Beyond the Bias: Rising Asian and Asian-American Boy Bands You Need to Pay Attention To
Kimberly Szeto's one of Notes on K-pop's summer fellows. She has been a passionate K-pop fan for over 15 years. She currently works in the AAPI nonprofit space, and is a freelance consultant for other clients. She is hoping to expand into entertainment journalism, with a focus on AAPI stories.
Tamar: When Kimberly came to me with over 3 dozen different articles to pitch, it felt like she had so much to say that no single piece would ever be able to capture the entirety because she clearly has a lot to say about K-pop and related topics. We played around with her maybe writing a few separate pieces, but kept coming back to wanting to cover more and more talent, and share them with the world. There's too much music and too many artists out there to write about them all, but Kimberly's compelling way of introducing these artists is going to make everyone want to add them to their playlists.
I've always been obsessed with music—from Disney soundtracks to my parents' 80s Hong Kong tunes as a kid, to my love of K-Pop since the good ol' second-gen days. Music has meant the world to me, not just as a listener but as a musician. Playing multiple instruments and singing in choir allowed me to express myself in ways words couldn't. It's been a constant source of inspiration, grounding me through every chapter of life. Music connects me to my roots, lifts me in moments of joy, and comforts me in times of sorrow—an emotional anchor and a true passion.
Over the years, my taste in music has grown. Lately, I've found myself thinking a lot about some hidden gems that deserve way more attention, beyond the usual mainstream scene. In K-pop, there's the idea of "nugu" groups, derived from the Korean word for "who?" in comparison to popular acts, which tend to be where most people find their faves, or biases. But as much as we love our faves and the mainstream artists, there's a wealth of talent and diversity among lesser-known groups that deserves recognition. Who knows—they might just be the next big thing.
If you’re still rooting for your favorite trainees who didn’t make it into ZeroBaseOne after competing on Boys Planet, you’re in luck because there’s a lot of Asian idol groups out there lately that feature Boys Planet contestants, including AMPERS&ONE, EVNNE, LOONG9, and ONE PACT.
Beyond the Boys Planet buzz, there are some other incredible bands making waves internationally. From NYC’s bustling streets to Honolulu’s chill vibes, these bands, some dance oriented boy bands and some more traditional instrumental bands, are carving out their own spaces in the music scene. Whether you’re into Cantopop, pop-punk, indie jams, or funky soul, these bands have got you covered.
These up-and-coming acts have been living rent-free in my playlist for the past few years, and honestly, I'm not even mad about it. If you’re ready to shake up your playlist and go beyond the big K-pop names we all adore, now’s the perfect time to hit play! Let’s go on a treasure hunt for those underrated gems and dig up some fresh talent together—because there’s a whole world of music out there waiting to be discovered, and trust me, it’s way more exciting than you think.
AMPERS&ONE
When Kamden and Brian didn’t make it into the final lineup to debut with ZeroBaseOne, I was gutted. Like many fans, I was devastated by Jiho’s early exit before the world got to see his full potential. But then AMPERS&ONE debuted in late 2023 with their single album Ampersand One, featuring the addictive track “On And On.” Along with familiar faces from Boys Planet, the group brings in fresh talents like Siyun, Kyrell, Mackiah, and Seungmo.
Their international mix of members hailing from Canada, the USA, Australia, and Korea adds a vibrant cultural flavor to their performances. Their music blends K-pop with Western influences, blending catchy hooks, intricate vocal harmonies, and dynamic instrumentals. This fusion creates a sound that's both refreshing and accessible to global audiences while retaining that signature K-pop flair. Their name, AMPERS&ONE, represents the unity of diverse backgrounds into one cohesive unit, symbolizing their goal of merging talents and cultures into something truly unique. Their sound is a perfect balance of energetic pop beats, smooth R&B undertones, and a sprinkle of EDM, giving their tracks a modern yet versatile edge.
EVNNE
EVNNE, formed from fan favorites who missed out on the ZeroBaseOne lineup, has quickly made waves with their dynamic sound and captivating performances. With standout tracks like "Trouble" and "UGLY," EVNNE showcases a mix of rebellious energy and emotional depth that’s hard to ignore. EVNNE's latest track, "Badder Love," offers a refreshing summer sound with a bright pop beat with a super melodic, nostalgic vibe and youthful energy that makes it a standout bop.
Personally, I’m particularly drawn to Keita, an exceptional all-rounder whose versatility shines in every performance, and Seungeon, whose powerful vocals truly stand out. Their collective talent and the group’s fresh, bold approach make EVNNE a must-listen. Their music not only entertains but also delivers a message of breaking boundaries and making an impact, embodying the very essence of their name, "Evening’s Newest Etoiles."
LOONG9
For those wondering what happened to Yuehua's Ollie, who ranked 26th on Boys Planet... He’s thriving! After competing on Asia Super Young, a Hong Kong star-search program produced by TVB and Youku, Ollie landed in the debut lineup for LOONG9.
LOONG9 released their debut album, First Light, on August 26, 2024. Their name, inspired by the powerful symbolism of the Chinese dragon, ties in with 2024's Year of the Dragon. Although the group consists of 12 members, only nine are currently promoting, with subunits LOONG 9-V focusing on Hong Kong and LOONG 9-S targeting Mainland China. Their music seamlessly blends pop, hip-hop, and R&B, paired with intricate choreography and visually captivating concepts. Since their debut, LOONG9 has been actively engaging fans through their dynamic performances and variety show appearances, steadily building a devoted fanbase both in China and internationally.
