BTS world domination continues in 2021, as the Grammy-nominated group joins the likes of greats like Mariah Carey, Elton John, Lauryn Hill, Alanis Morissette, Maxwell, Nirvana and more in the season premiere of MTV Unplugged’s 27th season. The groundbreaking series has been running for over 30 years now, and yes – it still airs on TV. Crazy, I know. Anyway, the guys will be hitting the stage for an intimate set next week and ARMY all around the globe is wondering – what are gonna perform for us?
Coming off of a very successful 2020 (despite the circumstances of – life), this appearance marks a huge step in BTS’ continued Western exposure, and is coming just days after the re-issue of their Billboard number one album BE. The release was initially shared in its “deluxe” format back in November of 2020, but the BE: Essential Edition actually just dropped today with slightly limited, but unique packaging and content alongside the same set of songs.
If you’re wondering about Unplugged credibility here, do keep in mind that 2020’s BE debuted on the US Billboard charts at number one. And this album (just like the rest) is largely in Korean – not English. BTS also became only the second act ever besides to debut on the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard 200 at the same time. And with ARMY’s undying support, every single song from the record also simultaneously charted. So basically any songs that they’ve decided perform from the record should create an unforgettable moment. (Check out BE’s ranking in my end of year album reviews from 2020!)
So we know for a fact that “Dynamite” and “Life Goes On” are a given, but I am very curious and excited to hear them sing a brand new single from the album during this episode. Will I finally get “Blue & Grey”? Or maybe an acoustic version of “Stay”? Whatever it is, all the members are back (Yoongi included) and I’m super thrilled. You can watch a short teaser of the gig here, and check out the boys putting their drawing skills to work in a fun segment below. BTS’ performance on MTV Unplugged airs Tuesday, February 23, 2020 at 8:00 PM CST on MTV. Not sure if it’s streaming online, but I’d recommend checking the official MTV site! Comment below what songs you think we’ll hear!