Intergenerational K-pop collaborations are usually reserved for special events like year-end festivals. But sometimes, these team-ups make their way into a recording studio so we can enjoy the music for longer. Pop legend Kim Wan Sun pre-dates the idea of “K-pop generations,” known as the Korean Madonna even before Seo Taiji & Boys came around to usher in the idea of K-pop’s “First Gen.” Since then, she’s been active in every decade and has undoubtedly been an inspiration for Red Velvet’s Seulgi. The two join forces on the retro, JYP-penned synth track Lucky.
Every element here is in harmony, from Wan Sun’s iconic status to JYP’s penchant for an 80’s hook to Seulgi’s new-gen star power. And make no mistake, the track is solid. It’s probably not as good as it could (or should) have been given the talent involved, but I’ll never say no to a fun retro bop like this.
Lucky makes all the expected moves for a song of this nature, built upon spiky synth that feels a bit chintzy (but in a fun way!). It’s not as developed as a song like Wonder Girls’ Reboot, but its heart is in a similar place. I’m a big fan of the way the chorus splits into two contrasting parts. The production switches up here, offering rhythmic variation that keeps the track fresh. Both ladies’ vocals fit seamlessly together, making the track sound like the work of an established girl group. Hopefully, its wide-reaching appeal has the power to unite generations of music fans.
Hooks
8
Production
8
Longevity
9
Bias
9
RATING
8.5