Latest news with #Jump
Korea Herald
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Teddy's The Black Label is no longer in YG's shadow — it's shaping K-pop's future
From 'KPop Demon Hunters' original soundtrack hits to Blackpink's chart-topping comeback, powerhouse label redefines artist-led K-pop The Black Label, founded by legendary K-pop producer Teddy, has quietly — and now quite boldly — become one of the most influential labels in South Korea's music industry. Launched as a subsidiary under YG Entertainment, The Black Label was spun off in 2020 and now operates independently, with the former mother company remaining a key shareholder. Since then, it has grown into a creative powerhouse, driving some of the year's most talked-about projects — including multiple original tracks for "KPop Demon Hunters," the debut of coed group AllDay Project and Blackpink's latest chart-topping single, 'Jump.' Industry insiders point to three main reasons behind the label's recent string of high-profile achievements: Teddy's artist-first creative leadership, a streamlined production model and impeccable timing. Teddy's autonomous leadership, artist-centered vision At the heart of The Black Label's identity is Teddy himself, the former 1TYM rapper-turned-producer who built the sonic blueprint for K-pop's global wave. From Big Bang and 2NE1 to Blackpink, his unique musical awareness helped define generations of chart-toppers. Billboard named him one of the 'Top 50 Producers of the 21st Century' in 2021. What sets Teddy apart, insiders say, is his refusal to force conformity. Instead of standardizing choreography or vocal style, he encourages individuality — letting each artist's personality lead the performance. He avoids rigid training systems, a rarity in K-pop's manual-heavy idol development. That mindset has led to unexpected breakthroughs such as AllDay Project, a bold return of the coed group format, once considered outdated in the K-pop industry. AllDay Project debuted in June, becoming the first major mixed-gender idol group since KARD debuted eight years ago. Their first single, 'Famous,' shot to No. 1 on Melon's Top 100 chart just four days after release, and within 10 days, the group claimed its first music show win on Mnet's M Countdown. The label says there was no specific agenda behind launching a coed group. It was simply the kind of team they had always envisioned, and one that aligned with The Black Label's broader musical philosophy. 'We're not confined to just K-pop,' a label insider said. 'Teddy doesn't like being boxed in.' Lean, focused production model Unlike major entertainment conglomerates that juggle massive trainee rosters and dozens of groups, The Black Label is a boutique operation. It invests heavily in a small number of artists, with a custom-tailored strategy for each. That approach is paying off. Alongside Teddy, producers such as Kush, 24, Vince and Danny Chung have emerged as critical players. They were behind the original soundtrack for Netflix's animated hit, 'KPop Demon Hunters.' The film's breakout anthem 'Golden,' sung by fictional girl group Huntrix, soared to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, Tuesday, from No. 4 — the highest position for any Korean song from an animated film. The movie's original soundtrack also features other viral tracks — 'How It's Done' by Huntrix, as well as 'Soda Pop' and 'Your Idol' by the supernatural boy band Saja Boyz — crafted by The Black Label's in-house team. The Black Label's producers were also central to Blackpink's long-awaited return earlier this month. The girl group's new single, 'Jump,' released on July 11, surpassed 100 million streams on Spotify on Tuesday, and debuted at No. 28 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also topped the Billboard Global 200 and Global Excl. US charts, proving the group's global staying power. Timing — and years of preparation Another factor behind The Black Label's recent momentum is patience. Nearly five years have passed since the label transitioned from a YG subsidiary to an independent YG Entertainment-associated company. That gave it time to build — slowly and deliberately — its own roster, style and strategy. Teddy holds a 42 percent stake in the company while YG is the company's third-largest shareholder. 'It takes five to six years to scout trainees, train them and get them ready to debut,' said a former YG executive on Tuesday. 'The Black Label was in that building phase for years. Now, it's finally bearing fruit. Teddy's creative vision, which he couldn't fully explore within YG, is now taking shape.' In late 2022, The Black Label appointed new CEO Jung Kyung-in to helm its business operations, freeing Teddy to focus entirely on production. Since then, the label's output has accelerated — but with the same commitment to quality over quantity. 'Teddy has stayed at the forefront of trends longer than almost any other K-pop producer,' said music critic Lim Hee-yun. 'He's worked as a rapper, songwriter and producer for nearly 30 years, and that experience has honed his instincts. He's sat through song camps and A&R processes and knows exactly what works — both in Korea and overseas.'
