NCT has once again proven its global dominance, garnering high praise from major international media outlets in the United States and the United Kingdom. American music authority Billboard and British magazine Dazed recently spotlighted NCT's outstanding achievements in their 2024 year-end lists, underscoring the group's innovative artistry and unrivaled vocal prowess.
Billboard unveiled its “The 25 Best K-Pop Albums of 2024: Staff Picks,” with NCT 127's sixth full-length album WALK making the prestigious list. The publication described WALK as a showcase of "captivating details and exceptional craftsmanship in each track." Furthermore, Billboard praised the album as a testament to NCT 127’s reputation as K-pop’s premier vocal powerhouse, highlighting the group’s unshakable confidence and magnetic aura.
Across the Atlantic, Dazed released its “The 50 Best K-Pop Tracks of 2024,” recognizing NCT 127, NCT Dream, and Jaehyun's contributions. NCT 127’s “Pricey,” NCT Dream’s “icantfeelanything,” and Jaehyun’s “Roses” earned their spots on the list, reflecting the group's versatility and creative growth.
Dazed specifically praised NCT Dream's “icantfeelanything,” the opening track of their latest album, for its ethereal harmonies and striking ad-libs. The track was lauded as a poignant portrayal of freedom and despair, skillfully condensed into its brief two-minute runtime. Meanwhile, Jaehyun's “Roses” was celebrated for its rich infusion of classic R&B, described as a heartfelt ode to lost love. The magazine highlighted its gospel-inspired background vocals and Jaehyun’s soulful delivery, evoking the cozy image of sitting by a crackling fireplace.
The recognition didn’t stop there. American publication Teen Vogue highlighted NCT in its “The Best K-pop Songs of 2024, According to K-pop Songwriters” list. Jaehyun’s solo track “Can’t Get You” and NCT Dream’s English single “Rains in Heaven” were among the year’s standout picks. Teen Vogue gushed over “Can’t Get You,” calling it a favorite and expressing regret for not being involved in its production. “Rains in Heaven” was similarly praised for its blend of retro-inspired pop-rock elements, stunning vocals, and emotionally resonant chorus.
SM Entertainment, the agency behind NCT, acknowledged the acclaim, stating, “NCT, both as a group and through solo activities, has gained recognition for its diversity and creativity in the global music market. Fans can anticipate even more innovative music next year.”
These accolades underscore NCT's multifaceted artistry and cement the group’s position as a global force in K-pop, captivating listeners worldwide with their boundary-pushing sound and emotional depth.
Sayart / Kelly.K, pittou8181@gmail.com
