BAAM by Momoland: The Untold Story Behind Their Viral K-pop Hit

"BAAM - Momoland" captivated K-pop fans worldwide when it was released on June 26, 2018, as the lead single from the group's fourth extended play, "Fun to the World." Written by Shinsadong Tiger and Bum x Nangi, this playful track describes the feeling of having a crush on an unexpected person, using the catchy expression "BAAM" to convey that sudden emotional impact.

The song achieved significant commercial success, reaching number thirteen on South Korea's Gaon Digital Chart. Additionally, the Japanese version debuted at number eight on the Oricon Singles Chart, selling 12,126 physical copies in its first week alone. Momoland's "BAAM" gained further international recognition through M COUNTDOWN, the World No.1 K-pop Chart Show broadcast in 13 countries. This article explores the untold story behind this viral hit, examining its creation, visual elements, chart performance, and the lasting impact it had on Momoland's career trajectory.

The Making of 'BAAM': From Studio to Sound

Behind the scenes of Momoland's electrifying hit, a team of seasoned professionals crafted the song that would keep fans dancing worldwide.

Who wrote and produced the song?

Shinsadong Tiger, the renowned K-pop producer, helmed the creation of "BAAM" alongside songwriters Bum (Lee Gil-beom) and Nangi (Jwa Haeng-suk). This collaborative effort resulted in a track that would build upon Momoland's growing popularity. The announcement of their return with a dance track produced by Shinsadong Tiger came on May 24, 2018, generating immediate excitement among fans.

Musical style and genre influences

"BAAM" represents a vibrant fusion of K-pop, electropop, and electro swing elements. The song features a distinctive vintage pop sound that immediately captures listeners' attention before transitioning into a groovy tenor saxophone line. Music critics noted its pulsating beat and appealing saxophone riff that creates an "eminently danceable" experience.

Interestingly, some reviewers observed similarities between "BAAM" and earlier K-pop hits, describing it as reminiscent of T-ara's "Lovey Dovey" and Crayon Pop's "Doo Doom Chit". This connection isn't coincidental—Shinsadong Tiger also produced many of T-ara's iconic tracks.

How 'BAAM' compares to other Momoland songs

While "BAAM" follows a similar structure to their breakthrough hit "Bboom Bboom," several critics consider it an improvement. The song maintains the group's signature energetic style but comes "loaded with energy from the get-go".

Nevertheless, some similarities are undeniable—both tracks feature:

Catchy beats and upbeat tempos
Engaging choreography with synchronized movements
Similar musical structures, including the "Daisy-led trap rap breakdown"

Despite these parallels, "BAAM" showcases stronger vocal moments, particularly during the pre-chorus. The song's choreography also introduces shuffling dance moves, adding a fresh element to their performance style.

The Release Strategy and Global Rollout

Following the successful trajectory of "Bboom Bboom," MLD Entertainment strategically unveiled their plans for MOMOLAND's comeback on May 24, 2018. This announcement generated significant anticipation among fans for the upcoming dance track.

Teasers and pre-release buzz

In June 2018, the company launched a series of teasers featuring photos from the EP's photoshoot, song snippets, and music video clips. One notable teaser showcased the members dressed in traditional Korean hanbok, performing fan dances, writing calligraphy, and riding a kiln. The concept revealed MOMOLAND "traveling all over the world and spreading excitement".

Korean and Japanese versions

The song officially dropped on June 26, 2018, distributed by Kakao M as the group's fifth single. Subsequently, a Japanese version was released by King Records on November 7, 2018. This Japanese single came in three editions: a regular CD, limited Edition A (CD+DVD), and limited Edition B (CD+DVD+Sticker).

Inclusion in albums and EPs

"BAAM" served as the lead single for MOMOLAND's fourth EP "Fun to the World". The EP contained five tracks:

"BAAM" (title track)
"Very Berry"
"Bingo Game"
"Only One You"
"BAAM (instrumental)"

Moreover, the track was later included in the group's debut studio album "Chiri Chiri" released in 2019. Notably, "BAAM" marked the final single to feature members Daisy and Taeha, who later left the group.

Visuals and Choreography: The 'BAAM' Music Video

The music video for "BAAM" transforms into a vibrant globetrotting adventure, inviting viewers to participate in a festive "spot-the-object" game by finding hidden jewelry throughout the scenes. Uploaded on June 26, 2018, to 1theK's YouTube channel, the video quickly gained attention for its creative approach.

Concept and international themes

Momoland's visual concept showcases the members against backdrops representing various countries including Korea, Vietnam, France, Egypt, the Philippines, Mexico, and the United States. The juxtaposition of contemporary choreography against vintage settings created an intriguing visual narrative. Nonetheless, some critics pointed out potentially problematic elements, particularly regarding the representation of Mexican culture with stereotypical sombreros and mustaches.

Choreography and dance practice videos

The standout element of "BAAM" is undoubtedly its choreography—featuring a signature hook move resembling a cross between the Running Man and Charleston. This dance incorporated callbacks to "Bboom Bboom," especially the ear-holding move that previously went viral. Several practice versions were released, including a performance version (July 17, 2018) and a dance version (November 19, 2018).

Fan reactions to the visuals

Viewers praised the video's energy and colorful cultural references. Many fans commented on the video's happiness-inducing quality and predicted the choreography would become viral. Others appreciated the group's ability to make eye contact during camera performances.

The role of 'baam momoland dance' in its popularity

Although critics noted similarities to other dance routines like T-ara's "Lovey Dovey", the choreography's accessible nature contributed significantly to its appeal. The dance featured hip-swaying movements and "controlled flail" elements highlighted by light-up sneakers in backlit group shots. Indeed, the routine's deceptive simplicity made it perfect for fans to learn and participate in.

Chart Success and Critical Reception

After its release, "BAAM" quickly ascended various music charts, cementing Momoland's reputation beyond a one-hit wonder.

Performance on Gaon and Billboard charts

Initially debuting at number twenty-seven on South Korea's Gaon Digital Chart, "BAAM" steadily climbed to number fifteen in its second week. The song eventually peaked at number thirteen in its fourth week and ranked as the fifteenth best-selling song of July 2018. Its popularity persisted, ranking twentieth in August and maintaining chart presence through October.

Internationally, the Japanese version debuted at number eight on the Oricon Singles Chart with 12,126 physical copies sold in its first week. Concurrently, it reached number twelve on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and number eight on Billboard Japan's Top Singles Sales with 13,665 estimated sales.

Critical reviews and media coverage

Critics generally praised "BAAM" as an improvement over "Bboom Bboom". Seoul Beats called it a "knockout", meanwhile Kelly Sipko of The Kraze Magazine highlighted its "vintage pop sound" and "groovy tenor saxophone line".

Some reviewers noted similarities to previous hits yet appreciated the song's energetic qualities from the start.

Impact on Momoland's career trajectory

"BAAM" became Momoland's third song to surpass 100 million YouTube views, consequently prompting MLD Entertainment to announce this achievement as "proof that they are capable of international fame".

The track maintained the third position on the Gaon Social Chart, solidifying Momoland's presence with two songs simultaneously in the top five social rankings. Furthermore, this success led to their first U.S. appearance at KCON 2018 LA.

Significantly, "BAAM" marked the final single to feature member Daisy, who departed the group in 2020.