BM5's July 2026 Favorites

Favorite Live Performance

Kick Push - Lupe Fiasco x Nu Deco Ensemble

Lupe Fiasco really is a phenomenal lyricist and performer. The fact that we got to hear him with this classic song with a live orchestra is such a treat. If you love good storytelling and fantastic musicians, I don't know what else to tell you but to give this a watch! Honestly, the vibe is immaculate with them playing the beautiful strings of the sample in the original production and the mastery of breath control of Lupe on display. It's great to see more and more hip hop artists getting the chance to show that they are just as virtuosic as classically trained musicians and it's a craft to be respected. Please enjoy!

Favorite Music Discussion

The Sound That Took Over Pop - As Told By JP

This was a really fun find that the algorithm sent my way. This lovely video essay chronicles the time period where R&B's influence and producers slowly proliferated the pop industry through the late 90's and 00's. It was a neat deep dive in how things eventually became more and more akin to the trends that started in the hits in R&B. There was no denying that the lines continued to blur increasingly during that time where the genres began and ended which was clearly due to how the producers of the time were allowed to have their feet planted across both sides of the industry. Check out this cool breakdown for more details.

Favorite Interview

NE-YO - Zach Sang Show

Speaking of R&B, one of the greats in the late 00's and 10's came through on the Zach Sang Show recently. I thought it would be interesting to see how Zach would approach this interview since I don't see a lot of R&B artists on his platform. Though, the major crossover appeal of his music worked in his favor since he was able to dig into many of the hits in his 20+ years in the industry. NE-YO also is just an interesting person to learn more about in general and it made for an intriguing interview overall. I think it's a one to watch to learn more about the prolific songwriter.

Full July 2026 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's June 2026 Favorites

Favorite Anime Discussion

Let's Talk About Samurai Champloo - Mugen

Samurai Champloo is such an amazing show. It's from the fantastic director, Shinichiro Watanabe, and that means style and overarching themes galore, all paired with fantastic music. Sometimes things like that needs to hit you at the right time in life and this review is one that describes why this can be appreciated even today. Because it's always the right time to glean something from this historical, hip hop, action show. It's incredible! But if you don't believe me and don't mind spoilers, check out this review.

Favorite Kpop Discussion

RBW Destroyed Purple Kiss - Lightsoup

Purple Kiss is a group that I've always enjoyed. Their talent was on display with each and every release. Yet, their management definitely left much to be desired. Lightsoup digs into the history and discography of Pur-Ki in this video in a fantastic way. You can see just where RBW failed the group during their career and why it's a shame that we had to watch them disband much earlier than expected. Give it a watch with Purple Kiss on bloody top!

Favorite Live Performance

Tiny Desk Performance: Bow Wow - NPR Music

Bow Wow was a young inspiration when I saw him make it big. It was incredible to see someone be able to create hits the way that he did and crossover into acting and hosting shows. Now over the years, people may have forgotten where he started from and what he gave to the game culturally through his music. They may just remember the famous relationships and infamous "fake flexing" he portrayed. Though, this performance is a thorough reminder that he is a phenomenal performer and learned how to move a crowd at a young age. It even was a reminder for me that he's much more than "Marco Polo" & "Calvin" from Like Mike.

Full June 2026 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's May 2026 Favorites

Favorite Kpop Comeback

The Collective Soul and Unconscious: Chapter Two - Billlie

Above is one of my favorite songs, Work, from the new album from Billlie. I believe that this body of work is such a fun and explorative listen that showcases why Billlie is one of my favorite groups to follow. They are incredible recording artists and it all translates to their live performances vocally as well as through their choreography! I love their journey through many cool corners of EDM on the album while maintaining some colors of their jazzy approach to much of their discography. I highly recommend listening to make your own opinion!

Favorite Campaign Trailer

This is Sera: The Becoming of a Former K-Pop Idol - Jamiya Wilson Studio

As a VIP member of Ryu Sera's fan club, I heard rumblings about this project pretty early on. I'm excited to now spread the news of this documentary in the works finally as well as promote sending in your support. Jamiya & Sera are also putting their own money into the series to delve into many aspects of her life from before, during, and after her idol life. I believe this will be amazing to see come to fruition and any support will be appreciated. I just ask you give this a watch to determine if you'd be interested in this being made and distributed on a major scale.

