Natty/ Anatchaya Suputtipong (KISS OF LIFE)
KISS OF LIFE's Natty: A Journey from Trainee to Idol
In the dynamic world of K-pop, where the journey from a trainee to an idol is fraught with countless challenges and fierce competition, few stories capture the imagination and inspiration as Natty's transition to a pivotal member of Kiss of Life. This tale not only highlights the rigorous path of becoming a music sensation but also sheds light on the relentless pursuit of dreams amidst formidable obstacles. The formation of Kiss of Life and Natty's integral role within it underscore the vibrant and evolving landscape of K-pop, showcasing how talent, perseverance, and innovation converge to create groundbreaking music and captivating performances, such as the notable EPs "Te Quiero" and "Sticky," and singles like "Bad News" and "Midas Touch."
The narrative further unfolds with her eventual association with S2 Entertainment, marking a new chapter in her career and the inception of Kiss of Life. Alongside exploring the ensemble's music releases including digital singles and their popular "kissing video," the discussion extends to their current projects, collaborations, and Natty's personal growth within the industry. Through exploring these milestones, the article provides a comprehensive overview of how Kiss of Life emerged as a noteworthy entity in K-pop, capturing hearts with their unique sound and innovative concepts.
Stage Name: Natty (나띠)
Birth Name: Anatchaya Suputtipong (อานัชญา สุพุทธิพงศ์)
Position: Main Dancer
Birthday: May 30, 2002
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Height: 165 cm (5’5″)
Weight: 46 kg (101 lbs)
Blood Type: O
MBTI Type: INFJ
Nationality: Thai
Instagram: @natty_0530
Agency:
S2 Entertainment (2022–present)
Swing Entertainment (2020–2022)
JYP Entertainment (2014–2017)
Early Life and Background
Initial Training Period
As a foreigner, Natty's trainee days were somewhat easier compared to Korean trainees, as she had more time to practice without attending school. However, the training regimen was still rigorous, with Natty waking up as early as 5-6 AM to train by herself before the trainers arrived. Once the trainers were present, the training became more intense, with straightforward comments and criticisms.
Trainees at SM Entertainment typically have a packed schedule, with training ranging from 8 to 14 hours per day, depending on whether they attend school. They receive various classes, including singing, rapping, dancing, etiquette, and language lessons. Body weight is strictly monitored, especially for girl groups, and meal plans consist mostly of diet food like chicken breast and salad.
Training at SM Entertainment
At SM Entertainment, trainees are expected to wake up between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM. Those who attend school train for 8 to 10 hours, while those who don't may train for up to 14 hours. Trainees are weighed regularly, and their body weight is closely supervised. Some trainees push themselves to extreme limits, refusing to eat even diet meals to maintain their figure, which has led to instances of fainting and hospitalization.
Experience at JYP Entertainment
A former JYP and SM trainee shared that being a foreigner made the initial training period challenging due to the language barrier. However, the trainee was provided with Korean language classes and attended school while undergoing training. The schedule was packed, with practices and classes after school and even some activities on weekends. Trainees were given a dorm to share with others but faced strict rules, such as not being allowed to have social media or use phones. Dieting and daily practice were essential to maintain a fit body.
Survival Show Appearances
Natty participated in the JYP Entertainment and Mnet survival show "SIXTEEN" in 2015 at the age of 12 and 13. The show aimed to determine the members of JYP's next girl group, with 16 female JYP trainees competing against each other. Natty was announced as the youngest contestant on the show.
Despite her young age, Natty performed well on "SIXTEEN". She started out as a member of the MINOR group but rose to MAJOR after the first mission, remaining in the MAJOR group for several missions. However, she was eliminated in the finale of the show. The winning team went on to debut as the immensely successful girl group TWICE.
In 2017, Natty appeared as a contestant on another survival show called "Idol School". The show, aired by Mnet, aimed to debut a 9-member group through public votes out of 41 trainees. Natty ranked 2nd on the first episode and maintained her spot in the debut lineup until the third episode. However, her rankings fell in subsequent episodes, and she finished 13th in the finale, narrowly missing another chance to debut.
Years later, former "Idol School" contestants exposed the harsh conditions they endured on set, including isolation, heavily regulated food intake, frequent weigh-ins, and restrictions on what they could say. In 2020, two producers of the show were indicted for charges including obstruction of business and fraud related to vote manipulation.
Solo Debut
On April 6, 2020, Natty signed with Swing Entertainment, the agency of singer Kim Jae-hwan, beginning the countdown to her solo debut. She made her official debut on May 7, 2020, with the release of her first single album "Nineteen" and its accompanying music video. Natty expressed her happiness and nervousness about achieving her dream of debuting before turning 20 years old.
