HYBE-Geffen Records' global girl group KATSEYE heated up American living rooms as soon as their new release dropped.
KATSEYE appeared on NBC's flagship morning program the Today show (TODAY) on the 14th (local time) to debut the title track Hootie Frutti from their third EP WILD.
That day KATSEYE took the outdoor stage at the Today plaza in Rockefeller Center, New York, headlining the Today show's "City Concert Series." Fans who arrived early to see KATSEYE's performance packed the area, showing the group's global popularity.
When the intro to "Hootie Frutti" rang out, the heart of New York instantly turned into a festival. The members, wearing costumes adorned with colorful beads and fringe, added energetic performances to the Brazilian funk-style rhythmic percussion and heavy beats, prompting a roar of cheers.
Even though the song was being performed for the first time that day, the audience swayed to the rhythm and enjoyed the show. Then the pre-release tracks "PINKY UP" and "Animal," and last year's Latin pop "Gabriela," prompted singalongs to the familiar melodies. Fans singing every line in the lyrics confirmed the solid popularity KATSEYE has built locally.
In the studio interview, the members also shared candid stories about the new album WILD. Danielle said the album is more raw and more honest and that listeners will be able to see a more advanced KATSEYE, expressing confidence in the new album.
Asked about how they stay grounded despite the spotlight on the global stage, Megan said we are just ordinary girls and noted that their close friendship and humility are the driving forces that sustain them amid rapidly changing circumstances. Even amid worldwide fame, the members' emphasis on bonds and their own attitude drew attention.
KATSEYE's comeback momentum is continuing on global music charts. According to the Official UK chart for Aug. 14-20, the pre-release track "Animal" rose to No. 16 on the Official Singles Top 100. It matched the group's highest first-week ranking and proved steady popularity.
"Animal" also ranked 15th on Spotify's Weekly Top Songs Global (Aug. 7-13), marking its third consecutive week in the top ranks. Their existing hit "Gabriela" charted at No. 159, achieving an impressive 60 consecutive weeks on the chart.
In this way, KATSEYE has ramped up comeback momentum by expanding their presence from U.S. broadcast stages to global music charts as soon as they released the new songs.
KATSEYE's third EP WILD is an album that embraces various inner selves as they are and captures a confident attitude moving toward instinct and freedom. It contains five tracks, and global hitmakers including HYBE chairman Bang Si-hyuk and Ed Sheeran participated, enhancing the album's musical completeness.
[Photo] Today show official SNS
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