Favorite Kpop Debut

Lost in Proof - Heart of Woman

Despite not having been able to check out the album at this point, I definitely wanted to show my love to this new group strictly from the title track. Heart of Woman is a new group that I simply saw some advertisements for leading up to their debut. I don't often let these influence who I dive into, but I gave them a shot this time and was pleasantly surprised. They came with budget in the video and great music production too. I would definitely say that they are similar to the sound Kiss of Life started with. Therefore, depending on how you feel can get you excited or worried. I lean towards anticipating what they have to offer, especially since I've seen others praise the rest of the album already. So an album reaction will be in the works...

Favorite May 2026 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's April 2026 Favorites

Favorite Music Discussion

"Why Do You Like Kpop, You're Black" - Indigo Detry

Indigo is a creator that I've been enjoying for quite some time now, and hearing her thoughts as a longtime fan of kpop provides me with more context as a someone with more experience. As a black fan myself, this question has come up and the way that Indigo seems to approach the inquiry herself I feel mirrors much of my own. When it comes to culture, especially African-American culture, appreciation/appropriation is always a conversation that is inevitable to wrestle with when it comes to kpop and there's a lot of nuance that must be considered with it. Ultimately, it does come to each person's individual guidelines, but I think it helps to hear multiple perspectives, like the one I recommend here.

Favorite Comeback

Nail - Yves

She did it again! I tell you, Yves is on an absolute tear!! This is certainly going to be one of my favorite title tracks from her ever and I already had high praise for some of her last singles. Yet, it doesn't end there, since the album itself is quite an enjoyable listen. She continues to explore the varied styles of electronic and alternative pop in ways that are so pleasing to the ears, in my opinion. My favorite song is still the title, though. If you need a taste, the best morsel is to start here to whet your appetite.

Favorite Interview

Kehlani on Complex News

Kehlani had a lovely interview with Complex News, as well as Sway in the Morning, but it all marks the release of her self-titled album. She takes these great interviews to sit down and connect with her audience, and in this case, the interviewer. The openness and determination to also reinforce the importance of bringing the soul back into mainstream R&B has been much appreciated. I always love getting into the heads of creatives and their creations when they release. I think this was a fun one to explore right before diving head first into the stellar album.

Full April 2026 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's March 2026 Favorites

Favorite Interview

Tiffany Pollard is an Iconic Guest - Ziwe

Tiffany Pollard was introduced to the world and myself as New York from Flavor of Love. Ever since that time on the reality TV show, she has continued to stay on our TV screens and social media as an infamous celebrity. Her demeanor is both iconic and magnetizing, but combine that with the wry comedian Ziwe and you're in for an amazing time! To see these two worlds and personalities collide is quite entertaining and I have to say that this will go down as another classic interview from Ziwe. Maybe give it a watch.

Favorite Comeback

Code - Everglow

The great return of Everglow!!! Do I need to say more? Okay, I will. I'm so happy that they have gotten to move away from their old label and continue on as a group, even if all of the members weren't able to join the comeback. They come through with a title track that fits in snuggly to their usual song, but still tantalizes the eardrums. I highly recommend giving the whole EP a listen! Welcome back, ladies!

Favorite Kpop Interview

Asking Yves to Rank Every Yves Song - InternetsNathan

We have another Kpop Ranked with a former LOONA lady and I couldn't be anymore pleased. It was intriguing to see how she views her history and discography firsthand here. I only wish there were a couple of the songs that got to be included in the rankings because there were some that had music videos (namely Ex Machina) that still didn't quite get a mention. Other than that, it was a great watch and I think any fan would find it worth their time.

Full March 2026 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's February 2026 Favorites

Favorite Singles

Cotton Candy Sky - RUSSELL!

