Community hub
0 subscribers7 pages, 0 posts
Recent from talks
All channels
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Contribute something
Welcome to the community hub built to collect knowledge and have discussions related to Sticker (album).
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Sticker (album)
View on Wikipediafrom Wikipedia
| Sticker | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Digital cover | ||||
| Studio album by | ||||
| Released | September 17, 2021 | |||
| Studio |
| |||
| Genre | ||||
| Length | 38:43 | |||
| Language |
| |||
| Label | SM | |||
| Producer | Lee Soo-man | |||
| NCT 127 chronology | ||||
| ||||
| NCT chronology | ||||
| ||||
| Singles from Sticker | ||||
| ||||
| Repackage edition cover | ||||
 Digital and Classic version cover | ||||
| Singles from Favorite | ||||
| ||||
Sticker is the third Korean-language and fourth overall studio album by South Korean boy band NCT 127. It was released on September 17, 2021, by SM Entertainment, distributed by Dreamus in South Korea and Virgin Music in United States. It follows their Japanese-language EP Loveholic, released in February 2021, and previous Korean-language studio album Neo Zone, released in March 2020.[2] On October 25, the group released a repackaged version of Sticker, titled Favorite, which features three new tracks, including the lead single "Favorite (Vampire)".[3]
The album and its reissue were commercially successful in South Korea, selling a total of 3.58 million copies.[4][5] Sticker peaked at number 40 on the UK Albums Chart, becoming NCT 127's first appearance on said chart.[6] On the Billboard 200, Sticker peaked at number three and became the highest and longest-charting album by the group.[7] The lead single "Sticker" received mixed reviews from critics, although the album was generally praised. Several publications named it as one of the best K-pop albums from 2021. Sticker won Best Album at the 2021 Asia Artist Awards.
Background
[edit]On June 28, 2021, SM Entertainment released a presentation on the future of the company and planned comebacks of their artists during the "SM Congress" event. The presentation indicated that NCT 127 was planning to release a third studio album and repackage before the year's end.[8] At a fanmeet in celebration of the group's fifth anniversary, they confirmed the album would have a September release window.[9]
Promotion
[edit]Sticker was teased with a concept trailer titled "Who Is Sticker", released on August 21, which depicted the members of NCT 127 as engineering students by day and computer hackers by night.[10][11] On August 22, SM Entertainment announced the album's release date as September 17 on the group's social media accounts.[2] On September 10, NCT 127 released a playlist called "Welcome to NCT 127 Sticker, the Enhanced Playlist" exclusively on Spotify.[12] Sticker was officially released on September 17, and the group promoted the album and its title track on The Late Late Show with James Corden.
Commercial performance
[edit]Sticker
[edit]On August 24, 2021, after just one day of availability, it was reported that Sticker had surpassed 1,329,000 pre-orders,[13] eventually surpassing 2.2 million pre-orders on the day of release, exceeding their previous career high of 530,000 pre-orders for Neo Zone and setting a new record for artists under SM Entertainment.[14] On September 24, 2021, NCT 127 broke their own sales record to become a double-million seller, with over 2.15 million copies of Sticker sold in just one week.[15] As of November 2021, the album has sold 2.4 million copies.[16] Sticker debuted at number three on the US Billboard 200, selling 58,000 copies in its first week.[17]
Favorite
[edit]On October 25, 2021, it was reported that Favorite surpassed 1,060,000 pre-orders, making it the most pre-ordered repackaged album from SM Entertainment.[18] One week after its release, it was reported that the album has sold 1.1 million copies, bringing the total sales of Sticker to 3.58 million copies.[16]
Critical reception
[edit]| Review scores | |
|---|---|
| Source | Rating |
| The A.V. Club | B+[19] |
| Clash | 8/10[20] |
| IZM |   [21] |
| NME | [22] |
The A.V. Club's Shanicka Anderson reviewed the album and given it B + writing "with the album’s jarring use of such abrasive samples—especially throughout its lead single—it’s hard to imagine a world where any of that works and sounds good. But by blending these unlikely sounds with rich, powerful harmonies and solid rap verses, NCT 127 strikes a sweet balance and delivers an album that is fiercely creative and incredibly self-possessed."[19]
Lucy Ford writing for Clash, "'Sticker' has far less cohesion as you listen through, and whilst the whiplash of genres feels deliberate in regards to the overall message of the album (that the group can be a sticker, pulled and placed whatever way you want them to go) it’s not an entirely relaxing listening experience. But I’d argue that this isn’t a mishap or an overshooting of their own shtick, but a declarative statement that they’re in on the joke and will ultimately be the last ones laughing."[20]
IZM's Jeong Da-yeol started that "as the taste was enhanced only with fragmentary techniques, it lost its original style. 'Sticker', which has simple instrumental compositions and no variation to speak of. The uses Taeyong and Mark's rapping just to the extent of driving the vocalists' elegance. Beyond the simple distribution of parts, hip-hop, the root of NCT's worldview, is not at the center. This situation extends throughout the album and even hinders the immersion of ballad tracks like 'Tomorrow's Me' where the piano gently flows. As a result, like the album cover, all the members lost their color," regardless, he praised the usage of the "cultural technology" and how the producers were not hesitate to "take on challenges to lead trends".[21] Sticker was included in unranked lists of the best albums of 2021 by The New York Times and Nylon.[23][24] The repackage Favorite was ranked among the best K-pop albums of the year by Harper's Bazaar (7th)[25] and South China Morning Post (11th).[26]
Accolades
[edit]| Organization | Year | Award | Work | Result | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asia Artist Awards | 2021 | Album of the Year (Daesang) | Sticker | Won | [27] |
| Asian Pop Music Awards | 2021 | Top 20 Albums of the Year (Overseas) | Won | [28] | |
| Best Album of the Year (Overseas) | Nominated | ||||
| Gaon Chart Music Awards | 2022 | Album of the Year — 4th Quarter | Won | [29] | |
| Favorite | Nominated | [30] | |||
| Golden Disc Awards | 2022 | Album Bonsang | Sticker | Won | [31] |
| Hanteo Music Awards | 2021 | Initial Chodong Record Award | Won | [32] | |
| Mnet Asian Music Awards | 2021 | Album of the Year | Nominated | [33] |
Track listing
[edit]| No. | Title | Lyrics | Music | Arrangement | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Sticker" |
