METALHEAD REACTION TO KPOP - BTS - 'ON'

[@mochipjamas]

Interesting fact: The Blue Devils marching band, UCLA Global Jazz Department, and gospel choir recorded this song. The dancers are from The Lab in LA. They've worked with BTS before on the Speak Yourself leg of their tour last year. Their head choreographer (the woman you see in the first shot of the video) is Sienna Lalau, a 19-year-old who also choreographed their performance for Dionysus. ON was recorded at the Sepulveda Dam in LA. The tattoo on V's face is fake (as are the cracks inked on his left shoulder and neck). Jimin and Jungkook have tatts, but you can't see them here. Unlike their nipples. LOL This is definitely an anthem! Both Mic Drop and IDOL have become marching band staples, and I bet this one will too.

[@Gusmcarthur]

That's very cool! Thanks for all the info, really appreciate it!

[@kit9148]

😂😂😂 unlike their nipples. You got me, I cackled so loud when I read that.

[@laura-im2uu]

but you actually can see some of their tatts if you look closely ;)

[@AngelaSealana]

From my understanding, it was the Blue Devils in the vid but the UCLA band and gospel choir on the record.

[@sandys1890]

Blue devils???Bruins

[@crankdattaytay]

Tae’s face tattoo is fake. The only members (that we know of) that have real tattoos are Jimin (nevermind on his rib cage) and JK with his hand tattoos. Also, they are always on The Late Show with James Cordon (Black Swan perf) and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon (last night, check out their On perf). I think a lot of army’s will agree with me in saying that the reason BTS are the most popular group in the US because they are very active in the creative process. All the members participate in writing, producing, and composing every song they have made since day one, especially the rapline. Also, their music doesn’t just sound good but every single song has a deeper meaning. If you look at the lyrics for all their songs you’ll be able to see the message they have. Also, their songs are usually connected in some way and they’re just very genuine and real. They are very open about mental health issues and self love and always have been.

[@oliverhughes610]

I think the element of self-production certainly has a big impact on critics, which thus affects other media and the resulting invitations etc to TV appearances/awards show performances etc. The other groups that have been increasing in popularity in the West are often those with the combination of diverse music, much of which is palatable to the US market, self-production elements, and crucially, confident and entertaining English speakers. That's helped groups like Got7, Monsta X, Stray Kids, Seventeen and NCT 127 - the only one of those to not have at least some involvement in production - to break out more and more into the US/the West in general. However, while it certainly helps, it's more from a critical angle. The fact Blackpink don't self-produce, for example, hasn't really affected their popularity or media appearances in the US (in the brief period each year where they're promoting actively) but it has affected their critical reception. Having said that, it's not like the more artsy reviewers have rated BTS especially high in comparison - the EPs they released last year were given simply 'above average' type ratings on Pitchfork, for instance. The 'deeper meaning' behind their lyrics is only really relevant to their existing fans and those getting into them, moreso than the general public or the media etc. I don't think a TV or live audience watching them perform would gain more from knowing the meaning of the lyrics in that first experience of them. Only existing fans who have taken that time will be affected by that. I think the basis of such a large fanbase that was international from the outset, since they were doing stuff in the US within a year of debut and didn't have much reception in Korea during that time, was key. The original ARMY that became fans over the first 1-2 years of their existence were predominantly from outside of Korea. Their voices grew in number and in volume and because they were voices in English, they were more easily heard - leading to break out moments like the 2017 MTV performance, for example. Simply put, a vociferous fanbase of that size gives tremendous social media reach to the point that every US media outlet will try to book BTS now that they've seen the impact the name alone can have for their content. A 2-3 minute video of some vapid crater of a personality 'interviewing' BTS will generate millions of views and all the resulting ad revenue extremely quickly. The same is true for all media, essentially, and kpop companies in general don't turn offers down. The fact they have a fluent English speaker and the confidence/ability to be entertaining (not to mention good looking) in either language helps, the fact the music has lots of elements the US masses enjoy - hip hop and trap/EDM elements etc - helps, and the fact they've been established by now and known as great performers helps. But the fundamental most important thing in bridging the gap into the US/the West is the fanbase. If any other group had 7 years of ARMY behind them, they would be every bit as popular - possibly moreso, if the music was even more tailored to the West, or possibly less so, if it was a little less palatable. Sorry, I kinda rambled there, but I hope what I was getting at was clear.

[@Sabrina-rina3]

@@oliverhughes610 I am a fan of BTS and one of the most important reasons why I am a fan it is because of their messages. And it becomes even more meaningful when I notice they wrote the lyrics or worked on the song. I have tried other kpop groups and while I could listen to some song, it happens to sound the same if I heard a 2nd or 3rd song of the same group. The lyrics tends to be almost the same too. And it ends not being my cup of tea. So, yeah. ARMY is a big fandom but it wasn't like that at the beginnig. And also to mantain that fandom you have to continue feeding those fans so they will follow you. Ask ARMY why each of us keep supporting BTS each year... Those others groups have also international fans.... but why then they do not get the same recognition as BTS? So after that said, I am agree with the first comment here.

[@oliverhughes610]

@@Sabrina-rina3 Yes, but you are a fan, that's the point - I was referring to people who are not fans, who are just having their first experience with the group. The 'meaning' of the lyrics or personal connection to members is not going to matter at that point; it will barely be comprehensible. It's purely the sound that matters at first. I'm sure there are other groups out there that could be your cup of tea, but that's not the point here. I said in my own comment that the key to the birth and growth of ARMY was the volume of content that was produced from very early on, the increasing numbers of viral moments being shared, the gradual rise to the top of Twitter, etc. All of it contributed to building ARMY up to the level it is today, which in turn, has been fundamental in showing US media/music executives that getting BTS on their content is a surefire way to get a huge reach. As said for why BTS in my own comment, it's the combination of those factors - good looking, good performing, palatable music, a huge fanbase with massive reach, and fluent English speaker. Other groups are growing, but they haven't had 7 years of the dedicated growth of a fanbase like ARMY. So popular they might be, but the levels aren't the same. It's purely about the power of the fandom and its social media reach that leads to more and more exposure in the US/the West, which is like a cycle - the more of one, the more of the other.

