Here are our picks for the top 10 most influential soloists in the K-Music scene in 2021!
1. IU
Icon, legend, and K-Pop’s most beloved, IU, indisputably stands at number one on this list. This year has been yet another incredible year for IU and her music continues to be universally resonant. The bright energy of transitioning into a new era of her life is reflected in ‘LILAC’ and ‘Strawberry Moon’ was simply an early Christmas present. Even after years of absolutely dominating the industry, IU keeps getting better and better.
2. BLACKPINK’s Lisa & BLACKPINK’s Rosé (Tied)
The talented women of BLACKPINK made 2021 their year with Lisa and Rosé going solo, JiSoo taking on her first lead acting role in “Snowdrop” and Jennie taking over the fashion world. The impact “LALISA” has on the global music industry cannot possibly be described in words. It truly brought the world together in appreciation for Lisa’s art and individuality.At the same time, Rosé’s “R” had fans “on the ground”, swooning over her ethereal voice. The fact that Rosé participated heavily in the entire process, from conceptualization to production, speaks volumes of her talent. Now, that’s how you make a solo debut.
3. CL
Without a doubt, the single most anticipated album this year was CL’s “ALPHA” and just as the name suggests, she claimed her throne as the one true Queen, the ALPHA. Years of hard work, sincerity, and sentiment went into this album and it shows. It is CL’s world and we’re just living in it!
4. SHINee’s TaeMin
Released right before his military enlistment, TaeMin’s 3rd mini-album “Advice” was a cultural reset, to say the least. From the visual concept to the sonic aesthetic, everything about his comeback screamed perfection and it rightfully received accolades from all over the world, fans and critics alike.
5. EXO’s Kai
Swooping in and making 2021 even more special than it already was, Kai’s solo comeback made us fall in love with him all over again. Going above and beyond what anyone was expecting, ‘Peaches’ gave us a gentle and sweet taste, just like the fruit itself. Needless to say, we were addicted.
6. HyunA & SunMi (Tied)
When HyunA makes a comeback, the world stops to witness her grandeur. She bloomed and flourished this year with her solo comeback as well as her unit debut with DAWN. “I’m Not Cool” took over the world, in simple words, and it still remains iconic. SunMi’s range is enviable and her most significant release this year, “1/6” is a celebration of her musical spectrum. From alt-rock to rap, SunMi does it all and with the utmost perfection.
7. WonHo and Lee Hi (Tied)
WonHo’s music this year was not just pleasantly versatile but it also helped establish his signature sound in the industry. His talent shone brighter than ever and the world basked in his bright, happy light. 2021 was Lee Hi’s year of expansion in more ways than one. She dropped music like blessings from above and we couldn’t help but feel grateful that we live in the same timeline as her.
8. GOT7’s JAY B
JAY B’s first-ever solo EP “SOMO: FUME” had the world reeling from its aftereffects. This is JAY B like we’ve never seen before and that is exactly what makes this mini-album that much more impactful. It is interesting to see him explore new avenues in music after being rather restricted in terms of genres and styles and we can’t wait for more.
9. WOODZ
As always, WOODZ’s music is beyond any and all comparison or criticism. His art is not something to be analyzed but rather to be experienced and “ONLY LOVERS LEFT” is no exception. From immaculate lyricism to otherworldly visuals, this album served everything we could have ever asked for.
10. ASTRO’s MJ
MJ’s solo debut truly brought out the essence of his musicality and most importantly, made his dream come true. ‘Get Set Yo!’ was not just experimental with no rhyme or reason but a carefully worked on piece of art that left a wonderful impression on the music industry. We hope that there will be even more amazing music from MJ in 2022. These Were The Kpopmap Tweets You Loved The Most In 2021 Kpopmap Highlights 2021|Dec 9, 2021