|
| 3:47 | |
| 2. | "Lemonade" |
|
| Rokman | 3:10 |
| 3. | "Breakfast" | Jeong Ha-ri (Joombas) |
| Simon Petrén | 3:32 |
| 4. | "Focus" (같은 시선; Gateun Siseon; lit. Same Gaze) | Lee Chang-hyeok |
|
| 3:24 |
| 5. | "The Rainy Night" (내일의 나에게; Naeil-ui Na-ege; lit. To Me Tomorrow (sung by Taeil, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo and Haechan) |
|
|
| 3:19 |
| 6. | "Far" | Sahara (Joombas) |
| JeL | 3:36 |
| 7. | "Bring the Noize" |
|
| Hitchhiker | 3:42 |
| 8. | "Magic Carpet Ride" | Harvey Mason Jr. | 3:38 | ||
| 9. | "Road Trip" |
|
| Erik Lidbom | 3:35 |
| 10. | "Dreamer" | Baek Geum-min |
|
| 3:29 |
| 11. | "Promise You" (다시 만나는 날; Dasi Mannaneun Nal; lit. The Day We Meet Again) |
|
|
| 3:31 |
| Total length: | 38:43 | ||||
| No. | Title | Lyrics | Music | Arrangement | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Favorite (Vampire)" | Kenzie |
|
| 3:34 |
| 2. | "Sticker" |
|
|
| 3:47 |
| 3. | "Love on the Floor" | Ku Tae-woo |
| Timothy "BOS" Bullock | 3:38 |
| 4. | "Lemonade" |
|
| Rokman | 3:10 |
| 5. | "Breakfast" | Jeong Ha-ri (Joombas) |
| Simon Petrén | 3:32 |
| 6. | "Pilot" |
|
| Mingtion | 3:29 |
| 7. | "Focus" (같은 시선; Gateun Siseon; lit. Same Gaze) | Lee Chang-hyeok |
|
| 3:24 |
| 8. | "The Rainy Night" (내일의 나에게; Naeil-ui Na-ege; lit. To Me Tomorrow) |
|
|
| 3:19 |
| 9. | "Far" | Sahara (Joombas) |
| JeL | 3:36 |
| 10. | "Bring the Noize" | Kim Boo-min |
| Hitchhiker | 3:42 |
| 11. | "Magic Carpet Ride" | Jo Yoon-kyung |
| Harvey Mason Jr. | 3:38 |
| 12. | "Road Trip" |
|
| Erik Lidbom | 3:35 |
| 13. | "Dreamer" | Baek Geum-min |
|
| 3:29 |
| 14. | "Promise You" (다시 만나는 날; Dasi Mannaneun Nal; lit. The Day We Meet Again) |
|
|
| 3:31 |
| Total length: | 49:34 | ||||
Credits and personnel
[edit]Credits adapted from liner notes of Sticker and Favorite.[35][36]
Sticker
[edit]Studio
[edit]- SM Booming System – recording, mixing, digital editing (track 1), engineered for mix (track 1–2)
- SM LVYIN Studio – recording (track 2), mixing (track 5), engineered for mix (track 2, 9)
- SM Yellow Tail Studio – recording (track 2, 6), engineered for mix (track 5–7)
- SM Ssam Studio – recording (track 2, 4, 6), digital editing (track 10), engineered for mix (track 3, 8, 10–11)
- SM Blue Ocean Studio – mixing (track 8–9, 11)
- SM Blue Cup Studio – mixing (track 2, 7)
- SM Big Shot Studio – mixing (track 4, 10), engineered for mix (track 4)
- SM Concert Hall Studio – mixing (track 3, 6)
- SM Starlight Studio – digital editing (track 2, 7)
- Sound Pool Studio – recording (track 10–11), digital editing (track 6, 11)
- Doobdoob Studio – recording (track 3–5, 7–9, 11), digital editing (track 5)
- Sonic Korea – mastering (track 1)
- 821 Sound Mastering – mastering (track 2–11)
Personnel
[edit]- SM Entertainment – executive producer
- Lee Soo-man – producer
- Lee Sung-soo – production director, executive supervisor
- Tak Young-jun – executive supervisor
- NCT 127 – vocals (all tracks), background vocals (track 7)
- Yoo Young-jin – lyrics, composition, arrangement, vocal directing, background vocals, recording, mixing, digital editing (track 1), engineered for mix (track 1–2), music and sound supervisor (all tracks)
- Han Yeo-reum (Joombas) – lyrics (track 2)
- Teuru (Joombas) – lyrics (track 2)
- Jeong Ha-ri (Joombas) – lyrics (track 3)
- Lee Chang-hyeok – lyrics (track 4)
- Jung Yoon-hwa – lyrics (track 5)
- Seo Hye-ri – lyrics (track 5)
- Sahara (Joombas) – lyrics (track 6)
- Kim Boo-min – lyrics, composition, vocal directing (track 7)
- Sokodomo – lyrics, rap vocal director (track 7)
- Jo Yoon-kyung – lyrics (track 8)
- Ellie Suh (Joombas) – lyrics (track 9)
- Le'mon (Joombas) – lyrics (track 9)
- San (Vendors) – lyrics (track 9)
- Baek Geum-min – lyrics (track 10)
- ZNEE (Joombas) – lyrics (track 11)
- Rick Bridges – lyrics (track 11)
- Prince Chapelle – composition, background vocals (track 1)
- Calixte – composition, background vocals (track 1)
- Dem Jointz – composition, arrangement (track 1)
- Ryan S. Jhun – composition, arrangement (track 1, 4–5)
- Charles "Rokman" Rhodes – composition, arrangement (track 2)
- Benji Bae – composition (track 2)
- Simon Petrén – composition, arrangement, background vocals (track 3)
- Andreas Öberg – composition (track 3)
- Ninos Hanna – composition, background vocals (track 3)
- Jaicko Lawrence – composition, background vocals (track 4)
- Oluwayomi Emmanuel Oredein – composition (track 4)
- Darius Michael Bryant – composition (track 4)
- Otha "Vaskeen" Davis III – composition (track 4)
- Droyd – arrangement (track 4)
- Les Alliance – arrangement (track 4)
- Softserveboy – composition (track 5)
- Sqvare – composition (track 5)
- Hwan Yang – composition, arrangement (track 5)
- Alexander Karlsson (JeL) – composition, arrangement, background vocals (track 6)
- Alexej Viktorovitch (JeL) – composition, arrangement (track 6)
- Alex Nese – composition, background vocals (track 6)
- Hitchhiker – composition, arrangement, vocal directing (track 7)
- Aventurina King – composition (track 7)
- John Fulford – composition (track 7)
- Harvey Mason Jr. – composition, arrangement (track 8)
- Patrick "J. Que" Smith – composition (track 8)
- Dewain Whitmore – composition (track 8)
- Britt Burton – composition (track 8)
- Erik Lidbom – composition, arrangement (track 9)
- MLC – composition (track 9)
- Cutfather – composition, arrangement (track 10)
- Daniel Davidsen (PhD) – composition, arrangement (track 10)
- Peter Wallevik (PhD) – composition, arrangement (track 10)
- Boy Matthews – composition, background vocals (track 10)
- Asia Whiteacre – composition, background vocals (track 10)
- Noah Conrad – composition, background vocals (track 11)
- Roland "Rollo" Spreckley – composition (track 11)
- Tony Ferrari – composition (track 11)
- Ryan Linvill – composition, background vocals (track 11)
- GDLO – vocal directing (track 2, 10), background vocals (track 10), digital editing (track 2), Pro Tools operating (track 2)
- Seo Mi-rae (ButterFly) – vocal directing (track 3–4, 8–9), digital editing (track 3–4, 8–9), Pro Tools operating (track 3–4, 8–9)
- Lee Joo-myung – vocal directing, Pro Tools operating (track 5)
- Choo Dae-gwan – vocal directing, Pro Tools operating (track 6)
- Joo Chan-yang – vocal directing, background vocals (track 11)
- Lee Ji-hong – recording (track 2), mixing (track 5), engineered for mix (track 2, 9)
- Noh Min-ji – recording (track 2, 6), engineered for mix (track 5–7)
- Kang Eun-ji – recording (track 2, 4, 6), digital editing (track 10), engineered for mix (track 3, 8, 10–11)
- Jung Ho-jin – recording (track 10–11), digital editing (track 6, 11)
- Kim Cheol-sun – mixing (track 8–9, 11)
- Jung Eui-seok – mixing (track 2, 7)
- Lee Min-gyu – mixing (track 4, 10), engineered for mix (track 4)
- Nam Koong-jin – mixing (track 3, 6)
- Jung Yu-ra – digital editing (track 2, 7)
- Eugene Kwon – recording (track 3–4, 7–9)
- Jung Woo-young – recording (track 5, 11), digital editing (track 5)
