Gangnam Style

Gangnam Style's harmony is intentionally simple and loop-driven, typical of early 2010s EDM-pop. The use of B Dorian borrowing (E major instead of Em) gives the minor key an uplifting, party-ready brightness that contrasts with the satirical lyrics. The minimal chord vocabulary allows the production, rhythm, and vocal performance to carry the song's energy rather than harmonic complexity.

PSY co-wrote 'Gangnam Style' with Yoo Gun Hyung as the lead single for his sixth studio album. The song satirizes the extravagant lifestyles associated with Seoul's wealthy Gangnam district, with PSY describing it as poking fun at people who pretend to be high class. PSY reportedly stayed up for about 30 consecutive nights developing the signature horse-riding dance, driven by the high expectations South Korean fans had for his choreography.

Released in July 2012, PSY's 'Gangnam Style' combined an irresistibly catchy electronic beat with satirical commentary on Seoul's nouveau riche culture, spawning one of the biggest viral sensations in internet history. The song topped charts in over 30 countries and permanently opened the door for K-pop on the world stage.