Monday, May 25, 2015

Your Next Favorite Kpop Producer: Baskin Robbins


There’s a new producer in Kpop about to blow up. He's already worked with some of the biggest names in Kpop, but hasn't gotten the recognition he deserves. Until now.

Baskin Robbins began his career by producing some short beats and sample tracks for various artists. Although he gained invaluable experience working with some of the biggest names in Kpop, including Big Bang and 2PM, Baskin Robbins was rarely acknowledged for his work. More recently, people are starting to take notice.


In 2014, Baskin Robbins produced the breakout single for Orange Caramel, “Abing Abing.” The song saw immediate success, jumping to number 18 on the Gaon charts and racking up millions of views for the music video. The song was so popular, Orange Caramel released solo versions of the MV for all three members, with many fans claiming it to be the song of the summer.


So far, 2015 has been an even bigger year for Baskin Robbins. Working with SM rookies, Red Velvet, Baskin Robbins produced the smash hit, “Ice Cream Cake,” that peaked at number 4 on the Gaon charts and number 3 on the US World Billboard charts. Due in large part to the success of “Ice Cream Cake,” Red Velvet saw their album propel to the top spot on the Gaon only seven months after their debut. “Ice Cream Cake” would also bring six music program awards, 15 million (and counting) YouTube hits, and the first true recognition for the talented producer.


Things we're always so sweet for Baskin Robbins, however. Rumors have begun surfacing recently of a 2012 project between HyunA, Psy, and the young producer that had soured following a disagreement over the direction of the song. According to sources close to HyunA, the contract was terminated, and the song was released after heavy modifications. You can still spot Baskin Robbins’ influence in the track, but only as a dull imitation of what it could have been.


Not three years later, as we enter the summer months of 2015, Baskin Robbins is the name on every tongue. Fans of Exo have recently spotted group members spending time with the producer, visiting the local movie theater and indulging in some frozen treats. Whether this is a budding friendship or the start of a professional relationship, we'll have to wait and see. Don't bet against a summer collaboration.


Other popular Kpop artists such as f(x) and SHINee are also reported to be scrambling to book studio time with Baskin Robbins, leading many to speculate that it is only a matter of time before the next hit single with Baskin Robbins' signature flavor is released. It's safe to say that you can expect to see (and hear) much more from Baskin Robbins before the year is over.


Zander Stachniak is a southern-born, Chicago-based writer who first discovered Kpop through ShoutCast Radio. His biases are f(x) and Block B.

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