- Kim Ye-ji – recording (track 3, 8)
- Kim Ji-hyun – recording (track 4, 9)
- Jeon Hoon – mastering (track 1)
- Shin Soo-min – mastering assistant (track 1)
- Kwon Nam-woo – mastering (track 2–11)
Favorite
[edit]Studio
[edit]- SM Booming System – recording, mixing, digital editing (track 2), engineered for mix (track 2, 4)
- SM LVYIN Studio – recording (track 1, 4), mixing (track 8), engineered for mix (track 1, 4, 12)
- SM Yellow Tail Studio – (track 1, 4, 9), engineered for mix (track 6, 8–10)
- SM SSAM Studio – recording (track 4, 7, 9), digital editing (track 13), engineered for mix (track 5, 11, 13–14)
- SM Blue Ocean Studio – mixing (track 6, 11–12, 14)
- SM Blue Cup Studio – mixing (track 1, 4, 10)
- SM Big Shot Studio – mixing (track 3, 7, 13), engineered for mix (track 3, 7)
- SM Concert Hall Studio – mixing (track 5, 9)
- SM Starlight Studio – recording (track 3), digital editing (track 3–4, 10)
- Sound Pool Studio – recording (track 13–14), digital editing (track 1, 3, 9, 14)
- Doobdoob Studio – recording (track 3, 5, 7–8, 10–12, 14), digital editing (track 8)
- Sonic Korea – mastering (track 2)
- 821 Sound Mastering – mastering (track 1, 3–14)
Personnel
[edit]- SM Entertainment – executive producer
- Lee Soo-man – producer
- Lee Sung-soo – production director, executive supervisor
- Tak Young-jun – executive supervisor
- NCT 127 – vocals (all tracks), background vocals (track 1, 3, 6, 10)
- Kenzie – lyrics, composition, arrangement, vocal directing (track 1)
- Yoo Young-jin – lyrics, composition, arrangement, vocal directing, background vocals, recording, mixing, digital editing (track 2), engineered for mix (track 2, 4), music and sound supervisor (all tracks)
- Ku Tae-woo – lyrics (track 3)
- Han Yeo-reum (Joombas) – lyrics (track 4)
- Teuru (Joombas) – lyrics (track 4)
- Jeong Ha-ri (Joombas) – lyrics (track 5)
- Mingtion – lyrics, composition, arrangement, vocal directing, digital editing (track 6)
- Junny – lyrics, composition, vocal directing, background vocals (track 6)
- Lee Chang-hyeok – lyrics (track 7)
- Jung Yoon-hwa – lyrics (track 8)
- Seo Hye-ri – lyrics (track 8)
- Sahara (Joombas) – lyrics (track 9)
- Kim Boo-min – lyrics, composition, vocal directing (track 10)
- sokodomo – lyrics, rap vocal director (track 10)
- Jo Yoon-kyung – lyrics (track 11)
- Ellie Suh (Joombas) – lyrics (track 12)
- Le'mon (Joombas) – lyrics (track 12)
- San (Vendors) – lyrics (track 12)
- Baek Geum-min – lyrics (track 13)
- ZNEE (Joombas) – lyrics (track 14)
- Rick Bridges – lyrics (track 14)
- Prince Chapelle – composition, background vocals (track 2)
- Calixte – composition, background vocals (track 2)
- Dem Jointz – composition, arrangement (track 2)
- Ryan S. Jhun – composition, arrangement (track 2, 7–8)
- Charles "Rokman" Rhodes – composition, arrangement (track 4)
- Benji Bae – composition (track 4)
- Simon Petrén – composition, arrangement, background vocals (track 5)
- Andreas Öberg – composition (track 5)
- Ninos Hanna – composition, background vocals (track 5)
- Jaicko Lawrence – composition, background vocals (track 7)
- Oluwayomi Emmanuel Oredein – composition (track 7)
- Darius Michael Bryant – composition (track 7)
- Otha "Vaskeen" Davis III – composition (track 7)
- Droyd – arrangement (track 7)
- LES Alliance – arrangement (track 7)
- Softserveboy – composition (track 8)
- Sqvare – composition (track 8)
- Hwan Yang – composition, arrangement (track 8)
- Alexander Karlsson (JeL) – composition, arrangement, background vocals (track 9)
- Alexej Viktorovitch (JeL) – composition, arrangement (track 9)
- Alex Nese – composition, background vocals (track 9)
- Hitchhiker – composition, arrangement, vocal directing (track 10)
- Aventurina King – composition (track 10)
- John Fulford – composition (track 10)
- Harvey Mason Jr. – composition, arrangement (track 11)
- Patrick "J. Que" Smith – composition (track 11)
- Dewain Whitmore – composition (track 11)
- Britt Burton – composition (track 11)
- Erik Lidbom – composition, arrangement (track 12)
- MLC – composition (track 12)
- Cutfather – composition, arrangement (track 13)
- Daniel Davidsen (PhD) – composition, arrangement (track 13)
- Peter Wallevik (PhD) – composition, arrangement (track 13)
- Boy Matthews – composition, background vocals (track 13)
- Asia Whiteacre – composition, background vocals (track 13)
- Noah Conrad – composition, background vocals (track 14)
- Roland "Rollo" Spreckley – composition (track 14)
- Tony Ferrari – composition (track 14)
- Ryan Linvill – composition, background vocals (track 14)
- GDLO – vocal directing (track 4, 13), background vocals (track 13), digital editing (track 4), Pro Tools operating (track 4)
- Seo Mi-rae (ButterFly) – vocal directing (track 3, 5, 7, 11–12), digital editing (track 5–7, 11–12), Pro Tools operating (track 5–7, 11–12), background vocals (track 3)
- Lee Joo-myung – vocal directing, Pro Tools operating (track 8)
- Choo Dae-gwan – vocal directing, Pro Tools operating (track 9)
- Joo Chan-yang – vocal directing, background vocals (track 14)
- Oiaisle – background vocals (track 1, 3)
- Lee Ji-hong – recording (track 1, 4), mixing (track 8), engineered for mix (track 1, 4, 12)
- Noh Min-ji – recording (track 1, 4, 9), engineered for mix (track 6, 8–10)
- Kang Eun-ji – recording (track 4, 7, 9), digital editing (track 13), engineered for mix (track 5, 11, 13–14)
- Jung Ho-jin – recording (track 13–14), digital editing (track 1, 3, 9, 14)
- Kim Cheol-sun – mixing (track 6, 11–12, 14)
- Jung Eui-seok – mixing (track 1, 4, 10)
- Lee Min-gyu – mixing (track 3, 7, 13), engineered for mix (track 3, 7)
- Nam Koong-jin – mixing (track 5, 9)
- Jung Yu-ra – recording (track 3), digital editing (track 3–4, 10)
- Eugene Kwon – recording (track 5–7, 10–12)
- Jung Woo-young – recording (track 3, 8, 14), digital editing (track 8)
- Kim Ye-ji – recording (track 5, 11)
- Kim Ji-hyun – recording (track 7, 12)
- Lee Kyung-min – recording (track 3)
- Jeon Hoon – mastering (track 2)
- Shin Soo-min – mastering assistant (track 2)
- Kwon Nam-woo – mastering (track 1, 3–14)
Charts
[edit]
Weekly charts[edit]
|
Monthly charts[edit]
Year-end charts[edit]
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Certifications and sales
[edit]| Region | Certification | Certified units/sales |
|---|---|---|
| Japan (Sticker) |
— | 138,771[66] |
| South Korea (KMCA)[68] (Sticker) |
2× Million | 2,434,914[67] |
| South Korea (KMCA)[70] (Favorite) |
3× Platinum | 934,986[69] |
| South Korea (Favorite) (Kit version) |
— | 231,958[71] |
Release history
[edit]| Region | Date | Format | Label | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Various | September 17, 2021 | SM | [72] | |
| South Korea | CD | [73] | ||
| United Kingdom | [74] | |||
| United States | Virgin | [75] |
Notes
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "NCT 127 drops 3rd studio album 'Sticker'". The Korea Times. September 17, 2021. Retrieved September 19, 2021.
