Latest news with #LemonDrop
Pink Villa
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
All 8 ATEEZ members renew contracts with KQ Entertainment for 7 more years
The members of the 4th generation K-pop boy band ATEEZ renewed their contract with their agency, KQ Entertainment for another 7 years. The information was shared by the label on July 10, as reported by K-media outlet Yonhap News. Their group's leader Hoongjoong had hinted at the development last month, and now it is officially confirmed. Why did ATEEZ members renew their contact with KQ Entertainment for a second term? After 7 years of creative collaboration with KQ Entertainment, the ATEEZ members have bestowed their trust in the agency once again. Seonghwa, Hongjoong, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi, Wooyoung and Jongho have renewed their contracts with the agency for the first time, for another 7-year term. The decision was based on mutual trust between the lable and the artists. KQ Entertainment stated, "We are happy to continue our relationship based on the trust we have built over the past 7 years." The company promised to provide comprehensive support to help each of the eight members to showcase their distinct talents and reach a wider audience. "We will not spare our full support so that each member can fully demonstrate their limitless potential and advance to a bigger and wider stage," they mentioned. ATEEZ's latest projects and achievements ATEEZ's latest musical offering is their 12th mini album Golden Hour: Part. 3, which was released on June 13, 2025. It is the third installment of ATEEZ's Golden Hour series, delving into the complexities of youth, including emotional vulnerability, the desire for freedom, and the bittersweet moments of growing up. Its lead track Lemon Drop is a refreshing R&B hip-hop song, offering a blend of ATEEZ's signature powerful sound with addictive choreography and vibrant visuals. The track received great traction worldwide, fetching them their Billboard Hot 100 debut at No. 69. The music video exceeded 24 million views within just 10 days of its release. The rest of the tracks of the EP includes– Masterpiece, Now this house ain't a home, Castle, and Bridge : The Edge of Reality. Their previous notable achievements include topping Billboard's main album chart and Billboard 200, with their second full-length album in 2023 and with their 11th mini-album in 2024, respectively.
Korea Herald
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Ateez floats teaser for 12th EP
Ateez raised fans' anticipation with a moving poster for its forthcoming 12th EP, via agency KQ Entertainment on Friday. The visual for the EP 'Golden Hour: Part 3 In Your Fantasy Edition' zooms in on a chair at an opera house before the phrase 'In your fantasy' is scribbled on the back of the seat. The phrase is from the title of the main track from the mini album that will be released July 11, barely a month after the first installment of the 'Golden Hour: Part 3' series. The previous set ranked No. 2 on Billboard 200 and the focus track 'Lemon Drop' entered its Hot 100 at No. 69, marking the seven-year-old band's first entry on the main singles chart. This makes the octet the third K-pop boy band to make the chart, after BTS and Stray Kids.
India Today
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Exclusive: ATEEZ calls GOLDEN HOUR. Part. 3 era ‘bold and playful'; message to Indian ATINYs
From sold-out stadium tours to chart-topping albums, K-pop group ATEEZ has cemented their place on the global music scene, especially with their recent Billboard Hot 100 entry, where their title track Lemon Drop from GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3 made history. The song debuted at No. 69, making ATEEZ only the third K-pop boy group, after BTS and Stray Kids, to break into the chart. Now in their seventh year, the group continues to defy expectations with fearless creativity and unshakable an exclusive chat with India Today, the members of ATEEZ opened up about their evolving artistry, the significance of GOLDEN HOUR: Part.3, and the unspoken language that binds them on and off-stage.A NEW DAWN IN GOLDEN HOUR ERAWith every comeback, ATEEZ rewrites its narrative. But this time, there's a shift, not just in sound, but in spirit. GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3 feels like a cinematic turning point, a more mature reflection of who ATEEZ has become. "With GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3, I felt a deeper sense of maturity, not just in the music, but in how we approached the entire process," says YUNHO, main dancer and vocalist of ATEEZ. "We've had so many incredible moments lately, but with that comes a strong thirst to keep growing and showing something new. Creatively, we took on more challenges, tried different sounds, and focused on expressing more detailed emotions."advertisementTheir latest hit, Lemon Drop, is a radiant title track with edge and effervescence. SAN, lead dancer and vocalist, explains, "Lemon Drop has this cool and refreshing energy that we felt really fit the mood of this moment in our journey. It's bright and uplifting but also has a bit of a mature edge in how we deliver the emotions. We wanted to show that ATEEZ can be fresh and playful, but still grown, and this song balanced that perfectly." THE BOLD, THE BRAVE AND THE BEAT DROPSATEEZ's