- By Srishti Pandey
- Fri, 21 Feb 2025 11:37 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
BTS ARMYs are celebrating a significant milestone—the fifth anniversary of Map of the Soul: 7, one of the most iconic albums in Kpop history. Released on February 21 2020, just before the global pandemic, the album not only solidified BTS' place in music history but also showcased their artistic depth and emotional storytelling. As fans reminisce about this era, it's worth highlighting the album's impact and revisiting five essential tracks that encapsulate its essence.
A Record-Breaking masterpiece upon its release, Map of the Soul: 7 made history as the first album in South Korea to sell over five million copies. It topped the Billboard 200 chart, cementing BTS' international dominance and became the best-selling album of 2020, further solidifying their influence in the music industry. The album, comprising 20 tracks, seamlessly blended introspection, self-exploration and anthemic energy, making it a defining moment in BTS’ discography.
[NEWS] Rolling Stone has named @BTS_twt’s “Map of the Soul: 7” as the greatest kpop album of the 21st century!
— BTS Charts Daily (@btschartsdailyc) January 10, 2025
CONGRATULATIONS BTS pic.twitter.com/O2BFDYgDkR
Here are five songs from the album that ARMYs must listen:
1. Black Swan
A hauntingly beautiful track, Black Swan delves into the fear of losing passion for one's craft. With its trap-influenced beats and ethereal instrumentals, the song captures the deep-seated anxieties that come with artistic expression. Its release was accompanied by an evocative art film, featuring contemporary dancers, which emphasized the song’s introspective nature.
2. ON
The lead single ON is a powerful anthem that reflects BTS' relentless determination in the face of adversity. With dynamic instrumentals, intense choreography, and bold lyrics, the track showcases the group's unwavering commitment to their journey. The digital version of the album also included an alternative rendition featuring Australian singer Sia, adding another layer to its energetic delivery.
3. We Are Bulletproof: The Eternal
As a heartfelt continuation of BTS' We Are Bulletproof series, this track serves as an emotional tribute to their journey. Through poignant lyrics and soaring vocals, the song expresses gratitude to the ARMYs who have stood by them through their highs and lows. It embodies resilience and unity, reinforcing the strong bond between BTS and their global fanbase.
4. Inner Child
A solo track by V, Inner Child is a reflective and uplifting song that looks back at personal growth and transformation. The lyrics convey a sense of warmth and encouragement, urging listeners to embrace their past selves and celebrate how far they have come. The song’s bright instrumentation and heartfelt message make it a standout moment in the album.
5. Louder Than Bombs
Co-written with Australian singer-songwriter Troye Sivan, Louder Than Bombs is a deep and introspective track that explores themes of inner turmoil and the struggles that come with fame. The haunting melody paired with raw and evocative lyrics provides an intimate look into the emotional battles BTS faces behind their global success.
Map of the Soul: 7 is more than just an album—it’s a reflection of BTS' growth, struggles and triumphs. As ARMYs celebrate its five-year milestone, these songs remain a testament to the group’s artistic evolution and their ability to connect deeply with listeners worldwide. Whether you're rediscovering these tracks or listening for the first time, this album continues to be a defining piece of BTS' legacy.