[@rantomori5930]

Oliver Hughes i’m an ARMY and i agree on what you said.i guess some of us ARMY’s are just really protective of our boys,that sometimes we misinterpret,and that you really meant no harm in what you stated.please Understand that we ARMY’s really worked hard for the boys to get recognized and give them boost so they can keep going,and just a little bit over of some controversial things makes us sensitive.but i get it,i like how you explained the power of ARMY’s,and how the fandom helped them to get known all over the world(but remember they return that love by helping us and reminding us to love ourselves everyday).and that the growth of ARMY’s are from the great contents they feed us.good music,relatable songs.few bad apples,but at the end of the day,we all know that we’ll always support BTS till the end.

[@oliverhughes610]

@@rantomori5930 Of course, I'm well aware of how protective people can be and how easily things can be misinterpreted. I'm also well aware how quickly fans will start throwing vile abuse at each other over the smallest things. This is not unique to ARMY, or any one fandom, of course. I've been into kpop for almost a decade now, it's become my career path (not as an idol obviously, lol) and I've seen how every passionate fan of any artist is ready to fight tooth and claw for them at the drop of a hat. Ultimately the point is as you say - ARMY worked hard to help BTS get the exposure they did, BTS repay ARMY with the continued social media content and music. It's a cyclical, symbiotic relationship. That's absolutely not a criticism, nor is it devaluing their accomplishments - it is just the way it has been. It's a quite remarkable success story for kpop in general and I think that definitely adds to the charm of the overall BTS narrative. I can imagine the documentaries etc that will be made about them and their careers years down the line when we're all old and grey, holding up the Bangtan Bombs one final time. They're building a legacy right now and it's amazing that we get to live in that time - just as parents or grandparents might have grown up into Beatlemania; but I would say that comparatively, BTS are far bigger than the Beatles now. For the record, if you're interested in my own story, I definitely consider myself a fan of BTS. I rarely, if ever, consider myself to be part of a fandom - I've always been a multi-stan, dating back from before when I knew what a multi-stan was. I started out only really liking girl groups, my first being SNSD, but I didn't immediately label myself a Sone - I was immediately curious to listen to other groups too, and did so, and became fans of Hyuna and f(x) and T-ARA and Kara and Orange Caramel and Brown Eyed Girls etc etc. It took a couple years before I started giving boys more of a chance and got into EXO and Big Bang and SHINee and Super Junior. I remember, actually, watching BTS's debut music video and thinking it was super cringey and funny. I was surprised by how old school hip hop it sounded, but I looked at lil babby Jungkook with his guyliner trying to look badass while rapping and he was just too baby to pull it off (even though his rapping was actually pretty good). RM's entire hair/glasses situation was also hilarious to look at. I remember thinking 'nah, these guys will never get anywhere' and that was it. I fell into a deep depression around 2015 by which point I had stopped listening to music entirely and only in 2017 did I return to music and kpop (which served as the best anti-depressant I could have hoped for). A lot of the groups of the time I discovered purely through KZbin mixes/recommended etc, and I happened to hear DNA, which was catchy and stuck in my head, even though I was playing a game at the time I heard it - I went all the way back to find that particular song, and I couldn't believe it was the same group from No More Dream. I honestly didn't recognise them or the name at first, until I went thorugh their older songs and had that revelation. Ever since then, I've been a fan. I've seen them and 'greeted' them (aka a yell and a wave which was waved bacK) when they appeared on a TV show here in London. I've yet to see them in concert because I'm poor, but hopefully when I'm living in Seoul I'll get a chance at some point. Everyone's story is different. I wish that the kpop community would be more about sharing and supporting and general positivity, rather than the negativity and toxicity that is so prevalent. I hope to make a difference and work towards creating a structure where kpop idols and their fans can coexist harmoniously and happily and healthily, not in constant fear or anxiety or depression, suffering from - or inflicting - mental and physical and emotional abuse. It is not too much to ask that everyone - all of us are here, after all, because of something we love - does their bit to contribute to a positive community, works to shut down toxicity. If everyone starts to contribute, the impact can be huge. Sorry, that got really rambly and weird, I haven't slept in 2 days!

[@livinginstereo]

The choir and marching band is real.

[@livinginstereo]

Im surprised that you know BTS and are slightly aware of their fame and havent deep dived. BTS is the biggest band worldwide right now. If you want to know more, please react to From Nobodies to Legends and to Who Is BTS: The Seven Members of Bangtan

[@Gusmcarthur]

Thanks we will check it out!

[@whskrsg4240]

There’s also BTS Crash Course 2020 by SUGA & spice, which is the continuation of Who is BTS?

[@ParallaxHearts]

💜✌️

[@decalcomani1169]

wym you're surprised? If you know they're the biggest band in the world right now it's common sense for people to be slightly aware of them lmao

[@BTSARMY-nk4rz]

@Yash Bhatt Dude listen, don't come here hating. Just go listen to slipknot their songs are fire.