You know a guy has to love his Russell releases. This month we have 2, but I enjoy this one most. It brings his raps back along with the singing. The production on the track is candy for the ear with two different vibes between the halves. He brought such a throwback vibe to the track that I couldn't help, but love it. It's nicely confessional with subtle punchlines throughout which is one of my favorite modes he gets in. Tell me if it fits your vibe, too.

Backseat - Lngshot

The debut of Lngshot has simply been phenomenal from the beginning to end, in my opinion. The greatest thing about it is the fact we got my favorite track from the EP as the last music video. The support that Jay Park's More Vision label is putting behind the group is fantastic to see as they came to the scene with such a solid showing. I'm excited to see where the group goes from here, for sure. They'll never take a backseat for now!

Favorite Kpop Discussion

Why Kpop Will Never Have Real Music Critics - Wireshred

This is something that I've thought from time to time. Just that title alone is a statement I find as an intriguing premise. As someone who actually does do some criticism, I do feel that I'm always pretty light on kpop. The genre as a whole is a full experience that doesn't just include the music, which also can lead to bias. Granted, this can happen in other music scenes, too, but when taking into consideration the consumers of the content, people tend to be set in their opinions or bias rather than accepting more balanced critiques. Though, maybe more people will be brave and be more objective with their takes, unafraid of rabid fanbases to come. Who knows if they could generate an audience?

Full February 2026 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's January 2026 Favorites

Favorite Comebacks

Disc 2 Track 2 - J. Cole

Having Cole back is such a joy! The long awaited Fall Off was teased with this new music video along with an album trailer. It couldn't build the hype up enough!! This track is gracefully written to chronicle J. Cole's life backwards from death to birth in an awe-inspiring way. It's not only the concept itself that makes it so captivating, but also the fact that he does it keeping the same rhyme pattern throughout the entire track. Rap nerds rejoice!! Oh, and I'm a rap nerd. I'm curious what else he has in store for us. Plus, I still have his Birthday Blizzard mixtape to check out still. Give the boy a chance!

Cloud Palace ~ Before Sunset live - Billlie

It's been sooo long since we've had a new Billlie comeback with the whole group. The way they decided to spoil us with our first taste with 5 different versions of the pre-release is such a blessing, too! Normally, remix albums I approach with little acknowledgement, yet with this group delivering 2 differing LIVE performances and 2 studio remixes with alternate approaches that still match Billlie's various colors: I am FLOORED! Plus, one of the versions give reference to other Billlie songs in the most tasteful way. I'm beyond excited for the full comeback. Have you heard about Billlie?

Favorite Music Discussion

How to Become a K-Pop Superstar (TED Talk) - Charlene Kaye

As such a huge kpop fan as I've become, to have Miko suggest checking out this a quick excerpt of this was a smart move. I instantly saw that a full TED talk was available to view and I had to chuckle the whole way through! Charlene is a comedian who also had dreams of kpop stardom, but realized it wasn't going to happen in this lifetime. Yet it didn't stop here from breaking down the multitude of elements needed to achieve your goal as an idol, whether male or female! If you have a sense of humor and love the genre like I do, I highly recommend this dose of laughs.

Full January 2026 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's December 2025 Favorites

Favorite Music Video

Non-Stop - HANA

HANA just continues to stun me, ya'll. I don't know why, but I never expected them to come out with another rap centric track, yet they did and with style! The production of the track had me jamming with the baile funk start to the trap influenced core to the rest of the track. It rocked my world with the trading verses and catchy chorus that succinctly described my journey with the group: "Who's HANA?" turning into "Where's HANA?" I need more, and so do you! So it's right here for you.

Favorite Single

Sag Harbor - Tyler, the Creator

If there's one thing Tyler is going to do, it's drop some heat out of the blue. He did it again to cap off the year with an ill track that has him reflecting on the successful year that he's had along with the bit of controversy he's faced with some of his fan base. It's amazing how he's grown into an artist that can float between these topics with ease and pizazz. The beat, the lyrics, and the flows just captivate you and leave you wanting more. Therefore, I'll be jamming this right beside the album, Don't Tap the Glass for quite some time. Care to join me?