ONE PACT
ONE PACT is a musical powerhouse that brings together top talents from Boys Planet—Jay Chang, Jongwoo, Oh Seongmin, and Yedam along with TAG who was supposed to be on the show. This group embodies nostalgia and fresh energy, creating an irresistible blend of charisma and skill. Their debut single, “Must Be Nice,” is an instant earworm that highlights their unique sound, seamlessly blending harmonized vocals in a way that’s reminiscent of second-generation K-Pop tracks. If you haven’t listened yet, you're missing out on a track that's bound to stick in your head.
The name ONE PACT combines “one” and “impact,” symbolizing their mission to unite and make a significant impact. Their fandom, &HEART, reflects the idea of a continuous and inevitable connection with their audience. With a successful pre-debut tour in Japan and Thailand and a dynamic debut EP, Moment, ONE PACT is poised to make waves in the music scene. Their performances and engaging content promise to captivate listeners and create a lasting impression.
Cheers for Nothing
Pop punk isn’t dead—it’s alive and thriving with Cheers for Nothing. This San Francisco Bay Area band brings all the feels of 2000s Sk8er Boi Avril Lavigne and blink-182. Cheers for Nothing dropped their first single, “Hello, Goodbye,” back in high school in 2014 when they decided to get serious about music. Before heading off to different colleges, they recorded in Panda Studios in Fremont, CA the same studio as their favorite rock bands The Story So Far and Basement, and pop group State Champs—talk about a full-circle moment! After their first year of college, they dropped "What I Haven’t Done” in 2016, a breakup anthem born from one of their members' first heartbreaks.
Fast forward to 2023, after a seven-year hiatus, they hit us with “WONDER,” a collab track with old bandmate and now soloist RAX. The pandemic pulled them back into the music scene, jamming and creating once again.
Keep an ear out for their new EP New Highs, Same Lows dropping later this year, with singles arriving in September and October before the album arrives in full in November. This EP is about navigating through the ups and downs of life - while growing to appreciate that one's happiness can't exist without experiencing moments of sadness.
Made II Order
From the shores of Honolulu comes Made II Order, a three-member band made up of longtime friends that started by street-performing in Waikiki and now creating a feel-good sound with a tropical twist. Their mix of R&B, funk, rock, and K-pop has earned them a loyal following, with each genre adding a unique layer to their eclectic, groove-driven vibe. By blending soulful harmonies, infectious beats, and smooth yet funky instrumentation, Made II Order brings a refreshing fusion of cultures and rhythms.
Their catchy track “Disastrous Girl” has even made waves on iHeartMedia's PoP! 101.9, an Asian Top 40 station that broadcasts K-pop and other Asian hits. Whether you're vibing to “Disastrous Girl” or swaying to “Whisper Dreams,” their music feels like the perfect soundtrack for chilling at the beach or cruising around town. They've already earned their stripes playing at local hotspots, and their infectious energy will definitely make you want to hit replay.
MIRROR
MIRROR has been dominating the Cantopop scene since their debut in 2018.This 12-member boy band, formed through King Maker, features some of Hong Kong's biggest idols, like Keung To, Anson Lo, and Edan Lui. Their discography has an addictive quality, with hits like "一秒間 One Second" and "Boss" blending pop, EDM, and rock elements, showcasing their versatility. Their songs often speak to the emotions and experiences of young people, making their music relatable and resonant.
But MIRROR isn't just about music. Many members have jumped into acting, starring in local dramas like the BL sensation Ossan's Love and the all-member project We Are the Littles. During the pandemic, they became symbols of hope, lifting spirits with their music, performances, and omnipresent media appearances. They’ve endorsed everything from fashion to fast food, cementing their status as Hong Kong’s leading pop idols.
Their success has sparked a resurgence of Cantopop, ushering in a new era of pride for local music. MIRROR's diverse talents, charisma, and wide appeal make them essential listening for anyone interested in Hong Kong’s music and pop culture.
THREE1989
Japan’s THREE1989 is a standout band that masterfully blends the nostalgic allure of 80s city pop with the richness of soul, creating a sound that's both refreshing and timeless. Their music resonates with fans of retro vibes while incorporating a modern edge. With lead singer Shohei, known for his appearance on Terrace House: Opening New Doors, the band has a charismatic frontman who brings an extra layer of intrigue to their performances.
Tracks like "High Times" and "UMBRELLA" are perfect examples of their signature style. "High Times" captures the upbeat, infectious energy of 80s city pop, while "UMBRELLA" offers a smooth, soulful groove that showcases the band's versatility. THREE1989 offers a compelling mix of retro 80s city pop and modern soul, making them a must-listen for fans of music that combines nostalgic vibes with a contemporary, funky twist.
Honorable Mention: Chanpan
While not a boy band, I would be remiss not to introduce you to Chanpan, a rising Asian American trio blending the dance pop of PinkPantheress, jazzy soul of Hiatus Kaiyote, and superstar spunk of NewJeans into a brand new sound. Chanpan features Grace Dumdaw and twin brothers Matthew and Lance Tran. Their journey from busking in NYC's Chinatown to topping Spotify charts with singles like "Jungle" and "ooweeooweeoo" highlights their creative energy and cultural authenticity. Praised by Vogue and New York Times’ T Magazine, their music captures modern, universally appealing sounds.
What truly sets Chanpan apart is their seamless fusion of Asian American roots with contemporary sounds, using playful commentary to tackle social issues. Their upcoming single "Election Year" reflects this blend of artistry and advocacy, championing grassroots community-building. As both musicians and advocates, their music resonates with those seeking a balance of reflection and fun, making Chanpan a must-listen.
Chanpan just released an EP titled air ride + ❥attack and is gearing up to join Japanese artist Haru Nemuri on her North American tour from San Francisco to New York, running from late September through mid-October.