[@TheStoweaway]

if you want to see more about this song's production and the drumline, bighit released a 30min documentary on their youtube channel with it. (doesn't matter whether you react or watch on your personal time) it touches on how the band and drumline and choir were recorded and the direction they took with this album. also talks a bit about them and the message and motivation they've had as a band since their debut in 2013. and as for the tattoos, the only 2 members that we know of that have tattoos are Jimin and Jungkook. Jimin has "NEVERMIND" on his rib, and JK has small tattoos on his right hand and others that go up to his shoulder. Neither has explicitly mentioned them, so far it's very much a "we know, that they know, that we know about the tattoos" kind of thing. They have performed with Jimmy Kimmel but the recent appearance was with Jimmy Fallon and they had a whole dedicated episode to them with a performance of On (with the dance crew and everything) in Grand Central Station in NYC.

[@Gusmcarthur]

Thanks appreciate all the info!🙏

[@lilyoongi146]

yess

[@ayunipiya5411]

Thank you so much for your respect to other genre. I also like death metal, metalcore and some gothic etc band and also big fans of BTS. Gonna come to Slipknot concert next month and BTS concert too!!! 🙌🏻

[@Gusmcarthur]

So awesome, we love Slipknot, seen them many times. Enjoy the shows🤘

[@muhammad608]

BTS sucks and their music is dead, they can't sing. Dimash is the greatest singer of all time and is million times better than BTS.

[@otinapaaayshing6256]

Have you guys tried listening to their song Dionysus? I think you'll love that! 🤘🤘🤘🎸🎸🎸

[@ashaadia]

It was nice seeing a metalhead reacting to BTS as i am a rock metal music enthusiast myself. But i got hooked to BTS since 2016. I suggest you react to On Commentary film to check how this song was made. You mentioning a continuous filming, please check BTS Save Me MV. That was filmed continuously. They worked a lot of songs with almost different genre, not a typical kpop sound. They do live performabces with a live band too. So go please check them out. Thank you for this video.

[@farafara2780]

I listen to punk rock most of the time. Never fangirling a kpop band so hard before, i regret of not being a fan earlier. I definitely missed a lot of things.

[@chrichellebrown5123]

This was indeed shot in LA. The music is also performed by UCLA marching band. The lady in the front with the pony tail actually helped with this choreo along with Dionysus and the dancer are a part of her dance company.

[@neverandom3157]

New subscriber here. I'm a metal head army, you'll be surprised to know how many metal head armys there are among the fandom. Some of my faves are As I lay dying, Machine Head, Alice in Chains, Children of Bodom, Ektomorf, Gojira etc. And of course BTS. I don't know how this happened, i stumbled upon them accidentally and now i can say i'm totally into the BTS rabbit hole for life. These guys are beyond amazing, they're supreme. I guess i had some mental cravings for deep concepts and lyricism and BTS happened to satisfy my needs at the right time. At this point I can tell it's even beyond my expectations, now I'm overly fed (over-dozed hahaha), cuz they're truly amazing artists, magnificent performers, really smart and humble guys. I got to know so much bc of them. You're wondering what makes BTS stand out of all other kpop artsits? I can say BTS is far beyond kpop, they overreached the genre. They mix a lot of music genres into their songs having hip hop as their base. They were meant to be a hip hop band at the beginning, but ever since the vocal line got to develop and present better and better, they expanded the genre. Getting to know BTS better i'd recommend u watching these: BTS crash course 2020, BTS from nobodies to legends, Introduction to BTS.

[@limarba9062]

Ralica Ivanova I never thought I’d be into a group like BTS myself (especially at my age- GenX, NOT a Boomer!). I like all kinds of music but I listen to hard rock, metal and alternative most of the time. The past 3 or so months have been an exception because I too stumbled into the BTS rabbit hole and have been listening to all their work thus far in addition to watching videos of and about them, reading articles, etc.(I’m not exclusively listening to BTS-I’d go nuts listening to just one band or type of music for three months straight!) A primary reason I like BTS is that they use interesting concepts, symbolism and cultural, religious, literary or mythological references in their music and some of their MVs. The influence of Carl Jung’s theories and ideas on personality development really impressed me. Some BTS songs have made a significant impact on me because of the lyrics. On this album, “Interlude: Shadow” really gets me right in the feels. The fact that these guys are so dedicated and have worked their asses off to get where they are now deserves a great deal of respect. They really love and appreciate their fans...that’s pretty damn awesome!!! These guys are all insanely talented!!! They’re also quite attractive (but way too young for me-too bad 😭)!!! Yep! I stan!

[@erinraecowin]

Metalhead ARMY here too! Other than Nightwish and Slipknot, BTS are the only music related tattoo on me.

[@Fealnographs1]

the tattoo says "the shadow like me" it is a reference to Jungian psychology which is one of the themes of the album.

[@iwubfood1]

I agree a lot of BTS songs have a 90s quality sound to it. In there first 3 albums, they had boyband Backstreet Boys type songs and 90s rap and rap beat styles. They still have 90s influence sound in their music but they are always evolving. There’s a behind the scenes performance here where there are 3 camera drones zipping and buzzing all around them for continuous video shots. It looked like futuristic drones attacking you like in sci fi films. You must have started young to naturally play guitar riffs at that speed because even John Mayer can’t play that fast since he started playing in his teens.

[@Gusmcarthur]

Thank you I actually started playing at 16 🤘 But I play many hours everyday!

[@nicoleloss7987]

Jungkook voicals are insane he is a amazing dancer and hot

[@charliexangel1395]

Yes 👏🏾 even 👏🏾 thou 👏🏾 I’m 👏🏾 a 👏🏾 jimin 👏🏾 Stan 👏🏾 just 👏🏾 Yes

[@cristinadamian9942]

They are definitely the biggest 'kpop' act (more like just artist that are Korean). I think that's because they have always been authentic and in control of their art, they're also very genuine and outspoken. It's easy for people to relate to them or find comfort in their lyrics and you can see how passionate they are about it. Kpop is generally manufactured and I think they are the first ones to really break through all the stereotypes, while being treated as the underdog in the Korean industry.