- ^ a b "NCT 127 announce new album, 'STICKER'". Bandwagon Asia. August 20, 2021. Retrieved August 23, 2021.
- ^ Lee, Seung-hoon (October 25, 2021). ""또 사랑해" NCT 127, 비극 속 꽃 핀 환희 'Favorite'..후회는 없어(종합)[퇴근길 신곡]" ["I love you again" NCT 127, joy 'Favorite' bloomed in tragedy..No regrets (comprehensive) [New song on the way home]]. OSEN (in Korean). Archived from the original on October 25, 2021. Retrieved October 25, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ 김, 나영. "NCT 127, 정규 3집 '스티커' 발매 일주일 만에 음반 판매량 215만장 돌파". Naver News (in Korean). Retrieved December 18, 2021.
- ^ "NCTzens' New 'Favorite': NCT 127's Album Becomes A Million Seller In Record Time!". koreaportal. November 4, 2021. Retrieved December 18, 2021.
- ^ a b "Official Albums Chart on 24/9/2021 – Top 100". Official Charts Company. Retrieved September 25, 2021.
- ^ Benjamin, Jeff (September 17, 2022). "NCT 127 Share Their New 'Attitude' & Goals for Experimental Album '2 Baddies'". Billboard. Retrieved September 17, 2022.
- ^ NCT "할리우드 오디션·새 그룹·NCT 2021 준비 중"[SM CONGRESS 2021] [NCT "Hollywood audition, new group, NCT 2021 preparation" [SM CONGRESS 2021]]. Star News (in Korean). June 29, 2021. Retrieved August 23, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ Dailey, Hannah (July 7, 2021). "NCT 127 Celebrates 5-Year Anniversary With New Album Announcement". Billboard. Retrieved August 23, 2021.
- ^ Martin, Annie (August 20, 2021). "NCT 127 play hackers in 'Who is Sticker' comeback teaser". UPI. Retrieved August 23, 2021.
- ^ Lee, Deok-haeng (August 21, 2021). NCT 127, 반전 매력 돋보이는 프리 프로모션…9월 컴백 예열 [NCT 127, pre-promotion with anti-war charm... September comeback warm-up]. Star News (in Korean). Retrieved August 23, 2021.
- ^ Gan, Shanne (September 9, 2021). "NCT 127 team up with Spotify to launch 'Welcome to NCT 127 Sticker, The Enhanced Playlist'". Bandwagon. Retrieved September 15, 2021.
- ^ Yoon, Sang-geun (August 24, 2021). NCT 127 'Sticker' 예약 하루만 선주문량 132만장 돌파[공식] [NCT 127 'Sticker' pre-order exceeded 1.32 million copies in just one day]. Star News (in Korean). Retrieved August 24, 2021.
- ^ Park, Seo-yeon (September 17, 2021). NCT 127, 美 '제임스 코든쇼'서 신곡 무대 최초 공개..'Sticker' 선주문 220만장 [NCT 127 first unveils new song stage at 'James Corden Show' in the US.. 2.2 million pre-orders for 'Sticker']. Herald Pop (in Korean). Retrieved September 21, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ Kim, Na-young (September 24, 2021). NCT 127, 정규 3집 '스티커' 발매 일주일 만에 음반 판매량 215만장 돌파 [NCT 127's 3rd full-length album "Sticker" sold 2.15 million copies in just a week.]. MKSports (in Korean). Retrieved September 24, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ a b "NCTzens' New 'Favorite': NCT 127's Album Becomes A Million Seller In Record Time!". koreaportal. November 4, 2021. Retrieved November 5, 2021.
- ^ Caulfield, Keith (September 29, 2021). "NCT 127 Nets Third No. 1 on Billboard's Top Album Sales Chart With 'Sticker: The 3rd Album'". MSN. Retrieved December 22, 2021.
- ^ Kim, Won-hee (October 25, 2021). "NCT 127, 정규 3집 리패키지도 선주문 106만장 돌파" [NCT 127's 3rd regular album repackage also surpassed 1.06 million pre-orders]. Sports Khan (in Korean). Archived from the original on October 25, 2021. Retrieved October 25, 2021.
- ^ a b Anderson, Shanicka (September 22, 2021). "NCT 127 makes a risky triumphant comeback with Sticker". The A.V. Club. Retrieved September 25, 2021.
- ^ a b Ford, Lucy (September 17, 2021). "NCT 127 – Sticker". Clash. Retrieved September 21, 2021.
- ^ a b Jeong, Da-yeol. "NCT 127 – Sticker". IZM (in Korean). Retrieved October 26, 2021.
- ^ Chin, Carmen (September 20, 2021). "NCT 127 – 'Sticker' review: an ambitious effort to uphold their status as trendsetters". NME. Retrieved September 21, 2021.
- ^ Caramanica, Jon; Pareles, Jon; Zoladz, Lindsay (December 2, 2021). "Best Albums of 2021". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Archived from the original on December 2, 2021. Retrieved December 3, 2021.
- ^ Raj, Tanu (December 17, 2021). "The Top K-Pop Albums of 2021". Nylon. Archived from the original on December 17, 2021. Retrieved December 17, 2021.
- ^ Tatum, Chyenne (December 14, 2021). "The Top 15 K-Pop Albums of 2021". Harper's Bazaar. Archived from the original on December 14, 2021. Retrieved December 15, 2021.
- ^ Herman, Tamar (December 22, 2021). "25 best K-pop albums of 2021: Twice, Red Velvet, NCT 127, Seventeen and Monsta X are all there, but who took the No 1 spot?". South China Morning Post. Archived from the original on December 22, 2021. Retrieved December 24, 2021.
- ^ "NCT 127, AAA 올해의 앨범 상 수상 "팬들의 사랑, 좋은 퍼포먼스로 보답하겠다"[2021 AAA]" [NCT 127, AAA Album of the Year Award "I will repay the fans with good performances" [2021 AAA]]. StarNews (in Korean). December 2, 2021. Archived from the original on December 2, 2021. Retrieved December 2, 2021.
- ^ 【APMA 2021】亚洲流行音乐大奖2021年度获奖名单(完整版) [Asian Pop Music Awards 2021 Winners List (Full Version)]. Sina Weibo (in Chinese). November 30, 2021. Archived from the original on December 27, 2021. Retrieved December 28, 2021.
- ^ Hwang, Mi-hyeon (January 27, 2022). "NCT127, 2021년 4분기 음반상 "우리 모두 행복하자" [가온차트뮤직어워즈]" [NCT127, 4Q 2021 Album Award "Let's all be happy" [Gaon Chart Music Awards]]. News 1 (in Korean). Archived from the original on January 27, 2022. Retrieved January 27, 2022.
