Know The Artist!
Before they debuted as a girl group, they underwent a one-year training under professional vocal coach Kitchy Molona at the University of the Philippines College of Music. Their name came from the Tagalog word ‘binibini’, which means “young lady”, bodying the idea of modern filipina – sweet, fierce, independent, and informed. They were able to release many songs such as “Da Coconut Nut (2020), Born to Win (2021), Pantropiko (2023), and albums such as Feel Good (2022) and Talaarawan (2023), which helped them raise their popularity through P-Pop.
While they were rising in popularity, BINI member Gwen posted on X (formerly Twitter) about their fans, now called Bloom(s), not respecting their privacy. She and the other members appreciated their support but requested them to stop knocking at their doors for photo requests.
BTS was formed by Bang Si-hyuk, a songwriter and producer who founded Big Hit Entertainment in 2005. He assembled the group in 2010, naming them “Bangtan Sonyeondan” (Bulletproof Boy Scouts), later shortened to BTS. Their early releases included three EPs: 2 Cool 4 Skool (2013), O!RUL8,2? (2013), and Skool Luv Affair (2014).
BTS’s success stems not only from K-pop’s production and visuals but also from their philanthropy, fan engagement, and sharing of personal struggles as inspiration for their music. This connection fosters deep emotional bonds with fans.
While some fans develop parasocial attachments to BTS, others remain supportive yet concerned about fandom toxicity. Many ARMY members strive to create a balanced community, offering advice and support to both new and long-time fans.
BLACKPINK, formed by YG Entertainment (one of the “Big 3” entertainment companies in K-pop), debuted in August 2016 with their first album, Square One, with the songs “Boombayah” and “Whistle”. The name “BLACKPINK” came from the concept of Pink meaning “Prettiness”, but BLACKPINK means “Pretty isn’t everything”, where they state that they are not only pretty, but also talented.
Due to their immense popularity, their fans, called the BLINKS, are very aggressive about their likes, and have negative feelings such as hate and jealousy towards not only other fandoms but even amongst themselves, as they seem to be separated into smaller fandoms where they like a particular member in BLACKPINK.
Their famous name is derived from a rhyming word ‘heavy’, which is why they used ‘baby’ metal as their band name when they’re doing heavy metal and J-Pop elements together as their genre of music.
They managed to gain such a large audience and popularity due to their unique music style, their online presence, live performances, and even collaborations with other artists which is something that is unprecedented in Asia, such that they even reached America and then the rest of the world.
When Yui left due to health reasons and Momoko became the new member, some fans were not happy and spread hate. Comments like “They’re not kawaii anymore.” and “They’ve changed since Yui left.”, were common in the fandom. But overall, the majority of the fans are happy that Babymetal has always kept their lives private.
Ariana Grande began singing and acting at a young age. In 2008, she landed a Broadway role at 13, and in 2010, she gained fame with Nickelodeon’s Victorious. Transitioning to music, she rose to prominence with hits like “Put Your Hearts Up,” her debut album Yours Truly, and her collaboration “The Way” with Mac Miller. Known for her dynamic performances and visually stunning concerts, Grande has solidified her place in the industry.
Her career boasts chart-topping hits and Grammy nominations, but her resilience through personal challenges has deeply inspired fans. Many of her long-time supporters, the Arianators, are now adults who have dedicated fan accounts. While some exhibit extreme behaviors, such as skipping work for album parties or reacting strongly to perceived slights, most respect her privacy and set healthy boundaries in their admiration.
Ed Sheeran learned guitar early and began writing songs while attending Thomas Mills High School in Framlingham. Believing music would shape his life, he studied at Access to Music in Norwich and released his first EP, The Orange Room, in 2005, followed by two albums in 2006-2007. By 2010, his popularity grew through YouTube and other platforms.
Sheeran’s authentic personality helps fans feel connected to him, enhancing his appeal. His emotional music resonates deeply with the Sheerios, who support his endeavors and respect his privacy. Many fans have even tattooed his lyrics, finding inspiration and renewed passion through his songs.
