, The Boyz has a youthful, refreshing image, and "Bloom Bloom" is the best example of it. The song was released in April of 2019 and symbolises what that month means to most of us ― nature awakens, everything seems happier, we are extra energised, we spend time outside surrounded by friends, we play around, and we enjoy the beautiful scent of flowers blooming. The Boyz are no exception to this and showed how much these little joys of spring make them happy. For me, this song is perfect for spring. It energises me and makes me feel like I am blooming, so I am sure that once you give it a listen, you won't be able to get it out of your head!
#10: LOVELYZ - DESTINY (suggested by: @Timingil)
Timingil: This song is what I consider to be the perfect intersection of mellifluous sweetness and intense, vital fullness (think of the most seasonal of blends) ― a feat achieved by the right masterpiece of a backing track it boasts. The layered synth verses are pleasant and mellow; the orchestral chorus is heady, almost frantic ― the transition between the two: a spinning crescendo (rapid yet effortless). Of course, the role of a track isn't to be the centrepiece, as much as a sort of secondary complement (scaffolding, if you will) to a vocal performance ― But! Let me put your mind at ease! ― for this too, is an end fulfilled. The music is a warm cocoon to the delicate, feminine singing (a beautiful vessel for a beautiful object). In short, this song is a lesson in musical dynamics, an etude in building and releasing tension, and an energetic concluding note to any act of winter hibernation ― all wrapped up in a pretty city pop package.
#11: PERFUME - SPRING OF LIFE (suggested by: @Skönt)
Timingil: If you're at all familiar with the legendary Perfume, then you know exactly what to expect here: yet another example of what the trio does best, an absolute earworm of the electro-pop variety (their signature style, honed to perfection over the course of a long, long, long career). In my belief, the very pinnacle of manufactured art. I mean, really, even at the time of this song's release (April, eight years ago), they had this stuff down to a science. The massive wall of triumphant electronic synth; the over-processed, vocaloid-esque singing; the ultra-catchy chorus ― all components of an essential formula (an elixir) of proven efficacy, which, once again, has been employed with brilliant success. So deliberate, that even the time of release seems carefully planned ― a peppy, bright emergence from winter drudgery. It's a completely airtight design, so much so that despite the song's stark divergence from current trends in music, it's still so utterly palatable that I'm sure anyone could enjoy it, even today (or especially today ― it was, after all, meticulously crafted for the springtime)
#12: BTS - SPRING DAY (suggested by: @Happy & @Galaxy)
Galaxy: When the team gathered to write this article, the first song that I thought of including was "Spring Day", released by BTS in February 2017. There are several theories related to this song, as fans love debating about the exact meaning of its lyrics and the plot of its music video. To me, "Spring Day" tackles the difficult topic of losing someone we love and learning how to cope with it. But after a period of difficulty, warmer days will always follow, and we'll eventually be able to carry on. It's a feeling I associate with the bright sun and blooming trees of this season, and on an emotional level, I can't imagine a better song to represent spring than this masterpiece.
So, what are your thoughts on this selection? Did you find the perfect song to enjoy this spring? If you'd like to listen to all the songs suggested by our users, you can find the whole Spring Playlist on Youtube!
Thank you to everyone who filled out the form and participated. If your username was mentioned in this article, you win ⨭50,000PC and 2 orbs! They will be sent as soon as possible.
But it's not the end... just like we did for Christmas and Valentine's Day, we've organised a special lottery for our readers. All you have to do is leave a comment in this thread and tell us which song you liked the most among the ones featured in this article. In 48 hours, a random generator will pick 3 users, who will win ⨭150,000 + 1 orb each. So... don't forget to post a comment below!
DONE, WINNERS LISTED ON PAGE 2!
Written by: Galaxy, miatheikonic, Nara and Timingil
With the help of HallyuPlus' users!
In late March, the Press Team asked you to help us create the perfect Spring Playlist. Among the thirty-six suggestions we received, four of us (Nara, miatheikonic, Timingil and Galaxy) had the difficult task to pick only a few to feature in this article. So, what are the songs that we think are perfect to enjoy the first warm rays of sunshine of the year? We hope you will enjoy this selection!
#1: SEVENTEEN - FALLIN' FLOWER (suggested by: @wonwoo)
Nara: ‘Falling Flower’ is the title track of Seventeen's Japanese single album that was released on April 1st, although the music video was dropped a week prior on March 24th. The music video is scenic with the members surrounded by beautiful flower petals. The atmosphere shows the beauty of spring ― blooming flowers and colorful surroundings. Listening to the song gives you a liberating and soothing feeling that reminds you of springtime. The choreography is also notable because it's as if they are flowers themselves that are floating and eventually falling. The song's lyrics tell us that even though we are falling, it is a new beginning, just like flowers that bloom again. The instrumentations are enchanting and their heavenly vocals are a nice touch. The chorus is also very memorable with its repetition of ‘Fallin’’. If you would like to listen to a spring song with an elegant vibe, don’t miss ‘Fallin’ Flower’!
