Steve Aoki is a DJ, producer, and EDM artist. It’s a different situation entirely. He doesn’t need a specific image to succeed, and image sells when it comes to mainstream pop music.
The same applies to Far East Movement.
As much as I respect her, A.Leean wouldn’t have the level of success you’d expect from a K-pop act. Her success would probably follow the trajectory of AleXa, and that’s as far as it gets.
I mean no disrespect to AleXa either. Your success is limited to a small but dedicated fanbase as an English-speaking, English-singing Asian artist trying to appeal to music listeners whose visual preference and musical taste are skewed in favor of K-pop. You’ll be confined to the boundaries of touring smaller venues and big festivals, but you won’t be selling albums on a global and mainsteam level.
The only way is to establish yourself in K-pop and then expand gradually while also maintaining your roots.
I love Tiffany, but look at how limited her success is when she tries to make American music. The SNSD reputation helps, but it can only take you so far. Compare to Taeyeon, who has Korean support; that goes a long way because international fans see Korean support as a social status or social proof.
Even Jay Park, who amassed global success and worked with big names in the American industry, hit his peak only when he collaborated with IU.
Based on your history, you obviously despise Korea for “not appreciating” K-pop acts, but it would be ten times worse for Asian artists trying to stay relevant in the American scene. There’s still an uphill battle for Asian artists, as non-Asian executives will not protect them or promote them unless there’s a huge financial incentive.
You’re also neglecting the numerous CF opportunities and brand deals Korean idols would miss out on. When it comes to western brands, many of these idols wouldn’t come close to getting these deals with western luxury powerhouses. They don’t fit western beauty standards. They needed their K-pop clout for that.
I’d say we should be careful what we wish for because a lot of our favorite idols wouldn’t be here in the industry if K-pop companies ditched the “K.” Companies wouldn’t pick them up in favor of trainees with more western appeal. Jisoo, Kazuha, Wonyoung, Sakura, Ningning, Karina? All gone.
reggaeton 