Random J Playlist: Written by Kenzie

Those who are into K-Pop and are specifically fans of SM Entertainment's roster will know of Kim Yeon-jung, better known professionally as Kenzie. And if you don't, then you have definitely heard her work. Kenzie is as much of a fixture at SM Entertainment as the likes of BoA and is one of the pillars (much like BoA) that keeps the SM ship afloat.

Kenzie is a songwriter for SM entertainment (although you can find her listed in the credits for JYP's Itzy's latest EP) and has been writing songs for SM artists for over 20 years. She's written numerous songs for BoA throughout her career, along with TVXQ, The Grace, Super Junior, Red Velvet. Bitch. I may as well just link you to the artists section of SM Entertainment's website, because Kenzie has pretty much written for every single one of them.

All of the K-Entertainment companies, including the big three (SM, YG and JYP) are run by a board of men. Many of the acts who go on to enjoy huge success on Korea and outside of it tend to be boy bands. But women be the ones who really hold it down in K-Pop. The Wonder Girls were the jewel in JYP's crown. Big Bang was a huge success for YG, but Blackpink are the ones now bringing YG success, and there would be no Blackpink if it were not for 2NE1 setting the blueprint. Then there's SM entertainment. TVXQ were huge, but BoA was the one who set the precedent for a female K-Pop solo act who also had a huge career in Japan and outright kept SM going during moments when the hits were drying up and legal action was being sought left, right and centre. And let us not forget that Girls' Generation was one of the first groups to truly kick off the Hallyu (Korean wave). And then you have Kenzie who is responsible for so many of the hits that SM entertainment have had. When Beyoncé said girls run the world, not a lie was told. And women are most certainly the cogs that keep the K-Pop machine going, even if it's men we see pulling the levers at the top.

BoA's 20 year anniversary celebration is much deserved. But the women behind the scenes need acknowledgement too. Especially those who have contributed so much to K-Pop, and Kenzie most certainly deserves.

The unsung hero of SM Entertainment.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Written by Kenzie

✏️ Other 'Written by' playlists: Babyface | Cathy Dennis | Diane Warren | Emyli | James Fauntleroy | Missy Elliott | The Clutch
✊🏾 Black talent in K-Pop: K-Pop: Black songwriters & producers