Underrated K-pop Soloists You Should Listen To
Soloists: they’re singers who perform alone. In an industry where idols performing in large groups is the standard, soloists can be a bit of a rarity. While there are soloists you’ve probably heard of, such as Sunmi or Hyuna, I want to highlight some soloists with smaller fandoms today.
Jini
A former member of NMIXX who went solo, Jini released her album "An Iron Hand In A Velvet Glove" on October 11th, 2023. It features five tracks, including the title song "C'mon," which is sung completely in English. Keeping the song in its original language from its demo was a unique choice that Jini made, and not her company. This is one example of Jini’s inner strength, hence the reason her album's title is "An Iron Hand In A Velvet Glove.”
Yein
Yein first debuted with the K-pop girl group Lovelyz back in 2014. When her group went on an indefinite hiatus seven years later, she made her solo debut with the digital single “Plus n Minus.” It’s a citypop track with a catchy bassline, and fans immediately fell in love with its laid back vibe.
Ashley Alisha
The composer and lyricist behind Itzy’s “Icy” and Loona’s “Satellite” is none other than Ashley Alisha. While her main job is writing for K-pop artists, she makes music of her own. “One More Last Time” is a fantastic song with Loona/Red Velvet vibes for anyone who likes that sound.
You Dayeon
You Dayeon is a former member of the girl group LIPBUBBLE and a former contestant on Girls Planet 999. She was the group’s main vocalist and lead dancer. She made her solo debut on October 20, 2023 with the single "Down Down Down.” It’s a catchy, sweet-sounding dance song that’s very on trend right now.
Bamsen
Bamsen is an artist who falls more under the Korean R&B genre of music. In her song “My name is,” she demonstrates her wide range of vocals, and her other notable song “Summer breeze” has an addictive electronic/alternative instrumental. If you’re a fan of R&B or hip hop as well as pop, you’re going to like Bamsen.
