Earlier than I take a short take a look at a lot of Okay-pop’s smaller companies, there are a number of that I’ve extra to say about. Take into account these “bonus” write-ups — shorter than the “huge 4” however longer than a paragraph or two may cowl.
As normal, the ideas beneath are my very own and aren’t aware about any insider data. The aim of those articles is to find out how effectively Okay-pop companies are serving their artists and followers. There will probably be loads of subjective critique.
The Good
Woollim Leisure lastly gave some like to DRIPPIN, giving them a number of comebacks and even managing to safe a slot at this yr’s KCON LA (a rarity for artists on their roster). They have been rewarded with the group’s finest album gross sales but. I don’t suppose it is a signal of widespread success for the group, however they clearly have a passionate fan base that’s prepared to (bulk?) purchase.
In the case of Woollim’s extra seasoned acts, the company managed to coordinate a Lovelyz reunion/live performance and saved seven tenths of Golden Little one on their roster after contract negotiations. Golcha’s Jaehyun loved a profitable yr as an actor with Jangjun is throughout selection.
The Unhealthy
To be trustworthy, Woollim barely looks like an lively company any extra. It’s been two years since any of their artists have launched greater than a three-track single album and comebacks are few and much between usually. That is the primary yr since debut that Golden Little one haven’t launched new music, making me surprise in the event that they’ll truly be lively after renewing their contracts. As a fan, I don’t blame among the members for leaving. There’s simply not a lot occurring with them, musically.
In the meantime, woman group Rocket Punch feels all however performed. In style member Juri left the company this spring and the group hasn’t had a comeback in fourteen months. Even earlier than that, gross sales have been slumping and it by no means felt like Woollim was closely investing in them. I can’t think about they’re cooking up some superb return.
Whereas Kwon Eunbi continues to be a preferred identify on the competition circuit, her music has additionally stalled. This yr’s single album was her worst performing but and the company appears to lack ambition with regards to selling her profession as a musician.
Whereas the Lovelyz reunion was a pleasant deal with for longtime followers, Woollim dropped the ball with regards to promotion. Their new music didn’t even obtain a correct music video and got here and went with out a lot fanfare.
General, it’s getting more durable and more durable to see how Woollim Leisure turns its trajectory round. Up to now, a minimum of we had glorious music even when promotions have been missing. Now, with out an identifiable sound or in-house producer, even that feels up within the air. The company will all the time maintain a particular place in my coronary heart for all they’ve given us, however this decline is troublesome to observe. I hope for a miracle of some type.
What I’d prefer to see in 2025:
- Musical exercise. Do one thing along with your artists!
- A Golden Little one comeback that lives as much as their potential.
- A comeback that features greater than three tracks.
Earlier years: 2023 // 2022 // 2021 // 2020 // 2019 // 2018 // 2017