[@MF-ie7vx]

OK you gave it a try respectfully, thank you. I love stoner/rock/metal, managed to watch live in Europe, iron maiden, tool, mastodon, red fang and many more but since I knew BTS 3 years ago, they always come first 😍.

[@zomniass]

I really love how Honan play the guitar in every begining :3 i love u both guys, keep it that way!!!

[@Gusmcarthur]

Thank you! 🤟

[@ellie_jeann]

They worked with a marching band / dancers known as THE LAB and filmed in Los Angeles.....i lost count how many times i’ve seen that bridge in tons of shows and movies!

[@Xanderboy10]

Great reaction video. You just let the song play and didn't fake any reactions. Just appreciating talent, whether it is something you would listen to or not. Cool

[@luzvillagrasarayasi4991]

They're so talented.

[@HadassaMoon144]

Great reaction! I love to see people mixing it up and trying lots of genres of music. I personally love all types of music. My playlist goes from classical to tribal to kpop to metal. I love it all.

[@debbiedezu]

I think you might enjoy " 'ON' Commentary Film : Dialogue" on BANGTANTV's channel. It's a mini documentary (18 mins) about the production of the new album and about bts' success in general! Loved your reaction by the way! :)

[@Gusmcarthur]

Awesome thank you 🙏 appreciate the info!

[@nikox222]

i watched it, so awesome!

[@otakud1va]

If you like old school hip hop you HAVE to listen to "Respect" from the new album! Also if you want an explainer on their rise watch "This is BTS: Crash Course to a World Sensation (2020)"

[@lynnemadigan5091]

ON is salute to N.O. Their 2nd Song/MV. Showing how they’ve grown. Yes it’s filmed in LA.

[@lovelyni-ki05]

Yes, BTS is the famous and biggest kpop group, even the older groups couldn’t have their fame in their moments. BTS made kpop worldwide and opened and keep opening doors for them.

[@zandeeganymede7599]

Bts has lots of songs that feel old school hiphop

[@WOOSUNGlifeline]

I love how honest you guys are! You just say your true opinions and comments! And i would love to see you guys’ take on a kpop song and recreating maybe a part of it in your own style! I think it will be so cool! And i dont think anybody has done it before!

[@Gusmcarthur]

Thank you, that's an awesome idea🤘

[@ermiegray9979]

The reason they are world wide popular is because of the message they send and being the idol to all age of there army

[@ellie_jeann]

They recently made their second appearance on jimmy fallon, taking over grand central terminal with interview + subway Olympic game play + terminal live “ON” performance.....it was literally closed from the public for a night but i’m sure it’s reopened after the show and BTS were done using it! *NO it’s fake, they don't have real tattoos or piercings on their faces* The only ones confirmed to have tattoos is Jimin (his side) and Jungkook (right hand & forearm) I believe the one on his forearm is fake which was used for just the MV and storyline like Tae's was!

[@Gusmcarthur]

That's awesome, thanks for the info 🙏

[@Orion_TheyThem]

@@Gusmcarthur This is not true. There are several Kpop Idols who have facial piercings and tattoos!!! And Jimin (the one in all white with silver hair) has two tattoos: Nevermind on his ribcage and 13 on the inside of his wrist. And Jungkook (brown hair and leather jacket with white shirt who sang all the super high notes) has lots of little tattoos on his whole right arm and hand

[@Orion_TheyThem]

Tattoos: G-Dragon (has several body and a face tattoo), CL, Hyuna, Zico (who has sleeves), Taeil (who has massive sleeves), Jay Park, Taehyun, etc. Piercings: Got7's JB, iKON's Bobby, and MonstaX's I.M. And these are just a few! Also, there's that really famous Korean Actress Han YeSeul who has a chest tattoo and now a Septum Piercing. Korea is slowly opening up to tattoos and piercings.

[@ellie_jeann]

@@Orion_TheyThem I know all those artists have tattoos but I was specifically talking about BTS....wait your not talking about NCT Taeil and TXT Taehyun having tattoos, are you? Because last time I checked they don't have any tattoos and I'm sure there's other artists with the same names as the ones I know

[@Orion_TheyThem]

@@ellie_jeann BlockB's Taeil and Taehyun from WINNER. And as I also stated above...... Jungkook and Jimin both have tattoos. Jungkook has tattoos all up and down his right arm and hand and Jimin has NEVERMIND on his ribcage and 13 on his wrist. For real. Not fake ones.

[@rahmisafitri4409]

OMG Jungkook voice😭🔥💜

[@digitalpunkdiva2894]

Well they did use a Gospel choir and UCLA marching band. (Bruins)

[@nicoleloss7987]

Jungkook has tattoos all up his right arm

[@user28221]

The filming was done at Sepulveda Dam at San Fernando Valley, California. It has old school vibes bcos the whole album is retrospective to their beginning (they debuted in 2013).

[@sandys1890]

The whole video WAS A CONTINUOUS SHOT.....ONE TAKE ...NOT THEIR ONLY ONE

[@BangTanies953]

All their mvs have subtitles you should have clicked the cc to know what they are singing

[@PiperMoxy]

BTS is the most popular kpop group because the have deep meanings behind their song.

[@gourmand4life]

Loved Honan's guitar playing at the intro! Super impressed!! I think you'll like 'Dionysus', 'Not Today', and 'Fake Love' (Lies Behind Your Eyes did a fantastic cover of this song). Thank you for doing this video, and I look forward to many more!

[@Gusmcarthur]

Thank you much more to come🤘

[@limarba9062]

Anpang Girl There’s a “Rocking Vibe Mix” version of “Fake Love”. It’s pretty good. I found it on Amazon Music.