genre-bending reputation stems from one thing: being fearless. As captain and creative anchor, HONGJOONG elaborates, "For every comeback, we have a lot of discussions with each other and with our team. Everyone brings their own thoughts and ideas to the table, and we're not afraid to challenge one another. I think that's what makes our music stronger. The bold direction ATEEZ takes is really the result of that collective energy and trust."WEATHERING STORMS- BOTH ON AND OFF STAGEPerformance is core to ATEEZ's DNA. But sometimes, the best stories come from the most difficult stages."One of the most challenging but unforgettable performances for us was our New York concert at Citi Field last year," shares WOOYOUNG, main dancer and vocalist. "Because of the weather, there was a two-hour delay, and since we had to respect the curfew, we performed the entire setlist without any breaks. But the energy from both us and the fans was so strong that we didn't even feel the rain or exhaustion. It was a tough show, but one we'll never forget. We're so excited to return to Citi Field for this year's concert." ATEEZ members in a promotional poster for GOLDEN HOUR: Part 3. Credits: KQ Entertainment Their synergy? Not luck—just years of practice and patience. YEOSANG, a rapper, vocalist and performer, adds, "I think our synergy on stage comes from spending so much time together. Over the years, we've got to understand each other's movements, timing, and energy almost instinctively. But at the same time, it's something we're always working on. We constantly communicate, give feedback, and discuss how to make each performance better. There's a lot of consideration and teamwork involved."INSIDE ATEEZ'S MOOD BOARDAsked to visualise the group's energy in symbols, SEONGHWA, a key vocalist in the group, paints a vibrant picture: "If ATEEZ had a mood board right now, I think it would include fire, to show our passion, because we're always trying to pioneer our own path. And some splashes of color throughout. Those color splashes probably take up more of the mood board, standing in for at least two of the words, to represent the individuality and bold colors each member brings. Right now, our energy is about moving forward with confidence while staying true to who we are."[] Pre-save/add GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3 'In Your Fantasy Edition'!Pre-save ATEEZ's new album on your library!Pre-save/add : RELEASE 2025. 07. 11 1PM#ATEEZ ##GOLDENHOUR ATEEZ() (@ATEEZofficial) June 30, 2025advertisementPRE-SHOW RITUALSHow does a group known for powerful performances prep behind the scenes?"Before we go on stage, we don't really have a strict routine," says MINGI, main rapper and one of the creative anchors of the group. "It's more about relaxing and preparing mentally. Sometimes we stretch together or talk casually to ease the tension. Each of us just finds our own way to focus and get in the right mindset before the show. The goal is always the same, to go on stage feeling ready, give our best, and just enjoy performing."ATEEZ'S MANIFESTATION BOARDAs the world watches their rise, the members remain grounded and I could manifest one dream for ATEEZ in the next year, it would be to challenge ourselves musically even further," says JONGHO, the maknae of the group and main vocalist of the group. "To keep pushing our limits and trying things that help us grow as artists. I also hope we can visit more countries and meet fans we haven't seen yet. And personally, I truly wish for everyone's health, especially the members. When the people you care about are healthy, everything else becomes even more meaningful."[] ' 100 ' KQ, " " ##GOLDENHOUR #GOLDENHOUR_Part3 #LemonDrop— ATEEZ() (@ATEEZofficial) June 26, 2025When asked what GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3 would look like in a film, YUNHO has a vivid metaphor ready: "I think it would be that moment when the characters are running through an open field under the sun, laughing and catching their breath, like everything feels fresh, bright, and full of possibility."ATEEZ is currently in their seventh year together. Looking back, YEOSANG reflects on the memories that define them: "Looking back on our 6-year journey, I think the moments that define ATEEZ the most are when we're on stage with ATINY—whether it's a comeback stage, a fan-meeting, a festival, or one of our concerts. There's something about feeling the energy from the fans in real time that reminds us why we do what we do."advertisementTO INDIAN ATINYs, WITH LOVE ATEEZ's fanbase in India has grown exponentially, and the group feels the love."To our Indian ATINYs: We know you've been waiting patiently for a long time, and we're truly thankful for your love and support from afar," says WOOYOUNG. "We see all the messages, the energy, and the passion you send us. It means so much to us, and we hope we can see you soon!"And that gives hope to Indian ATINYs to watch their favourite group perform in India in the coming 12th mini-album GOLDEN HOUR: Part.3 is currently streaming on all platforms. The five songs on the EP, including 'Lemon Drop,' 'Masterpiece,' 'Now this house ain't a home,' 'Castle,' 'Bridge: The Edge of Reality,' give a closer glimpse of their discography, that is widely unique and group will soon be embarking on their fifth world tour [IN YOUR FANTASY] that will kickstart in July this year. The group will also drop an extended album titled GOLDEN HOUR: Part.3 [In Your Fantasy] edition. It drops on July 11, 2025.- Ends
