10 Reasons You Need to Know Korean Pop Icon CL
There’s been a slow build happening for rapper CL. Stylish, confident and creative, the Korean star is aiming to go international with her rap and pop skills. While she has yet to release a debut record, the anticipation for more empowering, creative music has been creeping up. There hasn’t been a Korean pop star to break in the U.S. since Psy, and CL wants to be what the world is talking about next — and it's totally deserved. Here are 10 reasons why you should have CL on your radar (if you don't already).
1/10CL is not only an up and coming badass solo rapper, but the lead singer of K-pop group 2NE1.
Formed in 2009, the four-piece has a huge presence in Asia, blending R&B and pop influences — including everyone from TLC to Madonna and the Spice Girls — into their music.
2/10She’s managed by music manager mogul Scooter Braun
You know, the dude whose clients include Justin Bieber and, up until recently, Ariana Grande. If the success of Justin and Ariana is any inclination of what Braun can do, CL is about to be on the ride of her life. Maybe she’ll even be performing duets with the Biebs as well.
3/10CL has collaborated with the most in-demand producers/DJs, including Skrillex, will.i.am and Diplo.
She’s entered into the MAD DECENT boys club and has gained a ton of respect from Diplo and Skrillex. Since they’re running the electronica game right now, that’s saying something.
4/10She knows how to make an entrance.
CL makes her presence known — she knows she’s important and interesting enough to be taken seriously. She oozes confidence.
5/10She’s BFFs with designer favorite Jeremy Scott.
Here's how they met: CL wore a pair of Scott’s Adidas shoes in a music video, which he then saw on the internet. He reached out, and the two met IRL. Since then, they’ve been the best of friends. (They even did an interview together for Paper Magazine.
6/10The rapper knows how to make a good jingle.
When you think of soda, Coke and Pepsi immediately come to mind. However, take a cool K-pop star turned rapper and have her sing about Doctor Pepper, and you have a hit (and a lot of soda sales).
7/10Queen Lorde is a fan.
When Lorde likes a musician, the world knows about it. She’s so highly respected that the masses will instantly favorite, retweet, and join the bandwagon. (And hey, we could always use more girls lifting up other girls.)
8/10Her dance moves (and dance troupe) give everyone a run for their money.
CL and her crew know how to dance with no reservations. When they move, they make their presence known.
9/10We want to cop her manicures.
From her “Hello Bitches” fire nails to long metallic tips, CL rules the nail art game. We can’t wait to see what creative nail masterpieces will emerge in her forthcoming music videos.
10/10CL isn’t afraid to be a badass.
She’s constantly taking risks with her style and music. While the rap game might seem like it’s dominated by men, it doesn’t intimidate her. Get ready to make way for the next powerhouse MC.
