Who is Darren Espanto? Filipino singer clashing with BTS ARMY over his cover of J-Hope's 'Mona Lisa'
Who is BTS? There's really no need for an introduction! The group — and each of its seven members — is wildly popular, even among non-K-pop fans. BTS also has one of the biggest fanbases in the world, known as ARMY, and true to their name, they're always ready to defend Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook.
However, this time around, things were different. Filipino-Canadian singer and performer Darren Espanto has been clashing with BTS ARMY for days. Over what, one may ask? Over the criticism he received for his cover of J-Hope's hit track Mona Lisa.
Who is Darren Espanto?
Darren rose to fame as the runner-up in the first season of The Voice Kids Philippines. Since then, he has built a successful music career, earning recognition both locally and internationally.
Notably, he was the only Filipino guest artist on China's Singer 2019, and he has received praise from global stars like Fantasia Barrino, Nicki Minaj, Ashton Kutcher, and Jessie J for his vocal performances.
Espanto is also known for his admiration of K-pop, particularly BTS. He previously covered BTS' hit song Dynamite in a dance performance shared on his YouTube channel.
So what's happening now?
Recently, Darren Espanto covered J-Hope's new single Mona Lisa, which has been generating buzz among fans. J-Hope described the track as a performance-driven piece with witty and playful lyrics. The song quickly gained traction online, racking up views and sparking a trending dance challenge.
While many enjoyed Darren's cover, one user — reportedly not even an ARMY but as many claimed was a BLACKPINK fan (BLINK) — criticized it harshly, writing, "Dare I say… people who can't sing need to stop covering his songs. Seriously." The quote is not visible currently, due to the user going private.
Netizens — including ARMY — quickly jumped to Darren's defense, praising his vocals. Many pointed out that these covers are often done with minimal rehearsal and shouldn't be taken as full showcases of his ability.
So why did it escalate?
Instead of letting it go, Darren responded directly to the critic, tweeting: "Please consider watching my other vocal performances 'cuz one thing I won't take is someone telling me I 'CAN'T SING'... Attached here are a few of 'em."
Hi, @sieeoun. Please consider watching my other vocal performances cuz one thing I won't take is someone telling me I 'CAN'T SING' 😂 Attached here are a few of 'em:https://t.co/3vjILznFm3https://t.co/L0mDmfi8Eghttps://t.co/Q9HvACRpr1 https://t.co/8l8mIzRDex
Things escalated further when Darren retweeted a Koreaboo article claiming he had "clapped back" at BTS fans online over the criticism. According to many ARMYs, Koreaboo is known for publishing exaggerated, anti-BTS content.
This move didn't sit well with ARMY — many of whom had initially defended him. They questioned why he couldn't take a single comment in stride and stay quiet.
After facing criticism, he seems to have deleted the retweet.
But Darren didn't stop there. When one ARMY quoted him saying, "You still can't sing and ain't nobody watching these videos," he responded:
"Based on my likes, and considering you're interacting with my tweet, apparently a lot of y'all do."
Based on my likes, and considering you're interacting with my tweet, apparently a lot of y'all do. 😅 @lntroegos https://t.co/4FOJJh2SoD
ARMY claps back
At this point, the sympathy ARMY had for Darren began to fade. Fans asked why he was engaging in fan wars online and if chasing likes was his real goal. They also pointed out that most of the engagement he was receiving came from non-BTS K-pop fans who dislike BTS — not because of his talent or vocals.
One said, "Can y'all stop interacting with that guy?? This is literally the most attention he's ever gotten on his account. He barely gets 70 likes unless he's arguing with ARMYs."
can y'all stop interacting with that guy?? this is literally the most attention he's ever gotten on his account..he barely gets 70 likes unless he's arguing with armys.
Another added, "'Based on my likes' — I'm gonna hold your neck when I say this, Darren. Those are just people who hate 875 (BTS) to the core and would side with anyone just to drag them. And unfortunately for you, those people won't even give you streams or support. They can't even do that for their faves."
'based on my likes' i'm gonna hold your neck when i say this, darren. those are just ppl who hates 875 to the core and would side w anyone just to drag them. and unfortunately for you, those ppl won't even give you streams nor support you. they can't even do that for their faves. https://t.co/QFvgT3I57B
One wrote, "A real singer is someone who can perform songs well in any situation and from any perspective — not someone who cherry-picks videos to show off their best side."