Favorite Anime Discussion

Why is Gachiakuta So Black? - Meanie Mosey

Gachiakuta is a newer anime that has been released that I've enjoyed quite heavily during the Fall 2025 season. The action, style, and characters have been something that have piqued my interest with each episode. Though, it wasn't long until I started to realize that there's a lot of others that have been feeling similarly and that the trend is that they're my complexion. This video was one of the few that I feel kind of goes into some of the features of the show (especially when watching it dubbed) that attracts black anime fans to this series. Though, I also just have to give respect to the creator for also honoring some of our culture that inspired parts of the franchise. What do you think?

Full December 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's November 2025 Favorites

Favorite Single

Little Miss - Girlset

VCHA is officially a thing of the past! It has been for a while really, but this was the true reset the members needed for their rebrand. They tried setting things off with their transition single, Commas, but the true mark they required to make a statement was this tune right here! The Y2K pop R&B vibes are in full effect and it seems like they truly got to define what their new direction will be and it fits like a glove. Them and the labels their on know it, too, since the marketing push behind this has been on 10 ever since. Though, I don't blame them. What about you?

Favorite Collaboration

PS118 - Jurin Asaya feat. Rapsody

When I saw that this new single from one of the XG girlies was going be a collaboration with Rapsody, I knew I would be astonished. I hit play and instantly knew that this would be a barfest. Punchlines and smooth flows kept zooming past at every turn and I loved how it all fit the intergalactic theme of XG as a whole. It was also pleasing to hear how smooth these lyrics were over the production, but that Jurin actually got to contribute to some of the writing herself alongside the veteran, Lyricks. This is a collab for the books, truly. It has me curious what other solos/collabs will come with the album in 2026.

Favorite Live Performance

Goyo Club Performance - Yves

Yves has had a phenomenal year with the deluxe versions of I Did and Soft Error adding to her stellar start of her solo career in 2024. Her capturing a song from each album, including the debut Loop in this quick performance was quite a treat. To hear her vocals be able to sound just like the record, including the soaring vocals of Ex Machina made me respect her growth and ambition as she's grown as an artist in such a short time outside of her past group activities. I continue to be in awe and anticipation of what she'll do next.

Full November 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's October 2025 Favorites

Favorite Music Videos

Ex Machina - Yves

Yves has been on a tear ever since she debuted as a soloist under Paix Per Mil. With the deluxe version of Soft Error, came an extra single called, "Ex Machina". This beautiful track let's Yves' vocals soar and lilt over this acoustic guitar focused tune was paired with a video that could break hearts. It symbolically depicts how relationships can lead to each other's destruction if toxic behavior and dependence is able to run wild. What do we call that? Pure cinema! Please check out this masterpiece for yourself if you haven't already.

Lost and Found - Xdinary Heroes

Xdinary Heroes have become a band that I truly feel I need to cherish more and more with each release. This music video is full proof of that. The message in this one hits so hard with that longing to keep that passion or love for something that seemed to get away from you. It hit me hard, while still making me want to sing along at the top of my lungs...and I don't know Korean like that. Haha. This month's music video shares may make me seem like an emotional mess, but when it moves you, it moves you. Does it do the same for you?

Favorite Documentary

The YouTuber Who Made a Real Anime. - Gigguk

Every longtime fan of anime always wonders, "What if I could make my own anime one day?" Few people have been able to make that a reality, at least those from outside of Japan. This journey was documented for the longtime anime YouTuber Gigguk, and it showed how stressful it truly is to make that dream a reality. It's amazing to even get the opportunity, but as he chronicles what it took to get it to a standard he could accept while capturing his heritage, his personal story, and expressing the appropriate emotions, you see how challenging it can be. For anyone who loves to see the behind the scenes for even a "small" project like this or wants to draw closer to the man behind the channel, Garnt, I highly suggest giving this a watch.

Full October 2025 playlist: click here

BM5's September 2025 Favorites

Favorite Music Video

Shotty - Hyolyn

Ahhhh, Hyolyn has done it again. She came back with a danced focused music video on that R&B tip. Do you know what that means? The attitude is present, the choreo is fierce, and the body...is bodying! This mug produced by the Stereotypes bangs to a level we've needed from Hyolyn for some time after a few summery tunes. Hyolyn's vocals are still on point and so sultry. I think you'll be hard pressed taking your eyes off the screen, no matter who you are. Cause she's not your story!

