Mono was Released at midnight Korean time on October 23rd, Mono is the second solo mixtape by BTS’ leader and main rapper, RM (Kim Namjoon). The seven song set, dubbed a “playlist” rather than a mixtape, contains collaborations with artists and friends RM has known for years including British duo Honne, Korean indie rock group Nell, and a song featuring eAeon, a Korean rocker from the group Mot.
RM, the leader of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, has always been a force to reckon with, both musically and as a solo artist. His 2018 mixtape, MONO, has reached new heights, achieving a monumental milestone: it has now surpassed 120 #1 rankings worldwide on iTunes and is tied as the highest-charting album in iTunes history. This accomplishment further solidifies RM’s standing not only as a musical icon within BTS but also as an artist whose solo work can stand alone and garner immense global attention.
The success of MONO is a testament to RM’s artistry, the profound connection he shares with his fans, and the shifting dynamics of the global music industry in the digital age. The album, which was released as a free project for his fans, reflects RM’s vulnerability, introspection, and growth, marking a pivotal moment in his musical career. This achievement, however, is more than just a personal victory for RM—it’s also a win for the K-pop industry and the global music scene as a whole, showing just how far K-pop has come in its expansion and dominance worldwide.
Before diving into the record-breaking numbers, it’s important to understand what MONO represents in the first place. Unlike many of the high-energy anthems BTS is known for, MONO is deeply personal, introspective, and reflective. RM, also known as Kim Namjoon, has always been open about his love for writing and his ability to express his thoughts and emotions through music. The mixtape, consisting of seven tracks, delves into themes of loneliness, self-discovery, existential questions, and love, while also exploring his role as both a leader of BTS and as a solo artist.
The mixtape’s opening track, “Tokyo,” immediately sets the tone with its soothing, atmospheric vibe, as RM contemplates his identity and the weight of being in the public eye. Each track in MONO is a journey—whether it’s RM’s exploration of the existential questions he has about the world or his deeper thoughts on connection and isolation. The stripped-back, lo-fi production allows RM’s lyrics and emotions to take center stage, inviting listeners into his most vulnerable spaces.
MONO was initially released as a gift to BTS’s loyal fanbase, ARMY, with RM’s intention to provide comfort during a time when the band was preparing for their world tour. The release was a surprise, with no major promotional push. And yet, it resonated so deeply with fans and casual listeners alike that it quickly took the world by storm, achieving the incredible feat of topping global charts and receiving critical acclaim.
Since its release, MONO has been nothing short of a phenomenon. The mixtape was not just another solo release by a member of BTS; it was an album that transcended the boundaries of genre, language, and culture. RM’s deep, reflective lyrics paired with ambient production created an experience that felt almost cinematic, one that could be appreciated by listeners regardless of their background or familiarity with the K-pop industry.
The album was also notable for its international reach. RM’s ability to blend English and Korean in his lyrics made it easily accessible to fans around the world. The raw honesty in his music—whether it was tackling loneliness in “Seoul” or exploring self-love in “Badbye”—resonated deeply with listeners across the globe. This connection to his listeners has been a key factor in the immense success of MONO.
In particular, MONO achieved significant chart success, including top spots on both the iTunes charts worldwide and the Billboard charts. It marked RM’s first solo project to debut at number one on iTunes in numerous countries, showing that he could capture the attention of listeners beyond the BTS fandom. Over time, MONO continued to gain momentum, breaking records and setting new benchmarks for what a solo K-pop artist could achieve.
RM’s MONO reached a remarkable milestone when it achieved 120 #1 rankings worldwide on iTunes. The iTunes charts, being one of the most important digital platforms for music distribution globally, have long been a barometer for an album’s success. Reaching #1 on iTunes in so many different countries signifies not only RM’s massive appeal but also the wide-reaching influence of BTS as a whole. The fact that RM’s mixtape has now secured 120 #1s on iTunes worldwide showcases the global demand for his work, and it speaks to the power of his artistry, which transcends language barriers and resonates with listeners from all corners of the globe.
This is not just an achievement for RM personally; it’s also a landmark event for the K-pop industry. When MONO first topped charts, it was a powerful signal that BTS members were capable of achieving significant success on their own outside of the group’s work. It cemented the group’s global dominance and further showcased the international reach of K-pop, which has slowly become a major influence on the global music industry. RM’s accomplishment with MONO exemplifies how K-pop, once viewed as a niche genre, has become a mainstream force.
In addition to its chart-topping success on iTunes, MONO has been recognized on numerous music platforms, streaming services, and award shows. It was lauded for its vulnerability, its powerful production, and RM’s lyrical prowess. The mixtape not only displayed RM’s personal growth but also further defined him as an individual artist who could stand apart from his work with BTS while still retaining the essence of his creative identity.
Perhaps even more impressive than the 120 #1s is the fact that MONO has now tied as the highest-charting album in iTunes history. This is a monumental achievement, one that reflects RM’s growing influence as an artist and the ever-expanding reach of BTS’s global impact. Being tied for the highest charting album on iTunes means that MONO has now entered the history books as one of the most successful albums in the platform’s entire existence.
This achievement further strengthens the narrative of BTS’s immense impact on the global music scene. The group has repeatedly shattered records in a variety of ways—whether it’s topping the Billboard Hot 100, selling out arenas worldwide, or setting streaming records. RM’s solo work has now entered this realm of record-breaking accomplishments, proving that his success is not confined to his work with BTS but is expanding into an individual legacy of its own.
The fact that MONO is tied for the highest-charting album in iTunes history is a clear indication that RM’s music has found an enduring place in the global music landscape. It represents more than just a number; it signifies RM’s place in history as a groundbreaking artist, and MONO‘s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of musicians.
RM’s MONO achieving 120 #1s and tying as the highest-charting album in iTunes history is a monumental accomplishment that is sure to be remembered as a defining moment in both his solo career and the larger K-pop phenomenon. It showcases his artistry, his vulnerability, and his ability to connect with fans worldwide. More than just a personal victory, this milestone is a testament to the global influence of BTS and the far-reaching power of K-pop.
As RM continues to break records and expand his musical horizons, it is clear that MONO will remain an essential part of his legacy. The mixtape not only encapsulates his personal journey but also cements his place as a truly transformative figure in the music industry. With 120 #1s and the highest charting position on iTunes, RM has set a new bar for what’s possible for solo artists in the global music landscape, further solidifying his place in history.
Along with the album, a music video for the final song, “Forever Rain,” was released on YouTube at the same time. The animated video was directed by Choi Jaehoon and is entirely black and white, reflecting the monochromatic theme of the album.
Forever Rain
If BTS songs of “Love Yourself,” can be seen as the sunlight, then Mono is the moonlight, an important part of the duality of RM’s artistic career.
Namjoon extends his record as the only Asian Act with the most #1s for an Album on iTunes.
He is tied with Ed Sheeran’s Album ‘DIVIDE’ as the Album with the highest no. 1s on iTunes.
Moonchild
ARMY talking about how Mono has affected their lives
Have a listen at this magnificent Album
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