Flashback Review: G-Dragon - Who You?

Ten-to-nine years after the fact, I think it is easy to forget how much G-Dragon's solo work influenced the landscape of Korean pop music in the early 2010s. His music was both commercially viable, but at the same time, pulled on more alternative and underground themes. His influence can be seen much later within the world of K-Pop, with later successful artists such as BTS clearly taking influence from his eclectic style.

Amongst G-Dragon's albums, Coup D'Etat is generally regarded as one of the best. From the experimental Coup D'Etat to the rock anthem Crooked, the album has fantastic experimental moments. As a result, sometimes, a simple pop ditty is needed to keep things under control. Enter Who You?, perhaps G-Dragon's most commercial single. That said, I think this might be one of the best moves by YG through the entire album rollout. As the last promoted single, it worked as a closer to the Coup D'Etat era. Additionally, as it appears midway through the album, it acts as a palette cleanser.

It also helps that Who You? is a great song even outside the context of the album. The simple pop "doo-doo" simply works, and I credit this entirely to G-Dragon's charisma. He has the ability to sell musical trends that would have not worked with any other artist. No seriously, he would be a great salesman.

If you were to ask me the peak moments of Who You?, I'd be able to name only a few. However, I could probably hum the song in its entirety. There are no hooks per say, but there is a real sense of fun, melodic cohesion. Combine this with a credible performance and a fun little MV, and you get one of the best aging, generic pop tracks in the history of K-Pop.

Rating: 9/10

Purchase G-Dragon's Who You? and its incredible album, Crooked, right here!

Image Source: Business Times