Favorite Rap Single

Yeah Wynne - Wynne

When I saw this drop in my subscriptions, like every time I see Wynne pop up, I got excited. When I heard the beat after pressing play, I thought, "Oh snap! She's killing other people's beats again!" Glorilla would be proud to hear what Wynne brought to the instrumental. She came with her trademark cool demeanor and witty wordplay along with cheeky finesse. This was just the beginning of what would become a true mixtape for the fans. I couldn't be more excited to listen and to share with all of you.

Favorite Cover

Armageddon (Jazz Version) - ReacttotheK

I always love it when the classical and jazz musicians from this channel put their own spin on kpop songs. Thus, when I saw that they did one of my favorite songs of last year, I was beyond ecstatic! Their cool twist on the track made me giddy inside with the mix of staying true to the composition and adding their own flair at the right moments. If you have never heard one of this channel's covers, I would happily recommend this being one of your first ones. I wonder how Aespa feels about this version...

Full September 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's August 2025 Favorites

Favorite Debut

BOYtude - idntt

Well, Modhaus did it again. They said, "We're going to do a boy group version of tripleS, with 24 members and interchangeable subunit members. Let's show you our first unit with 3 title tracks. You'll love it!" Dang gone it! They were right!!! This group pronounced like "identity" came with the subunit "unevermet" with 3 title tracks on a 6 song EP that is captivating from start to finish. But I had to share the one title track that I voted for, and that won the fan voting process (gravity), as the super title track. It's smooth vibe is to die for. Get that fantastic production and songwriting into your eardrum one time.

Favorite Video Game Discussion

Tekken Fan Teaches You How to Enjoy Tekken - Awkward Jump

As a fan of the series from its inception, Tekken has been a series dear to me for a long time. Therefore, I'm not necessarily the target audience for this video. Yet, the way that Awkward Jump (who's channel is actually reference to this game) describes their affection for this game is exactly how I'd like to present it. I know video games aren't always what we discuss here, but this is still one of the favorites that I had to highlight. Especially since whenever I'm thinking of fighting games, the first series I think of is Tekken. Sorry SF fanboys...

Favorite TV Discussion

Living Single Cast Reveal What Most Fans Never Figured Out - Retrogrooves

Growing up, there were a few sitcoms that would frequent the television screen with my mom. Living Single was one of those series. Little did I know that its impact was far grander than I could have realized, until my adult years. This video is a grand overview on the creation, effect, and hardships the sitcom had to endure over its multiple seasons. It made me appreciate it that much more. In fact, it made me discover that reliving the series at my age is something I need to do as soon as possible. Maybe you'll feel the same after this video essay.

Full August 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's July 2025 Favorites

Favorite Dance Performance

It's Morphkin Time - The Kinjaz

Man, I feel like it's been ages since I've gotten to share purely a dance video. Kinjaz, man, always come through with some amazing moves! They sometimes like to do it with style too. This time they do it with comedy! Growing up on Power Rangers made this a super fun and nostalgic watch. Yet, as usual, the Kinjaz were able to never skip out on flawless technique and fun grooves for the audience to enjoy. So that's what I want you to do. Click above and enjoy this!

Favorite Music Discussion

Why the Industry Tried to Stop the Greatest Rapper of All Time - F. D. Signifier

Hopefully, what's listed above is still the title of this video. F.D. loves to change it up along with his thumbnails every so often. Either way, this is a big video essay all about Lupe Fiasco! I'm a HUGE Lupe fan, and seeing this pop up on my subscriptions was quite the treat. It's a great look into the career of the artist along with a bit of his upbringing. If you're unaware, as an emcee, Lupe Fiasco truly is one of the best to ever do it, but he's struggled to be respected in all demographics as such. This gives you the reason why, while giving him his flowers and criticisms equally. For my hip hop heads, this is for you!