[@bonnieholland6801]

They are just awesome in everyway period. Number 1 around the world. They have broken major records including records held by the Beatles. They had 3 number 1 albums around the world in 1 yr. One of their new videos had 45 million downloads in 24hrs and so on. They have worked hard to attain their success. I love BTS.

[@aunthattiesfancifulemporiu6126]

Hi Guys; Sepulveda Dam is the filming location. You need to watch a VIDEO called BTS: ON COMMENTARY FILM: DIALOGUE. Professionals answer many of your questions. Did you know that all the boys in bts can play instruments? Some people don't realize they are musicians too because they rap sing and dance, write & produce most of their own music. We/ARMY get to see them play instruments when they are composing songs.

[@dorkshoujo]

They hired a gospel choir and a marching band for this new album. Check out Bighit's dialogue m/documentary about it

[@ariesdinar]

[Verse 3: j-hope] Bring the pain It'll become my blood and flesh Bring the pain No fear, now that I know the way Breathe on the small things My air and my light in the dark The power of the things that make me, “me” Even if I fall, I come right up, scream [Bridge: Jungkook, Jimin] Where my pain lies Let me take a breath My everythin' My blood and tears Got no fears I'm singin' ohhhhh Oh I'm takin' over You should know yeah Can't hold me down 'cuz you know I'm a fighter Choosing to descend into the dark abyss Find me and I'm gonna bleed with ya

[@oliverhughes610]

This is gonna be long, so strap yourselves in. It's late af here so I might have made some mistakes or missed something or sounded incoherent at some point. Anyone who does read, feel free to chime in, ask stuff, correct stuff if I'm wrong somewhere (but I rarely am ;)). Why BTS? That's something they ask themselves a lot. Fans will say that the personal connection they feel to the members and the lyrics, the 'underdog story' of their origin etc are what sets them apart, but that's only true for those who are already fans or the rare few who have a first listen and take a deep dive straight in. It's not what gives them such a huge amount of offers to produce content every time they go to the US, or what has red carpet interviewers doing everything they can to get a minute with them. BTS started out small and basically unknown in Korea. Their company, BigHit, had had a couple mostly unsuccessful boy groups and a co-ed group and their girl group project - their first wholly home grown group - had only debuted a year before and wasn't off to a good start. Their most successful group, 2AM, was a splinter from JYP. BTS were not popular in Korea when they debuted. Their style of hip hop was quite old school Western, in a way, and the general concept and vibe of their first few songs didn't go down well in the Korean media, although some teenagers did start to vibe with the message, especially N.O. A year after debut, in 2014, they were already producing content for their fans. KZbin videos, live streams, other content were common. They went to the US to film a reality show, American Hustle Life, where they were essentially 'schooled' in the ways of hip hop by some fairly notable artists like Coolio. They had an epic 'showdown' at the MAMA awards in December 2014 against Block B (who are fuckin amazing, btw, well worth checking out - some of the most creative music in kpop), which was essentially an amazing 30 minute performance of dance offs, rap battles, taking turns to perform a song, and ultimately partying together - the performance went viral for a few reasons, mostly Jimin ripping his vest off. In 2015, they took their first music show win (which is a big deal in Korea) and skyrocketed up from there. But behind it all, in those early years especially, was ARMY. Without ARMY, BTS would not have kept going - BigHit's girl group, Glam, disbanded in 2015, and they had essentially no other activities from anyone with 2AM enlisting. The cost of running them would have quickly become more than Hitman Bang could have afforded - and he was wealthier and invested more into BigHit than most companies or their owners can. ARMY's initial recruits were predominantly non-Koreans. As the group grew more popular and ARMY grew alongside it, it felt like for every 10 recruits, maybe 2-3 would be Asian, of whom 1-2 would be Korean, and the rest would be Western, right through 2016 and into 2017. ARMY is the most vociferous fanbase in the world. The power they have on social media is enormous. The calls they made for BTS to be given recognition or allowed to perform at the AMAs or the MTV Music Awards etc were so frequent and so loud that people in the US started taking notice. As soon as one performance was done, it of course went viral (DNA in 2017, I think) and from then on it was going to be more and more. They make content, it goes viral, US companies see the profits, invite them to more stuff, rinse and repeat. The other things that you can trace amongst all the kpop groups that are popular in the US are simple. Self-production etc helps for critical reception (not by much) which in turn helps media to right their misconceptions and in turn gives them a little more room for acknowledgement - or the means to present themselves - to the music world itself and the more snobbish fans who might dismiss kpop out of hand as manufactured artifical shite. Live vocals etc help with that too, as, of course, does their being very good looking - and without surgery, which is another important myth that they do well to dispel, although most only perceive surgery on women anyway (regardless of the reality, but that's an issue that goes way beyond kpop or music). Most importantly, they have a fluent English speaker, they are confident in front of the camera (mostly) and are able to make jokes and be entertaining in English or Korean (or Konglish) and charm the interviewers, the viewers, and the media/home audiences in general who might be having their first time. Every BTS TV appearance might now fill the studio with fans, but the percentage of people who happen to be watching that Tonight Show who are watching specifically for BTS is still very low. But now the percentage of those who stay around because they like the look of them or their personalities is increasing. NCT 127, Stray Kids, Got7, Blackpink, Itzy, Seventeen, Monsta X, Amber Liu, Eric Nam, Red Velvet - all the main groups/artists that have had sizable breakouts into the US over the last year or two share those key things. They are good to look at, they make music that fits the US palate with the combination of hip hop with electronic dance music/trap, they put on great performances that Western audiences just don't get treated to (in terms of just dance, let alone stagecraft) and for the most part are involved in its production, surgeryless, etc. They have large fanbases that help any content with their name attached get millions of views and generate that sweet sweet ad revenue. We're even starting to see the massively popular groups in terms of fanbases but lacking the English speaker to promote effectively in the West getting content anyway, thanks to the increasing (but still low) tolerance for subtitles/translating, helped in no small part by the popularity of Sharon Choi and her work translating for the Parasite team. EXO and Twice, I'm referring to - the latter of whom just signed a deal with Republic Records, but it's no secret why they didn't get much of a chance to do large scale promotions here while Itzy got to do so right away; Lia's fluency in English and the confidence/relative fluency of the other members. That's all there is to it, really - they all have the same fundamentals, but BTS have the biggest and most well established. As a final note (I know how long this is, sorry) - I think there is one group that has the potential to become the biggest international girl group if they get the opportunity for media appearances throughout their first world tour which is coming up and follow that through with another: (G)I-DLE. They have complete self-production, a large fanbase with a connection to something familiar in the West (League of Legends), two fluent English speakers (and 4 different nationalities from a 6 member group is a very easy means to spread their social media reach/fanbase around very early on - trend in 4 countries, not just 1 or 2) and are all in general very entertaining on camera (not to mention beautiful) regardless with great chemistry. Not to mention their top notch stagecraft and the style of music they make often featuring things the US/Western markets love. I think they have every element required to succeed internationally.