Natty made her first music show appearance as a solo artist on KBS's "Music Bank" on May 8, 2020. The debut single album "Nineteen" was released in the form of a kit album, allowing fans to view album images, music videos, and listen to the music through a dedicated application. The kit included a title card with the album jacket image, a handwritten photo message from Natty, and photo cards showcasing various aspects of her at 19 years old.
Natty returned with her second single, "Teddy Bear," on November 12, 2020. The music video for the title track featured the crest of New College, Oxford. Through these solo releases, Natty aimed to solidify her position as a rising female solo artist in the K-pop industry.
Further Music Releases
Following her solo debut, Natty continued to release new music and collaborate with other artists. On November 12, 2020, she dropped her first digital single album titled "Teddy Bear". The single showcased Natty's skills as both a vocalist and dancer, delivering an upbeat pop sound that positioned her well in the genre.
The title track "Teddy Bear" featured a catchy guitar loop, satisfying percussion, and an organic instrumental appeal. Natty's light and appealing vocal performance complemented the production without overshadowing it. While the chorus could have benefited from more substantial melodies, the song's overall amiable and playful nature made it enjoyable as a bright pop track.
In addition to her solo releases, Natty has collaborated with various artists in the Kenyan Hip Hop scene. Some of her notable collaborations include popular songs like "Charged Up," "Life," "Rong," "Peptang," "IRAQ," "Ben 10," "Skywalk," "Move," "No Chorus," and "Are You Stupid?". Each collaboration showcased Natty's versatility as an artist and helped establish her presence in the Hip Hop community.
Through these further music releases and collaborations, Natty continued to demonstrate her ability to create melodic sounds, meaningful lyrics, and distinct musical styles that resonated with her growing fanbase.
Joining S2 Entertainment
On July 12, 2022, S2 Entertainment announced that Natty had signed an exclusive contract with the agency. The company expressed their commitment to supporting Natty's future activities, recognizing her proven skills and passion showcased through various survival programs.
Natty, who was born in Thailand, had previously made her mark on Mnet's "Sixteen" as the youngest performer at the time. She later underwent professional training and released her debut singles "NINETEEN" and "Teddy Bear" in 2020.
In December 2022, Natty was featured in a German documentary about K-pop trainees alongside Julie, Belle, and two unknown trainees. Speculation arose that these trainees would be part of S2 Entertainment's upcoming new girl group.
On May 15, 2023, Natty was officially revealed as the first member of the girl group KISS OF LIFE . The group made their debut on July 5, 2023, with the mini album "KISS OF LIFE".
Debut with KISS OF LIFE
On July 12, 2022, S2 Entertainment announced that Natty had signed an exclusive contract with the agency. In December 2022, Natty featured in a German documentary about K-pop trainees alongside Julie, Belle, and two unknown trainees, sparking speculation that these trainees would be part of S2 Entertainment's upcoming new girl group.
On May 15, 2023, Natty was officially revealed as the first member of the girl group KISS OF LIFE . The group made their debut on July 5, 2023, with the mini album "KISS OF LIFE".
Introduction to the Group
Julie explained that "Kiss of Life, which is our group's name and the title of our EP, refers to the mouth-to-mouth artificial respiration method. Like the name, we plan on revitalizing and bringing fresh life to the K-pop scene".
Release of Self-titled EP
Beginning with "Sugarcoat" by Natty on June 18, 2023, solo music videos of "Countdown" by Belle, "Kitty Cat" by Julie, and "Play Love Games" by Haneul were released in the following days. On June 27, 2023, the music video of a B-side of the EP, "Bye My Neverland", which connects all of the solos' music videos, was released along with the music video teaser for the lead single "Shhh" on July 3, 2023.
The self-titled debut EP "Kiss of Life" was released on July 5, 2023, through S2 Entertainment. The EP contains six tracks, including the lead single "Shhh". The album sold 759 copies on its release day according to Hanteo Chart.
Present and Future Endeavors
Natty has been actively involved in various projects and collaborations since her debut with Kiss of Life. In April 2024, the group's single "Midas Touch" sold over 69,600 copies in its first week, becoming their most successful release to date and debuting at No. 165 on the Billboard Global 200 chart . Natty expressed her gratitude for the positive reception, stating, "'Midas Touch' was a challenging album for us, and we prepared hard for it. So I'm very glad that it received a good reception from our fans and the public."
In addition to group activities, Natty has also ventured into solo collaborations. She featured in Jay Park's single "Taxi Blurr" in May 2024 , showcasing her versatility as an artist. The group also held their first fan concert, "Key of Factory," on May 18, further connecting with their growing fanbase.