Favorite Comeback

r u ok? - ifeye

There have been sooo many great comebacks this month, from kpop giants to the scene's underdogs. Though, this is one of the groups I never expected to sweep me off my feet. Ifeye debuted earlier this year and I was pleased with it. I certainly found them likable, but I didn't think they may release one of my favorite songs of the year with their follow up. R U Ok? comes with such a fun and upbeat energy that compels me to bounce from beginning to end. Then when you pair that with the choreography and their impressive presence, you've got an addictive experience. Please, oh please give these new ladies a chance and pray they don't slide into nugudom!

Full July 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's June 2025 Favorites

Favorite Live Performance

Day & Night: Unplugged Live - Fifty Fifty

When I tell you that these girls can sing, I mean that these girls can sing and I have the proof. This unplugged version of their latest EP was such a treat to the eardrums. The songs themselves are already quite enjoyable, but to be able to pair it with their live vocals accompanied with live instrumentation is such a treat. I couldn't help but share this with you, if you haven't had the chance to do so yet. I'd stop wasting time though! Click it now!

Favorite Rap Single

So Be It - Clipse

For my hip hop heads out there, I'm sure you need no convincing to check this out. Matter of fact, you probably already knew of this glorious return of the mighty Clipse duo! "Ace Trumpets" was the first release with simply a lyric video, but this second release with the full blown visuals is a delicacy. Some of the slickest bad guy, drug dealer talk paired with the black & white scenes amongst luxury. All of this laid over the most menacing instrumental prepared from Pharrell as the foundation! This is comeback season and Clipse are taking no prisoners. Even Travis Scott caught some shots on this one. You don't want to miss this!

Favorite Interview

XV - The Fully Connected Podcast

If you don't know about XV, then this will show you how close he was to having that be the complete opposite. Growing up as a fellow emcee in Kansas, I had become aware of XV from Wichita as he was becoming one of the most promising rappers from the state. He's crossed paths with some of the biggest names in the industry, but sometimes things don't go the way you expect. His journey was incredible to hear him chronicle in this interview. And even though he's still continuing his career that can reach new heights, I advise you take the time to learn more about the kid with the green backpack now.

Full June 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's May 2025 Favorites

Favorite Music Discussion

Why DJs Play "Old Songs" More Than Current Music - Steezy

This was a fun watch because it was nice to hear what a DJ's explanation of this phenomena is. When you look at the landscape of the music scene and how quickly music can leave the zeitgeist, you can almost come to a similar conclusion as Steezy. The thing that was interesting to hear was just how it affects events where people are gathered for the purpose of dancing to the setlist. Popular music really doesn't have the same reach as it used to, even if it's popular due to the democratization of everyone's listening habits. It's truly fascinating, but better presented in the video above. Why not give it a watch?

Favorite Comeback

Assemble25 - tripleS

I will never tire of tripleS when they always bring a sound that's so captivating. The title track "Are You Alive?" is really eerie, yet driving the piece that continues the trend of catchy "la-la-la's" to the eardrum. While the rest of the tracklist brings more various sounds that the girls are known to deliver from pop-rock, garage, drum n bass, and R&B. So many standout tracks on one project allows me to put the album on repeat for hours without a single skip. This is the perfect follow up to last year's OT24 debut Assemble24.

Favorite Interview

Logic | The Really Good Podcast - Bobbi Althoff

Bobbi, with an "i", is certainly a figure who has brought some controversy with her interview style and how she interacts with a lot of black entertainers. Her deadpan and sometimes disrespectful approach is something she does to most interviewees, regardless of ethnic background, but it always comes off less tactful with those from urban upbringing. Therefore, who knew the perfect match for her would be Bobby, with a "y", who can counter her quick quips and comedy bits with many of his own. He almost takes control of the whole interview making it an interesting watch diving into not only himself, but also Ms. Althoff herself. This definitely turned it into an amusing watch, if I do say so myself.

