BTS’ RM says ‘We paved the way’ after collaborating with Megan Thee Stallion: Fans express mixed opinions

BTS member RM has officially released his song “Neva Play” featuring American music artist Megan Thee Stallion. He announced the release on his Instagram story, tagging Megan Thee Stallion and writing, “For Asia, man, we paved the way.” The post included a preview of the song on Spotify and urged fans to use the app and enjoy the newly added music. However, his statement ultimately sparked an uproar all over the internet.

What do fans say about RM’s statement?

Within hours of Neva Play’s release on YouTube, fans everywhere were excited to voice their opinions on the collaboration. Many showed interest in RM’s statement, which he posted on his Instagram story a few hours ago. BTS fans believe that this is the boy band’s way of claiming that they “paved the way for Asian artists worldwide” and created a new market.

One Twitter/X user commented, “These men have been humble through and through for YEARS, it’s about time they said it.” Another fan echoed his words, writing, “AND HE’LL SAY IT AGAIN.” Someone commented, “No matter how much you hate this man, there’s one thing you can’t deny: he’s one of the few real rappers in K-pop.”

Many users have criticized the artist for taking all the credit for making K-pop a globally recognized music industry, but others have defended their beloved idols and made sure they get recognition for their struggle.

One fan defended RM, noting, “They were mad at him when he agreed to this live on Weverse so he went ahead and immortalized it in a song I know that’s true.” In support of the group, one wrote, “BTS was humble for 11 years and never claimed their title out of respect. Now it’s time for them to be loud and proud of it, losers can cry.”

Another fan commented, “It’s the way Namjoon (RM) is doing his anti-research on Asian artists and all Asians in the industry right now that further proves his point. His power is insane.”

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All about the collaboration between Megan Thee Stallion and RM

The song can be described as a mix of cultural rap music. RM, formerly Rap Monster, is a creative lyricist and music artist from South Korea, known as part of the boy band BTS. His collaboration with the enigmatic American rapper Megan Thee Stallion was an important moment for rappers in Asia and worldwide.

On August 30, 2024, BTS officially reposted Stallion’s post on their Twitter/X account, writing, “Coming Soon!” The post included the emoji of a horse connecting it to Stallion’s name, an “x” indicating a collaboration, and a Purple Heart – a symbol fans associate with BTS. This teaser was enough to get fans excited for an unexpected crossover.

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Both artists blended their musical styles in the song. While Megan contributed her signature bold rap, RM stayed true to a more soothing side of the song with his deep voice. RM’s segment adds a certain edge to the energetic beats of the song and makes it a danceable music video. He raps: “Smooth like criminal, off to digital/ Y’all done watched so pitiful.”

It should be noted that we only see an animated version of RM, while Megan takes the spotlight in a red outfit. The music video is meant to look like a fictional world that includes anime-inspired structures and storylines.