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With a new single already announced for the end of the month, Mark Tuan embarks on a fresh chapter by signing a new management deal ahead of a new, “raw and intimate” era.
Billboard can exclusively reveal that the Los Angeles singer-songwriter-model is teaming up with with Transparent Arts for his music career and other projects. Mark will release his new single “High as You” on May 30, to start the joint venture with the Asian American entertainment powerhouse. According to a press release, the new, alt-rock track “captures the essence of an unforgettable love — the only high he ever knew. With seductive melodies and striking choreography, Mark is ready to showcase a raw and intimate side of himself like never before.”
After reuniting with his K-pop boy band GOT7 for a new EP earlier this year, “High as You” is Tuan’s first solo release of 2025 and previews more music on the way.
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“I’m thrilled to partner with Transparent Arts and to step into a new phase of my journey as an artist,” Mark says in a statement. “‘High As You’ is just the beginning, and I’m looking forward to sharing more of this side of me with my fans.”
James Roh, COO of Transparent Arts, adds, “We’re thrilled to welcome Mark to our roster. As a fellow LA native, we felt an instant connection with him. He brings a rare blend of professionalism, talent, and authentic kindness. Working with Mark has been creatively fulfilling, and we can’t wait for the world to hear what we’ve been working on.”
After GOT7 opted not to renew its contract with JYP Entertainment in 2021, Tuan returned to LA to launch his solo career via the independent label Dreamers N Achievers (DNA), which he acts as CEO. The 31-year-old has balanced his indie projects like 2022 full-length, The Other Side, and his Fallin’ EP, from 2023, with GOT7 activities and fashion collaborations including an ambassadorship with Saint Laurent and partnership with Calvin Klein.
Founded by Billboard Hot 100 chart-toppers Far East Movement, Transparent Arts is a 360-degree entertainment company dedicated to amplifying Asian culture and talent worldwide through management, production, branding, and live events. Tuan joins a roster that currently includes Korean indie breakthrough band The Rose, Filipino superstar singer-actor James Reid, LA-based DJ and producer Yultron and more. Through over 15 years in the business, TA collaborators include artists like Bruno Mars, Marshmello, and Awkwafina, with Universal Music, YouTube, McDonald’s, and SM Entertainment listed as brand partners.
Earlier this year, Mark teamed up with his GOT7 band mates to drop its first project in nearly three years, Winter Heptagon, through a new partnership with Kakao Entertainment. The EP peaked at No. 16 on Billboard’s World Albums chart, becoming the group’s 20th entry. Meanwhile, lead single “Python” climbed to No. 4 on the World Digital Song Sales chart — GOT7’s strongest showing since 2021. The group celebrated with concerts in Seoul’s SK Olympic Handball Gymnasium arena and Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium, reportedly selling out the 85,000 seats for the latter within a day.
Sleep Token have claimed their first-ever No. 1 album in Australia, as Even In Arcadia debuts at the summit of the ARIA Albums Chart. The masked U.K. rock act previously peaked at No. 3 in 2023 with Take Me Back to Eden. Explore See latest videos, charts and news See latest videos, charts and news […]
W Sound, Beéle and Ovy on the Drums celebrate a new milestone on the Billboard Argentina Hot 100 chart, as “La Plena (W Sound 05)” jumps 2-1 for its first week atop the ranking dated May 17. To date, Beéle has earned a total of three top 10s, while Ovy on the Drums has placed two. Meanwhile, W Sound — also known as Westcol — secured his first top 10 entry when the song climbed 14-8 in April.
“La Plena (W Sound 05)” dethrones Cazzu’s “Con Otra,” which dips 1-2, while Emilia, TINI and Nicki Nicole’s “Blackout” holds at No. 3 for a third week following its two-week coronation in April. Bad Bunny rebounds to No. 6 after sitting in the runner-up slot for two weeks in March.Elsewhere, Puerto Rican singer Mattei earns his first top 10 with “Pa’ Las Girlas,” which surges from No. 26 to No. 9 in its third week on the tally.
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The week’s Hot Shot Debut goes to Lali’s “Plástico,” with Duki, which starts at No. 25. The argentinian singer also debuts a second song from her album, No Vayas A Atender Cuando El Demonio Llama, as “Lokura” arrives at No. 81. Four other cuts from the album chart this week, starting with “Mejor Que Vos,” with Miranda!, at No. 14, “33,” with Dillom, which pushes 29-38, and “No Me Importa” and “Fanátco,” which re-enter at Nos. 75 and 90, respectively. Plus, “Loco Un Poco,” with Turf, ascends 88-77, for Lali’s seventh concurrent songs on the chart, the most this week.
Yan Block & Panda Black’s “444” takes the Greatest Gainer honor, awarded weekly to the song with the largest ascent among the 100 titles on the chart. The single climbs 21 spots, from No.100 to No.79, for its new peak.
Two other songs debut on the Billboard Argentina Hot 100: Salastkabron’s “Tengo Una Cadena” at No. 26, while Young Miko’s “WASSUP” bows at No. 70.
As Korea’s most popular virtual idol group, PLAVE is sometimes misunderstood as an AI-generated illusion. But the artists behind the animated band members are real, as are the videographers, engineers, graphic designers, animators and retouchers who bring their imagery to life.For the latest edition of Billboard Artist, Billboard Korea spoke to the characters who power PLAVE. Here are highlights from the conversation.
This edition is built around five key elements—earth, fire, water, air and a fifth: the “digital universe,” which represents PLAVE’s origin story. If you had to define one final element that completes the world, what would it be?
Yejun: For me, it’s truth—and being real, always. When you put your real feelings out there, people can feel that. Doesn’t matter where you are or who’s watching—genuine energy just hits different.
Noah: Happiness, 100%. I feel like almost everything we do in life—whether it’s grabbing food, texting a friend, even just taking a nap—is basically us chasing happiness in some form. That’s honestly why I do PLAVE, too. It makes me happy, and I get to run after this wild, exciting dream with the members.
Bamby: Emotion—for real, it’s everything. Like, I don’t think we even start doing anything without some kind of feeling behind it. Even when I’m like, “Okay, time to sing,” there’s always a reason—someone I’m thinking of, some mood I’m in. It’s all driven by emotion. No spark, no move. That’s just how I run.
Eunho: Analog. If PLAVE started in a digital universe, I think the heart of our story still has to feel human. The more high-tech the world gets, the more I feel like people crave something soft, something real. There’s this quiet nostalgia for the imperfect stuff—the human side of things. Maybe that’s why what we do connects. It’s not just the tech. It’s the feeling behind it. So yeah, if I had to name the final element, I’d call it analog warmth.
Hamin: Faith. I feel like everything starts from that. It’s because we believed that PLAVE could exist, and it’s that same belief that lets us love each other—and be loved back.
Like the idea of a flower pushing through tough soil, what’s something meaningful you’ve grown from a hard time?
Bamby: I’m really into growing plants. There’s just something magical about watching life sprout from plain old dirt—seeing it grow, bear fruit, and then return to the soil. That whole cycle is so beautiful to me. It made me realize nature is all about giving and receiving, in this constant loop. And I’m part of that too, right? I think I’m growing a little every day—like a tree, like a flower. I don’t think we’re meant to bloom just one flower or grow one fruit in our whole life. It’s more like—we keep blooming whatever fits that moment. One season, one vibe, one version of ourselves at a time. Performing as PLAVE? That’s one of my flowers. Doing this interview? Another one. It’s not about having a single perfect blossom—it’s about living in a way where you’re always trying to bloom something real. That’s the part I care about most.
Water seems soft, but it’s one of the strongest forces in nature. It cuts through diamonds with speed, shapes stone with patience, and sometimes, all it takes is one tear to move a heart. What’s a quiet strength you carry that people might not see at first—but feel over time?
Yejun: I think I’m like the ocean—quiet, steady, but ready to hold whatever comes my way. I want to be that kind of space for the members, and for PLLIs too. Like a winter sea—calm and still, the kind you can sit beside when you just need to breathe. And like a summer sea—cool, open, and full of light when you’re in a good place. That’s the kind of strength I believe in. Not loud, not flashy—just… always there. If I can be someone you lean on without saying a word, someone who gives you peace just by being around—that, to me, is real power.
Silver hair, red eyes and fire all feel timeless—almost immortal. But they also carry a certain quiet, a sense of solitude, like midnight. Do you see yourself as someone who stands apart? And when you feel that distance, do you lean into it—or try to break through it?
Eunho: I think I do find comfort in solitude. When I’m alone, I get to slow down and think—about where I’m going, how I want to grow. If I’m in a good mood, I’ll quietly celebrate by myself. And if I’m not, I’ll sit with that too, try to unpack it. But I’ve also learned that staying in that space too long isn’t always healthy. It’s easy to sink into it without noticing. That’s why I try to face those feelings—and then step out of them. I think that’s where growth really happens. So yeah, I like being alone. But I never want to get stuck there.
In ancient alchemy, gold wasn’t just treasure—it was the fifth element, the last piece of a perfect world. These days, it’s still the ultimate symbol of excellence. So tell us: are you quietly working your way toward being PLAVE’s golden member? (And no, we’re not just talking about the hair, lol.)
Noah: Wait—are you calling me the golden member? That’s wild. Thank you, seriously. Honestly, I think all of us in PLAVE are kind of wired to chase perfection in our own way. But yeah, since I’m one of the older ones along with Yejun, I do feel that extra layer of responsibility. I’m always thinking like, “How can we level up as a team?” “What’s the next version of PLAVE the world hasn’t seen yet?” If we were a car, I’d probably be the one with both hands on the wheel, eyes on the road. Just trying to steer us forward—safe, strong, and headed somewhere amazing.
In today’s digital world, there’s a growing craving for something real—for that human touch. More and more people feel the need to know what’s real. How do you handle that kind of pressure, and how do you stay grounded in your own truth?
Hamin: Honestly, I don’t really see the point in drawing a hard line between what’s “real” and what’s “virtual.” I think everyone’s just living in the version of reality that feels real to them. And for me? Virtual is real. People are free to see it however they want—I don’t feel the need to push back or prove anything. What actually matters is: can we still connect? Can we understand each other, share something real, even in a digital space? That’s the kind of reality I believe in.
The theme of this edition, QUINTESSENCE, is all about the five elements coming together to represent purity, essence, and ultimate quality. If you had to define the “essence” of each of your fellow members in one word or phrase, what would it be?
Yejun:
Hamin – Maturity. He may be the youngest, but he’s often the most grown-up of us all.
Eunho – Purity. When he’s working on music, you can feel how purely he loves what he does.
Bamby – Nature. He’s probably the most effortlessly natural person I’ve ever met.
Noah – Charm. There’s just something about him—you can’t dislike him. It’s a superpower.
Noah:
Yejun – The blueprint. Total husband material. No notes.
Bamby – Wild card. He’s our 4D king—you never know what’s coming next.
Eunho – Puppy. It just fits, okay?
Hamin – Black cat. And yep, I mean that exactly how it sounds.
Bamby:
Yejun – Soft blue. He’s solid as a leader and sees every little detail in the team.
Noah – Honesty. He’s always showing his true self, to everyone.
Eunho – Fiery red. He brings that bold, energetic passion to PLAVE.
Hamin – Leafy green. Like a strong tree, he quietly keeps the team balanced.
Eunho:
Yejun – The Center. To me, Yejun hyung is the gravitational core of PLAVE. He holds us all together, not just as a leader but as a person. What makes him special is the way he balances warmth with sharp clarity. I’d say he’s 60% cool-headed, 40% soft-hearted.
Noah – The Seasoning. He’s like that one pinch of spice that takes everything from “okay” to “oh dang.” His voice? Total flavor boost. We’ll be working on a track, and the second he hops in—boom, it all makes sense. And on air? He’s the one dropping those chaotic one-liners that make us lose it. What gets me is how he flips between genius-level precision and total goofball energy. You never really know which version you’re getting—and that’s exactly what makes him fun.
Bamby – The Sour Peach. Bamby’s like a tangy peach—sweet, zingy, full of character, and always keeping you guessing. I’ve known him for a while now, and just when I think I’ve got him figured out, he shows me a new side. He lives like he’s the main character in a movie. “Sour peach” might sound funny, but it fits him perfectly.
Hamin – The Bassline. And I mean that literally and emotionally. He plays bass, sure—but more than that, he is the base of PLAVE. He holds us together, gives the group shape. He’s the youngest, but he’s the one checking in on everyone, keeping the vibe grounded whether we’re on or off stage. Quiet, steady, solid—that’s Hamin.
Hamin:
Yejun – Selflessness. He leads by example and always puts others first.
Noah – Sensitivity & humanity. He’s observant, thoughtful, and always there with the right words.
Bamby – Approachability. He vibes with everyone and makes people feel seen. He knows when to lean in and when to lean on.
Eunho – Warmth & light. He lifts me up with compliments and always knows how to make me laugh.
Image Credit: Billboard Korea + VLAST
Yejun: I think I’m like the ocean—quiet, steady, but ready to hold whatever comes my way. If I can be someone you lean on without saying a word, someone who gives you peace just by being around—that, to me, is real power.
Image Credit: Billboard Korea + VLAST
Noah: Since I’m one of the older ones along with Yejun, I feel that extra layer of responsibility. I’m always thinking like, “How can we level up as a team? What’s the next version of PLAVE the world hasn’t seen yet?” If we were a car, I’d probably be the one with both hands on the wheel, eyes on the road. Just trying to steer us forward—safe, strong, and headed somewhere amazing.
Image Credit: Billboard Korea + VLAST
Bamby: I’m really into growing plants. There’s just something magical about watching life sprout from plain old dirt—seeing it grow, bear fruit, and then return to the soil. That whole cycle is so beautiful to me. It made me realize nature is all about giving and receiving, in this constant loop. And I’m part of that too, right? I think I’m growing a little every day—like a tree, like a flower. I don’t think we’re meant to bloom just one flower or grow one fruit in our whole life. It’s more like—we keep blooming whatever fits that moment.
Image Credit: Billboard Korea + VLAST
Hamin: Honestly, I don’t really see the point in drawing a hard line between what’s “real” and what’s “virtual.” I think everyone’s just living in the version of reality that feels real to them. And for me? Virtual is real. People are free to see it however they want—I don’t feel the need to push back or prove anything. What actually matters is: can we still connect? Can we understand each other, share something real, even in a digital space? That’s the kind of reality I believe in.
Image Credit: Billboard Korea + VLAST
Eunho: I think I do find comfort in solitude. When I’m alone, I get to slow down and think—about where I’m going, how I want to grow. If I’m in a good mood, I’ll quietly celebrate by myself. And if I’m not, I’ll sit with that too, try to unpack it. But I’ve also learned that staying in that space too long isn’t always healthy. It’s easy to sink into it without noticing. That’s why I try to face those feelings—and then step out of them. I think that’s where growth really happens. So yeah, I like being alone. But I never want to get stuck there.
Image Credit: Billboard Korea + VLAST
From left: Eunho, Yejun, Noah, Bamby and Hamin of PLAVE.
Dragon Pony is a four-member Korean rock band bringing fresh energy and musical depth to the scene. Signed under Antenna, they debuted on September 26, 2024, with the EP POP UP, delivering raw emotion and a genre-blending sound. Their name comes from the members’ zodiac signs — leader An Tae-gyu is a Dragon, while the others were born in the Year of the Horse — symbolizing strength, balance and unity. Each member actively contributes to songwriting and production, creating music rooted in honest storytelling and rock’s dynamic edge.With their debut EP’s title track, they announced themselves with an anthem of self-expression and bold ambition. Since then, they’ve played major stages like the Busan International Rock Festival, launched a nationwide club tour, and even sold out a show in Taipei. Their latest EP, Not Out (March 2025), signals further growth and ambition, as the band sets its sights on global stages and future collaborations.
Dragon Pony is not just a band to watch; they’re a force redefining what modern Korean rock can be.
Please introduce Dragon Pony. What kind of team are you, and what kind of music do you pursue?
An Tae Gyu: Hello, we are Dragon Pony. The music we make is all about sharing candid stories and emotions, built on band sounds and loaded with raw, passionate energy. We’re not stuck to any one single format or genre — we just want to make good music that feels right to us.
What’s the meaning behind the name “Dragon Pony”?
Pyun Sung Hyun: In Korea, your zodiac sign is determined by the year you were born. An Tae Gyu was born in 2000, so he’s a Dragon. The rest of us — Kwon Se Hyuk, Ko Gang Hun and I — were born in 2002, the year of the Horse. That’s how we came up with the name “Dragon Pony.” Dragons and horses are both strong, powerful creatures, and we thought that the energy fit perfectly with the rock sound we’re going for.
How did the members meet and form the team?
Kwon Se Hyuk: Pyun Sung Hyun, Ko Gang Hun and I went to the same high school. Ko Gang Hun and I passed Antenna’s audition together, but I had no idea that Pyun Sung Hyun had auditioned too. A few months later, when I heard a new trainee was joining us, I was shocked to find out it was him. Eventually, An Tae Gyu came onboard. As our leader, he’s done an amazing job bringing us together, and that’s how the four of us formed Dragon Pony.
What message did you want to convey through your debut album or title track?
Ko Gang Hun: The title of our debut album and lead single POP UP reflects our sudden entrance into the music scene as well as our drive to make ourselves known. Since it’s our first release, it sends a clear message: “Let’s show the world the kind of music we do best.” If you listen to the entire album, you’ll get a good sense of the sound Dragon Pony is bringing to the table.
How did it feel to be onstage for the first time?
An Tae Gyu: We played our first show at Club FF in Hongdae, Seoul. I was super nervous since the crowd was way bigger than we expected. There was this mix of anxiety and excitement as we waited to see how the audience would react to our music
What do you think is Dragon Pony’s unique musical color?
Pyun Sung Hyun: Dragon Pony is a band where all four of us take part in writing, composing, arranging and producing, which lets us explore a wide range of musical styles — and that’s definitely one of our biggest strengths. We’re all huge fans of ’70s and ’80s hard rock, and that influence runs deep in the sound we create. If you listen to “To. Nosy Boy” and “Waste” from our latest EP Not Out, you’ll quickly understand what makes our music unique.
What is the most important element for you when working on music?
An Tae Gyu: For me, the melody and lyrics are the most important. As a vocalist, I’m the one delivering the song directly to the audience, so I naturally focus on those two elements.
Pyun Sung Hyun: I think music should leave a lasting impression — and for me, it’s usually the melody that stays with me. That’s why I try to write melodies that really linger in your ears.
Kwon Se Hyuk: The melody and lyrics are the backbone of any song. You can change the chords and shift the vibe, but changing the melody or lyrics transforms the whole song. So when I start working on a track, I always begin with those two elements before building everything else around them.
Ko Gang Hun: I prioritize sound above everything. When I listen to music, the first thing that hits me is the texture of the sound. So when I’m writing, I focus on crafting fresh, distinctive sounds that grab your attention right away.
What aspects of stage performance do you pay special attention to?
Ko Gang Hun: Since performances happen live, right in front of the audience, I think their reactions and energy matter the most. That’s why we put a lot of thought into the overall flow, the performance itself, and how we deliver the message — so the audience can really enjoy the show and connect with us.
Are there any genres or concepts you’d like to try in the future?
An Tae Gyu: As a newly debuted band, each of us has different genres and concepts we’d love to explore. But for now, we’re focused on sharing music that really shows our unique color to the public. We’re also interested in incorporating classical instruments into our band sound and creating something fresh, fun, and different to listen to.
Do you have an official fandom name? If so, what does it mean?
Pyun Sung Hyun: We recently decided on the name of Dragon Pony’s fan club — it’s called Poyong. The name combines the “Po” from Pony and “Yong,” which is the Korean word for Dragon, symbolizing the bond between us and our fans, where we support and embrace each other. In English, it’s written as “For Young,” which also reflects the idea of sharing the passionate moments of youth that the four of us in Dragon Pony hope to bring to our fans.
How did you feel when you met your fans for the first time?
Kwon Se Hyuk: When I first met our fans, it just felt surreal. We had a club show before our debut, and the fact that people came to enjoy our music even though we hadn’t yet officially debuted was so surprising and we were all really grateful. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.
Is there a comment from a fan that stuck with you?
Ko Gang Hun: Before our debut, a fan said, “See you next time,” and I thought it was just a polite goodbye. I didn’t expect them to actually see us again. But when they did, it was incredibly touching and unforgettable. More recently, someone said, “Seeing Dragon Pony gave me a dream,” and that really stuck with me. It reminded me of why we need to keep pushing forward.
Any memorable episodes from social media or fan sign events?
An Tae Gyu: We’ve only just started doing a few fan signing events, so everything still feels new and a little awkward. At a recent one, we did a live acoustic performance with our songs and some covers — something we don’t usually get to do. The fans really enjoyed it, and since it was our first time performing live at a fan signing, it was a fun and memorable experience for all of us.
What are some goals Dragon Pony hopes to achieve in the future?
Pyun Sung Hyun: The bigger the goal, the better—and we’ve got a few big ones. First, we want to make it onto the Billboard Hot 100 Chart. We also hope to perform for fans in more countries, so going on a world tour is definitely on our list. One day, we’d love to headline major festivals like Glastonbury and Coachella. Now that I say it all out loud, we’ve got a lot of dreams — which just means we’ll have to work much harder to make them happen.
Is there a dream stage you’d like to perform on?
Kwon Se Hyuk: Like Pyun Sung Hyun said, we’d love to perform at Glastonbury, Coachella and even the Super Bowl halftime show one day. In the end, our dream is to headline every festival that invites us!
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be?
Ko Gang Hun: Recently, Coldplay came to Korea for some concerts, and watching them perform was just incredible. I really admire how they’ve stayed together and kept making music for so long. If we ever had the chance to collaborate with Coldplay, it would be a dream come true.
Where do you see Dragon Pony in five years?
An Tae Gyu: Since we’ve only just debuted, we feel still young and inexperienced, and we have a lot to learn. But five years from now, I think we’ll be more mature and confident in ourselves. If we keep working hard, we’ll be performing at bigger venues and maybe even going on a world tour. We’re curious and excited to see how far Dragon Pony will have come by then. Please keep supporting our music until then!
If you had to describe Dragon Pony in three words, what would they be?
Pyun Sung Hyun: I’d like to express Dragon Pony through the three elements of music — rhythm, melody, and harmony. They’re the most basic yet essential components, and just as these three come together to create music, the four of us come together as one to make the kind of music we love and do best. That’s why I think these elements best represent Dragon Pony.
Are there any inside jokes or phrases trending among the members these days?
Kwon Se Hyuk: Among the members, we often say, “That’s kinda true.” It’s a meme that’s been trending among Korea’s MZ generation.
An Tae Gyu
Image Credit: Yujin Kim
What role or position do you each play in the group? I’m An Tae Gyu, the vocalist and leader.
What do you consider your personal strengths? I think my strength is the bright, positive energy I bring. Whenever we perform, I genuinely enjoy being on stage and I think that energy naturally gets passed on to the audience. That’s something I’m proud of.
What was the most difficult moment before debut, and how did you overcome it? I developed vocal cord nodules during my trainee days. Back then, I hadn’t debuted yet, and I didn’t really know how to use my voice properly or take care of it—I just pushed myself too hard during practice. I struggled with it for a long time, so I kept going to the hospital and worked on useful techniques to sing without straining my voice. That experience taught me how crucial it is for vocalists to manage their condition, especially vocal health. Even now, I make it a top priority.
If you were to give each other nicknames, what would they be? How about we give each other a “boy” nickname? I’ll go with Shy Boy for Pyun Sung Hyun. The way he talks and his expressions totally fit the name.
Do you have any personal stage routines or superstitions? I always do some stretching before performances. It helps loosen up my body and relax my throat, which makes singing on stage feel a lot more comfortable.
Kwon Se Hyuk
Image Credit: Yujin Kim
What role or position do you each play in the group? I’m Kwon Se Hyuk, the guitarist.
What do you consider your personal strengths? Perseverance and tenacity are my strengths. I think having that kind of character really helps in making good music.
What was the most difficult moment before debut, and how did you overcome it? I actually failed the Antenna audition the first time. It was a company I really wanted to join, and I’d put in a lot of practice, so the rejection hit me pretty hard. But like I said earlier, I’m persistent. I sent them another email to reintroduce myself, and thankfully, they appreciated that and gave me another shot—and that’s how I was able to become a trainee.
If you were to give each other nicknames, what would they be? Ko Gang Hun looks really tough when he’s playing the drums, so I’d call him Tough Boy.
Do you have any personal stage routines or superstitions? I like playing games in my free time, and squeezing in a quick game before going on stage helps me relax. It’s a fun way to ease the tension.
Ko Gang Hun
Image Credit: Yujin Kim
What role or position do you each play in the group? I’m Ko Gang Hun, the drummer.
What do you consider your personal strengths? I have a steady personality. I don’t really have big emotional swings, and I’m not easily influenced by external circumstances. That helps me stay focused and keeps me working toward my goals without easily getting shaken.
What was the most difficult moment before debut, and how did you overcome it? During my trainee period, we had monthly evaluations, and the pressure to perform well was one of the hardest parts for me. There was a time when I kept receiving only negative feedback, and it was really tough. But I didn’t give up—I pushed myself to practice even harder and also kept writing songs. Eventually, I started getting positive feedback, and once that happened, it felt like I was naturally able to pull myself out of the slump.
If you were to give each other nicknames, what would they be? An Tae Gyu’s always uplifting and positive, so Joyful Boy feels just right for him.
Do you have any personal stage routines or superstitions? I have this habit of checking out the audience before we go on stage. Since their energy plays such a big role in a performance, I naturally find myself scanning the crowd to feel the vibe before we start.
Pyun Sung Hyun
Image Credit: Yujin Kim
What role or position do you each play in the group? I’m Pyun Sung Hyun, the bassist.
What do you consider your personal strengths? Honesty is my strength. I’d rather be genuine than put on a facade, and that mindset naturally carries over into our music. I try to keep our lyrics as candid and unfiltered as possible.
What was the most difficult moment before debut, and how did you overcome it? Joining the company and living with others as a trainee was a completely new experience for me. It was tough to adjust at first. But I was able to get through it by being honest about my struggles and working together with the company to find ways to improve.
If you were to give each other nicknames, what would they be? I think Kwon Se Hyuk’s pretty cute, so I’d call him Cute Boy.
Do you have any personal stage routines or superstitions? Before going on stage, I make sure to check how everyone’s doing. Since we’re a band, staying in sync is really important, so I try to keep an eye on the team and help us all stay focused.
Dragon Pony
Image Credit: Yujin Kim
Lastly, please share a message for Billboard readers and your global fans!
Dragon Pony: Being selected as Billboard’s Rookie of the Month is truly an honor and an incredible experience. We’re deeply grateful and will continue to work hard to live up to the support we’ve received. We’ll keep growing and aim to reach the Billboard charts in the near future. Please continue to show your love and support for Dragon Pony. Thank you, Billboard!
Billboard Japan’s Women in Music initiative launched in 2022 to celebrate artists, producers and executives who have made significant contributions to music and inspired other women through their work, in the same spirit as Billboard’s annual Women in Music honors since 2007. This interview series featuring female players in the Japanese entertainment industry is one of the highlights of Japan’s WIM project.
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Rena Yamazaki chatted with writer Rio Hirai in the latest installment of the series. The former idol group member continues to express her thoughts on society and culture through her regular TOKYO FM radio show “Rena Yamazaki’s Things I Wanted to Talk to Someone About” and her writing. The 27-year-old shared her feelings about moving from being an idol performer to working in the world of journalism, the possibilities for women’s careers, and the importance of speaking out.
What changes have you felt compared to when you used to be an idol performer?
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The biggest change is that I’ve started to be involved in news programs. I appeared in a special program on the Upper House elections in the summer of 2022, just before I graduated from the group, and since then I’ve been invited to appear on shows like Sunday Japon, Wake Up, Mr. Sunday and ABEMA Prime. I was interested in politics and the economy since when I was an idol, but never had a chance to talk about them. Now I’m being asked for my opinion more and feel that’s a big change.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a radio personality?
It’s a place where I can take time to convey my thoughts in my own words. I also like how I can get close to my listeners and hear all sorts of stories through the messages I receive. Unlike TV, there’s the difficulty of trying to convey things using only your voice and words without relying on visuals, but that’s also part of the appeal.
Is there any difference in your stance towards work between your idol days and now?
When I was an idol, my stance was to do my best within the role I was given. But now, I think about the way I work and have more opportunities to express my own opinion, so I’ve become more proactive. That means I have more responsibility, but the pressure is a good stimulus.
It’s unusual for former idols to go into journalism. What do you think about the second careers of other idols?
Everyone has their own path to take after graduating from being an idol, but many of them go on to become actresses. Even when I was still in the group, I liked studying things of all genres and using words to communicate, and also had opportunities to appear on TV shows, so I wanted to continue doing work that made use of my intellectual curiosity. That’s why I chose to go into radio and writing.
How did you feel when you were first tapped to be a TV commentator?
I was surprised at first, because I never thought I’d be offered a role in a special program covering the results of the Upper House elections. My management team at the time asked me, “We’ve been offered this, what do you think?” and I thought, “It’d be a challenge worth taking on.” I asked them their decision and they said, “We think it’d be good for your career and a good learning experience,” so I was able to make up my mind to give it my best.
Were you always interested in politics and social issues?
I studied media theory and writing techniques at university, and was also interested in politics and economics. I had friends who went into journalism, and I also regularly read newspapers and online articles. But I never intended to make it my career. Once I started working in the field, though, I felt I needed to study more, so I started reading books and talking to experts.
Has anything surprised you while working in the media?
That what I say has more influence than I thought. Even casual comments can be spread on social media and misunderstood, or even lead to slander. I try to choose my words carefully more than ever before.
When celebrities speak out about politics, they’re often criticized. What do you think about that?
Well, it’s true that when I talk about politics, people sometimes say things like, “You’re a smart-aleck” or “You don’t know what you’re talking about.” But I also think that if I don’t say anything, nothing will change. In fact, it feels like when young women talk about politics, they’re met with stronger opposition than when men do so. For example, when a man in his sixties talks about the same thing, he’s seen as calm and logical, but when a woman in her twenties talks about it, she’s seen as arrogant or trying to act mature.
That’s why I think it’s important to keep speaking out. My views may not always agree with those of viewers and may say something wrong at times, but if I keep quiet, people will end up thinking that young people don’t care about politics. I want to show that there are people who do care and think about it.
In today’s age of social media, what are your thoughts on how information should be disseminated?
Anyone can freely express their opinions nowadays, but I feel that this also means people have a greater responsibility for what they say. In particular, in the world of journalism, what you say can be taken out of context and misinterpreted, so I’ve become more careful about the words I choose.
Extreme opinions tend to spread easily on social media, and it can be hard to have calm discussions. In this context, I think it’s important to make your position clear, but also to offer constructive opinions rather than fueling confrontation. That’s why I try to say “I don’t know” when I don’t understand something, and want to keep being open to listening carefully to what experts have to say.
What do you think is necessary for women’s opinions to be heard?
First of all, I think it’s important to have more opportunities to speak out. I also think that we need to create an environment where women don’t feel afraid to speak out, but rather feel that it’s natural to do so. My ideal is to have a society where people who believe women’s opinions should be equally respected become the majority.
What do you think is necessary for idols and female celebrities to have lasting careers?
I think it’s particularly true in the idol industry that it’s hard for women to have long-lasting careers. It’s easy for “youth” to become part of their value, and in some cases, the range of their activities narrows as they get older. That’s why, when I was still an idol, I wanted to find other work that I could do. That’s how I was able to take the first step into fields like radio and writing, which aren’t restricted by age. What would be ideal is an environment where it’d be easy to return after leaving once, and where women could build up their careers more freely.
What do you think is necessary to make it easier for women to play a more active role in the entertainment industry?
I think it’s important to create a better environment for mental health care. More entertainment agencies are providing access to mental health counselors now, but I feel that there’s still a lack of awareness of the importance of mental health care.
When did you first become aware of the importance of mental health care?
When I was in university. At the time, I found it hard to balance my idol activities with my studies, so I sometimes went to a mental health clinic. Many people feel uncomfortable about seeking this kind of support, but from my own experience, I think it’s necessary to protect yourself.
What would you like to try in the future? And is there anything you want to share with our readers?
I’m planning on publishing two books this year, and currently preparing for that. I also want to continue doing what I’ve been doing as long as possible. I want to tell all my listeners to take care of their bodies and minds. Ultimately, only you can protect yourself. I hope that you’ll remember to take care of yourself, with support from the people around you.
This interview by Rio Hirai (SOW SWEET PUBLISHING) first appeared on Billboard Japan
Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s “Tengoku” hits No. 1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100, dated May 14, becoming one of the three songs by the band taking up the top three slots on this week’s chart.
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“Tengoku” (“Heaven”) was written as the theme song for the movie Shinso wo ohanashi shimasu (“Let me tell you the truth”) starring the band’s frontman Motoki Omori alongside timelesz member Fuma Kikuchi and debuted at No. 11 last week. On this week’s tally, it rules streaming with 9,383,288 weekly streams while coming in at No. 3 for downloads, No. 2 for radio airplay, and No. 4 for video views.
The popular three-man band dominates the top three positions on this week’s Japan Hot 100 with “Lilac” following “Heaven” at No. 2 and “KUSUSHIKI” at No. 3, becoming the second act to do so. The first artist who accomplished this feat was Ado, on the chart released Aug. 17, 2022. (“New Genesis,” “Backlght,” and “I’m Invincible” at Nos. 1, 2, 3, respectively. Fun fact: Motoki Omori wrote “I’m Invincible.”)
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WEST.’s “WEST SIDE SOUL!” debuts at No. 4. The theme song for the movie URASYAIN starring all seven members of the boy band sold 236,601 copies in its first week to rule physical sales and comes in at No. 24 for radio.
DXTEEN’s “Tick-Tack” bows at No. 5. The opening theme song for the drama series Yabusaka dewa gozaimasen launches at No. 2 for sales with 90,311 copies sold and comes in at No. 8 for radio.
Other notable chart moves include Shota Shimizu’s “PUZZLE,” which rises 18-11. Released last October as the theme song for his alma mater, the song started gaining traction on TikTok and social media around April, leading to an increase in video views and streams. Streams are up to 112% and downloads to 162% from the week before.
Also, several songs by KinKi Kids have charted after the duo released its extensive catalog on streaming platforms on May 5. “Ai no katamari” comes in at No. 14, “Garasu no shonen” at No. 42, “Aisareruyori aishitai” at No. 81, “Flower” at No. 92, and “Boku no senaka niwa hane ga aru” at No. 99.
