BIGBANG is one of K-pop’s biggest acts, especially during the second generation (the late 2000s to mid-2010s). Their success has influenced many idols in the third and fourth generations. Most notably, the R&B King of K-Pop, Taeyang (born Dong Young-bae), has been cited as an inspiration to many, such as Jimin from BTS and Yoo Tae-yang from SF9.
Aside from himself, his music has also been a great influence on K-pop as a genre. Here are four of those songs.
1. Wedding Dress (2010)
Not only is this the ultimate “nice guys finish last” anthem, but it was Taeyang’s first breakout hit. The R&B/dance-pop song went viral on YouTube and ended up charting at #3 on the Billboard World Digital Chart. BTS’s Jimin has also covered the song on the piano numerous times, including in this behind-the-scenes clip.
2. Eyes, Nose, Lips (2014)
Another R&B hit that garnered massive acclaim, Eyes, Nose, Lips was the title track for Taeyang’s album Rise. The song showcases Taeyang’s emotional vocal power and was named one of the best songs of 2014. This song was also covered as a part of the YG Family Cover Project, in which Tablo and Akdong Musician participated and released their own versions.
3. I Need A Girl (2010)
Any fan of late 1990s/early 2000s R&B will enjoy this nostalgic bop. Featuring bandmate G-Dragon, I Need A Girl is from his album Solar, which also features the aforementioned Wedding Dress. The music video features Dara from 2NE1 and the choreography went viral throughout the K-pop industry.
4. Good Boy (GD X TAEYANG) (2014)
GD X Taeyang was—and still is—one of the greatest subunits in K-pop, and their song Good Boy is the greatest example. The song was released in the middle of awards season and first performed at the 2014 Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA). Right before their performance, G-Dragon disses Mnet in one of the most talked about MAMA moments to date.
What’s your favorite Taeyang song? Let us know on our Instagram or Twitter! Also, be sure to wish a DOPE BIRTHDAY CONGRATZ to Taeyang on his Instagram! And if you liked these songs by him, check out his new album Down to Earth!
