Summer is the season for upbeat, bright, and danceable songs to aid us with fun outdoor activities. These are the songs that transport us back to summer 2023 with just one listen. As Summer comes to a close, POP TOKKI reflects on the songs that enchanted us over the past three months!
Seven – Jungkook
BTS members have been on a winning streak with their solo projects. Each member displays their own personal style in their music, and Jungkook showed us a side we’ve never seen before. “Seven” is a summer bop from start to finish. It is an upbeat, groovy rendition of the UK garage genre. “Seven” takes a more temperate approach to the genre, creating a smooth and light song fit for those summer drives. Latto’s distinct voice adds the perfect rap verse to this ultimate summer song.
Icky – KARD
KARD’s latest mini-album ‘ICKY’ is chock full of summer bops, but the title track is perfectly addictive. With a catchy chorus and viral choreography, “ICKY” took the K-pop industry by storm this summer. Pushing the boundaries of what is and isn’t explicit, KARD successfully enraptured both domestic and international audiences with this summer bop. They also got the opportunity to party with their fans on their world tour, kicking off in Monterrey on July 6th and concluding in Paris on September 8th.
Killin’ Me Good – Jihyo
Of course, TWICE’s Jihyo delivered a summer bop right before Summer came to a close! Jihyo made her highly anticipated solo debut with a mini album ‘Zone’ that highlights the title track “Killin’ Me Good.’ “Killin’ Me Good’ is a high-energy dance/pop track annunciated by its use of synth sounds. Jihyo’s powerhouse vocals and magnetic stage presence leave us craving more, making this song the perfect summer anthem. Jihyo’s Debut has had us by our necks, and it’s only been a couple of weeks! Talk about an impact!
Bouncy ( K-Hot Chili Peppers) – ATEEZ
Back with another hit, ATEEZ gave us “Bouncy (K-Hot Chili Peppers)” this summer. Just like the name implies, the song is spicy, showing a side of ATEEZ no one has seen before. The song is catchy and vibrant, which pairs perfectly with the unique choreography. The members themselves had said they wanted this song to show ATEEZ in a new light as well as tie back to their culture. “Bouncy” went viral and broke many of ATEEZ’s records and also became on the list of top-streamed 4th Generation music videos, making it a well-known song from this summer’s K-pop releases.
Shhh – Kiss Of Life
Kiss of Life came out swinging with their debut title track “Shhh. Composed by Belle and Natty, with lyrics by Belle and Julie, this debut hip-hop R&B dance track stands out. Each member distinguishes themselves through their performances, with outfits that suit their unique personalities. With its catchy hip-hop chorus, fun choreography, and Belle’s impressive whistle note, “Shhh” is the perfect song for your summer parties.
Hard – SHINee
SHINee lived up to their name when their comeback “HARD” was released back in June. The group gave us a 90s hip-hop-inspired track incorporated with piano with an intense build-up with each verse. Each member, Onew, Minho, Key, and Taemin, has their spotlight throughout the song, which does not go unnoticed by Shawols, their dedicated fanbase. “HARD” describes SHINee’s determination to succeed, their commitment to their craft, how proud they are of their achievements thus far, and how they’re not afraid to showcase their talents for all to see. A true summer anthem and a confidence-booster anthem as well!
ETA – NewJeans
From NewJeans’ new album ‘Get Up,’ “ETA” is a catchy and bright summer song. The song features the members of the group calling a friend and showing her boyfriend talking to someone else, then asking what her ETA is so she can come and see for herself. The music video is set at bright locations, giving a playful, summery vibe to the upbeat song. “ETA” is the perfect song for everyone’s summer playlists.
Do It Like That – TXT & The Jonas Brothers
“Do It Like That” is the perfect summer refresher. The funky fresh track released by TXT and the Jonas Brothers did not disappoint. With the catchiest beat, lyrics, and rhythm, it makes for the best song to play as the windows are down or as you “[dance] on top of your car” as the lyrics say. Overall, “Do It Like That” is for the moments you want to let loose and have fun with your friends all summer. This is definitely a track that will make a return to our playlist next summer. I mean, it’s essential!