The Billboard Japan Hot 100 combines physical and digital sales, audio streams, radio airplay, video views and karaoke data.
See the full Billboard Japan Hot 100 chart, tallying the week from May 5 to 11, here. For more on Japanese music and charts, visit Billboard Japan’s English X account.
To celebrate 30 years of steering the Korean entertainment sphere, SM Entertainment hit Los Angeles with its star-studded SMTOWN Live 2025 concert. Boasting 68 individual artists, representing 13 different groups, all on one sprawling stage at the Dignity Health Sports Park, the showcase brought out a range of K-pop talent that showcases SM’s expansive impact […]
On May 10, DJ Snake is set to perform consecutively in two of the largest concert venues in France: the Stade de France (80,000 people) and then the Accor Arena (20,000 people). It’s an unprecedented feat for an artist accustomed to breaking records as he prepares to release his third studio album.
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DJ Snake stands relaxed yet alert, his eyes sharp in front of the lens of Nabil Elderkin—a renowned director and photographer known, among other things, for his work with Travis Scott and The Weeknd. The artist is about to give a landmark concert at the Stade de France, titled The Final Show, followed by an after-party at the Accor Arena. An unprecedented feat for a DJ in France and a testament to his popularity in his home country, the event sold out in just three minutes.
More than a decade after his rise began, he is now one of the most influential ambassadors of the French electronic scene and ranks among the 100 most popular artists in the world on Spotify. Four of his singles have made it into the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100.
“Paris is my city,” he declares at the start of the interview. He has a visceral connection to the capital that goes beyond simple geographical attachment. “It’s the city that taught me everything, really. Even musically—the strong influence of hip-hop in Paris, African music, Arabic music, French pop… That whole mix is what makes my music sound the way it does today.”
He found himself backed into a corner in the summer of 2012, after several years of DJing in the capital’s upscale clubs. Having already worked behind the scenes for artists like Lady Gaga (earning him a Grammy nomination), he felt limited in his artistic expression. So, he invested his savings into renting a recording studio and gave himself two months to make it as a solo artist. That risky bet turned out to be the launching point for a meteoric rise, beginning in 2013 with “Turn Down for What,” his collaboration with Lil Jon.
A Leading Figure of the French Electronic Music Scene
“With all humility, I don’t claim to represent France,” DJ Snake confides. “I represent a guy from Paris, who’s Franco-Algerian, and I just try my best to do interesting things.”
Yet with 13 billion streams on Spotify and four music videos surpassing one billion views on YouTube, DJ Snake undeniably carries the country’s colors on the international stage. “We have an incredible electronic scene that’s respected worldwide. Our older brothers did an extraordinary job—Daft Punk, Justice, Bob Sinclar, Martin Solveig, David Guetta, Madeon…”
The Stade de France, the largest venue in the country, marks the pinnacle of an unlikely journey: “It’s my destiny—to come from the very bottom, have an unconventional path, be a guy no one believed in at first, and end up at the top, at the Stade de France.”
More than just a concert, The Final Show represents a clear ambition for him: “The goal is really to make history.” When ticket sales opened, more than 500,000 people were in the queue at the same time. “We had planned a whole promo run—interviews, TV appearances, billboards in the streets of Paris… We had a full campaign ready, because never, ever, ever did I think I’d fill the Stade de France in three minutes.”
So the artist decided to extend the celebration: “I said to Julie, my manager, ‘Check if the Accor Arena is available.’ If it was, we’d throw the afterparty there. At least we’d have 20,000 people—20,000 lucky ones, 20,000 members of the Snake Army—with whom we could throw a massive event.” It was a winning bet: the Bercy venue also sold out.
DJ Snake
Nabil Elderkin for Billboard France
Supporting the New Generation
“You can come from a small suburb and do big things, with very little—just with drive, ideas, a group of friends, fun, and a lot of ambition,” says DJ Snake. “What I mean is, ‘Go for it, anything is possible.’ You’ve got a passport, you can travel—have fun, do what you need to do, and fight for your vision.”
The artist expresses confidence in the future of the new generation: “There are so many talented people, and I’m really not worried about the industry or the French scene. I think of someone like Trym, who’s bringing his hard techno vibe. His project is going to keep growing—Americans love it—and I think what he represents is really cool.”
The next step after his Stade de France triumph: launching a label dedicated to supporting new talent. “I think after my album, the goal is to start a new label and sign a lot of young artists. I want to give them a platform to express themselves.”
The Nomadic Spirit
While Paris remains his emotional home port, DJ Snake sees himself first and foremost as a citizen of the world. “I strangely feel at home everywhere,” he explains. “And I really have that nomadic thing. The nomadic spirit—it’s something that truly reflects who I am. It’s a rhythm I’ve had since I was young. I’ve always been on the move, I’ve always traveled.
“Now, I’m able to absorb the vibe of a city quickly. It’s crazy what I’ve managed to develop—I’m just realizing it now.” Still, it’s a demanding balance: “Traveling is very inspiring—meeting people, connecting with artists, discovering different cultures… But the travel itself is exhausting. It’s a lot of pressure. I have a hard time creating while on tour. I need to stop and settle somewhere. I stepped back a bit from social media when I was touring more, because I was finishing my album and needed not to be constantly on the move.”
With “Disco Maghreb” in 2022, DJ Snake reached a form of personal fulfillment. The instrumental track with Algerian influences came from a deeply intimate place. “The impact of ‘Disco Maghreb’ was huge. It was unprecedented, and I really didn’t expect it. I was the first to be surprised,” he says. “It will still be played at weddings 20 years from now.
“Algeria gives me so much love. It’s really hard for me to walk down the street there, for example. That’s something I don’t experience anywhere else, even though I’m known pretty much worldwide.”
