
As demonstrated by the undeniable success of overnight sensation
Psy and his
"Gangnam Style," Korean pop music, otherwise known as K-pop, is certainly making its mark on American culture.
And Psy isn't the only one making a name for himself, as K-pop girl group
2NE1 (pronounced "twenty-one") may be the next on the horizon for crossover success.
In just three short years, the group — CL, Dara, Minzy and Park Bom — has sold 27 million digital downloads, was voted
MTV Iggy's Best New Band in the World in 2011 and had their first American performance at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
MTV
News recently caught up with 2NE1, and after sharing some surprising
secrets about themselves, they revealed that they have been hard at work
on their English-language debut album with none other than
will.i.am.
"We did a lot of studio sessions and we've been working on some
songs, but we are waiting for the perfect song, the magical song," CL
said. "It was really fun and [will.i.am] invited us to his house studio
and we just had fun making music and talking, just like we do back in
Korea."
2NE1, who are currently on their first ever New Revolution
global tour, admit that they don't have a timeline of when their debut
album will be released, but CL said they hope to release "at least a
single" by the end of the year. "I really want an English version of our
song or whatever it is to have people connect to it," she added.
The
group, which credits the Spice Girls and TLC as their girl group
influences, have become sensations in Korea for their eclectic style,
impressive rap skills and catchy songs.
Yet, they aren't the only K-pop girl group gaining attention,
Girls Generation and the
Wonder Girls
have also exploded onto the scene, but according to 2NE1, there is no
competition between the different groups since they all bring something
different to the K-pop scene.
"Korea right now is so passionate
about music and about performing. I think people feel that, people
really feel the energy and passion, and I think that's what's
different," CL said. "I love the fact that its girl power right now.
It's all girl groups that are rocking K-pop right now so I'm happy about
that and I respect that we all have different characters of the
groups."
Do you think 2NE1 will find success in the States? Leave your comment below!