[@catatanmamisonyas9772]

Wow. Thank you for the explanation..

[@oliverhughes610]

@@catatanmamisonyas9772 You're welcome, I hope it was helpful! If you have any questions about anything please don't hesitate to ask!

[@NuJB8]

Thank you for reaction to BTS VDO. They work hard since debut. They got treated unfair since the beginning coz they came from small company. They deserve what they have done for more than 7 years.

[@classical7]

Glad you noticed so many things. Yes, this new album *Map of the Soul 7* has so many meanings and significance because it's been 7 years since they've debuted in 2013 plus you got 7 Members too. Watch the 2nd video...the official MV for *ON* then watch an explanation video from XCELESTE or another detective ARMY to understand it a bit more because BTS goes deep into their artistry. #nostalgia #ARMYsince2014 😭👍💜🎶

[@mami11420]

Loved this reaction and commentary afterwards! You don’t have to like every song you come across but it’s not hard to appreciate and respect the hard work put into it.. some people automatically think something is trash because it’s not to their personal music taste and ... that’s just not it tbh. I hope you looked at the lyrics to the song, this album is the most personal one they’ve done.. anyways, whenever you get to it (I would appreciate it) I’d love for you to listen to the entire album, even if it takes a while! And I’d suggest looking at the lyrics to each song. The first 5 songs are from the previous album so you choose if you want to include those IF you ever decide to react to the album over the course of a few weeks or months. The whole album is amazing, not just a few songs. Or if you want listen on your own and maybe do a short review on the album and how you liked it. Alright, maybe I’m getting greedy.. thank you for this reaction, I love seeing people appreciate music, it’s truly that simple. Someone somewhere loves it even if you are not totally vibing (not you specifically lol).

[@limarba9062]

Amy Adams I look up the lyrics for any song I listen to...I can’t really decide how I feel about a song until I see the lyrics. It really pisses me off when people make unfair judgements about a song based on the title or how the musicians dress or something!!!

[@taetaetrash9728]

Why BTS? Cuz they are a TRUE UNDERDOG STORY. They started out from a SMALL ass agency in Korea. Wheras other big Kpop groups had huge conglomerates supporting them. BTS had no one to rely on but their talent and music! Unlike most Kpop groups (especially at the time BTS debuted) BTS write and produce much of their music. It was heavily hiphop influenced and whereas other Kpop groups had "easy" dances that were made so that fans can dance along BTS would bust out insane choreos! It was a combo of their music, dancing, skill & talent that got them here. But most importantly THEIR MESSAGES in their music! From the start their lyrics were NOT just love songs but about things like mental health, the strict Korean education system, boomers, youth spending habits, loving yourself, good & bad about fame, social issues etc etc. Their lyrics had MEANING. And last but not least: the members themselves are insanely charismatic and funny. BTS has A LOT of content outside pf their music like their weekly variety show where they play stupid games. But through things like that fans know their personalities and see their chemistry and the BTS boys are REALLY close like true brothers and its fun watching them be squad goals! Soooo yeah its a combo of factors!

[@Gusmcarthur]

Thanks for the information appreciate it 🙏

[@ivyshy98]

guitar solos to kpop without the backing track! 🤘🤘

[@Gusmcarthur]

🤘🤘🤘

[@foxefresh]

I'd like to see your rock/metal cover of this song 😱 Thanks for your reaction/review! love you guys and your original songs, too 😊

[@annarasmus8737]

"God these guys can dance". ✌️Yup! Music's out of this world too🙏🇫🇮

[@janetsbridgeofsighs8974]

Jimmy Fallon I believe it was had BTS do On at Grand Central Station Live with the drum line and all. You should see them do it live! Fucking Lit!

[@jlomaster35]

Two reactions, two guitar solos, double fun 🤘😁

[@Gusmcarthur]

🤘

[@anishishah4008]

I saw how you guys liked fake love. And how you guys liked it for that dark theme. You should definitely check out "black swan MV" released just a few days ago and I'm sure you'll like it because it has that dark theme too

[@lobaetoile8440]

There are many fanmade videos explaining why BTS. Honestly, in my opinion it's not one main reason, it's the sum of many many factors.

[@JetsToBrazil05]

You guys are really sweet, thanks for reacting!

[@everydayjackji651]

Wow.. it's been so long since your last BTS reaction, thank you for reacting to this! 💜

[@Gusmcarthur]

🙏

[@MyObbsession]

I think if I remember correctly, they were getting US attention for the first time with their song Dope and after that they were noticed with Blood, sweat and tears but it went all loose when DNA and the album love yourself : Her came out. At least that is what i remember

[@rukiakuchiki3820]

Since you are interested in video with continuous shot you should definitely react to BTS Save me. And to respond to your question about why BTS is so popular I think it's about the message. You should check the lyrics of the songs ed especially their albums which are great with a deep message.