IOL News
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
From Prime Circle to viral stardom: Neil Breytenbach and son Jesse rock the world
Cantrel is not just another band - it is a testament to the power of connection, legacy and evolution. Image: Supplied The rock scene has a fresh heartbeat - and it's coming from a father and son duo in South Africa that's turning heads far beyond their hometown. Meet Cantrel, the explosive new band making waves on the global stage with their debut EP, 'Jump'. Made up of Pietermaritzburg-born Neil Breytenbach, the legendary keyboardist and co-songwriter from one of SA's most iconic rock bands, Prime Circle, and his equally talented son, Jesse Breytenbach, Cantrel is more than just a collaboration - it's a generational bridge that fuses experience, passion and raw talent into a sound that's both timeless and thrillingly new. 'Independent Media Lifestyle' caught up with the duo, who opened up about their sound, their relationship and the wild ride they have been on since 'Jump' dropped. A leap of sound: the story behind 'Jump' The EP's title track sets the tone for what Cantrel is all about: energy, joy and movement. ''Jump' is a high-energy, feel-good song designed to make the audience move, feel happy and jump for joy,' said Neil. 'It's our way of connecting instantly with listeners - whether they are in the front row at a gig or blasting it through headphones.' It's that infectious spirit that makes "Jump" feel like a sonic celebration - something the world could use a little more of right now. Viral success: "Walls" hits over a million views Their track 'Walls' is resonating worldwide, and the proof is in the numbers: the song recently blew up on TikTok, racking up over a million views. 'We are blown away,' Neil admitted. 'We had no idea it would go viral like this. But we have been putting out good energy, manifesting positivity and success. I guess the universe was listening. And honestly, this feels like just the beginning.' It's a defining moment for any artist - watching strangers across the globe sing your lyrics and vibe with your story. Fresh yet familiar: a sound that bridges eras So what exactly is the Cantrel sound? According to Jesse, it's a dynamic fusion of old-school rock grit with modern flair. 'Our sound is high-energy and feel-good - something that just makes you want to move,' he said. 'Bands like Limp Bizkit, Nirvana and Seether influence us. We bring that recognisable rock edge and blend it with contemporary sounds.' They have also mastered the art of versatility. While their mainstage gigs are electric and full of swagger, Cantrel also strips it down for acoustic sessions that offer a more personal, intimate experience. From Prime Circle to Cantrel: Neil on creating with family For Neil, collaborating with his son is a completely different kind of musical chemistry than what he is known for with Prime Circle. 'Every band has its own energy. With Cantrel, it is just the two of us. It is raw, unfiltered, emotional and focused. With Prime Circle, we are a full band of five, which brings our own depth. "But this? This is personal. Cantrel is what happens when Nirvana and Limp Bizkit have a baby - and I love it.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Cantrel is not just another band - it is a testament to the power of connection, legacy and evolution. Image: Supplied A new generation's take on rock Jesse represents a fresh wave of rockers redefining the genre without losing its soul. 'A lot of modern rock leans on heavy production and electronic layering,' he explained. 