- ^ "11th GaonChart Music Awards – 올해의 가수 (디지털음원) 후보자" 11th GaonChart Music Awards – 올해의 가수 (디지털음원) 후보자 [11th Gaon Chart Music Awards – Artist of the Year (Album Music) Nominees] (in Korean). Gaon Chart Music Awards. Archived from the original on January 6, 2022. Retrieved February 25, 2022.
- ^ Kim, Ji-hye (January 8, 2022). "[골든디스크]방탄소년단·아이유, 음반·음원 부문 대상 영예..NCT 127→세븐틴 본상(종합)" [[Golden Disc] BTS, IU, the grand prize in the album and music category...NCT 127 → Seventeen Bonsang (comprehensive)]. Herald POP (in Korean). Archived from the original on January 8, 2022. Retrieved January 28, 2022.
- ^ Choi, Bo-yoon (January 11, 2022). "임영웅·이무진 '2021 한터뮤직어워즈' 특별상" [Lim Young-woong and Lee Moo-jin's '2021 Hanteo Music Awards' Special Award]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on January 11, 2022. Retrieved January 23, 2022.
- ^ "MAMA 2021: lista completa de nominados y votación oficial de los Mnet Asian Music Awards" [MAMA 2021: Full List of Nominees and Official Voting for the Mnet Asian Music Awards]. La República (in Spanish). November 2, 2021. Archived from the original on November 5, 2021. Retrieved February 3, 2022.
- ^ "Favorite - The 3rd Album Repackage". Vibe. October 25, 2021. Archived from the original on October 25, 2021. Retrieved October 25, 2021.
- ^ NCT 127 (2021). Sticker (photobook). South Korea: SM Entertainment; Dreamus. Credits.
{{cite AV media notes}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ NCT 127 (2021). Favorite (photobook). South Korea: SM Entertainment; Dreamus. Credits.
{{cite AV media notes}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ "Australiancharts.com – NCT 127 – Sticker". Hung Medien. Retrieved September 24, 2021.
- ^ "Austriancharts.at – NCT 127 – Sticker" (in German). Hung Medien. Retrieved September 29, 2021.
- ^ "Ultratop.be – NCT 127 – Sticker" (in Dutch). Hung Medien. Retrieved November 14, 2021.
- ^ "Ultratop.be – NCT 127 – Sticker" (in French). Hung Medien. Retrieved December 5, 2021.
- ^ "Lista prodaje 41. tjedan 2021. (04.10.2021. - 10.10.2021.)" (in Croatian). HDU. October 15, 2021. Retrieved October 15, 2021.
- ^ "NCT 127: Sticker" (in Finnish). Musiikkituottajat – IFPI Finland. Retrieved September 26, 2021.
- ^ "Top Albums (Week 40, 2021)". Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique. Retrieved October 11, 2021.
- ^ "Offiziellecharts.de – NCT 127 – Sticker" (in German). GfK Entertainment charts. Retrieved September 24, 2021.
- ^ "Album Top 40 slágerlista – 2021. 52. hét" (in Hungarian). MAHASZ. Retrieved January 6, 2022.
- ^ "Oricon Top 50 Albums: 2021-10-04" (in Japanese). Oricon. Retrieved September 29, 2021.
- ^ "Billboard Japan Hot Albums: 2021/09/22 公開". Billboard Japan (in Japanese). Retrieved September 22, 2021.
- ^ "Billboard Japan Hot Albums: 2021/11/10 公開". Billboard Japan (in Japanese). Retrieved November 10, 2021.
- ^ "Official Scottish Albums Chart on 24/9/2021 – Top 100". Official Charts Company. Retrieved September 25, 2021.
- ^ "Gaon Album Chart – Week 38, 2021". Gaon Chart (in Korean). Retrieved September 23, 2021.
- ^ "Gaon Album Chart – Week 44, 2021". Gaon Chart (in Korean). Retrieved November 4, 2021.
- ^ "Top 100 Albums Weekly: Week 38 2021" (in Spanish). Productores de Música de España. Retrieved September 29, 2021.
- ^ "Swisscharts.com – NCT 127 – Sticker". Hung Medien. Retrieved November 15, 2021.
- ^ "NCT 127 Chart History (Billboard 200)". Billboard. Retrieved September 29, 2021.
- ^ "NCT 127 Chart History (Independent Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved September 28, 2021.
- ^ "NCT 127 Chart History (Top Tastemaker Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved November 18, 2021.
- ^ "NCT 127 Chart History (World Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved September 28, 2021.
- ^ "2021年09月度 オリコン月間 アルバムランキング 1～10位". ORICON NEWS. Retrieved November 1, 2021.
- ^ "Gaon Monthly Album Chart - September 2021". Gaon Chart. Retrieved November 1, 2021.
- ^ "Gaon Monthly Album Chart - October 2021". Gaon Chart. Retrieved November 10, 2021.
- ^ 年間 アルバムランキング 2021年度 [Yearly album ranking – 2021] (in Japanese). Oricon. Archived from the original on December 23, 2021. Retrieved December 30, 2021.
- ^ "2021 Gaon Album Chart". Gaon Music Chart (in Korean). Retrieved January 7, 2022.
- ^ "World Albums – Year-End 2021". Billboard. Retrieved December 21, 2021.
- ^ "Year-End Charts Top Album Sales 2022". Billboard. Retrieved December 4, 2022.
- ^ "Year-End Charts World Albums 2022". Billboard. Retrieved December 4, 2022.
- ^ Cumulative sales of Sticker on Oricon Chart:
- 月間 アルバムランキング 2021年09月度 [Monthly album ranking September 2021]. Oricon. Archived from the original on October 14, 2021. Retrieved January 22, 2023.
- 月間 アルバムランキング 2021年10月度 [Monthly album ranking October 2021]. Oricon. Archived from the original on November 10, 2021. Retrieved January 22, 2023.
- 月間 アルバムランキング 2021年11月度 [Monthly album ranking November 2021]. Oricon. Archived from the original on December 8, 2021. Retrieved January 22, 2023.
- ^ Cumulative sales for Sticker:
- "2021 Album Chart". Circle (in Korean). Retrieved August 22, 2022.
- "Album Chart – 2022.02 Month". Circle (in Korean). Retrieved August 22, 2022.
- ^ "South Korean album certifications" (in Korean). Korea Music Content Association (KMCA).
- ^ "2021 Album Chart". Circle (in Korean). Retrieved August 22, 2022.
- ^ "South Korean album certifications – Favorite - The 3rd Album Repackage" (in Korean). Korea Music Content Association (KMCA).
- ^ "Album Chart – 2021.11 Month" (in Korean). Retrieved August 22, 2022.
- ^ Citation for various digital release formats:
- "NCT #127 Sticker – The 3rd Album". Apple Music. Retrieved September 17, 2021.
- "NCT #127 Sticker – The 3rd Album". Retrieved September 17, 2021 – via Spotify.
- "NCT #127 Sticker – The 3rd Album". September 17, 2021. Retrieved September 17, 2021 – via Tidal.
- "NCT #127 Sticker – The 3rd Album". Retrieved September 17, 2021 – via Melon.
- ^ Citation for Sticker physical South Korea releases:
- "NCT 127 The 3rd Album 'Sticker' CD (Sticky Ver.)". shop.nct127.com. Retrieved September 17, 2021.
- "NCT 127 The 3rd Album 'Sticker' CD (Jewel Case Ver.)". shop.nct127.com. Retrieved September 17, 2021.
- "NCT 127 The 3rd Album 'Sticker' CD (Seoul City Ver.)". shop.nct127.com. Retrieved May 18, 2022.
