Amid the vibrant world of K-pop, the global boy band JO1 is set to make waves with the release of their title song, "BE CLASSIC," from their much-anticipated best album of the same name, scheduled to drop on April 2, 2025. This marks a significant milestone as it commemorates the quintet's fifth anniversary in the industry. Sampling Beethoven's Symphony No. 5, affectionately dubbed "Fate," the song captures the essence of their ambition to someday become a classic in the musical world.
In a dramatic release strategy, JO1 launched the digital track on March 24, 2025, with the music video premiering the same day at 7 PM. Wrapped within a unique aesthetic, the music video encapsulates not just their musical prowess but also the existential struggles that artists face during their creative processes. Described as a blend of beauty with an eerie undertone, the video showcases moments where the members appear almost possessed as they perform on a grand piano set against classical backdrops that range from ballet to orchestral arrangements.
The band’s vision is conveyed through their lyrics, which include the statement, "we aim to become classic someday," highlighting their desire to leave a lasting impact in the world of music. The title of the album, combined with the themes displayed in the music video, conveys a bold message. It emphasizes a narrative where JO1 is not only celebrating their past but also courageously looking forward to carve out their unique identity.
Adding to the excitement, JO1 will host a live streaming event on TikTok on the same day as their album release. Set to begin at 6:30 PM, fans, known as JAM, can look forward to discussions around the album's themes and insight into the member's creative journeys. This engagement aims to foster a deeper connection between the group and their devoted supporters.
The anticipation surrounding "BE CLASSIC" continues to grow, particularly with its unique approach of merging classical elements into contemporary music styles. By doing so, JO1 sets themselves apart from other artists in the K-pop genre whose sound often tends to stick to mainstream pop. This venture into classical reinterpretation showcases their willingness to experiment and evolve as artists.
In preparation for the album launch, the band has released multiple versions of the album including Limited Edition (A and B), a regular edition, and a fan club exclusive edition. Priced from 3,850 yen to 5,500 yen (tax included), these varied offerings are designed to appeal to both discerning collectors and everyday fans. Each edition promises to deliver exclusive content and special features, ensuring that there's something for everyone in their growing fan base.
JO1's spokesperson emphasized the significance of this album during a media briefing, stating, "We are excited for our JAM and are committed to showcasing our growth through 'BE CLASSIC'. It serves not only as a celebration of our 5th anniversary but also as an artistic statement that integrates our roots with our aspirations."
As they prepare for the release, followers eagerly await to see how the themes of struggle blended with beauty manifest in their live performances. With the band's energetic choreography paired alongside Beethoven's haunting melodies, it sets the stage for what could become a landmark moment in their career and a new chapter in their artistic evolution.
On social media, excitement has been palpable as fans share their thoughts on the samples and teasers released by JO1 leading up to the album premiere. Engaging posts across platforms, including TikTok and Twitter, have created an infectious buzz around the upcoming release. Fans have expressed enthusiasm not just for the music but also for the immersive experience that the group promises to deliver.
As they stand on the cusp of what might be their most ambitious project yet, JO1 showcases how the arts are continuously evolving and how they are very much a part of that forward momentum. Their endeavors with "BE CLASSIC" not only push the boundaries of K-pop but also challenge the very definitions of what it means to create classic music today.
On this momentous occasion, JO1 invites everyone to join them on their journey—to experience and celebrate their evolution as a band that aspires to weave together the lessons of the past with the initiatives of the future. After all, in a world where the classics continuously transform, JO1 aspires to not just observe history but to inspire it.