'But we want to keep it real - a massive live sound that still holds on to that gritty, iconic '90s feel. It is about blending the new with the old in a way that still hits hard.' It is this approach that gives Cantrel an edge - staying competitive without compromising the heart of rock 'n roll. Family ties, on and off stage One of the most compelling aspects of Cantrel is their dynamic as a father-son duo. While many would shy away from mixing business and family, for Neil and Jesse, it has been nothing short of joyful. 'We have a fun, respectful relationship, and the creative process flows well,' Jesse said. 'There have not been any clashes because we know how to work with each other and avoid stepping on toes. The best part? Getting to share the stage and make memories together.' And those memories go deeper than just music. 'Before Cantrel, I would not see my dad for long periods when he was on tour with Prime Circle,' Jesse added. 'Now, we get to travel and create together. It has been a real blessing.' Born into rock: Jesse's musical upbringing For Jesse, the world of rock was not something he had to find - it was all around him from day one. 'I grew up on rock. It is in my blood,' he said. 'Watching legends, learning how they write and seeing how they are still rocking today - it has been incredibly inspiring. I never felt the need to rebel against it. I embraced it.' Proud dad, proud partner Neil beamed when asked what had surprised him most about working with his son. 'Jesse's an amazing frontman, guitarist and songwriter. His drive and focus blow me away. He sets goals and goes after them, one by one. I am so proud of him. The world is lucky to have a soul like his.' What's next: tour dates and new music on the horizon Cantrel has just wrapped up an international tour that took them across Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Istanbul - but they are far from slowing down. 'We're gearing up for a South African tour running from September to December 2025,' Neil revealed. 'Follow our socials for updates - we will be dropping all the dates soon.' And there's more: a new album is already in the works and set for release in early 2026. Plus, fans in Germany can look forward to another overseas tour. 'We're excited to get back to our fans in Germany,' Jesse said. 'And we cannot wait to hit the road across SA. This is just the beginning for Cantrel.' Cantrel is not just another band - it is a testament to the power of connection, legacy and evolution. With their infectious energy, global vision and heartfelt message, they are not just making music - they are making moments. And if 'Jump' is any indication of what is to come, the world better buckle up - because Cantrel is just getting started. Lutho Pasiya recommends: rock artists worth discovering. Ross Harding: Harding is known for his blues-infused hard rock sound that seamlessly blends the soul of classic rock with the grit of '90s grunge and an alternative edge. With a vocal tone that commands attention and guitar work that ranges from searing riffs to haunting blues licks, he has quickly built a reputation for authenticity and intensity - both on stage and in the studio. The Man Motels: The Man Motels are an electrifying power trio, infusing alternative punk rock with grunge power trio. Known for their raw energy, punchy riffs and no-frills attitude, the band channels the spirit of garage punk with the angst and grit of '90s grunge. Fusing breakneck tempos with emotionally charged lyrics, they have carved out a space in the local scene for their DIY ethos and explosive live shows. The Dirty Skirts: The Dirty Skirts are an energetic indie rock outfit known for their eclectic, high-octane sound that fuses post-punk attitude with infectious hooks and a genre-blurring edge. Their take on indie rock smashes together an eclectic montage of gritty guitars, danceable rhythms and art-rock flair - creating music that is as unpredictable as it is unforgettable.
