If there’s anything I’ve learned from covering pop music for over a decade, it’s that songwriters and collaborators are just as important as the artists themselves. Though they often work behind the scenes, this feature is a chance to shine the light on some of k-pop’s most innovative and accomplished producers and composers.

FRANTS

Years active: 2003-present

Associated Acts: Wonder Girls, Jeong Jinwoon, DAY6, 2PM, GOT7, G.Soul, Twice, Golden Child

His sound: Riff-heavy instrumentals highlighted by memorable, repetitive hooks. Borrows heavily from 70’s and 80’s influences, including classic rock and synth-pop.

Why you should love him: FRANTS has primarily produced for JYP artists, so his work should be familiar to fans of the agency. As with most producers, his music occasionally gives itself over to trends, but at its core is a classic sense of songwriting that touches on genres as diverse as power pop and deep house. He’s got a gift for the kind of simple, streamlined hook that defies labels in favor of a more timeless appeal.

Examples of his best work:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUxHyXvevEg