K-pop superstar PSY is on the cover of Billboard this month, showing his “Gangnam Style” in a lime green blazer and his signature bow tie. In the cover story, excerpted online, PSY explains that he was clear about not wanting to assimilate into American culture too readily: “The basic principle I have is that what is most Korean is what is the most international,” he explained. “I don’t want to come here and act like I’m an American. I want to showcase the dynamic potential Korea has, and I want to prove that as an artist.”
While PSY’s still-untitled next single, reportedly to be performed in English, is set for a November release, the “Gangnam” invasion shows no sign of slowing — yet — and the Billboard story just cements his role in the cultural consciousness.
Just because 500,000,000 people watched the video on YouTube doesn’t mean they are fans as well. Unless they are. Most people watch the video out of curiousity.
Of course, haters are going to hate. Psy’s story is incredible no matter how you look at it. Look at how Jeremy Lin took the world by storm. People still found ways to nitpick everything he did. I know for sure Psy won’t have staying power in the American industry, but how he rose to famous was incredible and I do wish him the best.