Essential BTS Songs: A Beginner's Guide

Hey ARMY! So, you're looking to dive into the amazing world of BTS, huh? Awesome! You've come to the right place. With a discography as vast and diverse as theirs, it can feel a little overwhelming knowing where to start. But don't worry, I'm here to guide you through some essential BTS songs that will get you hooked in no time. Think of this as your beginner's roadmap to the phenomenal music of the Bangtan Boys. We'll explore tracks that showcase their incredible versatility, from hard-hitting hip-hop to soulful ballads and everything in between. Get ready to have your playlist updated because you're about to discover some serious bops! Let's get started, shall we?

The Early Bangtan Days: Hip-Hop Roots (2013-2014)

Before BTS conquered the global music scene, they were a group with deep roots in hip-hop. Their early music reflects this, with hard-hitting beats, powerful rap verses, and lyrics that tackled social issues. If you want to understand the foundation of BTS and the evolution of their sound, then you must check out some of these songs. This era highlights their raw talent and the formation of their musical identity.

One of the songs you must begin with is "No More Dream" – the debut single that announced their arrival. With its aggressive beat and strong lyrics about pursuing your dreams, this song encapsulates their early ambition. The music video is powerful, showcasing their energetic performance style that is the best ever. "We Are Bulletproof Pt.2" is another important track, emphasizing their tough image and the group's journey. It's a statement of purpose, setting the tone for their future success. The rap verses by RM, Suga, and J-Hope are particularly noteworthy, showcasing their skills.

Then there is "N.O," where the group directly criticizes the demanding and stressful educational system in South Korea. The strong message resonated with young people and established BTS as artists who weren't afraid to speak out. This song proves that they want to be different from others and are on the right track. "Boy In Luv" showed their transition, mixing hip-hop with a more pop-oriented sound. This song marked the beginning of their mainstream appeal, and they added a rebellious but charming touch to their music. "Danger" followed, featuring a more mature sound with elements of rock and a strong hip-hop foundation. The song's intensity showcased the group's growth and ability to diversify their musical styles.

The Turning Point: The 'HYYH' Era (2015-2016)

The "HYYH" or "The Most Beautiful Moment in Life" era marked a huge turning point for BTS, both musically and in terms of their global fanbase. This era of songs introduced a more complex narrative, tackling themes of youth, love, and the struggles of growing up. Their music videos became more cinematic, and the storyline woven through the albums created a deeper connection with their fans. This era solidified their status as artists who were more than just performers. These tracks really began to showcase their artistic vision.

"I Need U" was the song that really put them on the map. This song is a must-listen for new fans. The song is a shift in their sound, with a more melodic and emotional approach. It won them their first music show win, a pivotal moment in their career. "Run" continued the theme of youthful angst and freedom. The powerful choreography and the song's energy solidified their reputation as performers. "Butterfly" offered a softer side of BTS. The song's delicate melody and meaningful lyrics showed their versatility and depth. The vocals and the rap line complemented each other.

"Fire" is an explosive track that embodies the energy of youth. With its intense beat and motivational message, the song is a call to break free from limitations. The music video is vibrant and full of powerful dance moves. The "HYYH" era wasn't just about the music. It created an immersive experience for the fans with interconnected music videos, short films, and social media content, creating a loyal fanbase and an environment for them to interact. This is one of their most significant milestones in their career. If you're looking for what makes BTS so special, you should begin with this era.

Global Domination Begins: Wings and Beyond (2016-Present)

After "HYYH," BTS's popularity soared, leading them to conquer the global stage. This era is filled with some of their most iconic and successful songs, showcasing their growth, experimentation, and their willingness to push boundaries. Their music production is high quality, as they begin incorporating different sounds and styles into their music. Their music is not only about the music, it's also about a message that their fans relate to. It is the beginning of the journey of how they conquered the world.

"Blood Sweat & Tears" is a sensual and artistic masterpiece. The song's intricate choreography and the music video's visual aesthetic set it apart from other groups. "DNA" is a vibrant pop track with a strong melody and catchy lyrics, which makes it perfect for international audiences. It showcased their ability to create globally appealing hits. "Fake Love" with its powerful message about the complexities of love, resonated with audiences worldwide. The choreography is complex and intense. This song represents their artistic growth and maturity. "Idol" with its energetic beat and colorful music video, is a celebration of themselves and their fans. This track has a feel-good vibe, which is the best thing about the song.

They started experimenting with English songs, such as "Dynamite" and "Butter," these songs brought them to the top of the charts and introduced many new fans. They have proven themselves as the best entertainers and artists. They made history in the music industry, topping the charts and breaking records. Each song offers something unique and shows their musical evolution and impact.

Deep Cuts and Fan Favorites

While the songs mentioned above are a great start, the real treasure of BTS lies in their deep cuts and B-sides. These tracks showcase their artistry and the wide range of styles they are capable of. These lesser-known tracks often have more personal and experimental lyrics, making them a must-listen for anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in the world of BTS. These songs are a testament to their dedication to music.

"Lost" is a vocal track that highlights the incredible vocal abilities of the members, showcasing their vocal harmony. "Singularity," performed by V, is a sensual and artistic song. It's an exploration of complex emotions and features V's captivating vocals. "The Truth Untold," featuring Steve Aoki, is a beautiful ballad with emotional lyrics and powerful vocals. It showcases the emotional depth of their music. "Outro: Tear" is a powerful rap track that showcases their rap skills. This is a must-listen for people who appreciate the depth of their music and the stories they tell. Then there is "Magic Shop," a song that is dedicated to the ARMY. The song talks about healing and provides comfort for their fans.

Conclusion: Start Your BTS Journey Today!

So there you have it, ARMY! Your beginner's guide to the wonderful world of BTS songs. I hope this list gives you a great starting point for your journey. There's so much more to discover, so feel free to explore and find the songs that resonate with you most. From their raw hip-hop roots to their chart-topping pop anthems, BTS offers something for everyone. So, put on your headphones, hit play, and get ready to fall in love with the music of the Bangtan Boys. Happy listening! Remember, the best part of being an ARMY is the journey, so enjoy every moment. Happy listening!