K-pop girl group BABYMONSTER performed in Los Angeles on March 2 on their first ever world tour, Hello Monsters. The group had no issue selling out Kia Forum on their first headlining show in the city, filling the arena to the brim with fans, known as MONSTIEZ, ready to enjoy the night.
The show began with the venue bathed in deep red and an introductory video played: “We are the monters, BABYMONSTER.” Then, seven silhouettes appeared to take the stage. Kicking off the show with a loud shout, BABYMONSTER headed straight into the music with “DRIP” and “BATTER UP.” In simple black and white outfits full of silver sparkles and leather pieces, the group exuded confidence from the get-go. Having started the show with their most energetic tracks, the members shared that they’d be switching up genres with each section. This led into the next set, in which they made use of the extended stage to perform, “CLIK CLAK,” “LIKE THAT,” and “SHEESH,” before leaving the stage for their first extended break.
While the rookie group has only officially been on the scene for over a year, they’ve gone through an arduous training process to become the group they are today. Giving attendees a glimpse into their training experience, a video played showing the members’ hopes and anxieties, with tearful moments of both doubt and happiness. This brief part of the show helped the audience understand their hardships and determination to become K-pop artists. “We are young, but we are strong,” RUKA stated, ending the video with a statement that perfectly encapsulates the group’s sentiment.
Building on the memories of their trainee days, the next part of the show was curated to illustrate the group’s growth as individuals. “Preparing for our solo stages was very challenging since we are a group, but it was very rewarding,” RAMI began. “We wanted to show songs we did during our trainee days, too, to show you exactly how much we have improved,” CHIQUITA finished. Each member took the stage separately, performing short but impactful solo songs.
The vocal line kicked things off, with RORA performing an emotional rendition of “Someone You Loved” by Lewis Capaldi, PHARITA delivered powerful vocals in her cover of “What Other People Say” by Demi Lovato and Sam Fischer, and RAMI showing off her vocal talent with Jazmine Sullivan’s “Pick Up Your Feelings.” After that, the rap line took the stage, where ASA blew the crowd away with Eminem and Juice WRLD’s “Godzilla,” and RUKA charismatically performed “Gwola” by Honey Cocaine, Kid Ink, and Maino, before the Japanese duo linked up to perform their unit song “Woke Up in Tokyo.” Then, the girls looped back around to vocal-focused performances, with CHIQUITA performing “Traitor” by Olivia Rodrigo and AHYEON performing her well-known cover of Charlie Puth’s “Dangerously.”
YG Entertainment is historically best known for its rappers, but the vocalists in BABYMONSTER also stand out; they’re versatile and their vocal delivery is full of emotion. Even when belting high notes or executing vocal runs, they’re relaxed. The rappers also have a charm that stems from their contrasting fashion style and musical delivery; they appear cute in their pastel colored outfits, but rap with smooth, deep tones and assertive attitudes.
Showcasing the group’s drive throughout their training period, the performance of “DREAM” was one of the most memorable of the night. Wearing all white dresses, the group embodied youthful innocence. It was as if it also represented the flourishing start of their careers and they’re searching for their own color. The performance hit even harder thanks to the lyrics on the screen emphasizing how much each member yearned and worked for their place on the stage. Even though the group excels in powerful, energetic, hard-hitting performances, “DREAM” was a welcome change of pace, allowing each person’s vocals and sincere emotions to shine through.
Wrapping up the short emotional moment, the group returned once more to bring the energy back up with “BILLIONAIRE,” “REALLY LIKE YOU,” a medley of 2NE1 songs “Clap Your Hands” and “Go Away,” and final heartfelt words. Ending the main setlist with cute pop songs, “FOREVER” and “Love In My Heart,” the seven members came back onstage one last time to perform a five-song encore to end the night.
In addition to showcasing BABYMONSTER’s confident aura and strong stage presence, the concert also showed another side to the group. The humble group was in awe at how many fans were there to support them and at how far they’ve come from their trainee days. “It’s always been a dream to go on a world tour, so it’s hard to believe we’re really here,” they began. “We were really nervous, but excited for tonight, because we have so much we want to show you all. There’s always something special about a “first,” so we can’t wait to make more memories here in LA for our first time with you, MONSTIEZ. We hope you had as much fun as we did, and we promise to be back again soon!”