For him, the real victory lies in his ability to make traditional music resonate far beyond its original audience: “When I’m performing in Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Taiwan or Japan, and I see people dancing to Algerian rhythms—that’s a cultural victory.”
DJ Snake
Nabil Elderkin for Billboard France
A New Album After Six Years of Waiting
DJ Snake is preparing to make his return with a new project, with the announcement coinciding with his show at the Stade de France. “It’s true that it went by quickly,” he admits, reflecting on the time since “Carte Blanche.” “I felt the need to offer a new chapter in my career. I had things to say, things to offer. With the Stade de France, I thought, ‘I think we’re going to make a great combo, Stade de France, album. We’re going to have fun.’
“It’s an album where I had fun. I pushed creativity to the max. Of course, it’ll still be DJ Snake, I’m not coming back with a funk album or a drum and bass album. There will be electronic sounds, there will be touching moments, and we’re going to have fun.”
This versatility is one of the artist’s signatures: “I release ‘Let Me Love You’ with Justin Bieber, the next month I drop a dubstep track called ‘Propaganda,’ which is super aggressive. Then I do something like ‘Magenta Riddim’ with Indian influences. After that, I can do a house track, I can do ‘Disco Maghreb’…. I really took people on a journey from left to right. But always with integrity and my vision. That’s why people have never seen me as an opportunist, because my approach has always been sincere.”
He embraces this diversity as an integral part of his identity: “When you’re in music, your art has to be solid, and it has to touch people. There has to be emotion, but it has to connect with the audience. I don’t understand artists who make the same song every time. They have a hit with something, and then they make five follow-ups with the same rhythm, the same guitar. I’d go crazy. That’s why I always need to reinvent myself and offer something different.”
In Search of Authenticity
In an electronic landscape where trends, particularly on social media, often overshadow creative choices, artistic independence is a fundamental principle for DJ Snake. “My vision is what matters the most to me. I’ve done everything to protect it and to maintain this independence, this freedom to navigate.”
For the producer behind global hits like “Let Me Love You” and “Lean On,” he says “the impact of TikTok” has changed electronic music, with consumption becoming increasingly rapid. “The industry has changed. The way entertainment, not just music, is consumed has made it so very little remains,” he observes.
“Since I was young, I’ve always been on the move, I’ve always traveled… We’ve met the biggest artists in the world, the biggest celebrities, visited the most beautiful places on the planet. But at some point, you go through all of that and you start to appreciate the simplest things.”
This quest for authenticity shows up both in his music and his creative approach: “My music is a reflection of my daily life, my life—it’s me, really. I translate what I feel. For sure, there will be simpler things than what I’ve done before.”
His side project, The Outlaw, under which he will perform at the Accor Arena, also allows him to return to his roots: “It was really about having total creative freedom, not worrying about my image, my status, or having to play all my pop hits all the time. It’s really a kind of outlet.” He shares that he aims to release an EP under The Outlaw in the coming months.
This article originally appeared on Billboard France.
back number’s “Blue Amber” debuts at No. 1 on this week’s Billboard Japan Hot 100, released May 7, becoming the popular band’s sixth leader on the chart.
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The track is being featured as the theme song for the ongoing drama series starring Keiko Kitagawa called Anata wo ubatta sonohi kara. After being released digitally on April 28, the track came in at No. 2 for downloads (14,750 units), No. 7 for streaming (6,154,747 weekly streams), No. 8 for video views, and topped radio airplay. The song gives the three-man J-pop band its sixth No. 1 (nine weeks in all) on the Japan Hot 100.
Four other songs by back number are currently charting, with “Takaneno Hanakosan” rising 38-35, “Suiheisen” 46-44, “Hanataba” 65-56, and “Happy End” 78-75 this week.
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List of back number’s No. 1 Hits:
“Omoidasenakunaru sonohimade” (“Until the day I can’t remember”) “Christmas Song” [Three weeks]“Boku no Namae wo” (“(You called) my name”) “Old Fashion”“to new lovers” (Japanese title: “Atarashii Koibitotachi ni”) [Two weeks]“Blue Amber”
Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s “KUSUSHIKI” follows at No. 2. Compared to the week before, streaming and video for the The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 Part 2 opener decreased to 93%, while downloads and karaoke increased to 108% and 136%, respectively. At No. 3 is the three-man band’s “Lilac,” moving 5-3. Streaming and video for the Oblivion Battery opener gained slightly, while downloads and karaoke showed significant growth of 121% and 135%, respectively.
≠ME’s “Mobunoderella” bows at No. 4. The title track of the group’s 10th double A-side single released April 30 topped sales with 232,441 copies sold in its first week.
King Gnu’s “TWILIGHT!!!” falls a notch to No. 5. The theme song for the animated blockbuster Detective Conan: One-Eyed Flashback scores its third week on the tally, coming in at No. 5 for downloads (6,333 units), No. 4 for streaming (7,639,298 streams), No. 6 for radio and No. 4 for video.
Cho Tokimeki Sendenbu’s “Sekai de ichiban idol” debuts at No. 7. The title track of the group’s double A-side single was released April 30 and came in at No. 2 for sales (85,438 copies) and No. 45 for radio.
Also debuting at No. 9 is Travis Japan’s “Would You Like One?” The theme song for the animated movie Tabekko Doubutsu The Movie launched at No. 1 for downloads, No. 67 for streaming, and No. 55 for radio.
Outside the top 10, Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s new song “Tengoku” debuts at No. 11. It’s the theme song for the movie Shinso wo ohanashi shimasu starring the band’s frontman Motoki Omori (alongside timelesz member Fuma Kikuchi) in a feature film for the first time. The track comes in at No. 3 for downloads and No. 12 for streaming.
The Billboard Japan Hot 100 combines physical and digital sales, audio streams, radio airplay, video views and karaoke data.
See the full Billboard Japan Hot 100 chart, tallying the week from April 28 to May 4, here. For more on Japanese music and charts, visit Billboard Japan’s English X account.