Similar to Spotify, Apple Music spits out an algorithm which analyzes our music listening habits for the year. In todays countdown, we take a look at our top artist beginning from 12 – 9.
4. Zach Tabudlo
It’s not a secret that we love Zack Tabudlo. We love how Zack Tabudlo for his heartfelt and relatable music, which resonates deeply with their emotions and experiences. His songs often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and hope, blending contemporary pop with soulful melodies. Zack’s powerful vocals and authentic storytelling strike a chord with listeners, making his music a staple in both joyous and melancholic moments. Moreover, his humble personality and connection with fans add to his charm, solidifying his place in the hearts of many Filipinos.
Favorite songs in 2024 include Gusto, Asan ka na ba, Yakap, and Pano.
3. IU
During the Apple Replay’23 review, I talk about how I wished for an IU world tour and one that was close enough for me to see. Thank you for the world tour in Atlanta IU!
In 2024, IU had an incredible year, marked by the release of her mini-album The Winning and a massive world tour, solidifying her status as a global K-pop icon.
Her album, The Winning, featured a dynamic mix of tracks, including “Shopper,” the lead single, which encouraged listeners to pursue their desires unapologetically. The album also included collaborations with notable artists, such as Hyein of NewJeans and legendary singer Patti Kim, blending generations of talent. Accompanied by vibrant music videos directed by prominent creators like DPR Ian, the album showcased IU’s creative storytelling and visual artistry.
IU’s 2024 HEREH World Tour spanned 18 cities, beginning in March and culminating in a historic two-day finale in Seoul. Notably, she became the first female artist to headline the Seoul World Cup Stadium, drawing over 100,000 fans. The tour included stops across Asia, Europe, and North America, highlighting her global appeal. IU’s concerts stood out for their attention to detail, such as providing fans with cushions and binoculars and addressing environmental concerns at venues.
This combination of artistic excellence and thoughtful interactions with her audience made 2024 a milestone year for IU, further cementing her legacy in K-pop.
2. XG
In 2024, XG made a significant impact with their first world tour, “The First Howl.” The tour began in May with two sold-out shows in Osaka, Japan, and continued with stops across Asia, North America, and Europe. They performed in key cities such as Seoul, Taipei, Singapore, Manila, Bangkok, Atlanta (where we saw them), Los Angeles, New York City, and London, showcasing their growing global appeal.
Beyond their tour, XG continued to expand their presence with their music, including the release of their second mini-album, “AWE,” and impactful performances that received acclaim for both their production quality and vocal talent.
1. NewJeans
Note that this review is strictly focus on music content and not on events regarding Hybe, Ador, court hearings, press conferences, etc.
The group, known for hits like Attention, Ditto, and Hype Boy, achieved a major milestone by being named Group of the Year at the 2024 Billboard Women in Music Awards. This recognition made them the first K-pop act to win this title, further cementing their global impact. The group attended the awards ceremony in person at the YouTube Theater in California.
Their 2023 EP, Get Up, broke records for the longest-charting album by a K-pop girl group on the Billboard 200, staying on the chart for 26 weeks. Additionally, NewJeans became the first K-pop girl group to perform at the Billboard Music Awards, where they also won the Top Global K-pop Artist award.
NewJeans impressed in 2024 with their album How Sweet, blending 90s-inspired Miami Bass beats and modern electro-pop touches. The title track is energetic yet nostalgic, showcasing the group’s signature style and solid vocal delivery. The accompanying track, Bubble Gum, offers a breezy, lo-fi vibe, perfect for laid-back moments. While the album’s brief runtime left fans wanting more, it reaffirmed NewJeans’ role in modernizing retro sounds for a new generation.
NewJeans has teased the possibility of new music, maintaining high anticipation among fans worldwide. Their achievements highlight their rapid rise since debuting in 2022 and their significant influence in reshaping the global K-pop landscape.
Apple Replay’24 is a fun way in showing you the soundtrack that was 2024 for YOU! Tune in tomorrow for number 8 – 5 in our top Artist in 2024. What does your Replay’24 look like?
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