- "NCT 127 The 3rd Album 'Sticker' CD (Sticker Ver.)". shop.nct127.com. Retrieved May 18, 2022.
- ^ Citation for Sticker physical UK releases:
- "NCT 127 the 3rd Album 'Sticker' (Sticky Ver.)". store.hmv.com. Retrieved September 17, 2021.
- "NCT 127 the 3rd Album 'Sticker' (Jewel Case General Ver.)". store.hmv.com. Retrieved September 17, 2021.
- "NCT 127 the 3rd Album 'Sticker' (Seoul City Ver.)". store.hmv.com. Retrieved May 18, 2022.
- "NCT 127 the 3rd Album 'Sticker' (Photobook Ver.)". store.hmv.com. Retrieved May 18, 2022.
- ^ Citation for Sticker physical United States releases:
- "NCT 127 - The 3rd Album 'Sticker' (Sticker Ver.) - CD". www.walmart.com. Retrieved May 19, 2022.
- "NCT 127 - The 3rd Album 'Sticker' (Sticky Ver.) - CD". www.walmart.com. Retrieved May 19, 2022.
- "NCT 127 - The 3rd Album 'Sticker' (Seoul City Ver.) - CD". www.walmart.com. Retrieved May 19, 2022.
- "NCT 127 the 3rd Album 'Sticker' (Jewel Case Ver.) (Random Cover) - CD". www.walmart.com. Retrieved May 19, 2022.
- "NCT 127 - The 3rd Album 'Sticker' (Jewel Case Ver.) (Target Exclusive, CD) - CD". www.target.com. Retrieved May 19, 2022.
- "NCT 127 - The 3rd Album 'Sticker' (Sticky Ver.) (CD)". www.target.com. Retrieved May 19, 2022.
| Studio albums |
| ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EPs |
| ||||
| Single albums | |||||
| Singles |
| ||||
| Concert tours | |||||
| One-off concerts | |||||
| Related articles | |||||
Sticker (album)
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Background and development
Announcement and concept
On June 28, 2021, during the SM Congress 2021 event, SM Entertainment revealed plans for NCT 127 to release a full-length studio album later that year as part of their ongoing expansions within the SM Culture Universe (SMCU).[10] This announcement positioned the project as a key component in the group's evolving narrative, building on previous releases like Neo Zone.[11] The September release window was confirmed by the members themselves during their fifth anniversary fan meeting, "NCT 127 Office: Foundation Day," held online via Beyond LIVE on July 7, 2021.[12] In the event, NCT 127 shared excitement about the upcoming album, describing it as a significant milestone that would showcase their growth and experimental sound.[13] On August 22, 2021, SM Entertainment officially titled the album Sticker and set the exact release date for September 17, 2021, via the group's social media channels. Sticker integrates deeply into the SMCU framework, with the Kwangya metaverse—a digital parallel realm derived from collective human unconsciousness—serving as a foundational narrative element.[14] The album's storyline expands NCT 127's lore within this universe, portraying the members' dreams and subconscious journeys into Kwangya, where they confront blurred lines between reality and virtuality. This ties into broader SMCU themes of interconnected artist stories across SM Entertainment acts. The core concept revolves around the members as persistent "invaders" or explorers who "stick" to and infiltrate a glitch-filled digital domain, symbolizing unbreakable bonds amid chaos. Promotional trailers, such as the "Who is Sticker?" concept film, depict this through enigmatic sequences of hacking-like intrusions, distorted signals, and shadowy figures navigating neon-lit voids, evoking a sense of pursuit and attachment in an unstable cyber world.[15] The album's artwork embodies a futuristic, glitchy aesthetic, featuring holographic overlays, cyberpunk cityscapes, and fragmented "sticker" motifs in vibrant neon greens and purples across its three versions (Sticker, Sticky, and Seoul City). These visuals reinforce the thematic immersion, with members posed in dynamic, distorted poses that mimic digital artifacts and virtual avatars merging with physical forms.[16]Recording and production
The recording of Sticker took place at SM Entertainment studios in Seoul, South Korea, beginning in early 2021. These facilities facilitated the group's collaborative sessions with vocal coaches and producers to refine their vocal performances and harmonies.[17] Key producers on the album included Yoo Young-jin, who served as the primary producer and handled songwriting and arrangement for the title track "Sticker," along with international collaborators such as Dem Jointz, Ryan Jhun, Harvey Mason Jr., Simon Petrén, Andreas Öberg, Cutfather, and Hitchhiker. Ryan Jhun and Dem Jointz contributed to "Sticker," incorporating hip-hop, synth, and glitch elements for a futuristic sound. Other tracks featured diverse production, such as Hitchhiker on "Bring the Noize" and Cutfather on "Runaway," ensuring a cohesive yet varied sonic landscape across the project.[18][19] The album's development built on NCT 127's previous work within the SMCU, expanding experimental motifs from releases like Neo Zone (2020) into the metaverse-inspired aesthetic.Promotion
Teasers and singles
The promotional rollout for NCT 127's third studio album Sticker began with the release of individual concept photos on August 17, 2021, following the comeback announcement made earlier in August.[20] The rollout continued with the release of a concept teaser trailer titled "Who Is Sticker?" on August 21, 2021.[21] The video depicted the members as college students who transform into hackers within the SM Culture Universe's virtual world of Kwangya, investigating a mysterious digital entity called STICKER.[21] This teaser set the album's cyberpunk theme, blending real-world and digital elements to intrigue fans about the narrative.[22] Subsequent teasers included group concept photos starting August 24, 2021, featuring the members in futuristic, neon-lit attire that reinforced the hacking motif.[23] A mood sampler video followed on August 24, previewing snippets of tracks like "Sticker" and "Lemonade" to build anticipation.[24] The lead single "Sticker" was released alongside the album on September 17, 2021, accompanied by a music video that portrayed the group as futuristic cowboys navigating a neon-drenched, Las Vegas-inspired city with integrated digital effects evoking Kwangya's virtual realm.[25] A dance practice video for "Sticker" was later shared on September 23, 2021, showcasing the choreography's sharp, synchronized movements in a minimalist studio setting.[26] On October 8, 2021, SM Entertainment announced the repackaged edition of Sticker, titled Favorite, set for release on October 25, 2021, with three new tracks added to the original lineup.[27] Teasers for Favorite commenced on October 11, including mood sampler clips and concept photos that shifted to a darker, more seductive aesthetic.[28] The lead single "Favorite (Vampire)" dropped on October 25, 2021, with a music video presenting the members as vampires in a gothic forest setting, blending hyperpop production with eerie visuals of obsession and allure.[29] B-side promotions highlighted tracks like "Love On The Floor" through audio teasers, emphasizing the repackage's expanded sonic variety without additional full music videos.[30]Live performances and events