[@classical7]

To understand our guys a bit more and their global impact, I recommend watching some intro videos: ➡ "From Nobodies to Legends" 2019 version from XCELESTE ➡ "BTS Contribution to Music" by same creator ➡ "Crash Course to BTS 2020" by Suga & Spice ➡ "Who is BTS 7 Members of Bangtan" by same creator ➡ "Introduction to BTS" 8 episodes total by GADAURSAN 😁👍💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@Gusmcarthur]

Awesome thank you appreciate the info!🤘

[@classical7]

@@Gusmcarthur ARMY is here if you have any questions. 😁👍

[@masencub2390]

I like the way you give review, I mean in detail, it's mean you pay attention a lot. I am with you in the the continuous shoot in this MV, so they keep us engagement to this video

[@eddencheezee]

Just subscribed to your channel 😊 Please react to these: 1) *THIS IS BTS: CRASH COURSE TO A WORLDWIDE SENSATION 2020* 2) *WHO IS BTS? THE SEVEN MEMBERS OF BANGTAN* 3) *BTS FROM NOBODIES TO LEGENDS* (There are 3 parts, but the first one got deleted. So proceed to 2 & 3) Thank youuuu! 💜

[@Gusmcarthur]

Thank you🙏

[@namimulu7651]

모국어외엔 필요없는 내가 ,,이나이에 우리방탄 리애션보려고 영어를 듣고 있다~~thank you~~

[@Orion_TheyThem]

Tae's face and neck tattoos are fake. Only 2 members have real tattoos: Jimin (who has Nevermind written on his ribcage and 13 on his wrist), the one in all white with silver hair, and Jungkook (who has tattoos on his right hand and arm), the one who sang the really high stuff before the dance break. Edit: The choir and drumline were Very much real. There's a whole "Behind the Scenes/Making Of" documentary that shows that they hired a professional American choir to sing the backing vocals (which is SUPER impressive given their correct pronunciation of Korean words) and a professional, college drumline (UCLA's if I'm not mistaken). Second Edit: I Was mistaken.....it was UCLA's jazz ensemble. The drumline/marching band was the Blue Devils.

[@intershark]

BTW, MV was shot at Sepulveda Dam in San Fernando Valley, California. Please react to TraxX - Escape & FT Island - Take Me Now.

[@Gusmcarthur]

Thanks appreciate it! We know right where that is!

[@ninixsuzen650]

Two words for BTS" Perfect and The best★

[@ParallaxHearts]

Thanks guys! BTS loves their fight songs and one-shot videos (although this one wasn't quite one-shot). ✌️🍻

[@Tharushi_Anthony]

If you want to know bts more. React to 1) who is 7 members of bangthan 2)bts nobodies to legend 2018/bts nobodies to legend 2019 by xceleste 3)bts crash course 2020 💜️💜️💜️💜️💜️ 3)bts

[@knittingblessings]

Love you guys! Please react to Moonbyul- Eclipse! She is one of my favorite artists! She is also a member of Mamamoo! They are really good too! Their vocals are insanely unique!

[@estherpiry3913]

I love your reaction with the big screen.. much better to see the Boys. Everyone here already gave you suggestion about 'ON" - and I just want to see you guys react BTS "ON" Commentary film: 'DIALOGUE' to know more about the leader n the Marching bands who work with BTS praising BTS music

[@Gusmcarthur]

Thanks appreciate the info and support 🤘

[@claranguyen2738]

Bulletproof the externals next please! Lyrics are very important in BTS music. All their songs are connected to a bigger story. A lot of their songs are inspired by art and literature. They all can write, produce their own music. Have to checkout their Cyphers there are 4. This song is about overcoming obstacles. You HAVE to SEE their MMAs 2019 performances. Their live performances are legendary. Their songs are very selfless. You have to checkout House of Cards live performance!!! Serendipity live as well. Map of the soul Interlude Shadow comeback trailer is a solo track of one of the members. Lie sung by Jimin is amazing.

[@PK-nk3pt]

It is a continous shot. If they miss one formtion or step they restrt

[@lilithyoung837]

IM SO HAPPY YOU GUYS ARE BACK LMAO

[@Gusmcarthur]

🙏❤

[@eimearmccloskey5651]

Watch Save me by BTS it’s shot in one go and the song is sick

[@hridi_]

thank you for being open minded towards other music

[@JJ-qtie]

I recommend watching the Save Me MV from BTS if you like continuous shots!! It’s a one shot MV so you’ll enjoy it!!

[@jrg8593]

They are bigger than Ariana and Bieber their fandom is Huge!

[@ultsojin]

Bigger than Ariana Grande??? Nah you’re reaching 💀

[@jrg8593]

baekxing love bot YES according to this MTV DOCUMENTARY... we are talking about WORLDWIDE not just AMERICA. No need for me reach anything BTS Done it already...world pop 7.8billion AMERICA’s population is only 300+million people...watch this kzbin.info/www/bejne/e6PWm6Z8pa6tatU

[@jrg8593]

baekxing love bot let this PENN STATE professor TELL YOU how you are for not knowing who BTS is😂 kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJzFqpp_fJeCpZY

[@saraszabo7749]

Yes they are their fandom is the biggest in the world🙏🏻

[@rosepetal0208]

Watch the "Interlude: Shadow" with Suga!!!

