Top 10 Iconic BTS Moments
#10: I Need U Breaks Through
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It’s crazy to think of now, but BTS was not always wildly successful. In fact, the group struggled through their first few years in the industry. Everything changed with the release of “I Need U.” With its more emotional lyrics, and eclectic musical influences, the song was a departure from their previous releases. The change up paid off though, and it netted them their very first Korean music show win. This attracted a flood of new fans both in Korea and overseas. “I Need U” also marked the beginning of the BTS Universe, a complicated interconnected narrative that has played out across subsequent music videos. This was a landmark moment hinting at everything that BTS would become.
#9: Dear Class of 2020
By 2020 BTS had become more than a music group, they were bonafide role models. In the midst of having their own year upended by the Covid-19 Pandemic, they joined with other celebrities to send out messages of hope and congratulations to the graduating class of 2020 around the world. As part of the event the group performed several of their songs, including “Mikrokosmos,” a love letter to their fans that has gained new significance during lockdown. The highlight was in the personal remarks of each member though. In a mixture of Korean and English they shared their own memories, concerns, and words of inspiration. Their heartfelt speeches showed why so many people feel a genuine connection to BTS.
#8: Their First Billboard Music Award “24th Billboard Music Awards” (2017)
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2017 was another big turning point for BTS. They were still flying high off the success of their 2016 “Wings” album, as well as their 2017 singles “Spring Day” and “Not Today.” Yet somehow they were still humble when they got their first Billboard Music Award in May of that year. Accepting the award for Top Social Artist they gave all the credit, as they always do, to ARMY. This win was the real start of BTS’ breakthrough in the US, drawing millions more fans to this impressive group. The Billboard cred gave them the perfect pick-up line to be ready with.
#7: Their SNL Appearance “Saturday Night Live” (1975-)
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Many musical artists dream of reaching the milestone that is the SNL guest spot. For BTS, the first Korean group to have that honor, it was especially significant. And these guys never let an opportunity go to waste. In their two performances of the night they showed American audiences exactly how versatile they are. Boy With Love gave us something bright, wholesome, and undeniably catchy. Then came Mic Drop. The group’s b-side single is BTS at their most badass. With the powerful, complex choreography they are known for, and a pulse pounding beat “Mic Drop” is less an introduction than it is a musical kick through the door. Watching these two songs you’d think there was nothing BTS couldn’t do. And you’d be right.
#6: BTS Week on “The Tonight Show” “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” (2014-)
Though the pandemic kept BTS at home in South Korea for most of 2020, they didn’t let that keep them from reaching audiences all around the world. Their week-long collaboration with Jimmy Fallon was the gift that international ARMYs desperately needed. Over five nights they had us smiling non-stop with segments like the Zoom Olympics, and exclusive interviews. They also did not disappoint when it came to the special performances they recorded. Once again, they left no doubt about their dimensions as artists from the chill “Home,” to the stunning “Black Swan” to the firepowered rendition of “Idol” at Gyeongbokgung Palace. It just might have been the best week of all 2020.
#5: 2020 Entertainer of the Year
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Things just keep getting bigger and bigger for BTS. After years of momentum and then releasing not one, but two massively successful albums in 2020, it seemed only fitting when Time Magazine named the group Entertainer of the Year. Speaking in their interview with the magazine, the members were thoughtful and reflective both in terms of their own careers and the implications their success might have for k-pop as a whole. Considering everything BTS has accomplished in their nearly eight years together, the one thing that remains clear is how much they deserve their success. They continue to be serious about their work, devoted to their fans, and refreshingly grounded in spite of their fame.
#4: Their American TV Debut “45th Annual American Music Awards” (2017)
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Several months after their win at the Billboard Music Awards, BTS finally gave their first performance on a US broadcast when they appeared at the 2017 American Music Awards. Armed with their then-recent single “DNA,” BTS showed up prepared to slay. And slay they did. Overcoming some technical issues with their mics, the group electrified the audience with the addictive song, eye-catching visuals, and killer choreography. Though they were supported by a strong showing from ARMY at the event, most people watching the AMAs probably had no idea who BTS was before the show. Safe to say that was not the case afterwards. This group had clearly announced they were one to pay attention to.
#3: “Map of the Soul: 7” Blows Up
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Released in early 2020 as a culmination of the first seven years of BTS’ journey, “Map of the Soul: 7” is without a doubt their best album to date. It debuted at Number 1 on the Billboard charts with songs that run the gamut from striking vulnerability to powerful swagger. The single, “ON, ” the first Korean group song to debut in the Hot 100’s Top 5, is a strong reflection of the album as a whole. In this anthemic banger, iconically performed at Grand Central Station, BTS is at the top of their game in every way. The fighting spirit in the song makes it clear that they don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. The best is still to come for the Bangtan Boys.
#2: Their United Nations Speech
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One of the most admirable things about BTS is their commitment to using their platform for a greater good. In 2018 they were invited to address the United Nations about their Love Yourself initiative and UNICEF’s #EndViolence campaign. Speaking on behalf of the group, leader RM gave an eloquent account of his own experiences. BTS’ belief in empowerment through self-love has been central to their messaging for years now. They used the considerable podium of the UN to broadcast that philosophy even more widely, calling out to people all over the world with a message of compassion and support. More than just performers, BTS has proved willing to step up and be the voice that so many need to hear. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. Carpool Karaoke, “The Late Late Show With James Corden” (2015-) Ride Along With These Seven Guys? We Could Do That All Day Every Day “Boy With Love” Their Record Smashing Collaboration With Halsey Had Us All Saying “Oh My, My My” The Dance Break, “12th Annual Melon Music Awards” (2020) Even With Suga Temporarily Sidelined This “Dynamite” Remix Broke the Internet Hide & Seek, “The Late Late Show With James Corden” (2015-) The Whole Segment is Gold, But We Think Jungkook Deserves a Special Shoutout Their Debut, “M Countdown” (2004-) Despite Mixed Reception, This Performance Marks A Momentous Beginning
#1: Their First Grammy Nomination “63rd Annual Grammy Awards” (2021)
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BTS has never made any secret of their big ambitions. Finally in 2020, their hit single “Dynamite,” earned them their first ever nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. Previously BTS made history as the first Korean group to perform and present at the Grammy awards. For their own nomination they pulled out all the stops in staging their performance. Unable to attend the awards in person, they recreated the experience in a studio, from the stage, to the red carpet, and finally onto a rooftop overlooking all of Seoul. Unfortunately they didn’t take home the award that night. But there’s no doubt their recognition was justified, or that they’ll keep shining through the city like the stars they are.
