South Korean entertainment giant HYBE is teaming up with OneRepublic frontman Ryan Tedder to launch a new boyband.
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Announced on February 20, the project will kick off with a global talent search, with HYBE chairman Bang Si-hyuk, HYBE America CEO Scooter Braun and Ryan Tedder at the project’s helm. Per Billboard, a training programme fusing HYBE’s K-pop development programme and Tedder’s creative direction will commence in Los Angeles after members of the group are chosen.
Tedder has a history of working with HYBE acts, including the with company’s US-based girl group KATSEYE for ‘Debut’, Japanese band &TEAM for ‘Dropkick’ and Korean boyband TXT for ‘Back For More’. The new boyband initiative also comes after HYBE America debuted KATSEYE last year, launched in partnership with Geffen Records.
“Artists under HYBE have consistently reached impressive global milestones, dominating charts year after year,” Bang Si-hyuk said in a statement, per Billboard. “Especially with KATSEYE, we’ve demonstrated that our K-pop methodology is successful in the US mainstream market. Launching a new boy group in collaboration with Ryan Tedder will be another step in continuing our legacy within the music industry.”
Meanwhile, Tedder said that he is “thrilled to partner with HYBE on this new exciting project”. The musician added: “Bang and his team have proven to be the best fan-engaging creatives out there and we want to build a group that is the most fan-focused on earth with the best music imaginable.”
Applications for trainees are now open to individuals of all nationalities between the ages of 13 and 23. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis throughout the coming year, and applicants are required to submit a photo portfolio, performance videos and a personal introduction video.
