The rising K-pop group ATEEZ has been named the ‘Artist of the Year’ for the US’s Record Store Day (RSD), scheduled for April 20, marking a significant recognition of their popularity in the birthplace of pop. To celebrate this achievement, a special vinyl edition of their Billboard 200 No. 1 album, “THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL (X Ver.),” will be released exclusively for Record Store Day. This special edition, distributed by Hello82 under KAI Media Group, will be available only at participating record stores during the event.
Billboard highlighted that this LP would feature a unique design and include two unreleased tracks on a bonus RSD-exclusive 7-inch vinyl. Additionally, each album will randomly contain one of eight collectible photo tickets of ATEEZ members Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi, Wooyoung, and Jongho.
Michael Kurtz, co-founder of Record Store Day, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “K-pop is important in the music industry. We are thrilled to celebrate ATEEZ with their passionate fan base on Record Store Day.” He also mentioned looking forward to seeing them in this year’s Coachella lineup, adding, “We are very happy to select them as our first K-pop artist.”
ATEEZ’s album “THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL” made them the seventh K-pop group to top the Billboard 200, a notable achievement for an act from a smaller agency. They have previously entered the top 10 of the Billboard 200 four times, establishing a solid fanbase known as “ATINY” in the North American market. In April, they will become the first K-pop boy group to perform at North America’s largest music festival, Coachella.
Established in the US in 2007 by Michael Kurtz, along with Eric Levin and Carrie Colliton, Record Store Day has expanded globally since 2008, including the UK. The event celebrates with special edition sales of CDs and vinyl, art exhibitions, artist fan meetings, and more, earning the support of music enthusiasts for its exclusive and limited edition releases.
Source: newsis.com
