Stellar Debut on ‘Tonight Show’ Featuring ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Stars
It was an evening of excitement and firsts on ‘The Tonight Show’ as EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, the voices behind the animated sensations in ‘KPop Demon Hunters,’ took the stage for an electrifying first live performance of ‘Golden.’ Their appearance wasn’t just about the music; it included engaging conversations with host Jimmy Fallon and a significant milestone celebration for their soundtrack’s success.
Unforgettable Stage Presence and a Dive into Their Rising Fame
The trio, who voice the members of the in-film group HUNTR/X, kicked off their performance in dramatic fashion. An animated intro set the scene, leading into EJAE’s powerful opening lines, reflecting her character’s dual life struggles. Rei Ami took the spotlight next, echoing the sentiment of complexity and identity, while Audrey Nuna added depth with her soulful verse about rebellion and growth. The performance, backed by dynamic visuals from the movie, culminated in a synchronized chorus that had already become iconic among fans.
The energy was palpable as Fallon delved into the group’s surreal journey post-release of ‘KPop Demon Hunters.’ The soundtrack’s overwhelming success brought them an impressive series of chart-topping weeks and broke records, making ‘Golden’ a historic hit in several categories. Fallon shared stats that left the trio visibly overwhelmed, such as their extended reign on the Hot 100 and their landmark achievement as the first No. 1 female K-pop song on this chart.
A Collection of Humble Brags and Personal Stories
During their couch session, each artist shared personal anecdotes that highlighted the pervasive impact of ‘Golden.’ EJAE recounted an encounter in South Korea where, despite her disguise, she was recognized and warmly greeted by fans. Meanwhile, Nuna shared a touching moment when she witnessed the cultural reach of their music firsthand—an elderly man playing ‘Golden’ on a traditional Korean instrument in a bustling subway station.
Rei Ami’s tale added a heartfelt touch, recounting how she overheard a young child passionately singing their song in a public place, underscoring the song’s universal appeal and impact beyond their expectations. The trio also discussed the creative process behind the hit, with EJAE revealing a quirky studio incident that linked their success to a supernatural encounter, adding a layer of mystique to the song’s backstory.
Their interview wrapped up with a surprise from Fallon, as he presented them with a platinum plaque for the movie’s soundtrack, a tangible testament to their global impact and success.