In an era of meticulously planned cross-genre team-ups, Bradley Simpson and ATEEZ’s Hongjoong have defied expectations with a collaboration that feels refreshingly organic—and undeniably magnetic. The reimagined version of ‘Almost,’ a standout track from Bradley’s Top 10 debut solo album ‘The Panic Years,’ has arrived, blending the British singer-songwriter’s psychedelic-tinged alt-rock with Hongjoong’s razor-sharp K-pop flair. The result? A genre-defying anthem that proves great music knows no borders.
The partnership sparked unexpectedly when Hongjoong shared ‘Almost’ on his social media, catching Bradley’s attention. What followed was a creative whirlwind: within weeks, Hongjoong had penned a new Korean-language verse and layered in his signature harmonies, reinventing the track while honoring its emotional core. “It was so natural,” Bradley reflects. “Hongjoong just got the song immediately. Hearing him reinterpret it with his own perspective—it’s like the song found a second life.” For Hongjoong, the collaboration was equally thrilling: “Bradley’s music has this raw energy that drew me in. Our styles are different, but that friction is what makes it exciting.”
The track is a masterclass in artistic alchemy. Bradley’s lush, Americana-inflected vocals—praised by Dork as “effortlessly cool”—lock seamlessly with Hongjoong’s dynamic delivery, while the instrumentation oscillates between hazy guitar riffs and sleek, modern production. It’s a meeting of minds that highlights the best of both worlds: Bradley’s introspective lyricism and Hongjoong’s boundary-pushing versatility.
The collaboration caps off a monumental year for both artists. Bradley, fresh off sold-out tours across the UK, Europe, and Australia, is gearing up for festival slots at Boardmasters and Victorious, while ‘The Panic Years’ continues to earn acclaim for its “psychedelic edge and intelligent songwriting” (Wonderland). Meanwhile, Hongjoong and ATEEZ are riding high on a record-breaking streak, having dominated charts from Seoul to London—where they made history as the first K-pop group with three UK Top 10 albums in a year—and packed stadiums worldwide, including two electrifying nights at the O2.
‘Almost (with Hongjoong of ATEEZ)’ isn’t just a remix; it’s a testament to music’s power to bridge divides. Whether you’re a fan of Bradley’s guitar-driven reveries or ATEEZ’s high-octane performances, one thing’s clear: this unexpected duo has crafted something truly special. Press play and let the collision of worlds ignite your playlist.
Listen to ‘Almost (with Hongjoong of ATEEZ)’ here: [Insert link]
Catch Bradley Simpson live:
- Together Again Festival (Tomorrow)
- Boardmasters (August 10)
- Victorious Festival (August 24)
Praise for ‘The Panic Years’:
- “A debut that sparkles with fizzy brilliance.” – Dork
- “Lush vocals and effortlessly cool alt-rock.” – 1883
- “Psychedelic rock that caters to his rich, seasoned tone.” – Euphoria
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