Diplo is a multi-faceted artist with one hand always dipped in international waters. Aside from his own personal projects, Major Lazer, and his current partnership with fellow talented producer, Skrillex (Jack U), he’s also proven time and time again that he has an eye for spotting international talent before it hits the U.S.
Being Korean myself, I was aptly disappointed when “Gangnam Style” first reared its ugly head. Although I applaud Psy for his social commentary and surprise break out into the U.S., I don’t want people to think that he’s an overall representation of the music culture in South Korea. Certainly, he illustrates the K-pop music industry to some extent, from his portrayal of it in his biting lyrics, to the goofy slap-stick humor in the video, and the catchy chorus—but it’s not reflective of the entire Korean music industry.
Complex Magazine recently did an interview with CL, undoubtedly one of the standout performers in 2NE1, confirming that her international debut is imminent. Now if you’re wondering how Diplo and electronic music ties into all of this — I’ll tell you. Back in 2011, he notably mentioned K-pop girl group 2NE1 as his pick for MTV’s Best New Band saying:
“They’re beautiful, they have crazy charisma, they’re amazing live. It’s [like] loud, it’s dancing, it’s explosions…it’s crazy stuff all over the place; confetti, cannons. Their fan base with K-pop is so enormous… It’s almost like battling a superhero in this category, so I definitely have my money on 2NE1…”
Fast forward to 2014 when Skrillex featured co-label mates of YG Entertainment, CL and G-Dragon, in his song “Dirty Vibe.” It was shocking and refreshing, especially since he left some of the rapping verses in Korean. Diplo had already worked with G-Dragon prior to this, and as you might have guessed, Psy is also a member of YG Entertainment. Following suit, CL has reportedly signed on with Scooter Braun, the person responsible for Psy and Justin Bieber topping the U.S. charts.
Diplo seems to have been on board this whole time, and we’re excited to see what CL can bring to an already over-saturated market. 2NE1’S music has always been on the dance spectrum of things, even though they’re technically considered pop/rap. Most of their addictive beats fuse elements of house, pop, hip hop, R&B and trap with powerful vocals to create a unique sound that only they’ve been able to dominate. She’s already been a powerhouse in Asia for many years, so it’s safe to say we have high hopes for her official American debut.
Photo Credit: 2NE1 Facebook
Connect with Diplo
www.maddecent.com
www.facebook.com/diplo
www.soundcloud.com/diplo
www.twitter.com/DIPLO
Connect with Skrillex
www.skrillex.com
www.soundcloud.com/skrillex
www.facebook.com/skrillex
www.twitter.com/skrillex
Connect with 2NE1/CL
www.yg-2ne1.com
www.facebook.com/2ne1
www.youtube.com/2NE1
www.twitter.com/chaelincl
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