The lead vocalists for the popular animated film "KPop Demon Hunters" have revealed that their musical styles are significantly influenced by Black American hip-hop artists. EJAE, Rei Ami, and Audrey Nuna, who lend their voices to the movie's main characters, cite figures such as Kendrick Lamar, Missy Elliott, and Doechii as key inspirations, alongside traditional K-Pop influences.
The film, currently Netflix’s most popular English-language movie, has achieved global success. Its soundtrack has become a major hit, demonstrating the broad appeal of its unique musical blend.
Key Takeaways
- "KPop Demon Hunters" vocalists are inspired by Black American hip-hop artists.
- Kendrick Lamar is a major influence on their songwriting and vocal style.
- The film is Netflix's most popular English-language movie.
- Its soundtrack has over 3 billion global streams and a Billboard Hot 100 chart-topping hit.
- The vocalists will perform live for the first time on "The Tonight Show" on October 7.
Hip-Hop's Impact on Vocalists' Styles
Rei Ami, a Korean American rapper and singer, explained her connection to hip-hop. "I think I discovered West Coast rap in high school, and I learned a lot about storytelling, lyricism and rhythm," she stated. This early exposure shaped her approach to music, emphasizing narrative and complex rhythmic structures.
All three vocalists highlighted Kendrick Lamar's profound influence on their artistic development. His unique flow, cadence, and writing methods have provided valuable lessons for the singers.
"His (Lamar's) flow is insane, cadence, his way of writing, his way of vocal producing, I learned a lot from that," said EJAE, a Korean American singer and songwriter.
This admiration for Lamar underscores a broader trend of cross-genre inspiration within the music industry. Artists frequently draw from diverse backgrounds to create new sounds and styles.
Film's Chart Dominance
- "KPop Demon Hunters" soundtrack has more than 3 billion global streams.
- The breakout hit "Golden" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- The film topped the domestic box office during its opening weekend (August 23-24).
- It accumulated 5.4 billion minutes watched on Netflix in the U.S. by late September.
Global Success and Critical Acclaim
The animated film "KPop Demon Hunters," directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, is a global phenomenon. It is currently trending across the world and has become Netflix's most popular English-language film. The movie’s success extends beyond viewership to its musical score.
The soundtrack has been a significant driver of the film's popularity. It has garnered over 3 billion global streams since its release. The song "Golden" specifically achieved a major milestone by reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, as reported by Netflix in August.
According to Luminate, the film recorded 2.1 billion on-demand audio and video streams in the U.S. across all platforms. By late September, U.S. Netflix users watched a total of 5.4 billion minutes of the movie. Luminate also identified the "KPop Demon Hunters" soundtrack as the most-consumed soundtrack in the U.S. so far this year, based on album sales and streaming equivalents.
Movie Background
"KPop Demon Hunters" premiered on June 20. The story follows a K-pop girl group named HUNTR/X. This group, made up of Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, has a dual identity. They are K-pop performers who entertain fans and also demon hunters. They use their music and performances to fight evil.
EJAE provides the singing voice for Rumi and co-wrote the hit song "Golden." Rei Ami sings as Zoey, and Audrey Nuna is the vocalist for Mira. Sony Pictures Animation produced the film.
First Live Performance Scheduled
The vocalists are preparing for their first-ever live performance together. On October 7, EJAE, Rei Ami, and Audrey Nuna will perform "Golden" on "The Tonight Show." This marks a significant moment for the artists and the film's fanbase.
The singers confirmed their upcoming debut in unison. This performance is highly anticipated, given the soundtrack's widespread success. Rei Ami expressed her excitement about the event. "It's an honor being on stage with them," she said, adding that for her, this historic moment is "overdue."
Live performances often boost an artist's profile and connect them more directly with their audience. For the "KPop Demon Hunters" vocalists, this appearance will be a new chapter in their careers.
Future Prospects and Industry Recognition
With the movie continuing to trend, directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans are considering future plans. They are currently discussing the possibility of a sequel, indicating the potential for an expanded cinematic universe for HUNTR/X.
Despite their busy schedules, the directors are also focused on the present. They are taking things "day by day." The film has generated significant buzz for potential Oscar and Grammy awards. This recognition highlights the movie's artistic and commercial impact.
"It's an honor to be even recognized, to be potential nominees," Kang remarked.
This awards buzz further solidifies the film's position as a major cultural event. It also acknowledges the hard work and creative vision of the entire production team and cast.
The blend of K-Pop and hip-hop influences, combined with a compelling storyline, has resonated with a global audience. This success demonstrates the power of diverse musical inspiration and innovative storytelling in animated features.