Fair Shake Reaction: (EX)IST - Jiwoo

(EX)IST - Jiwoo

(Genre: Pop)

These exist to tantalize you:

Home Sweet Home (Music Video)

Dang Dong (Live Performance)

Erika Justine Reaction (to Home Sweet Home)

Home Sweet Home (Behind the Scenes)

Fair Shake Reaction: Ruby - Jennie

Ruby - Jennie

(Genre: Pop)

Ruby is the name, but she still got gems:

Mantra (Music Video)

Zen (Music Video)

Love Hangover (Music Video)

ExtraL (Music Video)

like JENNIE (Music Video)

Handlebars (Music Video)

Seoul City (Music Video)

The Ruby Interview (w/ Zane Lowe)

Fair Shake Reaction: Alter Ego - Lisa

Alter Ego - Lisa

(Genre: Pop)

Tap into your Alter Ego journey:

Rockstar (Music Video)

New Woman (Music Video)

Born Again (Music Video)

FUTW Solo Ver. (Music Video)

When I'm with You (Music Video)

Dream (Music Video)

Moonlit Floor (Performance Video)

Hot Ones Interview

Fair Shake Reaction: Rosie - Rosé

Rosie - Rosé

(Genre: Pop)

Deep dive into the real Rosie:

APT. (Music Video)

Number One Girl (Music Video)

Toxic Till The End (Music Video)

The Rosie Interview (w/ Zane Lowe)

One Year of Rosie Interview (w/ Zane Lowe)

BM5's 2025 Musical Favorites

BM5's 2025 Musical Favorites

BM5's 2024 Musical Favorites

BM5's 2024 Musical Favorites

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 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

Fair Shake Reaction: Ten - Ten

Ten - Ten

(Genre: Pop)

Related links that are 10/10:

Nightwalker (Music Video)

Nightwalker (Dance Practice)

Dangerous (Dnace Practice)

ReacttotheK Reaction (to Nightwalker)

TheReportCard Reaction (to Nightwalker)

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!

Fair Shake Reaction: Work in Process - Brail Watson

Work in Process - Brail Watson

(Genre: Alternative Rap/R&B)

Process the work down below:

Crown (Lyric Video)

Work in Process (Behind the Music Playlist)

Better B (Lyric Video)

Feelin' Low (Lyric Video)

Pi Freestyle (Lyric Video)

U My Everything Remix (Lyric Video)

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

Fair Shake Reaction: Golden - Jungkook

Golden - Jungkook

(Genre: Pop)

Clicking these links like they're golden:

3D (Music Video)

Seven (Music Video)

Standing Next to You (Music Video)

FiFiZappaReacts (to Seven)

Emeroy Bernardo Reaction (to Standing Next to You Remix)

Apple Music Interview (w/ Zane Lowe)

Fair Shake Reaction: Late Night - Jay Chang

Late Night - Jay Chang

(Genre: Kpop/Pop)

Videos to watch in the late night:

I'll Be There (Music Video)

Rockstar (Music Video)

Rockstar (Dance Practice)

Late Night Medley (Live Performance)

FiFiZappaReacts (to I'll Be There & Rockstar)

BM5's October 2024 Favorites

Favorite Single

APT. - Rose feat. Bruno Mars

POP PERFECTION! Need I say more? Alright, I guess I'll let you know that I was heavily anticipating Rose's first single for her full length album to come. I knew it would eventually happen with her moving to the Black Label, but I had no clue it would be such an upbeat pop rock jam! Bruno Mars was a fantastic addition to the track and provides the exuberance that the game supposedly brings in Korea. I'm ecstatic to discover what else she brings with this album to come, if we get more stellar music at this level!

Favorite Rap Album

Chromokopia - Tyler, the Creator

Tyler, the Creator has risen up my list of artists to always check out. This project definitely solidified that spot to not be removed for some time. The album I feel gets even more personal and vulnerable than before, all while exploring the many different styles of production he's done over the years. The features all add something cool to the tracklist and I don't have a single song that I would remove from the experience. I highly suggest giving this a listen if you like hip hop that's left of center.

Favorite Kpop Album

Performante - tripleS Visionary Vision

I can swear by any tripleS project at this point. The consistency of quality is something that I can rely on without fail! The title track, Hit the Floor, brings a cool, old school hip hop feel that makes you want to dance along. Then the rest of the project continues to jump to the many genres that much of the tripleS units have hopped into before, but it never ceases to entertain. In fact, some genres they elevate like with Choom that has them touch the pop rock style, but lends itself to be compared to an anime opening. TripleS continue to prove true to their tagline: Idol of All Possibilities!

Full October 2024 Favorites playlist: click here

Miko's Music Stats 2023

Keeping with new tradition of 2020, 2021, and 2022, I'm excited to present to you my last.fm music stats for 2023! While 2022's stats were greatly influenced by my "research" for Miko's Music Connection, last year was dominated by my thirst for Korean hip-hop as there was quite an uptick of Korean rappers touring America.

Fair Shake Reaction: Yunhway - Yunhway

Yunhway - Yunhway

(Genre: Alternative Pop/Alternative Rap)

Do you know Yunhway?:

Mistakes (Never Looking Back) (Music Video)

Carpe Diem (Music Video)

Bang & Spit (Live Performance)

Ibiza (Live Performance)

Radio O'Clock Interview

Fair Shake Reaction: Heat - (G)I-DLE

Heat - (G)I-DLE

(Genre: Pop)

They brought the heat, I brought the links:

I Do (Music Video)

I Want That (Music Video)

Form of Therapy Reaction (to I Do)

CaliforniaLuv84 Reaction (to I Want That)

30 Questions (on BuzzFeedCeleb)