Hype Malaysia
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
ATEEZ Makes Debut On The Billboard Hot 100 With Title Track 'Lemon Drop'
The Billboard 100 charts, also known simply as the Hot 100, are the standard music industry record charts of popular streamed tracks around the world. Predominantly championed by songs from the US, recent years show the emergence of K-pop groups on the charts, such as the likes of BTS (방탄소년단) and Stray Kids (스트레이 키즈). In a winning feat, ATEEZ (에이티즈) have made their appearance on the Billboard 100 charts with their title track 'Lemon Drop' on 24th June 2025. Debuting at No.69 on the Hot 100, the win for ATEEZ marks them as the third K-pop boy group to appear on the charts, alongside BTS and Stray Kids. Notably, 'Lemon Drop', the title track to their 12th mini album 'Golden Hour: Part 3', also appears on other Billboard tallies. They debuted at No.1 on Billboard's 'World Digital Song Sales' chart, while the album stole another No.1 spot on the 'Top Album Sales' chart and 'World Albums' chart. 'Lemon Drop' also made headlines with their feat at No. 9 on Billboard's 'Digital Song Sales' chart. Netizens flood the comments with congratulations and love for the group. Twitter user @/WiseTroof commented, 'From the underground to the Hot 100, ATEEZ did not just join the list, they earned their place in gold. The climb is real, and so is the impact'. Despite their groundbreaking achievement, netizens have also come out to speculate the standings of the Billboard 100 with Twitter user @/DelindaMangwa commenting, 'No radio, no US chart entry, no Spotify entry. How did ATEEZ debut at 69? I'm really curious!'. Despite speculations and controversies, we wish ATEEZ a big congratulations on being the 3rd K-pop boy group to appear on the charts! Sources: Soompi, Forbes, Twitter Alyssa Gabrielle contributed to this article What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
Forbes
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
ATEEZ Discuss The Themes Of ‘Golden Hour : Part.3' Album, 'Lemon Drop'
ATEEZ attends ATEEZ's the 12th mini album 'GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3' press conference at Hotel Naru ... More Seoul MGallery in Mapo-gu on June 12, 2025 in Seoul, South Korea. (Photo by The Chosunilbo JNS/Imazins via Getty Images) From burning up stages in Europe to the sun-drenched visuals in their latest concept photos and their first-ever Billboard Hot 100 entry, ATEEZ's whirlwind of milestones have made the first half of 2025 their hottest yet — and they're just getting started. With GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3, the eight-piece powerhouse released music in a season that truly suits, serving up new single 'Lemon Drop' as a refreshing R&B and hip-hop anthem for long days and balmy nights. But in true ATEEZ fashion, they've taken the seemingly simple idea of summer to represent something far beyond easy-singalong hooks, weaving three interlocking themes —'Thirst,' 'Emotion' and 'Truth' — into every beat, lyric, and conceptual aspect of the album. Ahead of an even deeper exploration of these themes coming via an upcoming deluxe edition, GOLDEN HOUR: Part.3 'In Your Fantasy Edition,' dropping on July 11, the members reflect to Forbes via email on nostalgia and yearning. The octet acknowledges that what feels effortless on stage often masks a deeper hunger for growth (a theme explored in 'Thirst'), the struggle to stay present amid relentless touring ('Emotion'), and the quiet courage it takes to embrace one's imperfections ('Truth'). ATEEZ is known for blending dramatic storytelling into their soaring anthems, but the latest chapter of the GOLDEN HOUR series showcases the additional heart poured into every era. From ATEEZ's past tracks that hold special meanings to a preview of the group's upcoming 'In Your Fantasy' World Tour, read on for the latest with the guys below. Jeff Benjamin: Hello ATEEZ! Congratulations on this huge comeback. Before we look ahead, how has the first half of 2025 been for you? HONGJOONG: I can't believe we're already in the second half of the year — time flew by so fast. We were busy preparing for GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3, touring in Europe, and even releasing the movie version of our concert. In between all that, we spent a lot of time in the practice room perfecting our performances and getting ready for our new tour, 'In Your Fantasy.' It's been non-stop, but every moment has been exciting and meaningful for us. Jeff Benjamin: What first stood out to me in GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3 is 'Lemon Drop' being perfect for summer. This is your first seasonal song in a bit; why did you want to lean into the summer vibe? WOOYOUNG: Like you mentioned, it's been a while since we released a seasonal song and we all felt like this summer was the perfect time to come back with something refreshing. ATEEZ always enjoys switching things up and trying new styles, and 'Lemon Drop' felt like the right way to bring our own ATEEZ-style freshness into the season. It's a fun blend of R&B and hip-hop, just like a lemon drop cocktail. We also hope it brings a bit of mood-lifting energy to anyone who listens to it. JONGHO: Yes, we