#2: SOHLHEE FEAT. TAEIL OF NCT - PURPLE (suggested by: @Belrockangel)
Timingil: This song is one that could, really, be described as a collection of strange choices. A looping melody, a droning sort of backing track, lyrics akin to a chanted prayer ― these aren't the typical array of musical elements you'd expect, or even really want, from a pop piece. But I promise you that, somehow, it just works; the song is like an experiment in repetition ― and a wildly successful one at that. The listening experience is almost hypnotic, trance-inducing, meditative (in other words, a perfect distraction in times like these). Speaking in more concrete terms, the quality of production is flawless (as one would expect from SM). A simple jazz piano sample ebbs and flows through a synth-heavy, funk-esque arrangement ― all within a singular, unchanging musical motif. Meanwhile, in perhaps an intentional act of mirroring, Solhlee's sullen, talk-singing swells beautifully into Taeil's sweet croons (like the ripening of summer fruit). A perfect selection for all your languid-spring-afternoon-desires.
#3: BUSKER BUSKER - CHERRY BLOSSOM ENDING (suggested by: @cabb)
Galaxy: While going through everyone's suggestions, I learnt about the existence of Busker Busker, an indie band that participated in the 3rd season of "Superstar K", along with their song "Cherry Blossom Ending", which was released on March 2012. I was apparently alone in my ignorance, as the music video for this song has cumulated more than 23 million views on Youtube. "Cherry Blossom Ending" is an alternative rock track that screams "spring" from the very moment it starts — from its cheerful but very calming melody to its music video that invites us to go outside and enjoy the first warm rays of sunlight of the year, it's the perfect song to add to your current playlist!
#4: ZHU ZHENGTING - BE WELL (suggested by: @miatheikonic)
miatheikonic: This release doesn't seem like your regular choice for a spring song. It lacks those elements that you would expect a spring song to have ― vibrant colours, a cheerful undertone, and some cutesy elements. "All Good" is a ballad with a music video that is filled with earth tones. Even the month of release is weird for a spring song ― October. Nevertheless, I found this very fitting for this year's spring. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, we can't enjoy all the charms of spring. However, that doesn't mean we can't find other blessings like the warmth and hope ― the two things we need the most right now ― that this song's lyrics and sound offer. Zhu Zhengting's visuals and singing that are out of this world are also a big plus to keep us entertained when we struggle to find entertainment!
#5: PARK BOM FEAT. SANDARA PARK - SPRING (suggested by: @Nara)
Nara: ‘Spring’ was released by Park Bom featuring Sandara Park last year, just in time for the eponymous season. The music video shows them in beautiful floral gardens. This is a pop ballad that showcases Bom’s emotional vocals and Sandara’s calm vocals, which blend well together. Bom’s high notes throughout the song also give a nice touch. The synthetic instrumentations in the background give a carefree feeling that's perfect for springtime. This song has a deep meaning when considering Bom's history. This is her first song released since 2011, especially after her huge setbacks in 2014, and now she wonders if spring will come again. In a way, spring symbolizes reblossoming of her career in the industry. There is a message of hope that things will get better in time and that spring will come back to our hearts. Spring is the most pleasant season of the year, where the plants come to life again. Treat yourself to this emotional ballad that talks of hope and renewal.
#6: MONSTA X - I DO LOVE YOU (suggested by: @BlessMeAchoo)
Nara: ‘I Do Love You’ is a special track released for the fans last year and the music video features Minhyuk and Kihyun from Monsta X, as well as former member Wonho. The music video, which was filmed in Holland, gives off a spring vibe, showing green sceneries as they are walking around on a beautiful sunny day and passing along colorful buildings and windmills. The acoustic instrumentations in the background throughout the song give a cheery vibe, while their refreshing and charming vocals harmonize well with each other. In the music video, they’re having fun sightseeing, which makes the viewers also want to go on a vacation, and their friendship with each other is beautiful to watch. This song makes your heart flutter, and listening to this gives a dreamy and upbeat feeling that is perfect for spring.
