JYP is known for his many talents: A founder and producer of JYP Entertainment, the mastermind behind K-pop stars such as 2PM and Twice, a fashion icon and a television judge. But before anything else, Park Jin-young, a.k.a JYP, has always been, and will always be, an artist who began his musical career as early as 1994.

His distinct and soulful music that was heavily influenced by US pop, as well as his performances accentuating male sex appeal were phenomenal at the time, earning him the nickname “K-pop pioneer that graced the ‘90s.”

And here are some of JYP’s old hits that are still resonating at music bars and clubs until this day.

1. “Don’t Leave ME” (1994)


The song is JYP’s debut single and the lead track off his debut album “Blue City.” The song can’t be any more cheerful with its upbeat melody, but lyrically, the song is about begging a lover not to leave.

“Don’t Leave ME” shot Park to stardom.

2. “She Was Pretty” (1997)


The song, a lead track off Park’s third EP “Summer Jinglebell,” well represents Park’s performance that emphasizes his sleek dance movements. Often likened to songs of late US pop icon Michael Jackson, the sultry yet punky hit reminisces a past romance in Park’s own quirky way. Park once said in an interview that the song was his favorite among his hits.

3. “Honey” (1998)


Produced and written by Park himself, the lead track off his fourth album “Even After 10 Years” is one of his best known hits. Kicking off with a lilting “Honey” by female vocalist Jung Sun-hee, the gooey song is a true dance trigger. Transcending generations, the song is still widely loved by the public and covered by many artists.

Check out some other JYP hits below.



(lotus@heraldcorp.com)