Since the start of The Bias List in January 2016, I’ve always looked back at my three favorite title tracks by K-pop artists each month. Now, it’s time to look even further into the past, one month at a time. And, yes, the top three rankings count toward The Bias List’s personal artist scorecard!

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August 2009 Overall Thoughts

August of 2009 was a pretty busy month for K-pop, with a number of notable comebacks and debuts. Many had a summery vibe, tinged with retro and hip-hip influences.

For me, the month really comes down to two songs. First, we have Kara’s Mister, which is a tricky choice. There was never a Korean music video made for the song, but I don’t think anyone would argue with it being considered a single. It was promoted in earnest during this month and quickly became one of the year’s most iconic tracks. It’s also among Kara’s absolute best.

The other track that stands out for me is G-Dragon’s Heartbreaker. Released on his birthday, this marked his official solo debut. And though the song conforms to the heavy autotune trend of its era, it’s a total jam.

To be honest, many of August’s other tracks sound like Heartbreaker but not as good. 4minute’s Muzik has its moments, along with Brave Brothers’ Invisible. Co-ed group B2Y released a fun little disco-tinged track and Mighty Mouth continued to offer their upbeat hip-hop energy. But, I think I have to give Baek Jiyoung’s My Ear’s Candy the third place honor. I don’t think the track is drop-dead spectacular, but it was definitely influential and delivers its specific sound very well.

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Honorable Mentions

Bada – Mad (ft. Untouchable) (video)

Brave Brothers – Invisible (ft. Son Dam Bi & Lee Minwoo) (video)

B2Y – Geez! (video)

Hwayobi – Kiss Kiss Kiss (ft. Sleepy) (video)

Jewelry – Vari2ty (video)

Mighty Mouth – Love Class (ft. Han Yeseul) (video)

Twiny – Flutter (video)

4minute – Muzik (video)

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TOP THREE SONGS

3. Baek Jiyoung – My Ear’s Candy (ft. Taecyeon)

2. G-Dragon – Heartbreaker

1. Kara – Mister

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