NewJeans , the K-pop juggernaut, continues its meteoric rise with a phenomenal Japanese debut marked by chart dominance, innovative cross-cultural collaborations, and a dedicated fanbase.
Less than two years since their explosive debut single "Attention," the group has become a global sensation, topping the Billboard 200 and setting Korean and international charts ablaze. Now, with their latest double single album, "Supernatural," NewJeans is conquering the J-pop market, proving their success to be truly "Supernatural."
NewJeans launched their Japan debut with "Supernatural" on June 21st. Collaborations with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami (who fused his art with NewJeans ' visuals) and musician/designer Hiroshi Fujiwara (who designed NewJeans merch) heightened pre-release.
The Unique Fusion in "Supernatural"
"Supernatural," like their previous releases that breathed new life into '90s and '00s genres, takes on the infectious energy of New Jack Swing. The track boasts a surprising yet captivating bridge from a 2009 song by Japanese singer Manami titled "Back of My Mind." This element, written and produced by the legendary Pharrell Williams, incorporates ad-libs reminiscent of his iconic early work, such as SWV's "Right Here (Human Nature Remix)" .
This nostalgic touch allows NewJeans to pay homage to the past while simultaneously creating a fresh, innovative sound that resonates with Japanese audiences. Further distinguishing "Supernatural" from typical J-pop releases is the use of a captivating blend of Korean, English, and Japanese lyrics throughout the song.
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NewJeans' "Supernatural" debuted at #4 on Oricon Weekly Singles and #8 on Japan Hot 100. Notably, it became the highest-ranking J-pop song on Melon's Top 40, showcasing its global reach
"Right Now," the B-side to "Supernatural," amplified anticipation with its June 16th music video release. The video garnered 10 million views in just 10 days, showcasing the group's loyal fanbase. The track itself featured prominently in various advertisements, creating a strong NewJeans presence leading up to "Supernatural's" release.
The strategic release of "Supernatural" marks NewJeans' official debut in Japan, the second-largest music market globally. To capitalize on this significant event, the group is actively engaging with Japanese audiences. They are appearing on various television shows and holding a special fan meeting called "Bunnies Camp 2024 Tokyo Dome" at the prestigious Tokyo Dome on June 26th and 27th. This commitment to connecting with kpop singers fans directly speaks volumes about NewJeans' dedication to building a strong presence in Japan.