K-Pop Group NewJeans to Perform League of Legends Worlds Anthem "Gods"
The collaboration between K-pop and esports continues to grow, with another popular group joining the ranks of artists who have contributed to the fusion of music and gaming. Riot Games has a history of collaborating with big artists for musical performances, including Imagine Dragons, Porter Robinson, and Lil Nas X for previous Worlds songs. These anthems are designed to create an epic atmosphere and build excitement for the League of Legends World Championship event.
For this year’s championships, visionary developer Riot Games has chosen the popular K-pop group NewJeans to perform the Worlds anthem titled GODS, written by Riot Games’ principal composer Sebastien Najand and Mako’s Alex Seaver, whose co-writing credits include Worlds anthems Legends Never Die and RISE. It is set to be released on October 3rd, just a week before the esports tournament officially kicks off at LoL Park in Seoul, South Korea. The K-pop sensations said that the collaboration was overall a new experience for them.
“It was fun to try a new genre and sound. Through this collaboration, we are happy to present a song that incorporates both NewJeans’ and League of Legends’ unique colours. We hope it brings you a new sense of empowerment!” the group shared.
Carrie Dunn Riot's global head of creative for esports, described the partnership as a cultural celebration, with the World Championship being held in Korea and NewJeans' meteoric rise. “GODS juxtaposes epic and intense production elements with NewJeans’ beautiful and powerful vocals — conveying both the grind and the glory that awaits our players at Worlds,” Dunn stated.
The anthem will be accompanied by a Worlds music video featuring the story of South Korean pro player Kim "Deft" Hyuk-kyu, from his introduction to League of Legends in high school to his remarkable run at Worlds 2022. This video aims to capture not only Deft's personal journey but also the story of a team that overcame obstacles to become World Champions.
The 2023 League of Legends World Championship will begin on October 10th and culminate with the finals slated on November 19th.