A real singer is someone who can perform songs in the best possible way in any situation and from any perspective, not someone who just picks a few videos to show off their best side https://t.co/C1KTh4EpCu
Another commented, "This just shows how unprofessional you are."
This just shows how unprofessional you are. https://t.co/WYxM4PCmTd
One user pointed out, "You RT'd a tweet from a random K-pop fan and caused them to harass another artist, and then you RT'd an article full of shameless, nasty comments. But sure — 'it's normal for an artist to defend himself.' And yes, the cover was bad."
you rt's a tweet from a random kpop fan and caused them to harass the other artist, and you rt's an article full of shameless nasty comments, but no sir 'it's normal for an artist to defend himself'. And yes the cover was bad https://t.co/7xpK4yclKF pic.twitter.com/fI9T6OeLvV
Another stated, "I can't believe I was defending your stupid ass yesterday... If you claim to be an artist, you should learn to take criticism. Instead, you RT'd Koreaboo's trash and attracted hate to J-Hope. Being a 'good singer' doesn't make you a good performer. Grow up".
I can't believe i was defending your stupid ass yesterday If you claim to be an artist you should learn to take criticism Instead you rted fuckass koreaboo's article and attracted hate to jhopeYou being a 'good singer' doesn't guarantee you being a good performer. Grow up. https://t.co/kFh1yMAEaK
About BTS' reunion
Despite all the drama, ARMY remains focused on what truly matters — the upcoming BTS reunion. With June approaching, fans are eagerly anticipating the moment all seven members will be together again, especially to celebrate the group's debut anniversary.
Jin and J-Hope have already completed their military service, while RM and V are scheduled to be discharged on June 10, 2025. Jimin and Jungkook will follow a day later, on June 11.
SUGA, who is serving through an alternative form of service due to a past shoulder injury, will be the last to return, with his discharge set for June 21, 2025.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Documentary about Blackpink's Lisa's life in the works? Here's what we know!
Blackpink's Lisa is conquering another solo project as news of her documentary has come forth. The idol who went from actively promoting in a group with Blackpink to having one of the most successful solo careers in the K-pop industry. Documentary on Blackpink's Lisa's life To be directed by the talented Sue Kim, Lisa's documentary is already in the works. The news was officially announced yesterday night at the content showcase event of one of the most popular studios and media distributors in the industry, as per reports from Variety. The documentary film is supposed to follow the legendary pop star for a whole year. It will directly explore her career and life away from Blackpink as she finds and works on establishing her own identity in the entertainment world. It is said to consist of some of her most major projects as a solo artist. It includes the release of her solo album 'Alter Ego', her first-ever Coachella performance this year as a solo act, and her acting debut in the third season of 'The White Lotus'. In a statement from the same report, more details about the documentary have been shared. It stated that the film will 'give fans exclusive access to Lisa with an in-depth look at the artist's groundbreaking career and creative vision outside of the world-renowned group, Blackpink.' Sue Kim talks about the new K-pop documentary In a recent interview after the news was confirmed, renowned director Sue Kim issued a statement regarding the release of the documentary film. She shared during the showcase that 'I really tried to impress upon Lisa how much not just me — but I think the world — wants to see off-stage Lisa.' She continued by talking about her experience with Lisa and how she is very 'down-to-earth'. 'She loves to refer to herself as 'I'm just a normal girl from Thailand. ' And when you meet her, she actually is. She's so down-to-earth. It's quite shocking and so real and so sincere. But she's very incredibly found herself in this crazy position of being one of the biggest superstars in the world, and even within that world, she's trying to expand out of it,' the director concluded. More about Lisa In the latest updates, Lisa is all set to soon go on tour with her fellow bandmates from Blackpink. Other than that, the artist's name has also been submitted for consideration for an Emmy for this year's award show. Her name was submitted along with a lot of other cast members from 'The White Lotus', which also marked her official acting debut. If nominated, Lisa will be fighting for the title of 'best supporting actress' at the Emmy Awards this September. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
NewJeans vs ADOR: NJZ's repeated defiance of court ruling could cost them a hefty fee
