K-Pop Sensation TWS Talks About Their Musical Journey and US Dreams
The rise of K-pop has taken the world by storm, and TWS is a shining example of this phenomenon. This six-piece boy band has captured the essence of youth and energy in their music, and their latest EP, 'Play Hard,' is a testament to that. But what's the story behind this group's infectious sound?
TWS, an acronym for 'Two Us,' is a group of young artists aged 18 to 21, who have already made a significant impact on the K-pop scene. Their music is a celebration of youth, filled with the excitement and chaos that comes with being young. The group's members, Shinyu, Dohoon, Youngjae, Hanjin, Jihoon, and Kyungmin, are not just bandmates but also close friends, and this bond is evident in their music.
In an exclusive interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the group revealed their creative process and the inspiration behind their new EP. Youngjae, speaking from Hybe's Seoul headquarters, shared the key phrases that drive the album: 'you drive me crazy' and 'youth drive me crazy.' These phrases capture the essence of TWS's music, which is all about the intense emotions of youth.
The group's journey began with their debut EP, 'Sparkling Blue,' which featured the hit single 'Plot Twist.' Nearly two years later, the song still charts on the Korean Melon music chart, a testament to its enduring popularity. But TWS is not one to rest on their laurels. Their new EP, 'Play Hard,' sees the group exploring new sonic territories.
One of the standout tracks is the pre-release single, 'Heads Shoulders Knees Toes,' which takes its name from the classic nursery rhyme. Despite its playful title, the song showcases a harder, edgier side of TWS, reflecting their transition into young adulthood. The album's lead single, 'Overdrive,' is a guitar-driven pop anthem about young love, fitting perfectly into the group's discography.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is TWS's music too youthful for a broader audience?
The group's members opened up about their creative contributions to the album, with Jihoon and Dohoon writing lyrics and Jihoon also contributing to the choreography. Dohoon expressed his honor in being able to contribute creatively for the first time, hoping that all members will have the chance to pitch their ideas in the future.
When asked about their favorite tracks on the album, the responses varied. Hanjin and Kyungmin both highlighted 'Overdrive' for its ability to capture the group's passion, while Jihoon and Shinyu preferred the acoustic and vocal-focused songs 'Caffeine Rush' and 'Hot Blue Shoes,' respectively. Dohoon and Youngjae were drawn to the edgier 'Heads Shoulders Knees Toes' and the romantic pop track 'Overthinking.'
As the group approaches their second anniversary, they reflect on their growth as performers and individuals. Shinyu emphasizes the importance of connecting with their fans, known as '42,' through tours and concerts. The members also shared how they've learned from each other, with Hanjin's dedication to studying and Youngjae's vocal practice inspiring the rest of the group.
TWS's message to their fans is one of hope and energy. Hanjin believes that music can be a source of strength during tough times, and he hopes their songs can bring people back to the memories of their youth. The group is also eager to expand their reach to the US, promising to work hard until their music resonates with American audiences.
And this is the part most people miss: How will TWS's youthful energy be received in the diverse US music market?
As TWS continues to evolve and grow, one can't help but wonder about their future impact on the global music scene. Will their unique brand of youthful K-pop find a place in the hearts of US fans? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: TWS is a group to watch, and their journey is far from over.