[@yellahair87]

it'd be cool if you guys could watch the performance of ON they did at the Grand Central Station on Jimmy Fallon a couple weeks ago or the practice video so you can hear how hyped the dancing crew/band got

[@Nicole-hc7rh]

This was just the Kinetic Film. This OFFICIAL MV for this comes out tomorrow at 10AM EST in the US. It's supposed to blow this out of the water. Be sure to check it out!

[@smwatertasteslikewater]

Nicole Both are official 🙄 Big hit said so themselves

[@DanielleMDM93]

You guys should check out BTS' song Save Me, it's a one take MV

[@rohanroy3884]

Eveytime I see the video or hear the song it hits hard..

[@crisc1107]

Big Hit love to use one shot technique for BTS music videos, I believe this video they shot it in one shot using drones. But I am not sure. They have another video call SAVE ME, this MV they shot in one shot no cuts. And Chicken Noodle Soup remake by J-Hope (ft. Becky G), a solo work by one of the member of BTS, the MV was shot in one shot during daytime with one cut into the night time. Maybe you can check those 2 MVs. NOTE: BTS did not become famous overnight, they came from an unknown almost bankrupt company, they climbed to the top with their hard work and determination, what you are seeing today is the outcome.

[@sofiasofia5405]

BTS is GLOBAL!!! Did u not see the VIEWS numbers!

[@abcdefgirfrienda5050]

everyone is surprised at Jimin's dance break. I'm having fun watching it

[@v1nceclone347]

Double uploads!!!!!!!!!! Thanks for the great content

[@Gusmcarthur]

🤘🤘

[@RealTaIk]

it actually took me a while to like that song. Just hearing it once was kinda overwhelming and I wasn't really sure if I like that song but after hearing it a couple of times I really started to love that song :D

[@SoulofKyr]

You should Do a reaction video on any Shinhwa Video, they are an older group, but one of the longest lasting ones in KPop. They are one of the only groups in KPop to last over 20 years and with the original line-up, no line-up changes at all.

[@hk5446]

Your honest review is important, it allows ARMY (BTS fandom) to trust your reactions more. Their roots are in old school hiphop and went to America in their earlier years to learn directly from some of those legendary artists, in a reality program called "American Hustle Life'. Also, if you do delve into their backgrounds, you will see the link between this album and their earlier music is intentional. It's a musical journey of self-learning and perfecting craft. BTS has a huge fandom for a reason. This is definitely a celebratory anthem that marks a turning point in that journey. As Suga says, often you have to listen to the whole album to fully understand a song's message. Others have mentioned watching the Commentary on this song, which is a background story. Informative. In case the comments haven't covered this, this is a manifesto art performance. BTS are huge fans of the arts, not just music, and with this series, they launched an art program CONNECT BTS in several countries, covering various forms of art. Their earlier release Black Swan had an art performance video by a Slovenian dance troupe, then BTS performed the song live for the first time on James Corden, then released a separate MV in an old theater in LA. The song ON also has 3 components, this art performance that BTS did themselves, the live version which was first performed in NY grand central station on the Jimmy Fallon show, and the actual MV version of the song which is an entire symbolic portrayal of their journey, and if you aren't a fan, you will probably never get them, but there is enough blatant symbolism that links each frame to a concept that most viewers can recognize. The point being, BTS music is diverse with wide appeal - some people like their older songs, some like their newer music, but since they are always experimenting and pushing the envelope in style change is part of who BTS is and what they do.

[@era1345]

Jungkook Highnote!

[@jackierenee8314]

It was sung but a gospel choir and live band instruments... there is a video of the making of it and what went into it you would enjoy it as artists

[@abiisaqib2928]

Bts nailed it!

[@jennifercarney8657]

I've noticed that everyone likes sugas lines "I don't give a uhh, I don't give a uhh"

[@LuNaR-fd4vv]

BTS used vocal synth sound from the beginning, and this song used real military drum beat as a high hat of Trap beat.

[@katelady1370]

I really just want BTS to perform at the superbowl. So bad *starry eyed*

[@beatrizcasabella2841]

Details, details and details. Of course, the hair of V, when he dances like a bird and the words on his face. JungKook voice woooooooo and V look are the best. Please, Sugar and V, told everyone, they didn't dance very well. Well, both are the best dancers in this vlog. The first view of RM, guauuu. Jimin' routine with the shirt out while he jump and Hope look like and NINJA. Look the drums, military steps with the group. Gospel voices, kpop, rap, song, pictures, etc etc, the best performarce for ever. From Argentina

[@vinuthgamage1992]

If you enjoyed 'ON' and you like old-school hiphop, you should give a listen to 'Outro: Her', which has a lot of old school hip-hop vibes. I think you would enjoy it!

[@ma.antonietadelapaz8068]

Thanks for your reaction! The guy of blue shirt enjoy it xD

[@zee.7966]

This is actually cool. I listen to some metal too, so this is new for me. I always watch reaction vids but most of them are like rapper so this reaction vid is refreshing. I suggest you listen to Dionysus though. 😊

[@abiayala22]

YASSS!! My boys SLAYED so much in this comeback like I’m still dead like that was a looot to process💜💜✨💕💙🖤 And yes this is for sure and anthem!!!💫👌🏻⭐️ And also the MV Official is dropping on 27 February, so we gotta be ready😂👌🏻💙💜 (they changed it) Taehyung tattoos are fake!! The punchs HAHAHAHHAHA😂😂😂😂💀 The guitar again yaaaaaaaas🤘🏻💚💛

[@sadesio9387]

You know the formation is ARMY training for a BULLETPROOF BOY SCOUTS OR BTS CONCERT

[@XcrosssFire]

Yo if you're a fan of one take videos you should watch BTS - Save Me music video. I believe the whole video is one take. The music is pretty pop/edm so probably not up your alley but the filming and choreography is incredible.

[@gabsf6]

As an ARMY and a metalhead this video made me so fucking happy