Queencard – (G)I-DLE
If there had to be a ‘song of the summer’ this would be it. After its release in mid-May, it quickly became a hit and rose to the top. This song became the source of a new trend across TikTok where millions of people showed off their dancing skills to this trendy song. Even idols from other groups participated in this challenge which helped to grow its popularity even more. This song isn’t just popular because of its sound, but also due to its message. It talks about being confident in one’s self and not letting others bring you down. It also talks about being comfortable in one’s own image and being whoever you want to be. This spreads such a wonderful message to its listeners because everyone comes in different shapes and sizes.
Love Me A Little – Hyungwon X Shownu
Shownu x Hyungwon debuted as the first official sub-unit from Monsta X with “Love Me A Little.” The title track from their debut EP, ‘The Unseen,’ explores the emotions and experiences of being obsessed with someone and wanting them to feel the same way. The sensual, sultry R&B instrumental with an intense bass line beautifully encapsulates the vocals of Hyungwon and Shownu. The highlight is when the members have their dance break after the last chorus, and the electric guitar strikes through the instrumental. “Love Me A Little” is definitely this summer’s R&B hit!
Eve, Psyche, & Bluebeard’s Wife – Le Sserafim
You would be lying if you told us that you haven’t heard “Eve, Psyche, & Bluebeard’s Wife,” at least once throughout the summer. Le Sserafim made sure this song stuck with us through their hilarious TikTok videos, unexpected remixes featuring big stars like Rina Sawayama, and fun choreography. Everything about this Jersey Club track is addictive from its lyrics to its melody, and for sure will be a permanent resident on our playlist. The girls even promoted this song a little more than their title track “Unforgiven” proving that this song is supreme!
In Bloom – ZEROBASEONE
A breath of fresh air, that is how we would describe Zerobaseone’s debut song ” In Bloom.” After going through the stress of Boys Planet, getting a refreshing and bright concept is what the fans needed. The music video’s radiant atmosphere is fit for the summer. “In Bloom” is a drum & bass track that captures the essence of youthful freedom, perfect for summer adventures.
ISTJ – NCT DREAM
NCT DREAM has been having comeback after comeback with such catchy songs and dances. This song came out in the peak of summer in July, where it got fans hooked from the catchy chorus and addicting dance. Not to mention the vocals were on point as usual. This song relateds to an MBTI, involving introverts. The song talks about getting into a routine to get to know someone better and appreciate them. NCT DREAM talks about someone being shy but willing to wait for them to come around which is adorable. From a first listen you wouldn’t think this is a love song, but it falls under the category and it makes for an unusual but memorable summer song.
Jump – P1HARMONY
This song got us jumpin’ this summer. The title track of ‘Harmony: All In’ by P1Harmony is a hype dance-pop song that gets you moving. Not only does “Jump” get the listeners going, but in the music video, all members of P1Harmony are shown executing their animated choreography and having a good time. With a vibrant ambiance, bouncy beat, and fun lyrics, the group does an amazing job “[Pumping] up the tempo” as Theo sings in the pre-chorus. This song is all about dropping your worries and burdens, to enjoy life instead, and it served as a great message this summer. Hopefully, as you lived life to the fullest this summer, “Jump” was added to your playlist!
SHALALA – TAEYONG
Taeyong of NCT gave us the self-confidence anthem we didn’t know we needed with “SHALALA.” From his first mini-album of the same name, the song shows off his one-of-a-kind style and confidence, encouraging us to let loose and have fun. The track is heavily hip-hop-inspired with some experimental percussion added. “SHALALA” has become a summer track for everyone to let loose and have fun.
This summer was filled with catchy bops that left us shocked release after release. Want to listen to our list and more? Make sure to listen to our playlist on Spotify! Did we miss your song of the summer? Let us know what it is on our Instagram and Twitter!
