K-pop group Huntr/x, the fictional band behind the animated Netflix film 'KPop Demon Hunters', has achieved an unprecedented level of success in both the music and film industries. The film's soundtrack, featuring hits like Golden, Soda Pop, and Baby Saja, became a platinum-rated phenomenon and made history by having four tracks hit the US Top 10 simultaneously.
The success of Huntr/x can be attributed to its unique blend of Korean culture and K-pop's innate theatricality. "K-pop is larger than life, a whiplash in the best way possible," says executive music producer Ian Eisendrath. This quality allowed the team to craft thrilling, radio-friendly hits that pushed the story forward with every beat.
Collaborating with a who's-who of independent hit makers and featuring real K-pop heavyweights helped Huntr/x gain genuine credibility. Danny Chung, an A&R and songwriter, credits a "dream come true" experience working on the film, where he was able to put character arcs before musical taste or trends.
The lead vocalist Ejae, born in Seoul and raised in New Jersey, found her way into Rumi's role through Ian Eisendrath's convincing efforts. Despite initial hesitation, Ejae successfully embodied Rumi, delivering heart-leaping vocal gymnastics on live TV for an audience of millions. She describes the experience as "climbing Mount Everest," yet says she was able to find beauty in performing and overcome her stage fright.
The film's success has not only catapulted Huntr/x into stardom but also supercharged the profiles of its voice actresses Ami and Nuna, who gained tens of millions of listeners. The soundtrack's impact is evident in the significant investment of almost $68m from The Black Label ahead of an anticipated IPO stock launch.
For Ejae, KPop Demon Hunters' success goes beyond numbers; it represents a long-held dream finally being realized. She is slowly releasing her own solo material after years of writing for others and expresses gratitude at having the opportunity to share her art again.
The success of Huntr/x can be attributed to its unique blend of Korean culture and K-pop's innate theatricality. "K-pop is larger than life, a whiplash in the best way possible," says executive music producer Ian Eisendrath. This quality allowed the team to craft thrilling, radio-friendly hits that pushed the story forward with every beat.
Collaborating with a who's-who of independent hit makers and featuring real K-pop heavyweights helped Huntr/x gain genuine credibility. Danny Chung, an A&R and songwriter, credits a "dream come true" experience working on the film, where he was able to put character arcs before musical taste or trends.
The lead vocalist Ejae, born in Seoul and raised in New Jersey, found her way into Rumi's role through Ian Eisendrath's convincing efforts. Despite initial hesitation, Ejae successfully embodied Rumi, delivering heart-leaping vocal gymnastics on live TV for an audience of millions. She describes the experience as "climbing Mount Everest," yet says she was able to find beauty in performing and overcome her stage fright.
The film's success has not only catapulted Huntr/x into stardom but also supercharged the profiles of its voice actresses Ami and Nuna, who gained tens of millions of listeners. The soundtrack's impact is evident in the significant investment of almost $68m from The Black Label ahead of an anticipated IPO stock launch.
For Ejae, KPop Demon Hunters' success goes beyond numbers; it represents a long-held dream finally being realized. She is slowly releasing her own solo material after years of writing for others and expresses gratitude at having the opportunity to share her art again.