Looking ahead, Natty shared her aspirations for the future, hoping that her parents, bandmates, and fans remain happy and healthy. She also expressed her desire for Kiss of Life to become even more charming and reach a wider audience with their unique music. "Time flew with the first half of 2024, and I hope to have fun with the rest of the year just like I have so far. We hope to reach more audiences with our music that will be cooler and even more varied," Natty said .
As Natty celebrates her birthday, she took a moment to express her gratitude towards her fans, known as Kissy. "I just wanted to thank Kissy," she said. "Thank you so much for always thinking about me. This is the first birthday I celebrate after I made my debut and it is made even more meaningful with the gift [of winning the poll] that you have presented me with. Let's stay together in the times to come."
KISS OF LIFE 'Sugarcoat (NATTY Solo)' MV
KISS OF LIFE - Sugarcoat (NATTY Solo) (Romanized) Lyrics
[Intro]
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Oo-ooh, yea-eh, yeah (Gonna make you smile)
Yeah-ay, aye
[Verse 1]
Neul ppeonhan recipe chakan aicheoreom
Bandeutan A to Z gi daemaneu never
It's just a puzzle piece, yeah
Meotdaero pandanhan nae moseubi jeonbuilli eopjanni
[Pre-Chorus]
So, dureonaen jeong eopdeon mami soljikage binnan party
Matbolsurok taste so good
Hanabuteo yeolkkaji da sarangbatji motandedo
Silchiana I love me
[Chorus]
Sugarcoat ttawin beoseo deonjin nal
Nega mworadeunji
Just move naemamdaero
Nal wihan chumeul chuji
Don't sugarcoat me, baby
Complex is overrated
Tumyeonghan jeo dalbichi
Ssodajyeo deo jayuroi (Ah)
See upcoming pop shows
Get tickets for your favorite artists
[Verse 2]
In the dark eodum sogeseodo
Yunanhi seonmyeonghan sorireul ttara georeo
Deo gipi ganjikan pandora sangja sogui
Nae moseubi deoneun duryeopji aneun tonight, yeah (Going too far, baby)
[Pre-Chorus]
So gaseumeman mutdeon mari
Hayan nabicheoreom flying
Nollapdorok feel so good (Gonna make you smile)
Soljikan nae moseupkkaji ihaebatji motandedo
Gwaenchana nan I love me, yeah, yeah
[Chorus]
Sugarcoat ttawin beoseo deonjin nal
Nega mworadeunji
Just move naemamdaero (Oh, baby, oh)
Nal wihan chumeul chuji (Nal wihan chumeul chuji, eh, yeah, eh)
Don't sugarcoat me, baby
Complex is overrated
Tumyeonghan jeo dalbichi (Oh-woah)
Ssodajyeo deo jayuroi (Oh)
[Bridge]
Oh, geoul soge gadwodun
Jinjja nadapge ije I wanna do
Hangsang baraewatdeon change coming soon
You know what
Jjaritan haebanggam sok
Mannage doel modeun nal
Saranghal su bakke eopseo ttaneun
It's alright
[Chorus]
Sugarcoat ttawin piryoeopji
Nan geunyang nailteni (Yeah)
Just move barandaero
Deo meotjin chumeul chuji (Deo meotjin chumeul chuji, yeah)
Don't sugarcoat me, baby
Complex is overrated (Ooh)
Nan olla jomdeo nopi (Ooh)
Nuguboda binnalteni (Yeah, yeah)
Don't sugarcoat me, baby (Yeah)
Nal nega mworadeunji (Ooh, yeah)
Just move emamdaero
Nal wihan chumeul chuji (Nal wihan chumeul chuji, baby, baby, baby)
Don't sugarcoat me, baby
Complex is overrated
Tumyeonghan jeo dalbichi
Ssodajyeo da jayuroi (Oh)
Conclusion
Through the journey of Natty from her early trainee days to becoming the pivotal member of Kiss of Life, we have witnessed a saga of perseverance, talent, and success within the K-pop industry. Reflecting on her narrative: from battling the rigors of training and survival shows, making a striking solo debut, to eventually joining and contributing significantly to the success of Kiss of Life, underscores the essence of her musical and personal evolution. Her story exemplifies not just a personal victory but also illuminates the path for aspiring artists in the intensely competitive sphere of K-pop. It's a testament to the fact that with determination and hard work, daunting challenges can transform into stepping stones toward achieving one's dreams.
Looking ahead, Natty's aspirations for herself, her group, and their connection with fans set an optimistic tone for the future. The achievements of Kiss of Life, particularly with their "Midas Touch" release, signify not only the group's growing prominence but also hint at the expansive potential K-pop holds in the global music arena. As they continue to explore and innovate in their musical journey, the impact of artists like Natty and groups like Kiss of Life is poised to resonate not just within K-pop but across the music industry at large, promising a future filled with more groundbreaking music and performances.
Post a Comment