Forbes
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Blackpink Waited Half A Decade To Reach No. 1
Blackpink's 'Jump' debuts at No. 1 on Billboard's Dance Digital Song Sales chart and reaches the top ... More three on several others in its first week. INDIO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 15: (L-R) Jennie, Jisoo, Rosé, and Lisa of BLACKPINK perform at the Coachella Stage during the 2023 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 15, 2023 in Indio, California. (Photo byfor Coachella) Blackpink's brand new single 'Jump' is off to a strong start on the Billboard charts in the United States. Following its first full tracking frame of availability, the tune sold and streamed well enough to launch inside the top 10 on multiple tallies, bringing the K-pop girl group back to the highest reaches on several rankings, pushing the act toward the summit on a number of tallies for the first time. Billboard classifies 'Jump' as a dance tune, and that label works in Blackpink's favor and helps the four singers make history. 'Jump' Debuts at No. 1 'Jump' opens at No. 1 on one U.S.-based tally, as the tune starts atop the Dance Digital Song Sales chart. Blackpink scores its first No. 1 on the list of the bestselling dance and electronic tracks throughout the country. The group has only appeared on the tally once before this frame. Blackpink previously joined Lady Gaga on 'Sour Candy,' which debuted in June 2020 and eventually peaked in the runner-up spot. Now, the South Korean act has finally reached the top space. Blackpink Joins Jung Kook and Psy Blackpink is just the fourth K-pop act to hit No. 1 on the Dance Digital Song Sales chart. Earlier this month, HUNTR/X — a fictional group from Netflix's film KPop Demon Hunters — soared to the peak position with 'How It's Done.' Blackpink replaces that cut at No. 1 this week. Fellow K-pop stars Psy and Jung Kook of BTS fame have also led the charge in the past. Blackpink Hits the Top 10 on Several Charts 'Jump' starts at No. 3 on the all-genre Digital Song Sales chart, with exactly 3,600 copies purchased (per Luminate). The tune also opens in the runner-up spot on both the Hot Dance/Pop Songs and Dance Streaming Songs tallies. Looking globally, 'Jump' is the biggest hit around the world this frame, as Blackpink returns to No. 1 on both the Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Global Excl. U.S. with the exciting comeback track.
NDTV
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Saiyaara Tops Spotify Global 50 List, Making Ahaan Panday's Only Wish From The Film Come True
New Delhi: Some stories are written. Others, somehow, write themselves. And then there's Saiyaara, a Mohit Suri film that scripted a moment so full of yearning, it was meant to be just that: cinematic. Until life decided to pick up the pen. In a surreal reel-to-real twist, the title track of Saiyaara, the very song Ahaan Panday's character Krish hopes will find the love he lost, has done exactly that. Only this time, not just within the film's universe. The song has now reached everywhere, just as Krish dreamed, and became the first-ever Bollywood song to enter Spotify's Top 50 Global chart, currently holding the No. 1 spot. "Make The Song So Big, Nobody Can Miss It" To understand just how uncanny this is, we need to go back to the film's most heartbreaking scene. In Saiyaara, Krish (played by Ahaan Panday) walks away from a rising music career to look after Vaani (Aneet Padda), the love of his life, after she is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's. On a quiet vacation meant to help her cope, things take a turn: Vaani begins to forget him, confusing Krish with her ex, Mahesh Iyer. In a deeply moving moment, Krish hides his heartbreak and narrates their own story to her as if it belonged to someone else. He tells her about a "friend" whose girlfriend is forgetting him. In response, Vaani suggests that the friend should create a song, something so powerful and unforgettable that it finds her wherever she is. "Make a song so she never forgets him. Every time she hears it, she should remember he exists," she said. Vaani herself begins writing that song and titles it Saiyaara. But as her condition worsens, Vaani realises she has hurt Krish. She quietly disappears from his life to protect him. For six months, Krish searches. Then, in a spark of memory, he remembers Saiyaara, the song she wrote, and her words. In desperation, he rushes to his music producer friend and pleads, "Promote it. Make it reach every household. Every radio. Every phone. Every corner. Everywhere. So that if she's out there, she hears it." Cut to 2025 - it's happening. A Historic Spotify Milestone The title track, Saiyaara, composed by Tanishk Bagchi along with Faheem Abdullah and Arslan Nizami, has become the first Bollywood song to break into Spotify's Global Top 50. Sung by indie artist Faheem Abdullah and written by Irshad Kamil, the track has become a Gen Z romance anthem and a global phenomenon. As of now, Saiyaara is sitting pretty at No. 1, beating international heavyweights like Blackpink's Jump, Lady Gaga's Die With A Smile, Billie Eilish's Birds Of A Feather, and Alex Warren's Eternity. Saiyaara's Box Office Success While Saiyaara the song charts new territory on streaming platforms, Saiyaara the film is breaking records of its own. A Yash Raj Films production helmed by Mohit Suri, the romantic drama starring newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda has opened to massive box office numbers. According to reports, the film earned Rs 21 crore on its opening day and crossed Rs 100 crore within the first four days. As of now, the film has earned Rs 247.25 crore domestically. Much of its success is credited to its chart-topping music, which has now completely taken over Spotify India's Top 10 as well. Apart from the main track, the film's album features: Dhun by Mithoon and Arijit Singh, Barbaad (Reprise) by Jubin Nautiyal and Shilpa Rao, Tum Ho Toh by Vishal Mishra, Humsafar by Sachet-Parampara and Saiyaara (Reprise) by Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal A Manifestation That Left The Screen There are chart successes, and then there are cultural moments. What Saiyaara is experiencing right now feels like the latter. In a country where film music has always had the power to shape emotion and memory, Saiyaara is doing something bigger. It's taking the wish of a boy who just wanted to be remembered, and letting the world hear it loud and clear. And somewhere out there, if Vaani was real, she'd probably be hearing it too.