NCT 127 debuted the title track "Sticker" on SBS's Inkigayo on September 19, 2021, marking their first music show performance for the album.[31] The group followed with a performance on Mnet's M Countdown on September 30, 2021, where "Sticker" also secured its first music show win.[31] Expanding promotion to international audiences, NCT 127 delivered the global debut of "Sticker" on The Late Late Show with James Corden, airing on September 16, 2021, shortly before the album's release. Following the release of the repackaged album Favorite on October 25, 2021, NCT 127 promoted the lead single "Favorite (Vampire)" across various Korean music programs, including MBC's Show! Music Core on November 6, 2021. The track was also featured in SMTOWN LIVE 2022: SMCU Express @Kwangya, performed during the online concert on January 1, 2022, as part of the group's setlist highlighting recent releases. Songs from Sticker, including "Sticker" and "Favorite (Vampire)," were incorporated into NCT 127's 2nd Tour 'Neo City – The Link,' which commenced in Seoul on December 17, 2021, and extended through 2023 across Asia, North America, and Latin America. The tour setlist prominently featured "Sticker" as a high-energy segment, alongside "Favorite (Vampire)" in the main repertoire, adapting the tracks with live arrangements to engage audiences in arenas like the United Center in Chicago on January 9, 2023.[32] To connect with fans post-release, NCT 127 participated in promotional fan events, such as the XR live special event "The Castle No.127" online on November 9, 2021, which featured interactive elements tied to the Sticker era.[33]Music and lyrics
Musical style
Sticker showcases NCT 127's signature experimental sound, blending hyperpop influences with EDM and synth-pop foundations, while incorporating trap and hip-hop elements for dynamic energy. The album's production emphasizes futuristic synth layers and digital distortions, creating an immersive, otherworldly atmosphere aligned with the group's virtual reality-inspired concepts. This evolution builds on the intense, bass-heavy styles of prior releases like Neo Zone, introducing more glitchy textures and unconventional melodies to push boundaries in K-pop.[7][34][35] The title track "Sticker" exemplifies this approach through its minimalist EDM structure, featuring warped bass, frenzied beats, and a shrill flute motif that adds a jarring, hyperpop edge. Instrumentation relies heavily on auto-tune for vocal effects, thunderous bass drops, and trap rhythms, as heard in "Lemonade" with its explosive hip-hop sequences and cool rap delivery. Tracks like "Bring The Noize" further integrate abrasive engine sounds and sonorous bass, evoking rock-like intensity amid the electronic palette.[7][35][7] In contrast, the Favorite repackage edition tempers the original's experimental edge with more melodic and vulnerable elements, leaning into R&B and synth-pop for emotional depth. The lead single "Favorite (Vampire)" adopts a haunting trap-inspired framework with thumping beats, sizzling synths, and a whistle hook, its sultry 808 bass underscoring a vampire-themed narrative through layered, dulcet vocals. New additions like "Love On The Floor" amplify fervent electronic production, while "Pilot" offers playful, dreamy warmth, distinguishing the edition's smoother fusion from Sticker's chaotic innovation.[36][36]Themes and songwriting
The album Sticker explores themes of confidence, self-expression, emotional connection, and navigating personal challenges, reflecting NCT 127's growth in maturity and versatility. The title track "Sticker" uses the sticker metaphor to symbolize reliance on a close bond that simplifies a complicated world, emphasizing mutual support and presence in relationships.[37][38] B-sides delve into introspective emotions, with "Breakfast" conveying intense longing and desire, and "The Rainy Night" capturing pensive melancholy about holding onto a loved one despite uncertainty. "Dreamer" brings childlike optimism and fun, while the closing track "Promise You" serves as an affectionate vow to fans (known as NCTzens), promising enduring support through synth-filled warmth. Songwriting features contributions from members Taeyong and Mark on the title track's lyrics, alongside SM Entertainment's in-house producers like Yoo Young-jin, blending personal touches with the group's bold, empowering tone.[7] The Favorite repackage expands these themes with explorations of vulnerability, obsession, and escapism. "Favorite (Vampire)" portrays emotional surrender and eternal attachment through forlorn lyrics about destiny and wild-eyed fascination, evoking a tragic, vampiric intensity. In contrast, "Pilot" offers blissful escapism in a rose-tinted utopia, with lyrics evoking paradise and gentle comfort. "Love On The Floor" highlights addictive, push-and-pull dynamics in love, building hypnotic tension. Kenzie contributed lyrics to "Favorite (Vampire)", enhancing its emotional depth, while the additions shift the narrative toward introspective romance and renewal.[36] Upon its release, Sticker received generally positive reviews from music critics, who praised its sonic diversity, ambitious production, and the group's vocal and rap performances, while the experimental title track elicited mixed responses for its unconventional structure. NME commended the album as "a proud showcase of the illustrious sonic colour NCT 127 are known for," highlighting tracks like "Lemonade" and "Focus" for their cohesive blend of rap and vocals, though criticizing "Sticker" as disjointed and unrepresentative of the group's potential.[7] Clash awarded it an 8 out of 10, describing it as an "entertaining return" that evades third-album syndrome through a "myriad of sounds, talents and genres," with strong harmonies in songs like "Breakfast" and "The Rainy Night," but noted the title track's "whiplash of genres" as divisive.[35] Kpop Reviewed gave an overall score of 6.6 out of 10, appreciating the clear display of vocals and raps but faulting the title track's screechy flute and incohesive structure.[39]Commercial performance
Sticker edition
The original Sticker edition was a major commercial success, selling 2,152,399 copies in its first week of release (Hanteo Chart data as of September 24, 2021). This marked the highest first-week sales for NCT 127 at the time and contributed to the album's strong domestic performance. By the end of 2021, Sticker had accumulated approximately 2.4 million copies sold in South Korea, reflecting sustained demand throughout the year. When combined with its repackage edition Favorite, the two releases totaled 3.58 million copies sold in South Korea in 2021. The album debuted at number one on the Gaon Album Chart in South Korea, holding the top position for multiple weeks and dominating the monthly rankings with over 2.27 million copies sold in its debut month. Internationally, Sticker peaked at number three on the Billboard 200, achieving NCT 127's highest charting position on the tally to date and the strongest debut for any K-pop album that year; it earned 62,000 equivalent album units in its first U.S. week, including 58,000 pure album sales. In the United Kingdom, it reached number 40 on the Official Albums Chart, marking the group's first entry on that ranking. Sticker also performed strongly in Japan, debuting at number one on the Oricon Weekly Album Chart and becoming NCT 127's second chart-topping release there that year. In the United States, the album's first-week sales exceeded 58,000 units, underscoring its appeal among international audiences. The release earned a 2× Million certification from the Korea Music Content Association (KMCA) for surpassing two million shipments in South Korea.Favorite edition
