by Maya Tavorath-Dangmann Earlier this month, K-Pop group Monsta X released their first English single “Who Do U Love?” featuring rapper French Montana. This is their first release from their collaboration with Epic Records, having signed to the American record label in late May. Monsta X are one of the few K-Pop groups working in collaboration with American labels, alongside groups like TXT and Blackpink. Since their debut in May 2015, Monsta X have never ceased to garner attention of listeners around the world. Their fan base is widespread and dedicated, and they all have their own reason for listening to the group. “The most fascinating thing about them is how they manage to maintain their signature sound,” said Kiersten Bergman, a 14 year-old fan. “They always sound unique and still sound like themselves, which I absolutely adore.” “Even if I don't understand Monsta X's native language, I just get so hyped up to their music and I honestly would never want to [stop listening to] this group,” said Anna Yuzenova, 19. Many of their fans are in the same boat as Anna and do not understand Korean, but still enjoy Monsta X’s music. However, when it comes to Monsta X releasing music in English – a language that is arguably more accessible to fans around the world – they have differing opinions.
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by Maya Tavorath-Dangmann
Sitting in the middle of their storage room on the third floor of Purchase’s music building, Ben Stein, a senior Studio Composition major at Purchase College in New York, crosses one leg over another as they speak. Behind them lie various instruments, both in and out of their cases, along with boxes of snacks and drinks. However, the surrounding chaos doesn’t seem to affect them as they offer thought-out opinions on music and politics, their passion refreshingly obvious. “In today’s world, a good political song makes listeners think about themselves,” they said. “About what they can do to not only act properly or politely but to think in ways that will truly change the way this country works.” Ever since Donald Trump first presented himself as a candidate, he has been threatening to target marginalized groups of people. This has caused a massive uproar, with more and more people openly protesting the Trump administration. With a rise of oppression comes a rise of political art, and musicians are no exception: They’re turning to their instruments to express their political sentiments. “Political music has always been a thing, especially in the whole Woodstock era in the Sixties,” said Gules Asperti, a junior Studio Composition major. “It’s definitely coming back because of [the Trump] administration, and it’s becoming a lot more mainstream as well.” “I think that this is the most politically volatile point for music in a long time,” said Paul Jennette, a sophomore Studio Production major. However, even among musicians, there are conflicting opinions as to whether or not political music can spark meaningful change amongst listeners. |