Full May 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's April 2025 Favorites

Favorite Music Video

Psilocybae - Childish Gambino (Casey Frey)

This has been one of my favorite songs from the 3.15.20/Atavista album for years. It gave me such Andre 3000 vibes circa The Love Below era sprinkled with Donald's typical humor. The storytelling of it drew me with ease and I feel it was easy to picture what the video should look like. Bringing it to life, however is a different story. So imagine my surprise when I see it randomly in my recommended videos, this audio/visual treat presented by Casey Frey. It's perfect for the aura this track exudes and I can't help but share it with all of you. Get lost in the zany adventure with his Psilocybae!

Favorite Singles

KK - Penomeco

When I first came across Penomeco, I knew him for being a pretty entertaining rapper. Down the line, I was requested to check out one of his R&B projects and was impressed once again at his versatility. Then last year, I came to enjoy his Afrobeat inspired Organic2 which finally had me fall in love with his experimentation with the genre. I think he realized that he learned how to excel in the style, because lo and behold a brand new single, KK, has my body rocking all month. Please tell me that I'm not the only who can't deny this groove!

Gnarly - Katseye

Katseye and this pre-release single, man. I know that its release has a polarizing effect on the folks due to the lyrical content and some of the choreography. Though, I have to be honest that I love every bit of this. I totally buy into the supposed satirical nature of the song and the quirkiness of the choreo. Yes, they have a few moves that accentuate certain body parts, but in my opinion, they aren't in ways that I haven't seen worse. A little provocative? Maybe. Overboard? No. It's the embodiment of the influence of the Brat era and hyperpop genre as a whole. And I find it addictive as your local street drug! HAHAHA!!!

Full April 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's March 2025 Favorites

Favorite Music Discussion

The 'Theatre Kids' of the Music Industry are Taking Over - Anthony Aiken, Jr.

We love an appreciation of artists that love the craft of music and showmanship. This is an ode and an observation of the current landscape of the changing tides of the mainstream music scene. I can't help but wholeheartedly agree with his opinion on it too. I, from time to time, hop over to see what Anthony is thinking about in the culture and this was a video I knew I couldn't miss. So, I had a hunch that you shouldn't either. Give it a watch and tell me your thoughts!

Favorite Movie Discussion

Why Joker 2 is a Better Musical Than You'd Think - Mic the Snare

I'm not going to lie; I watched this movie recently and I actually enjoyed the experience. I didn't quite understand what made everyone so disappointed in it. It was quite an interesting presentation of the character in this version of the Batman universe. Soon after, I find this video drop from Mic the Snare and was baffled. In fact, he was able to make me appreciate the movie even more and use his video as a way to change people's mind about giving the musical a chance. So will you?

Favorite Collaboration

Just Us - Jack Harlow feat. Doja Cat

Ah, two figures in hip hop that have such a peculiar reputation in the scene coming together to make a sexy bop. Yeah, sure, give it to me! Hahaha. Now, Jack Harlow is still an artist that has more to prove to me as an emcee, but he knows when he has a hit on his hands. This is definitely one those. It's simply undeniable and the songs for the ladies is one of his fortes as a kid under the Drake tree. Plus, you can disagree that Doja is the perfect candidate to tag in for a joint with this kind of subject matter and production. They make a dynamic duo on this mug and I'm sure he enjoyed every second he got to be up close to the Cat on the video set. Do you think the song is HOT or not?

Full March 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's February 2025 Favorites

Favorite Music Video

High Alone - Jackson Wang

Jackson Wang is quite a visionary when it comes to his solo output. He always puts so much into the art and this is no exception, outside of it being exceptional. Ironic, I know, but I say this because the symbolism of this video is quite powerful. The song itself is a good listen, despite the vocals not being the most coherent. Yet the vibe is certainly felt and having it paired with the visuals is quite a treat! Why not give yourself the pleasure of the experience?

Favorite B-Side

Cherry Sky - Minnie of (G)I-DLE

Minnie's debut solo EP had so many fantastic tunes, but when this mug came on, I instantly knew it would be the one I'd have on repeat. Its easy groove and hypnotic vocals sucked me into a state of euphoria. Pair it with the cherry toned music video and I was enamored by its presentation. If I ever want to give a small entryway into some kpop artists, crossover tracks like this is a easy recommendation. I simply let them know, now imagine being able to get this and more in another language.