The South Korean courts appear increasingly frustrated with NewJeans—also known as NJZ—for repeatedly violating legal rulings. The group, consisting of Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein, have continued to defy court orders despite ongoing legal proceedings. Since 2024, the group has been embroiled in a protracted legal battle with their agency, ADOR. On March 21, the court sided with ADOR, granting the agency's request to prohibit NewJeans from independently signing promotional or advertising contracts. When NJZ filed an objection, it was dismissed on April 21, reaffirming the original injunction. Despite the ruling in ADOR's favour, the members appear to have continued violating the court's directive—a move that has not been well received by the judiciary. On May 30, the Seoul Central District Court's 52nd Civil Division once again ruled in favour of ADOR, partially granting another injunction that prohibits the members from engaging in any entertainment activities independently or through third parties—unless they receive prior approval from the agency. What did the court say? According to the court, "The debtor, NJZ, must not engage in entertainment activities independently or through a third party without ADOR's prior approval or consent until the first trial verdict on the contract's validity is announced." To reinforce the injunction, the court introduced a penalty clause that could prove extremely costly. If the members violate the order, NewJeans will have to pay ₩1 billion KRW (approximately $730,000 USD) per violation to ADOR, in addition to covering legal expenses related to the application. This clause applies collectively, meaning the fine could multiply rapidly if violations are repeated or involve multiple members. The ruling aims to preserve the existing contractual relationship between NewJeans and ADOR while the broader lawsuit over the exclusive contract's validity proceeds. The court emphasized maintaining the "status quo" until a first-instance verdict is reached, especially as tensions between the two parties continue to escalate. Why is NewJeans defying the court orders? Despite these decisions, NewJeans maintains that the contract should be terminated, citing a breakdown in trust with the agency. ADOR, on the other hand, is pursuing a separate legal case to confirm the ongoing validity of the exclusive contract. The second oral hearing in the main lawsuit between ADOR and NewJeans is scheduled for June 5, and the outcome could significantly impact the group's future and their ability to promote freely. For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
Pink Villa
2 hours ago
- Pink Villa
'We'll meet again': SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan pens emotional note for ASTRO's Moonbin on old Instagram birthday post
SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan recently paid a deeply emotional tribute to his late friend Bini, aka ASTRO's Moonbin, for his birthday. Moonbin's birthday is celebrated on January 26, but Seungkwan shared a post a couple of days back. Though from different groups, their friendship stayed strong. Moonbin's sudden passing on April 19, 2023, deeply affected Seungkwan. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Seungkwan wrote, 'It's already been two years. How are you, my friend? I'm so late, sorry…' He confessed that he had written the message earlier but hesitated to post. Seungkwan shared the news of his latest solo release, 'You monitored it, right? Listen to it well.' He expressed regret that they never filmed fun challenges together, especially for his song Thunder. The K-pop singer said, 'It's a shame.. If we hadn't kept postponing things because we were tired." He continues, "We could've had so many precious videos left behind.' Reflecting on the love Moonbin left behind, Seungkwan shared that he found comfort in the heartfelt words the late idol said. The THUNDER singer said that due to Moonbin's words and behavior, their friendship was formed. Seungkwan shared that he often pauses to capture moments when the moon shines or dandelions bloom, feeling he's become more romantic. Seungkwan Talks About Memories Of The Moon Track He also thanked the ASTRO members for their work on the tribute song Memory of the Moon. He hoped Moonbin listened to it and found it touching. Seungkwan mentioned Eunwoo, Jinjin, Myungjun, Sanha and Rocky. He appreciated how hard they all worked. He was grateful to everyone who helped make the song. He hoped Moonbin would receive the tribute with the same warmth he always showed. Seungkwan's tribute closed with a simple but powerful message: 'I love you, Bin-ah.' Previously, Seungkwan shared a lengthy post with several snaps with Moonbin. Check below. ASTRO's Moonbin Sad Passing Moonbin, a member of the K-pop group ASTRO, passed away on April 19, 2023. He was 25 years old. His manager found him unresponsive at his apartment in Seoul. Police found no signs of foul play. It was ruled a suspected suicide. His sudden death shocked the K-pop industry and fans worldwide. Moonbin was known for his talent, kindness, and strong friendships. His passing left a deep impact on friends, fellow idols, and fans.
