South Korean boy band BTS joins the lineup for this year’s American Music Awards, during which they’ll premiere the first stateside performance of their hit single “DNA” on Nov. 19.
The AMAs revealed the news through social media today, spurring a frenzy among the act’s dedicated fanbase, known collectively as ARMY. The announcement comes after months of growing interest in BTS, the only Korean group to ever break into the Top 10 on the Billboard 200 album chart.
“It is such an honor for BTS and BigHit Entertainment to be invited to the American Music Awards as one of the performers,” said a rep from the band’s label. “Our partners in the U.S. have helped us pave the way in every way possible, and together we are making history. We are also excited to show our fans, ARMY, the first-ever U.S. live TV performance of 'DNA.'”
“DNA” is the lead single off of the band’s chart-topping album Love Yourself: Her. The expressive electro-pop track peaked at No. 67 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in September, released a few months after BTS dominated attention at the Billboard Music Awards in May when they took home the Top Social Artist award.
Propelled by the support of their immensely dedicated ARMY, a fanbase that thrives on social media and revels in the millennial struggles represented through the band's music, the septet has reached historic heights on American music charts and seen much interest from western audiences. The AMAs, which take place on Nov. 19 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, mark the boy band's second appearance on an American award show this year.
Though a Korean group may seem like an odd fit for the AMAs, BTS’ represents the increasingly-internationalized face of America’s music industry. Keeping the momentum going as their popularity is on the rise, the group has worked with likes of The Chainsmokers and Steve Aoki, and artists including Charli XCX and Desiigner have teased potential projects with the boy band.
BTS joins Christina Aguilera, Selena Gomez, and Diana Ross as performers at this year’s AMAs.
