NewJeans, a five-member group consisting of Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein, made their debut under HYBE’s sub-label ADOR on July 21, 2022, with their single ‘Attention’. Without teasers, loud promotions, or prior member introductions, the group arrived like a soft breeze in the fast-moving K-pop industry. Just two days after their debut, they released four music videos for their new single ‘Hype Boy’, each focusing on the narrative of a different member. This rollout was fresh and unconventional, drawing instant attention and standing out in the already crowded K-pop space.
Back then, I was still exploring girl groups beyond the most popular ones. So when HYBE’s YouTube channel—home to giants like BTS and SEVENTEEN—released a string of music videos for a new girl group, it naturally piqued my interest. I still remember diving into the YouTube comments, where many were already praising NewJeans for their Y2K-inspired visuals and refreshing sound. It was clear people were connecting to something new yet nostalgic. Their music felt unique, catchy, and strangely comforting.
One thing I admire is how NewJeans consistently explores themes like young love, friendships, and one-sided feelings without sounding cliché or overdone. The balance of lyrics, visuals, and choreography always makes their music feel sincere.
As we celebrate three years of NewJeans, let’s revisit their discography beyond the top-charting tracks like ‘Attention’, ‘OMG’, ‘Ditto’, ‘ETA’, and ‘Super Shy’. Here are some of their underrated gems that deserve more love.
1. Cool With You
The fourth track on their 2nd EP, ‘Get Up’, ‘Cool With You’, has a soft rhythm and dreamy vibe. The vocals by Danielle and Hyein stand out beautifully in the intro:
“You know me like no other
If you don’t express everything
See me like no other (Mm)
And I think I like your point of view…”
The choreography is subtle but addictive, and the synergy when all five members come together is unmatched. The dual music video (side A and side B) features actors Jung Ho-Yeon from ‘Squid Game’ and Hong Kong actor Tony Leung from ‘In The Mood For Love’, taking the visuals to another level.
2. Right Now
‘Right Now’, a B-side track, marks their Japanese debut along with the release of another single, ‘Supernatural’. It’s light, melodic, and relatable. The track explores impatience in love, reflecting the struggles faced in modern communication.
“In no mood to find another
I’m just out looking
With things unclear between us
Right now, right now…”
The music video is animated by Japanese artist Takashi Murakami, featuring his iconic flower design. It shows the members texting a crush, waiting, overthinking, and finally receiving a flower emoji. They try to interpret its meaning, mirroring real-life texting anxiety and emotional urgency.
3. Bubble Gum
This light-hearted, beachy track captures feelings of excitement, reunion, and soft affection, with the members enjoying playful moments by the sea in the MV. The vibe is youthful and gentle.
The lyrics in the song, “You just get my heart pump, pumping/Every time that you’re here around me/Music flows again, yeah…”, express the rush of excitement and comfort that comes from being around someone you love. It’s a feeling so uplifting that it reignites inspiration and makes everything feel possible again.
4. Hurt
Part of their debut EP ‘New Jeans’, this track was released on July 24, 2022. It’s calm and melancholic, showcasing each member’s vocal ability. The message is clear: walking away from a one-sided love.
“When I’m feeling all alone
Pull your name up on my phone
I start typing what to say
I won’t send it anyway…”
The song reflects their resolve to move on, declaring, “’Cause I’m not gonna be the one to get hurt.” It’s emotional without being dramatic.
Their live performance video further proves their strong vocal abilities, even without heavy production.
5. Our Night Is More Beautiful Than Your Day (‘My Demon’ OST)
Featured in the Netflix K-drama ‘My Demon’, starring Song Kang and Kim Yoo Jung, this OST is soft, soothing, and dreamy. NewJeans’ vocals match the emotional tension of the scenes perfectly. It’s a great example of how K-pop idols can also create magic in the world of K-dramas.
6. Zero
Released as part of their collaboration with Coca-Cola, ‘Zero’ is fun and genre-blending. At first, it sounds like a love song, but it’s actually about the drink. Even so, the lyrics and energy feel genuine.
The fact that they created a full performance video for a brand collab shows their dedication and versatility.
Happy 3rd debut anniversary, NewJeans. Thank you for the memories, the melodies, and the moments.
Written by Srishti Pandey
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