actually released more remixes of 'Lemon Drop' on June 16! Each version adds a different twist to the original track, so fans can enjoy the song in a new way. There's no English version this time, but we hope the energy of the song still comes through to everyone who listens. Jeff Benjamin: While 'Lemon Drop,' 'WAVE' and 'Eternal Sunshine' are clear summertime singles, are there other ATEEZ songs you would recommend to new listeners who like this style? MINGI: Of course songs like 'WAVE' and 'Eternal Sunshine' are summer classics for us, but if I had to recommend more, I'd say some of our recent B-sides like 'Blind' and 'Shaboom' really carry that summer energy too. They're the kind of tracks you blast with your friends and lose track of time — the melody is fun and the lyrics make you feel like you're at a concert or a festival. ATEEZ individual concept photos for 'GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3' Jeff Benjamin: Can you discuss the overall concept photos and imagery for GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3? Was there a specific theme you wanted to portray? SEONGHWA: For GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3, we really wanted to capture a more carefree and youthful side of ATEEZ. The freckles and sun-kissed makeup, along with the lighter summer outfits, were all part of creating that breezy, relaxed feeling — like you're enjoying the height of summer with your closest friends. YEOSANG: Every detail in the concept photos, from the parking lot to the poolside scenes, were chosen carefully and with a lot of thought. Those settings reflect the fleeting moments of stillness and joy, the golden hour of summer where everything feels calm yet alive. Jeff Benjamin: GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3 explores living in the moment through three main themes: 'Thirst,' 'Emotion' and 'Truth.' When did these ideas come to your story? HONGJOONG: The themes of 'Thirst,' 'Emotion,' and 'Truth' actually started to take shape early on while we were discussing how GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3 would connect to the rest of the series. We always think about the continuity between albums, and we wanted this one to feel like a real-time snapshot — living in the moment, but still tied to our bigger journey. Can you elaborate on each of the themes in more depth and share a personal story about how you connect with them? YUNHO: 'Thirst' perfectly describes the feeling of being in your youth — always running toward something with passion, but sometimes not even knowing exactly what that 'something' is. There are moments where we're so focused on pushing forward — especially with practice and performances — that we don't fully process our own emotions. That's where the 'thirst' builds. But I think that thirst also drives us to keep growing. SEONGHWA: As someone who cares deeply about storytelling and emotional expression on stage, I always try to put real 'Emotion' into our performances — not just to act it out, but to help people watching connect with me. Each performance is a reflection of this theme and a representation of confronting the emotions that we feel in our everyday lives. SAN: 'Truth' shows you how important it is to embrace the process, not just the result. There were times when I felt unsure or frustrated — moments where I questioned whether I was doing enough or doing it right. But looking back, even those clumsy or imperfect moments were full of passion, and they shaped who I am today. I've come to realize that doing my best in each moment, no matter how small or difficult, is already something beautiful. That's the kind of truth I've come to accept as I grow both as a human and as an artist. Jeff Benjamin: Are there particular songs any of the members have a strong personal connection to in Part.3? YEOSANG: I also feel a strong connection to 'Now this house ain't a home.' There's a melancholy in the melody, but at the same time, the rap and vocals really pull out the raw emotion. It reminds me that even when we feel a little lost, we have to keep moving forward — not just for the future, but for who we've been in the past. It's one of those songs that stays with you long after it ends. Jeff Benjamin: ATEEZ's 'In Your Fantasy' World Tour will soon begin in Korea before coming to North America. What can you share about it and how will you top your previous shows? MINGI: We've been working really hard to prepare new stages and fresh versions of ourselves that ATINY haven't seen before. It's not just about performing songs — it's about creating a full experience. YUNHO: There will definitely be special stages and new songs that haven't been performed live yet. We've put a lot of thought into how to push beyond what we've done in the past — from visuals to setlists, even the way we tell the story on stage. Each tour is a chance to grow, and this one will show a whole new side of ATEEZ. We can't wait for ATINY to see it. Jeff Benjamin: Anything else you'd like to share at this time? WOOYOUNG: We're always so thankful for the love and anticipation ATINY shows us with every comeback. Your reactions and support give us so much strength, and we always keep that in mind when preparing. We can't wait to meet you all on tour and give back everything we've been receiving. SAN: We really miss you too, Jeff! And ATINY, see you soon!
