Subunits Pt. 3: Blast From the Past and Other Shenanigans
Welcome back to the subunits blog ARMY, where we discuss BTS subunit songs and give you some insight on them. Today we look at pre-debut subunits as well as some fan meeting specials. Let’s get right into it!
Graduation Song by j-hope, Jimin, & Jungkook
Sung by j-hope, Jimin, and Jungkook, this track is an adaptation of the song Young Wild and Free, originally by Wiz Khalifa and Snoop Dogg. An adorable music video of baby bangtan was released on February 8, 2013 on BANGTANTV, where we can see the boys messing around on a high school field and enjoying themselves as they lip sync to the lovely sound of the music. With lyrics written by j-hope and Supreme Boi, this song’s message is truly genuine. The pop-rap rendition celebrates being young and graduating. It also references their upcoming debut at the time and how everything was going to change. This pre-debut gem also came with its own making film, which can be found on BTS’ official YouTube channel. Be sure to check it out after listening to the song!
School of Tears by RM, SUGA, & Jin
A hip-hop beat, complete with powerful raps from the trio, this unit made its special appearance during the pre-debut years. In fact, this song was released with the only three members of BTS to have been introduced at that point. Adapted from Kendrick Lamar’s Swimming Pool, this song challenges society and the school system in which they were forced into, and discusses serious topics about youth. Even from the young (international) ages of 18 and 19, RM and SUGA have never failed to produce masterpieces. The two rappers co-wrote the song, and all three members shine throughout. The track was released on January 20, 2013 with a simple yet cool MV on BANGTANTV, and we can all agree that this unit needs a comeback!
Beautiful by j-hope, Jimin, V, & Jungkook
Released on October 1, 2013, this one doesn’t technically count as a pre-debut subunit, but it still marks the beginning of BTS’ music career. Another lovely rendition, this time of Beautiful by Mariah Carey (feat. Miguel), young lyricists j-hope and RM, with the help of Supreme Boi, did an amazing job at re-imagining the song. The sweet lyrics follow the journey of having a crush on someone and wanting to get together. We can find the precious quartet in the cutest music video on BANGTANTV, where they try to win over a girl by serenading her and acting cute. The song was also released on SoundCloud. Later on, the unit came out with a choreography video in June 2014. The dance is minimalistic but great, nonetheless. If you haven’t already, check it out ARMY, you’ll find yourself smiling like an idiot at their precious silliness!
Tony Montana by SUGA & Jimin
From the powerful beat, SUGA’s intense rap, and Jimin’s deep raspy yelling voice, this song oozes with swag. Initially, this track was on SUGA’s first mixtape; Agust D, where he rapped alongside Korean rapper Yankie. With a few alterations made for Jimin’s appearance, the pair served with this version of Tony Montana. Tony Montana is the protagonist in the 1983 movie “Scarface” and is known for entering a life of crime in America in search of being successful. In the song, Agust D talks about money and fame and brags to the haters about being popular and unproblematic. Jimin’s added part consists of him showing off their achievements, listing the venues they’ve sold out despite the disencouragement received over the years. They performed this unforgettable stage at the 3rd Muster.
Otsukare Song by SUGA & j-hope - “SOPE-Me”
How could we talk about fan meeting specials without mentioning this happy mess? The one, the only iconic Otsukare Song marked the debut of SUGA and j-hope’s subunit, notoriously known as SOPE-Me. Written and produced by j-hope himself, this unit was a long time coming. The duo has an ongoing series of VLives called “Hwagae Market” where they open and close the door of the Hwagae Market as they do various things throughout their broadcasts. In one of their episodes, they explained the making process of Otsukare Song and j-hope mentioned that it was made for fun and as a reward for ARMY for working so hard. They performed this song as a surprise at the “BTS Japan Official Fan meeting Vol.3.” It was paired with comedic costumes and a goofy choreography that suited the vibe of the song perfectly. You have worked hard ARMY!
And just like that, we’ve reached the end of the blog for today, but don’t worry ARMY, we’ll be back! In the meantime, be sure to check out our other blogs and let us know what you think on our social media.
Written by: Alice
Edited by: Dae
Designed by: Lira
ARMY Magazine does not own any of the photos/videos shared in our blog. No copyright infringement intended.