Since their debut seven years ago on June 13, 2013, the chart-topping, record-breaking K-pop boyband BTS has been an unstoppable force worldwide. Between topping the Billboard Hot 100 charts with their first all-English language song "Dynamite," their 2020 Grammy's performance with Lil Nas X, and their Saturday Night Live performance in 2019, plus a stellar Carpool Karaoke segment with James Corden, even those who don't count themselves among the millions in their loyal fanbase (a.k.a. ARMY) or listen to K-pop, have likely heard of BTS.
Whether it's their well choreographed dances, creative music videos, genre-pushing musicality, philanthropy, or the individual members themselves, there's a lot to love about BTS. But if you're a new fan, or even if you consider yourself a dedicated, years-long part of the ARMY, the group's large discography (over 100 songs!) can be overwhelming. In anticipation of their October "MAP OF THE SOUL ON:E" concert as well as their new album slated to be released later in 2020, we combed through their discography (including their latest album MAP OF THE SOUL: 7) to help break down which tracks you should definitely be adding to your road trip playlists.
So in honor of the seven year anniversary of their debut, and the seven men who make up the group—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—we present the best BTS songs (and their corresponding music videos) for your listening and viewing...and dancing pleasure. Let us know what your favorites are in the comments!
Dynamite (2020)
This single is the group's first all-English language song, and it landed with a big splash at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 charts. Combining disco and pop, the retro song, music video, and dance moves provide a bright and joyful nostalgia during a time when BTS fans might need it most.
ON (2020)
Marching band drums set the beat for this incredible song off of their newest album Map of the Soul: 7. Debuting at #4 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the Billboard's Digital Song Sales chart, the tune was so popular, the group even performed it on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Boy With Luv ft. Halsey (2019)
Oh my my my!
Released on April 12, 2019 as the lead single for their EP Map of the Soul: Persona, this song broke records as the most-viewed 24-hour debut music video in Youtube history. The band's collaboration with artist Halsey is a joyful, colorful, mood-lifting hit and the video features some of their incredible dance moves.
IDOL (2018)
A beat-heavy dance/club track, this song marks BTS's emergence in the US market as a serious player, with a feature from Nicki Minaj, who also participated in the band's music video, which was shot in a stunning kaleidoscope of colorful visuals.
Fake Love (2018)
This song marked BTS's first debut in the top ten on the US Billboard Hot 100 list. The introspective and moody lyrics about the dark side of love, clash with the fast pop beat, to create an all around captivating song that'll hit you right in the heart.
Euphoria (2018)
A romanticization of happiness and joyful wonder, the music video might just make you cry with how pure it is. "Take my hands now / You are the cause of my euphoria," BTS sings.
Spring Day (2017)
ferry capsized and hundreds of students died
Released in 2017, it was a departure from the group's previous hip-hop and electronic pop focus. The lyrics and sound stir a deep sense of nostalgia and sorrow. Adding to the emotional undercurrent of the song, the music video seemingly nods to a national tragedy in South Korea where a .
DNA (2017)
The music video for DNA has racked over a billion views on Youtube. Yes, a billion. With a whistling sound as the refrain, the song has EDM vibes while still maintaining the group's hip-hop and pop sound. Watch the unique music video to catch some of the great choreography the group is known for.
MIC Drop (2017)
If there ever was a song to hype you up, this is it. Renowned DJ Steve Aoki jumped on the remix of this fast, energetic hip-hop dance number that proves when BTS wants to go hard, they most definitely can.
Not Today (2017)
Is the world getting you down? Turn the volume all the way up on "Not Today"—a song that encourages you to live your best life, never give up, and stand up against the darkness.
I Need U (2015)
Worth listening to just to hear BTS sing "I need you girl," this song was the lead single for their third EP The Most Beautiful Moment in Life, Part 1. Marking a subtle shift to pop from the band's previously hip-hop tendencies, the catchy dance track is both moody and freeing at the same time, and will have you doing body rolls before you know it.
Silver Spoon / Baepsae (2015)
In lieu of a music video, enjoy this dance practice video of BTS perfecting their choreography to this hard-hitting song that touches on problems of economic inequality in their home country of South Korea.
Cypher Pt. 3: Killer (2014)
To anybody who questions the hip-hop origins of the boy band, just play them "Cypher Pt. 3: Killer," a song that showcases the rap skills of the group. Their flow, aggression, and stage presence foreshadows everything to come.
No More Dream (2013)
The list isn't complete without BTS's debut single from 2013. In the music video for "No More Dream," you can see the threads of the group's origins, their consistently great dance moves, and palpable energy—everything that shaped the boy band into who they are today.
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Monica Chon is the former editorial fellow at Oprah Daily, previously OprahMag.com.
