NMIXX has become the first K-pop girl group to feature on the YouTube channel of NPR Music, marking a historic achievement in the global music landscape. On January 6, NPR (National Public Radio) Music uploaded a video of NMIXX’s performance from Tiny Desk Korea, spotlighting the group’s raw vocal prowess and unique artistry.
The video showcases a live performance recorded in September, where NMIXX delivered an acoustic set with only a live band accompaniment, foregoing any in-ear monitors or post-production edits. This stripped-down format highlighted the group’s vocal strength and emotional depth, solidifying their reputation as versatile artists.
NMIXX performed a total of five songs during the session, starting with their hit Love Me Like This and continuing with DASH, Run For Roses, and the heartfelt ballad 별별별 (Stellar). The intimate setting of the Tiny Desk stage allowed the group to connect with their audience on a deeper level, showcasing their ability to adapt their energetic style to a more subdued and personal environment.
Reflecting on the experience, member Hae Won shared her excitement, saying, “This is the first time I’ve sung without in-ear monitors and in such a ‘tiny’ setup. It’s been fun and truly enjoyable.” Her sentiments captured the unique charm and challenge of the Tiny Desk format, which has become a globally recognized platform for live music.
Approximately four months after the recording, NPR Music featured the video on its official U.S. YouTube channel, further elevating NMIXX’s international profile. With this release, NMIXX has earned the distinction of being the first K-pop girl group to have their Tiny Desk Korea content shared on NPR’s platform, a testament to their growing influence in the global music scene.
NMIXX’s performance at Tiny Desk adds to their impressive list of international milestones. In October of last year, the group became the first K-pop artists to participate in Billboard’s Latin Music Week, showcasing their appeal across diverse musical markets. Their global momentum continues to build as fans eagerly anticipate their next moves in 2025.
Tiny Desk Korea is the localized version of NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Concerts, a series that features live, unedited performances by artists alongside live band sessions. The Korean edition has brought new energy to the format, highlighting the talents of local and international musicians in an intimate setting.
As NMIXX continues to break barriers and expand their presence on the global stage, their Tiny Desk debut stands as a reminder of their musical versatility and potential to transcend genres and audiences. This achievement not only cements their position as trailblazers in K-pop but also reinforces the genre’s evolving role in the global music industry.
Sayart / ReaA JUNG, queen7203@gmail.com
