Hello k-dreamers! Are you as excited about March as I am? A lot of bops get released in March and it was actually difficult to choose which song to review this week. Ultimately, I went with “Beautiful Beautiful” by ONF in honour of their first win. Their song, along with many other songs this week, has the energy we need to kick off this month. I can’t wait to talk about what makes this song so great.
ONF starts the song with an energetic kick to the face.
There is no build up to this song. It simply begins with the synth and the vocals. This part is also the catchiest part of the song. When it comes to songs being catchy, there’s a balance you need to achieve. For me, songs that have too many catchy parts don’t leave enough room for substance. In fact, the opposite effect can occur: none of the song sticks in your head because you’re not sure which part is supposed to stick. On the flip side, songs that are full of meaning are nice, but they might not be “song of the year” material. They might fade from memory too easily without a hummable melody or a fun lyric. ONF keeps it simple by having one distinctly catchy part that’s easy to remember.
Another one of my favourite parts is the acapella version of the catchy part. It’s short and not too flashy, but it sets the song up for a big finish. I don’t think the final chorus is different from the first two, but they add a nice outro to tie things up. Can we also talk about the “Beautiful” by J-US at the end? It’s corny, abrupt, but slightly endearing.
It’s like they predicted their first win in their lyrics.
By the time I listened to and read the lyrics for this song, they had already gotten their first win. The lyrics lining up with their first win is like watching a scene straight out of a movie.
I’m beautiful, sing it, yeah yeah yeah
All the things we do together become art art art
I’m wonderful, feel it, la la la la
We’ll blossom so big for all to see as we sing
Since I’m not a fuse, I’m not familiar with ONF’s concept or lore. What I gleaned from the music video is that the members are creating their own utopia. They are forging a future for themselves rather than searching for a world where everything is already perfect. These inspiring lyrics make me feel as warm as when I listened to “My Treasure” by Treasure. The message that someday your hard work will pay off and your struggles will one day be worth it is one everyone needs to hear once in a while. I’m glad that a song like this got a music show win.
Honourable Mentions: Golden Child – Breathe, Verivery – Get Away, MCND – Not Over, Keembo – Inside, PARKMOONCHI & Young K – What A Wonderful Word (Does anyone else think “Inside” sounds like “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor?)
If you like this song, check out: UNB – Feeling (2018), Ladies’ Code – Set Me Free (2019), Monsta X – Fantasia (2020)
It’s only the beginning of March and I’m so excited for what’s songs are to come. Have you guys checked out ONF’s energetic comeback? Let me know in the comments!