NME, the prestigious British music magazine, has recognized NCT’s DoJaeJung by including their hit song ‘Perfume’ in its ’50 Best Songs of 2023.’ Announced on the official NME website on December 4, DoJaeJung’s ranking at 45th spot is particularly noteworthy as they are the only K-pop male artists to make it to this esteemed list.
NME described “Perfume” by stating, “Unlike NCT’s music, which has mainly presented experimental and colorful sounds, NCT’s Do Jae Jung presented much softer music with ‘Perfume’. Like the lyrics of the song, their song leaves a deep lingering impact on listeners.” This distinction highlights the unique musicality of ‘Perfume’ and its ability to resonate deeply with a global audience.
Alongside NCT’s DoJaeJung, the ’50 Best Songs of 2023′ list features iconic artists like The Beatles, Lana Del Rey, Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish, Troye Sivan, and Dua Lipa, underlining the significance of this achievement.
Since debuting as a unit last April, NCT’s DoJaeJung has not only topped K-pop unit charts with their first mini-album ‘Perfume’ but also dominated various domestic album and music charts, including securing first place on music shows. The group also received earlier recognition by being selected as one of the ’15 best K-pop songs of 2023 so far’ published by NME in June, further solidifying their status in the international music scene.