Fans Have Mixed Feelings About BTS’s Anthology Album “Proof,” But Unwavering Support For BTS
On June 10, BTS will release Proof, an anthology album that showcases their music from 2013 until now. Although fans are excited for Proof, many have admitted that it isn’t what they were expecting.
Two years ago, BTS released two albums: BE, an ode to pandemic times, and MAP OF THE SOUL : 7, a dazzling studio album with 20 tracks. Between 2020 and 2022, BTS released several hit singles, including “Dynamite” and “Butter,” and fans have been patiently awaiting the next studio album.
On April 16, at BTS’s final PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – LAS VEGAS show, BTS dropped the first teaser for Proof. Given how much time has passed between BE and now, many fans assumed that Proof would have all new songs.
#BTS #방탄소년단 Proof#BTS_Proof pic.twitter.com/CT6kyu059w
— BIGHIT MUSIC (@BIGHIT_MUSIC) May 4, 2022
In reality, according to BigHit Music, Proof will have three CDs of past songs that, “reflect the thoughts and ideas of the members on the past, present, and future of BTS,” and three new releases.
Some fans were, understandably, a little disappointed when they read the news.
am i the only one salty that proof only has three new songs? like.. hybe is basically just selling us a repackage. feels like a cash grab to me.
— binnie (@koohusband) May 4, 2022
As others have pointed out, however, an anthology album is the perfect way to wrap up the past and move on to the “new era” BTS has been teasing for some time. Proof will honor BTS’s incredible legacy and serve as a time capsule for ARMY.
i think this is an anniversary album for all of us, that’s why it’s called “proof”. we gotta go through all their old eras together with new 3 songs. after that we getting new era, new chapter.
— elliot • anthology album (@jeoncejoon) May 4, 2022
Proof is also a great way to introduce “locals” (the general public) and new fans to BTS’s older music.
An anthology album will also be a beautiful way to re-introduce old music to new Armys. Looking forward to reliving every wonderful era together with BTS.
— army film club (@0613frames) May 4, 2022
Bighit was actually smart for this cause if you think about locals are most likely aware of bts's comeback, they'll listen to the album and do a little research and see that these tracks are from different albums and hence them being interested in the older music+
— ⁷ (@ICHIY00N) May 4, 2022
Although BTS has released compilation albums in the past, Proof is their first anthology. Anthology albums go beyond “greatest hits” collections, often including unreleased remixes, demos, live performances, and much more. In other words, there is plenty to look forward to, and Proof might have a surprise or two up its metaphorical sleeve.
I know the boys have worked so hard on putting together this anthology album and the pride they have in their music over the last decade is all the reason I personally need to support this album. From the day I first became army and for the rest of my life I will trust BTS.
— 𝕖𝕝𝕝𝕖⁷☾ (@elle_moonchild7) May 5, 2022
Will these unreleased tracks be on Proof? Fingers crossed!
