He is here to learn as a rookie alongside the contestants in this new world of highly publicized hip-hop. Many questioned the intention of Tiger JK’s agreement to produce for the show, but his own words shatter any unfavorable attitude towards the duo.
The show was previously regarded as all fluff and no substance, but now veterans view the show as a chance to reacquaint themselves with a globalized audience and worldwide recognition. The inclusion of Tiger JK and Bizzy marks a shift in how the Korean hip-hop community now favorably views the show. Striking apprehension into the contestants’ hearts, and even those of their fellow producers, Tiger JK definitely didn’t lack any street cred. Last but certainly not least of the producer teams was forefather of Korean hip-hop, legendary Tiger JK, and his crewmate Bizzy. Perhaps the most anticipated producer team of the season, the duo lacks nothing in looks, musicality, or rap, and it shows as they slink down the runway to the adoring looks of the audience and chagrin of the previous two producer duos. Introduced next to the hyped-up crowd were flowerboy-faced, silver-tongued producers ZICO and DEAN. The duos have certainly increased the visibility of Illionaire and AOMG, their respective labels, on past seasons with their surprisingly down-to-earth attitudes and, dare I even say, nerdiness that is contrary to their image. It certainly pays off to have two veteran producers team up with each other as both teams have produced winning contestants in past seasons. While it’s great to be the first to receive a robust welcome, they also had to watch as the second team of producers, Jay Park & Dok2, rose up to the stage amidst ardent fanboy shouts. With their signature anthem “Three Dopeboyz” blaring as they literally rise from flames, rapper Choiza and Gaeko walked down the runway to join host Kim Jinpyo on the main stage. The introduction of the season’s producers is always something to look forward to as the contestants are subjected to the swaggering presence of the producing teams. Show Me the Money 6 is proving that in this game of hip-hop survival, it’s still too early to be anyone’s game. Hip-hop is cutthroat, and so is the competition.
It’s only the premiere episode but nerves are already showing. In round one, judges stare down contestants as they try to prove themselves worthy through a capella rap to hopefully win the show’s coveted heavy gold logo necklace that allows them to proceed to the next round. This season features an epic turnout of 8000 hip-hop hopefuls, with old-timers and new blood vying for camera time and, ultimately, the producers’ support. The show’s magic formula is so easy, it’s genius: pit contestants hailing from South Korea, Los Angeles, and New York against each other for a total of nine rounds and let the spitfire rhymes and slick rhythm determine the strong from the weak, the topdogs from the underdogs and, finally, the winner from the losers. Back for a sixth victory lap, the show features the best lineup yet of the hottest, most reputable producers: team Jay Park & Dok2, team Tiger JK & Bizzy, team ZICO & DEAN, and team Gaeko & Choiza (known together as Dynamic Duo). Summer and K-Hip Hop are forever associated with the series.
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Mnet’s unprecedented empire of a series Show Me the Money has become so prevalent it’s already integrated into Korean popular culture. Hate it, love it, call it whatever you want, but it is here to stay.