Born to Be cover

Born to Be

Itzy · 2024

31 min · 10 tracks · K-pop

A vibrant fusion of catchy hooks and dynamic beats underscoring themes of self-empowerment and youthful exuberance.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    BORN TO BE Start here — The title track encapsulates the album's core message of embracing one's identity and aspirations, making it an anthem for self-acceptance.
  • →
    Mr. Vampire — With its playful lyrics and infectious beat, this track stands out for blending humor with a catchy melody that showcases the group's versatility.
  • →
    Crown on My Head — This song features empowering lyrics about overcoming challenges and claiming one's worth, resonating deeply with listeners seeking motivation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases energetic production and catchy melodies but lacks depth for lasting engagement.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a strong electronic beat that sets a high-energy tone for the EP.
  • The running time is tightly packed, with most tracks under three minutes, maintaining a brisk pace throughout.
  • The final track employs a gradual fade-out, leaving a lingering sense of anticipation rather than closure.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • short, catchy listening sessions
  • uplifting and motivational vibes
  • youthful and vibrant spirit

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Continues Itzy's evolution and showcases their growing influence in K-pop.
Themes
self-acceptance anthems· empowerment through dance
Career context
In early 2024, Itzy released Born to Be as their fifth EP, following the commercial success of their fourth EP, Guess Who. This release marked a continuation of their exploration into electronic dance music while maintaining their distinct K-pop identity, solidifying their status within the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Aespa· Blackpink· Everglow

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • BORN TO BE

    The bridge shifts from collective empowerment to an individual declaration of purpose.

    This transition emphasizes personal strength amidst a unified theme, marking a pivotal moment where individual voices emerge within the group's harmony.

Tracklist

  • 1 BORN TO BE Start here 2:59
  • 2 UNTOUCHABLE 3:15
  • 3 Mr. Vampire 2:51
  • 4 Dynamite 2:50
  • 5 Crown on My Head 3:13
  • 6 Blossom 3:15
  • 7 Run Away 3:37
  • 8 Mine 2:49
  • 9 Yet, but 3:26
  • 10 Escalator 3:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata