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The Impact of Spotify's New Royalties Model on Music Creators

February 12, 2024

Spotify's upcoming overhaul of its royalties model marks a significant shift in the way the streaming giant compensates artists, aiming to funnel more earnings towards more popular artists, labels...

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How Tracy Chapman Wrote Fast Car

February 9, 2024

Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car" is not just a song; it's a cultural phenomenon that transcends its initial release. Its ascent to global acclaim was catalyzed by a pivotal moment: Nelson Mandela's 70th...

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How Tyla's "Water" is Making a Splash in the U.S. African Music Craze

January 29, 2024

‍The U.S. music scene has been captivated by the African music craze, and at the forefront is Tyla, a young South African singer whose song "Water" has taken the world by storm...

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Understanding Music Publishing for Music Creators

January 28, 2024

Understanding music publishing is crucial for artists looking to make their music a viable long-term career. This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of music publishing and how it can...

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Maximize Your Music Royalty Earnings With Songtrust

January 28, 2024

Navigating the world of music royalties can be daunting, especially for independent artists and newcomers. Songtrust has emerged as a popular solution, favored by a range of artists from beginners...

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Rick Rubin's Tips for Creative Growth

January 27, 2024

Rick Rubin, a legendary music producer, is known not just for his exceptional work in the music industry but also for his profound insights into creativity and personal growth...

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Sonical.ly Masterclass Review: Nas Teaches Hip Hop Storytelling

January 23, 2024

ntroductionIn the ever-evolving landscape of music education, Nas' Masterclass emerges as a beacon for those intrigued by the art of hip-hop. Nas, a figure synonymous with lyrical finesse...

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Post Malone's Successful Songwriting Techniques

January 22, 2024

Songwriting and Inspiration: Post Malone often draws inspiration from his personal experiences, emotions, and the world around him. His songwriting process can start with a concept, a feeling...

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The Making of Michael Jackson's "Thriller": A Blueprint for Music Creators

January 18, 2024

Released on November 29, 1982, by Epic Records, "Thriller," the sixth studio album by American singer Michael Jackson, stands as a monumental achievement in music history. Produced by Quincy Jones...

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Meet RIIZE: The Rising Stars of K-Pop

January 18, 2024

Unveiling the Members of SM Entertainment's Latest Sensation RIIZE, an acronym for RISE&REALIZE, is a dynamic 7-member boy group that has been taking the K-Pop world by storm since their debut...

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Who Are the Next GEN K-Pop Group Debut's To Anticipate in 2024?

January 18, 2024

Also known as NCT Tokyo, this group is the latest sub-unit of NCT, managed by SM Entertainment. The six-member group includes Sion, Riku, Yushi, Daeyoung, Ryo, and Sakuya...

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"In Harmony with H.E.R.: A Deep Dive into Stripped-Down Songwriting"

January 17, 2024

In the world of songwriting, H.E.R. stands as a beacon of authentic storytelling and melodic mastery. Her class on Studio.com, "Stripped-Down Songwriting: Write Songs That Tell Stories,"...

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NCT 127 Comes Back To 'Fact Check' Their Skills With New Album

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Photo Source: Rolling Stone

NCTzens, the wait is finally over. On October 6, NCT 127 returned with their fifth album, Fact Check, accompanied by a futuristic music video for the album’s title track. 

In 2016, SM Entertainment debuted NCT, a boy group that currently consists of 26 members. Among this group, five subunits exist: NCT U, NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, and NCT DoJaeJung. Each subunit has their own unique sound and performances. Since their debut in 2016, NCT 127 has become known for their experimental hip-hop and R&B music, while showcasing their strong vocal and rap abilities. With their new nine-track album, Fact Check, their sound becomes far more mature and powerful. The comeback features Taeil, Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Winwin, Jongwoo, Mark, and Haechan. 

The album’s single, ‘Fact Check,’ is an energetic Afrobeats-inspired dance track that oozes confidence. It carries the electro-synth rhythm that NCT 127 is known for with a trendier sound to engage new listeners. The chorus consists of a repetitive beat using percussive elements. The bridge also showcases the outstanding vocal performances of members Doyoung, Jaehyun, Taeil, and Haechan. Then it leads into a cool rapping section from Mark and Taeyong, accompanied with dramatic drumming. The lyrics express the group’s unmatched confidence in their music, despite any attempts to ‘fact check’ their credentials. In the music video, the group hops to different landmarks across Seoul, as well as more futuristic landscapes. 

The album’s b-sides are great gems as well. ‘Space’ is a groovy, chill song that masterfully utilizes a saxophone. ‘Parade’ is a fun hip-hop song that showcases the group’s versatility. ‘Angel Eyes’ is a lively 80s-inspired rock song, co-written by Mark and Taeyong. Continuing the summer vibes, ‘Yacht,’ is an easy-listening song, perfect for a night on a yacht. ‘Je Ne Sais Quoi’ blends NCT 127’s signature style of rap with R&B vocals over a grungy bass. ‘Love is a beauty,’ presents sentimental lyrics written by Taeil, Taeyong, and Mark. The emotional ballad, ‘Misty,’ co-written by Mark and Taeyong, is sure to send shivers down your spine. The album concludes with ‘Real Life,’ discussing the magical feeling of being loved.