As BTS (방탄소년단) nears the end of its military hiatus, anticipation is building worldwide for their highly awaited comeback in the latter half of 2025. Over the past decade, BTS has not only dominated global charts but also continuously evolved their sound—effortlessly blending genres and pushing the boundaries of K-pop. In celebration of their imminent return, let’s dive into the musical journey of BTS by analyzing 10 of their most iconic songs, each representing a distinct genre or stylistic shift.
No More Dream (2013) – Old-School Rap
BTS debuted with an aggressive, school-rebellious anthem. “No More Dream” is rooted in old-school hip-hop with bold lyrics critiquing societal pressure. The use of heavy bass, DJ scratches, and raw rap deliveries reflects their early hip-hop identity, influenced by 90s Korean and American rap.
Why it’s iconic: It laid the foundation for BTS’s socially conscious voice and introduced their rap line as lyrical powerhouses. Notably, RM and SUGA deliver dense, old-school flow cadences that reflect their pre-debut rap roots.
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I Need U (2015) – Emo Pop / Trap R&B
A turning point in BTS’s discography, “I Need U” blends melancholic melodies with soft trap beats. The track marked their shift from hardcore hip-hop to emotional storytelling through genre-mixing, combining synth-pop with atmospheric R&B elements.
Why it’s iconic: It ushered BTS into mainstream recognition and showcased their emotional depth. Jimin’s fragile falsetto and Jungkook’s smooth transitions add emotional weight to the track’s vulnerability.
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Run (2015) – Alternative Rock
This song builds on youthful angst with energetic guitar riffs, fast-paced drums, and an alternative pop-rock structure. It feels like a fusion between J-rock and Western pop punk, showing their ability to transform lyrical pain into sonic vibrancy
Why it’s iconic: It continued the BTS Universe storyline and highlighted their versatility in blending genres. J-hope’s syncopated verse flow and Jungkook’s rock-forward vocal edge stand out in this mix.
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Blood Sweat & Tears (2016) – Moombahton
This genre-defying hit introduced moombahton—a fusion of reggaeton and house music—to the K-pop scene. With lush visuals and seductive melodies, “Blood Sweat & Tears” features tropical synths, layered vocals, and baroque-style strings.
Why it’s iconic: It marked BTS’s rise as global trendsetters, marrying visual art with sonic experimentation. V’s rich baritone and Jimin’s ethereal delivery create an intoxicating vocal texture.
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Spring Day (2017) – Soft Rock Ballad
Widely regarded as one of BTS’s most poetic works, “Spring Day” channels British rock influences (à la Coldplay) and soft alternative ballads. Its lyrics of longing and remembrance are matched with warm guitar strumming and subtle orchestration.
Why it’s iconic: A fan favorite that transcends language barriers and continues to chart years after release. Jin’s warm tone and RM’s reflective verse deliver its emotional depth.
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Mic Drop (Steve Aoki Remix) (2017) – EDM / Trap
This remix turned a braggadocious hip-hop track into a festival-ready EDM banger. With Steve Aoki’s heavy drops and glitchy synths, the remix blends American trap with electronic dance elements.
Why it’s iconic: It penetrated Western club scenes and solidified BTS as global EDM collaborators. SUGA’s punchy delivery and j-hope’s dynamic timing command the beat.
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Fake Love (2018) – Grunge Pop / Emo Rock
FAKE LOVE stands out for its dark rock guitar riffs mixed with trap beats and haunting lyrics. It draws inspiration from grunge aesthetics, embracing emotional chaos while still rooted in pop song structure.
Why it’s iconic: A masterclass in merging vulnerability with sonic aggression. Jungkook’s anguished vocals and Jimin’s layered harmonies intensify the emotion.
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Dynamite (2020) – Disco Pop / Retro Funk
Their first fully English-language single, “Dynamite” brings 70s disco and 80s funk into the modern pop world. Catchy hooks, brass instruments, and upbeat rhythms reflect influences from Michael Jackson to Bruno Mars.
Why it’s iconic: It became BTS’s first Billboard Hot 100 #1 hit and a pandemic-era anthem of joy. V’s groove control and Jungkook’s crisp enunciation drive the track’s funk-pop flavor.
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Butter (2021) – Synth-Pop / Dance Funk
With slick production and radio-friendly appeal, “Butter” offers groovy synths and dance-floor-ready beats. It’s a polished blend of funk, synth-pop, and mainstream American pop sensibilities.
Why it’s iconic: Reinforced their position as global chart-toppers and Grammy nominees.
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Yet To Come (2022) – Alternative Hip-Hop
A farewell before the group’s hiatus, “Yet To Come” features introspective lyrics and a mellow, alternative hip-hop beat. It samples classic BTS themes while hinting at growth and renewal.
Why it’s iconic: It bookends their pre-hiatus era while planting seeds for a hopeful comeback.
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Conclusion: BTS’s Genre-Hopping Legacy
BTS has never confined themselves to one sound. Each release is a case study in genre expansion—from raw hip-hop to cinematic EDM, from soft rock ballads to synth-funk anthems. Their ability to evolve while maintaining cohesion is what keeps them musically relevant and globally influential.
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