In a surprising turn of events, the animated movie "KPop Demon Hunters" has made waves in the music industry, with its fictional bands dominating US charts. Within just two weeks of its release, the film has garnered over 33 million views on Netflix, becoming the most streamed movie globally. On Friday, the song "Your Idol" by Saja Boys, a fictional boy band from the movie, took the top spot on the US Spotify chart, making them the highest-charting male K-pop group in Spotify's history, surpassing the iconic BTS. Meanwhile, the song "Golden" by girl group Huntr/x reached number two on the same chart, overtaking Blackpink as the highest-charting female K-pop group.
Fictional K-pop Groups Surpass BTS and Blackpink on US Charts
Fictional K-pop Groups Surpass BTS and Blackpink on US Charts
A popular animated K-pop film has led fictional bands to outperform major real-life K-pop acts in current US music rankings.
The film's soundtrack has even made it into the top 10 of the Billboard 200, marking the highest debut for a soundtrack this year. The song "Golden" is set to be released as an official single via Republic Records, and Netflix is pushing it for awards consideration. Following the escapades of the all-female band Huntr/x, the storyline reveals their secret life as demon hunters, using their music to defend fans against supernatural threats. Their analog band, the Saja Boys, is portrayed as demon characters tasked with stealing the souls of Huntr/x's devotees.
Produced by Sony Pictures Animation and directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, "KPop Demon Hunters" features contributions from notable producers like Teddy Park, known for his work with Blackpink, and BTS collaborator Lindgren, which might explain its impressive reception.
The film's success coincides with BTS's much-anticipated return to the music scene, as they announce plans to launch a new album and tour following their members' military service. Meanwhile, Blackpink gears up for their inaugural all-stadium world tour, promising new music to their fans.
As the landscape of K-pop continues to evolve, this unexpected success story raises questions about the blending of animation and music and its impact on the industry's giants.
Produced by Sony Pictures Animation and directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, "KPop Demon Hunters" features contributions from notable producers like Teddy Park, known for his work with Blackpink, and BTS collaborator Lindgren, which might explain its impressive reception.
The film's success coincides with BTS's much-anticipated return to the music scene, as they announce plans to launch a new album and tour following their members' military service. Meanwhile, Blackpink gears up for their inaugural all-stadium world tour, promising new music to their fans.
As the landscape of K-pop continues to evolve, this unexpected success story raises questions about the blending of animation and music and its impact on the industry's giants.