Favorite Debut

The Chase - Hearts2Hearts

Although, there was some rumblings about this debut coming around the corner, it honestly took me by surprise! The trance that initial bassline put me in grabbed my interest and the soft chords eased me into a musical high. The sounds continued to wash over my eardrums and I just knew this song would instantly make it to my favorites of the whole year. (Expect to see it at the end of the year list!) The music video for it was also quite intriguing and beautifully shot. It made me forget that I was questioning why SM would be debuting another girl group so soon. The B-side, Butterflies, is also a soulful track that I had to add to the playlist. I can't wait to see how they continue to build onto their sound as I feel they're descendants of my favorite f(x) & Red Velvet songs. I can't suggest them more!

BM5's January 2025 Favorites

Favorite Singles

Nobody - JoJo

Ya'll should know by now: I see JoJo and I click! Why? Because she never misses!!! With the release of her new EP, JoJo led with a couple of new tracks including this one here that just makes me want to jam the whole way through! The drum groove and funky bassline with her phenomenal vocals is a winning combination, and I can't help but share. What are you doing reading this, though? PRESS PLAY!

Love Hangover - Jennie feat. Dominic Fike

Jennie has been steadily counting down to her full solo album release and I think I should breakdown my feelings in the process. With "Mantra", I thought this is a real fun, pop jam for the girlies. I can definitely dig it even if it doesn't hit my most replayed list. Then "Zen" dropped and I believed that it was an interesting listen with more intriguing visuals. It ultimately had me of the mindset of most likely to skip. Next up, brings us "Love Hangover". The placement of it here probably speaks for itself! The video was super fun and the song was absolutely a vibe I could jive with. So much, in fact, that I currently have this as my favorite solo release from her so far. What do you think, though?

Favorite Discussion

Square Enix Party Chat w/ Briana White & John Eric Bentley

Alright, now I know that gaming stuff isn't something that's brought up here often, but I couldn't help myself. Voice acting has always been a career I'm fascinated by and hearing some of their stories about the job and lives are some extremely interesting things to me. The Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy is another thing that has enraptured much of my attention, even with me recently completing the enjoyable, but lengthy "Rebirth" entry. Therefore, being able to listen to Briana (Aerith) and John (Barret) chat about their experiences and journeys was quite delightful. Figured I try to highlight it for you all, as well, this month.

Full January 2025 Favorites playlist: click here

BM5's December 2024 Favorites

Favorite Kpop Music Video

Strategy - Twice feat. Megan Thee Stallion

When this collaboration was announced, I was gagged! Especially after hearing Twice on the remix of Mamushi. I knew that this could be either really dope or really trash; I'm happy to say that it's the former and with them actually getting to meet in person for the music video as well. It's a nice vibe for Twice to add to their discography that sounds like a natural progression and comes across so grown, I have to love it! They never sacrificed their style and Megan got in where she could fit in without taking it too far. I'm thoroughly pleased with this collaboration, so I have to recommend it. Ah!

Favorite Live Performance

Tiny Desk Concert - Doechii

Doechii has truly been rising in visibility lately and this is the fever pitch! Alligator Bites Never Heal is a phenomenal project and this performance of a few of its standout tracks is proof of that. Yet, much more than that, this concert is evidence of the star power and talent that's just waiting to be thrust into the mainstream. As an extremely versatile female artist, she shows that she can rap with the best of them, sing with a few of them, and entertain like a superstar! Please give her your eyes for this set and tell me if I'm lying!

Favorite Music Discussion

Why Kendrick Lamar Won a Pulitzer for DAMN. - Digging the Greats

I know that 2024 has been about Kendrick this and Kendrick that, but even this look back at his previous award-winning work is reason enough to keep him in the zeitgeist. Digging the Greats does a fantastic job looking into the lyrics, production, and sequencing of the 3rd major label album from K. Dot. If you've ever been curious what can make rap a true art form, this dive into this LP is a full demonstration of how. This channel is truly always Digging the Greats!

Full Dec. 2024 Favorites playlist: click here