With a new and innovative dynamic, the hit fifth-generation Korean pop (K-POP) group Color Outside the Lines (CORTIS) debuted Sept. 8.
Under the management of record label HYBE Entertainment, CORTIS released their first album, a self-produced extended play (EP), titled “Color Outside the Lines,” an ode to the origins of their group name. Commemorating their debut, CORTIS held a release party in Seoul, South Korea, where they performed the songs from “Color Outside the Lines” for the first time. Prior to their official debut, however, CORTIS cultivated a pre-debut fanbase by releasing the single “What You Want.” Additionally, they released the music video for their hit song “GO!” which inspired many people across social media platforms to try their hand at the choreography.
CORTIS, although classified as a K-POP group, has garnered a massive amount of worldwide attention due to their hip-hop focus. Despite the predominance of K-POP groups delving into or focusing on a hip-hop sound throughout their albums, CORTIS has proved their authenticity by, as seen in their YouTube documentary, collaborating with Black artists such as rappers Juicy J, Cochise, 24kGoldn and Teezo Touchdown, who was featured on the second version of their single “What You Want.” This open collaboration with Black artists has been largely admired by K-POP fans worldwide due to the fact that most K-POP groups tend to imitate the hip-hop sound with the use of Korean ghostwriters and without cultural knowledge or literacy.
This open respect and inspiration stems largely from the fact that CORTIS, unlike many K-POP groups, are mainly self-produced. CORTIS’ leader Martin has been in the realm of professional music production for years, with writing credits on hit songs like “Magnetic” by the girl group Illit and “Beautiful Stranger” by the boy group Tomorrow X Together (TXT), and produced the five tracks on their EP. His musical literacy has shocked fans, considering he is only 17, and they anticipate his future productions.
However, Martin is not the only impressive member debuting in CORTIS. 20-year-old James, 17-year-old Juhoon, and 16-year-olds Seongyeong and Keonho have become well-adored by fans, exemplifying their impactful stage presence and clear, stable vocals. Even despite their short time as trainees, the CORTIS members have continued to shock fans with their skill, professionalism and passion.
A five-member wonder, CORTIS has got their new fans wondering what lines they’ll be coloring outside of in future projects.