UAENA’s favorite celebrity is coming back to the Philippines! Are you ready for the 2024 IU HEREH WORLD TOUR CONCERT?
Lee Ji Eun, popularly known as IU, debuted in 2008 and is undoubtedly one of the most successful female artists in South Korea and globally. We have less than a week left before the 2024 IU HEREH WORLD TOUR CONCERT takes place at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan, so it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in some of her best tracks that capture her artistic evolution and versatility.
With a career spanning over 15 years and a discography filled with hits, she has a song for every mood. Whether you’re a long-time UAENA or new to her music, these ten songs will get you ready for an unforgettable night.
Also Read: Pop Review: IU Reflects Her Life with New Album The Winning
1. “Someday” (Dream High OST)
IU started her singing career in 2008 with her debut single “Lost Child” and skyrocketed when she released “Good Day” in 2010. She gained more popularity overseas, especially in the Philippines, when she debuted as an actress in the hit 2013 drama, Dream High.
Her Dream High OST “Someday” takes many of us back to when we adored Kim Pil Sook’s (IU’s character) cuteness and youthful voice. This beautiful ballad highlights her pure vocal talent and emotional delivery.
The hopeful lyrics and sweet, breathy melody will surely get you in the mood for the uplifting moments expected at the concert.
2. “Good Day”
No IU playlist is complete without “Good Day.” This breakout hit is iconic for its impressive three-octave high note (with the highest key hitting F#!) and infectious energy. It’s a perfect example of IU’s vocal prowess and bubbly charm, making it a fantastic starting point for your pre-concert excitement.
During her The Golden Hour concert in 2022, IU announced the graduation of her mega-hits “Palette” and “Good Day” from her future concert setlists. However, fans can still request the song for the encore if they want to hear it, so prepare to sing along and experience the joy this song brings if she performs it live.
3. “Hold My Hand” (The Greatest Love OST)
Released in 2011, “Hold My Hand,” from the drama The Greatest Love, is the first song IU wrote and composed. It is a sweet, cheerful song showcasing her lighter, more playful side.
More than a decade after its release, “Hold My Hand” climbed back into the top ten on most major music sites in South Korea after a performance clip from her 2019 Love, poem concert tour went viral. IU singing the lyrics “Love is here, you and me. I like you so much that I can’t stand it,” received much love.
The upbeat rhythm and heartwarming lyrics of “Hold My Hand” make it a perfect track to lift your spirits and get you smiling in anticipation of the concert.
4. “Twenty-Three”
“Twenty-Three,” from her album CHAT-SHIRE, is a pivotal track in IU’s discography, marking her transition from adolescence to adulthood. The song’s playful yet introspective lyrics and catchy beat highlight her growth as an artist and individual.
The song is also an OST from the drama The Producers, starring IU and Kim Soo Hyun. It’s a must-listen track to appreciate her journey and evolution before witnessing her live performance.
Also Read: Kim Soo Hyun Announces First-Ever Asia Tour with Manila Stop
5. “Palette”
“Palette” is a reflective and mature song where IU, a 25-year-old woman, delves into her self-discovery and acceptance. Featuring G-Dragon, the song discusses the comfort and confidence she feels in understanding herself better, her preferences, and her unique personality.
With lyrics like “Rather than long hair, I definitely prefer a short bob. Nonetheless, I was still pretty when I sang Good Day,” and “I got this, I’m truly fine. I think I know myself a little bit now,” IU embraces her age and expresses a newfound self-assurance. This track not only showcases her evolving musical style but also resonates deeply with fans who have grown alongside her.
As mentioned earlier, “Palette” has graduated from IU’s future concert setlists, alongside “Good Day.” So, make sure to request the song as loud as you can if you want to hear it live at her Philippine Arena show!
6. “Through the Night”
“Through the Night” (with literal Korean translation “Night Letter”) depicts a heartfelt confession of love, woven through the narrative of someone wishing their loved one goodnight.
In a past interview with JTBC Newsroom, IU revealed that she suffered from insomnia while writing the lyrics. As someone yearning for restful sleep, she believed that the sincerest confession to a loved one is to wish them a good night and sweet dreams.
This tender, uniquely poignant ballad resonates with anyone who has experienced sleepless nights and longing for an emotional connection.
7. “BBIBBI”
“BBIBBI” stands out with its sassy and confident tone, addressing haters and critics directly. The song’s catchy hook and bold lyrics showcase a different side of IU, emphasizing her versatility as an artist unafraid to speak her mind.
The lyrics cleverly use the phrase “yellow C-A-R-D” to indicate a warning, akin to a yellow card in sports. This track’s assertive stance and unique sound, combining pop with a touch of R&B, mark a bold departure from her usual style, highlighting her ability to tackle different themes and genres.
Also Read: 10 K-Pop Idols Shining Brightly on the Musical Stage
8. “Blueming”
“Blueming” is a vibrant, upbeat track that showcases IU’s ability to create infectious pop melodies. The song’s playful lyrics and energetic production make it a refreshing and delightful listen, perfect for brightening up any day.
The track discusses the excitement and butterflies of a new relationship, with clever wordplay around the theme of flowers blooming. This fan-favorite song is a great way to build up the anticipation for the high-energy segments of IU’s concert.
9. “Eight”
In collaboration with Suga of BTS, “Eight” is a nostalgic yet uplifting track that explores themes of youth and memory. The synergy between IU’s vocals and Suga’s rap creates a poignant, dreamy soundscape that strikes a chord with fans of both artists.
The song reflects on the fleeting nature of time and the bittersweet memories of youth. The animated music video enhances the song’s nostalgic feel, depicting a journey through a dreamlike landscape.
“Eight” resonates with anyone who has experienced the melancholy of growing up and moving forward.
Also Read: The Queen is Returning: IU HereH Concert World Tour in the Philippines 2024
10. “Love Wins All”
Closing our list is “Love Wins All,” a heartfelt song from her latest album The Winning.
The music video features V of BTS, adding an extra layer of visual and chemistry appeal. The lyrics convey a message of hope and resilience, emphasizing that love can overcome any obstacle.
“Love Wins All” showcases a gentle melody with IU’s soothing vocals creating a comforting and uplifting atmosphere. The song is a beautiful reminder of the enduring strength of love, making it a great addition to your pre-concert playlist.
Get Your Tickets for the 2024 IU HEREH World Tour Concert Now!
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her music, we hope these tracks set the perfect tone for an unforgettable concert experience. Get ready to sing your heart out and immerse yourself in the magic of IU’s music!
Tickets are still available at pulptickets.com.
Sources: SE Daily, Soompi, JTBC News (with translation from IU teamstarcandy)
