Record-breaking BTS sets sights on Grammys
K-pop boy band BTS held an online press event on Wednesday after topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart with its latest single “Dynamite.” Courtesy of Big Hit Entertainment
By Dong Sun-hwa
After becoming the first Korean act to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart with its latest single “Dynamite” Tuesday, K-pop behemoth BTS is now aiming to stage a solo performance at next year's Grammys, one of the world's most prestigious music awards.
“I hope BTS will play a solo gig at the Grammys,” rapper Suga said during an online press event Wednesday. “It would be great if we could win an award, but this isn't something we can do solely with our will. We know we need a hand from numerous people.”
At the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards ceremony, the seven-member band teamed up with American rapper Lil Nas X to perform, becoming the first Korean singers to do so.
With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging in much of the world, another wild dream for BTS would be just holding an outdoor concert in front of a massive crowd, front man RM said.
“We are going to release our album this year and play a concert, but I am not sure whether it will be offline or not,” he said. “We will strive to do whichever we can. I hope the pandemic will come to an end soon.”
Jimin said the members also want to use their music to bring comfort to people who are suffering ― physically and mentally ― from the disease.
The Billboard accomplishment was a great joy to all members, but it was especially so to Jungkook, the youngest member, who woke up to the news on his birthday.
“It was a huge birthday gift,” he said. “I was so honored to be able to set such a record in my life. I am truly grateful to all my fans, BTS members, Big Hit Entertainment's officials and my parents.”
It was a “surreal, overwhelming” moment for J-Hope.
“I felt that our sincerity was recognized by many people around the world,” he said.
Before BTS, Japanese singer Kyu Sakamoto was the only Asian to pull off the accomplishment with the song “Sukiyaki” in 1963.
After years of training and hard work, V said he felt greatly rewarded and, many years from now, the day would be a “beautiful memory.”
Jin said: “I believe our fandom ARMY enabled us to achieve this. BTS exists because ARMY is there. I love you.”