#7: FLOWER - BLUE SKY BLUE (suggested by: @demasta)
Galaxy: Another group that I discovered thanks to your suggestions is the Japanese girl group Flower, who released "Blue Sky Blue" in April 2015. This mid-tempo ballad is the perfect addition to a spring playlist — from its music video's beautiful aesthetics to its melancholic lyrics, which are brought to life by the members' enchanting voices, "Blue Sky Blue" is the song you will want to listen to while taking a walk in nature. Whether it's something you can do these days or it is the first thing you plan on doing when better days come, don't wait anymore and (re)discover this amazing song now!
#8: LABOUM - HWI HWI (suggested by: @Still Disappointed)
miatheikonic: "Miss This Kiss" is the second mini-album of the girl group Laboum, and it was certainly a breakthrough moment for them in many ways, from gaining a large following to getting their first-ever music show win with the album's lead single "Hwi Hwi". And as if they knew it would mark the springtime of their career, this release is full of the girls' adorable charms, fresh and vibrant colours, and an addictive and repetitive chorus. It is just like Laboum's own renaissance, which spring also is in some way. And what better to season your spring than a cheerful, hopeful, and colourful release?
#9: THE BOYZ - BLOOM BLOOM (suggested by: @Kim Yohan)
miatheikonic: In most of their discography, The Boyz has a youthful, refreshing image, and "Bloom Bloom" is the best example of it. The song was released in April of 2019 and symbolises what that month means to most of us ― nature awakens, everything seems happier, we are extra energised, we spend time outside surrounded by friends, we play around, and we enjoy the beautiful scent of flowers blooming. The Boyz are no exception to this and showed how much these little joys of spring make them happy. For me, this song is perfect for spring. It energises me and makes me feel like I am blooming, so I am sure that once you give it a listen, you won't be able to get it out of your head!
#10: LOVELYZ - DESTINY (suggested by: @Timingil)
Timingil: This song is what I consider to be the perfect intersection of mellifluous sweetness and intense, vital fullness (think of the most seasonal of blends) ― a feat achieved by the right masterpiece of a backing track it boasts. The layered synth verses are pleasant and mellow; the orchestral chorus is heady, almost frantic ― the transition between the two: a spinning crescendo (rapid yet effortless). Of course, the role of a track isn't to be the centrepiece, as much as a sort of secondary complement (scaffolding, if you will) to a vocal performance ― But! Let me put your mind at ease! ― for this too, is an end fulfilled. The music is a warm cocoon to the delicate, feminine singing (a beautiful vessel for a beautiful object). In short, this song is a lesson in musical dynamics, an etude in building and releasing tension, and an energetic concluding note to any act of winter hibernation ― all wrapped up in a pretty city pop package.
#11: PERFUME - SPRING OF LIFE (suggested by: @Skönt)
Timingil: If you're at all familiar with the legendary Perfume, then you know exactly what to expect here: yet another example of what the trio does best, an absolute earworm of the electro-pop variety (their signature style, honed to perfection over the course of a long, long, long career). In my belief, the very pinnacle of manufactured art. I mean, really, even at the time of this song's release (April, eight years ago), they had this stuff down to a science. The massive wall of triumphant electronic synth; the over-processed, vocaloid-esque singing; the ultra-catchy chorus ― all components of an essential formula (an elixir) of proven efficacy, which, once again, has been employed with brilliant success. So deliberate, that even the time of release seems carefully planned ― a peppy, bright emergence from winter drudgery. It's a completely airtight design, so much so that despite the song's stark divergence from current trends in music, it's still so utterly palatable that I'm sure anyone could enjoy it, even today (or especially today ― it was, after all, meticulously crafted for the springtime)
#12: BTS - SPRING DAY (suggested by: @Happy & @Galaxy)
Galaxy: When the team gathered to write this article, the first song that I thought of including was "Spring Day", released by BTS in February 2017. There are several theories related to this song, as fans love debating about the exact meaning of its lyrics and the plot of its music video. To me, "Spring Day" tackles the difficult topic of losing someone we love and learning how to cope with it. But after a period of difficulty, warmer days will always follow, and we'll eventually be able to carry on. It's a feeling I associate with the bright sun and blooming trees of this season, and on an emotional level, I can't imagine a better song to represent spring than this masterpiece.
So, what are your thoughts on this selection? Did you find the perfect song to enjoy this spring? If you'd like to listen to all the songs suggested by our users, you can find the whole Spring Playlist on Youtube!
Thank you to everyone who filled out the form and participated. If your username was mentioned in this article, you win ⨭50,000PC and 2 orbs! They will be sent as soon as possible.
DONE, WINNERS LISTED ON PAGE 2!
Last edited by a moderator:
Well I shall try harder next time I guess lmao