The repackage edition of NCT 127's third studio album, titled Favorite, recorded 545,872 copies sold in its first week in South Korea (Hanteo Chart), marking a strong performance driven by the inclusion of new tracks such as "Favorite (Vampire)" and "Love on the Floor."[40] Overall, Favorite amassed 1.1 million copies in total sales shortly after its October 25, 2021 release, significantly contributing to the combined shipments of the Sticker project reaching 3.58 million units in South Korea by early November 2021.[40] On domestic charts, Favorite peaked at No. 3 on the Circle Album Chart, the successor to the Gaon Album Chart, reflecting sustained demand for the repackage's additional content. Internationally, it debuted at No. 11 on the Billboard 200 with 18,000 equivalent album units, including 14,000 in pure sales, and maintained a presence in the global top 50 through consistent streaming and sales metrics. In Japan, the album topped the Oricon Albums Chart at No. 1, bolstered by strong physical sales and digital streams that enhanced the project's overall regional impact. The repackage's success led to a 3× Platinum certification from the Korea Music Content Association (KMCA) for exceeding 750,000 shipments, underscoring the added tracks' role in extending the album's commercial longevity beyond the original Sticker edition's benchmarks.[41]Accolades
Awards and nominations
| Organization | Year | Category/Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asia Artist Awards | 2021 | Album of the Year (Daesang) | Sticker | Won |
| Asian Pop Music Awards | 2021 | Top 20 Albums of the Year (Overseas) | Sticker | Won |
| Asian Pop Music Awards | 2021 | Best Album of the Year (Overseas) | Sticker | Nominated |
| Circle Chart Music Awards | 2022 | Album of the Year – 4th Quarter | Sticker | Won[42] |
| Circle Chart Music Awards | 2022 | Album of the Year – 4th Quarter | Favorite | Nominated |
| Golden Disc Awards | 2022 | Album Bonsang | Sticker | Won[43] |
| Hanteo Music Awards | 2021 | Initial Chodong Record Award | Sticker | Won |
| Mnet Asian Music Awards | 2021 | Album of the Year | Sticker | Nominated |
| Seoul Music Awards | 2022 | Grand Prize (Daesang) | Sticker | Won[44] |
| Seoul Music Awards | 2022 | Bonsang | Sticker | Won |
Track listings
Sticker
The original edition of Sticker is a studio album comprising 11 tracks with a total runtime of 38:43. It features a diverse range of genres, including hip-hop, R&B, and pop, with "Sticker" serving as the lead single, a hip-hop dance track composed by Dem Jointz, Calixte, Prince Chapelle, Ryan S. Jhun, and Yoo Young-jin, and written by Yoo Young-jin, Taeyong, and Mark.[45]| No. | Title | Duration | Writers | Producers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | "Sticker" (lead single) | 3:47 | Yoo Young-jin, Taeyong, Mark | Dem Jointz, Ryan S. Jhun |
| 2 | "Lemonade" | 3:10 | Han Yeorume, Tru | Ryan S. Jhun, Rokman, Benji Bae |
| 3 | "Breakfast" | 3:32 | Jeong Ha-ri, Ninos Hanna, Andreas Öberg, Simon Petrén | Ryan S. Jhun, Kenzie |
| 4 | "Focus" (같은 시선; Gateun Siseon) | 3:24 | Lee Chang Hyuk | BUMZU, Jaicko Lawrence, Oluwayomi Oredein |
| 5 | "The Rainy Night" (내일의 나에게; Naeil-ui Na-ege) | 3:19 | Kenzie | Kenzie |
| 6 | "Far" | 3:36 | Kenzie, Hwang Yu-bin | Ryan S. Jhun, Kenzie |
| 7 | "Bring the Noize" | 3:42 | Mark, Taeyong | Dem Jointz |
| 8 | "Magic Carpet Ride" | 3:38 | Kenzie | Ryan S. Jhun, Kenzie |
| 9 | "Road Trip" | 3:35 | Kenzie, Mark | Ryan S. Jhun, Kenzie |
| 10 | "Dreamer" | 3:29 | Kenzie | Kenzie |
| 11 | "Promise You" (다시 만나는 날; Dasi Mannaneun Nal) | 3:31 | Kenzie | Kenzie |
Favorite
The Favorite repackage edition of NCT 127's third studio album expands on the original Sticker release by incorporating all 11 tracks from that album alongside three new songs, resulting in a total of 14 tracks with an overall runtime of 49 minutes and 29 seconds.[46] Released on October 25, 2021, by SM Entertainment, it maintains continuity with the original's diverse genres while introducing fresh material led by the title track.[47] The new additions are positioned prominently in the tracklist: "Favorite (Vampire)" as the lead single, followed by "Love On The Floor" and "Pilot." "Favorite (Vampire)" runs 3:35 and was written by Rodnae "Chikk" Bell, Kenzie, and Rodney Jerkins, with production handled by Jerkins and Kenzie.[48][49] "Love On The Floor," lasting 3:38, features Korean lyrics by Ku Tae-woo and composition by Michael “TruPopGod” Jiminez, Jeremy "Tay" Jasper, Dylan Huling, Timothy "Bos" Bullock, KUZGUN, and Hautboi Rich, produced by Bullock.[50] "Pilot," at 3:29, was written, composed, and arranged by minGtion and JUNNY.[51][52]| No. | Title | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Favorite (Vampire)" | 3:35 |
| 2. | "Sticker" | 3:47 |
| 3. | "Love On The Floor" | 3:38 |
| 4. | "Lemonade" | 3:10 |
| 5. | "Breakfast" | 3:32 |
| 6. | "Pilot" | 3:29 |
| 7. | "Focus (같은 시선)" | 3:24 |
| 8. | "The Rainy Night (내일의 나에게)" | 3:19 |
| 9. | "Far" | 3:36 |
| 10. | "Bring The Noize" | 3:42 |
| 11. | "Magic Carpet Ride" | 3:38 |
| 12. | "Road Trip" | 3:35 |
| 13. | "Dreamer" | 3:29 |
| 14. | "Promise You (다시 만나는 날)" | 3:31 |
Credits and personnel
Recording locations
The recording sessions for NCT 127's third studio album Sticker were primarily held at SM Blue Cup Studio and SM Big Shot Studio, both located in Seoul, South Korea.[56] Additional vocal sessions took place at Doobdoob Studio in Seoul.[57] For the repackage edition Favorite, released on October 25, 2021, new tracks were added, utilizing the same primary studios in Seoul along with SM SSAM Studio and SM Yellow Tail Studio.[58] Mixing was conducted at various SM facilities in Seoul, including SM Blue Cup Studio and SM Big Shot Studio, while mastering took place at SM Studios.[59]Vocals
The vocals on Sticker and its repackage Favorite are performed by NCT 127 members Taeyong, Taeil, Johnny, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, Mark, and Haechan, who also provide background vocals throughout the albums.[60]Producers and Arrangers
Kenzie (Yoo Young-jin) served as producer and arranger for tracks 1 ("Sticker"), 7 ("Bring the Noize"), and 11 ("Promise You") on Sticker, as well as the repackage title track "Favorite (Vampire)" on Favorite. Ryan Jhun contributed production, arrangement, guitar, and bass on multiple tracks, including 1 ("Sticker"), 4 ("Focus"), and 5 ("The Rainy Night") on Sticker. Other key producers include Dwayne "Dem Jointz" Abernathy Jr. for "Sticker", Harvey Mason Jr. for "Magic Carpet Ride", and Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins for "Favorite (Vampire)". The albums feature over 50 contributors in production roles, including composers like Simon Petrén ("Breakfast") and Cutfather ("Dreamer").[56][58][49]Engineers
Recording and digital editing were handled by a team including Noh Min-ji and Lee Min-kyu at SM studios such as Yellow Tail Studio and Big Shot Studio. Mixing was led by Choi Young-joon on several tracks, including "Sticker" and "Favorite (Vampire)", with additional mixing by Kim Cheol-sun and Nam Goong-jin.[61]Additional Staff for Repackage Edition
The Favorite repackage includes new tracks with additional contributors, such as Leslie for background vocals and arrangement on "Favorite (Vampire)", alongside Kenzie and Darkchild. Other new tracks like "Love On" and "90's Love" feature producers including Kenzie and Ryan Jhun, with engineering by the core SM team.[62]Release history
Sticker
| Region | Date | Format | Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Korea | September 17, 2021 | CD, digital download | SM Entertainment, Dreamus |
| Various | September 17, 2021 | Streaming | SM Entertainment, Genie Music |
| United States | September 17, 2021 | CD, digital download | SM Entertainment, Virgin Music |
Favorite
| Region | Date | Format | Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Korea | October 25, 2021 | CD, digital download, Kit | SM Entertainment, Dreamus |
| Various | October 25, 2021 | Streaming | SM Entertainment, Genie Music |
| United States | November 5, 2021 | CD, digital download | SM Entertainment, Virgin Music |