Forbes
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Blackpink Joins BTS In A Major Chart Feat
With "Jump," Blackpink earns its tenth Hot 100 hit, joining BTS as the only K-pop acts to rack up ... More double-digit wins on the most important songs chart in America. INDIO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 19: (EDITORS NOTE: Image has been processed using digital filters.) Blackpink perform at Sahara Tent during the 2019 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival on April 19, 2019 in Indio, California. (Photo byfor Coachella) Blackpink fans have waited years for the band to reunite and release new music, and their patience has finally paid off. The K-pop girl group recently delivered 'Jump,' its first new single in years, which seems to be the beginning of a complete era. While big things were expected from the track, the tune still manages to impress. 'Jump' easily cracks the top 40 on the Hot 100 upon its arrival, earning the K-pop favorites not just another placement on Billboard's most competitive songs tally, but a milestone hit — one that places the four musicians in rare company. 'Jump' Reaches the Hot 100's Top 40 'Jump' launches at No. 28 on the Hot 100 this week. The tune likely would have opened in a loftier position had it not arrived during such a busy frame. Several songs from Justin Bieber's surprise new album Swag open ahead of Blackpink, but this is just the beginning for 'Jump' on the chart. Blackpink Hits the Hot 100 for the Tenth Time Blackpink earns its milestone tenth appearance on the Hot 100 as 'Jump' launches. The group is only the second K-pop act in U.S. history to collect double-digit placements on the songs ranking, following BTS, which managed the feat some time ago. The South Korean boy band has scored 27 smashes throughout the years. Sixth Top 40 Hit for Blackpink 'Jump' becomes Blackpink's sixth top 40 hit on the Hot 100. The group — made up of singers Rosé, Jisoo, Jennie, and Lisa — previously climbed as high as No. 13 with 'Ice Cream,' a collaboration with Selena Gomez, which dropped in September 2020. That cut remains the band's highest-charting release to date. The newly-released 'Jump' now ranks as Blackpink's fourth-highest-peaking cut on the chart, trailing 'Ice Cream,' 'Pink Venom,' and 'Shut Down,' which peaked at Nos. 13, 22, and 25, respectively. Blackpink Outpaces J-Hope With More Hot 100 Hits Blackpink claims the second-most Hot 100 hits among all K-pop artists. The group is now two wins ahead of BTS star J-Hope, who has reached the list eight times as a soloist. Three of the four singers in Blackpink — Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé — have also earned multiple smashes on their own. 'Jump' Debuts on Nine Billboard Charts Blackpink launches 'Jump' on nine Billboard charts this week, and its starting position on the Hot 100 is among its lowest. The tune scores a top five debut on almost every other ranking, and the electronic dance single even conquers both of the company's global lists and one sales-specific tally.
