9 Songs For Your Ultimate NCT DREAM Anniversary Playlist

NCT DREAM Official Facebook

Do you know what’s happening on August 25? That’s right! NCT DREAM is celebrating their ninth debut anniversary. You’ve probably heard a song or two of theirs. Ever heard of the ‘Candy’ remake that went viral? That was NCT DREAM!

Even after nine years, the seven members of NCT DREAM continue to create consecutive hits, offering a diverse discography that both casual listeners and avid fans can enjoy. Their journey, which began in 2016, was not an easy one, especially with the graduation system in place. However, this all changed when NCTzens rallied to support keeping the original line up intact.

NCT DREAM is known not only for their music but also for their friendship, which makes their overarching lore unique. If you want to experience music that transports you to beautiful memories of their journey, here are nine heartfelt songs to add to your playlist ASAP!

1. ‘Walk You Home’

‘Walk You Home’ is an acoustic pop song with a vibe of a casual stroll with your crush. The meaning behind it is a simple romance that captures the joy of being in the moment and the quiet happiness of spending time with someone special. For NCT DREAM, it was one of their early tracks, showcasing their youthful aura and bright charm. Fun fact: during “The Dream Show”, they sang this song as a parting message to fans, promising to “meet again at the same time and place” – a nod to the song’s Korean title.

2. ‘Dear DREAM’

‘Dear DREAM’ is a heartfelt letter penned by the members to each other and their fans. The R&B ballad not only showcases their raw vocals but also their deep emotions as well. The lyrics express gratitude and a promise to remain together. Members Mark, Jeno, JaeMin and JiSung even participated in writing the lyrics, which add to the song’s significance. It was the starting point of a new chapter in their journey and a statement to their lifelong brotherhood.

3. ‘Rainbow’

If ‘Dear DREAM’ was a moment of uncertainty, ‘Rainbow’ represents their comeback as a complete 7 Dream, much like the seven colors of the rainbow. Its alternative title, ‘Bookmark’, shows a continuation of their story. This reunion song was a big milestone in their career, as it was part of their first full-length album, “Hot Sauce”, after five years in the industry. Aside from the members’ contribution to the songwriting, it was also a moment where they could both look back and look forward to their future. 

4. ‘Graduation’

The ballad genre chosen for ‘Graduation’ perfectly sets the nostalgic tone of the emotional turmoil they went through. Much like a real graduation, it was a bittersweet moment and a closing chapter to the graduation system. It was the perfect blend of the members’ strength to endure and come back more powerful. The music video served as a time capsule, featuring clips from debut to the present.

5. ‘Never Goodbye’

‘Never Goodbye’ is a beautiful song that talks about a grounded connection between the members and their fans. Here, NCT DREAM poured out their heartfelt message of being by their fans’ side through their music. Despite any distance, they managed to reach a reassuring hand towards NCTzens. Its dreamy R&B ballad tune even became a trend that took over short-form videos.

6. ‘Broken Melodies’

‘Broken Melodies’ is a bright, drum-heavy pop song that grabs your attention immediately. The song talks about the challenges of a long distance relationship, with broken melodies signifying the miscommunication caused by the distance. However, it also conveys a hopeful wait for a future reunion. This track was a pivotal turn in their career, as it displayed a more mature, emotional side of NCT DREAM. Another fun fact: Jeno sometimes changes the song’s introduction depending on their location or event!

7. ‘Like We Just Met’

This pop ballad is about a love that never ages, where the initial spark remains despite the passage of time. The song holds a pivotal turn for the members, as all of them participated in writing the lyrics. Listed as the final track on their album “ISTJ”, it emphasizes that the passion NCT DREAM had in their pre-debut years will remain, promising fans their very best.

8. ‘Rains in Heaven’

This one is for the tired people of our fast-paced society. ‘Rains in Heaven’ is a motivational anthem with an ‘80s pop tune, meant to uplift spirits. NCT DREAM offers a shoulder to lean on when the going gets tough, encouraging listeners with the promise of better days ahead and reminding them that they are more resilient than they think. This song is part of their album “DREAMSCAPE”, which reflects their evolution toward more mature themes. This time, instead of just providing a refreshing break, they offer an empathetic solace for NCTzens. 

9. ‘Beautiful Sailing’

With their recent album entitled “Go Back To The Future”, NCT DREAM released a refreshing pop song as their last hurrah to the summer season. It’s another tribute to their fans, acknowledging that despite the rough sailing of their journey, their fans have kept them anchored. The song, which encapsulates their gratitude, is a celebration of navigating both calm and stormy seas to get to where they are today. It’s a song they aim to perform for the community they’ve built. 

Nine years plus nine more – it doesn’t matter, as NCT DREAM remains steadfast in their goal of connecting with people through music. Their longevity in the industry has already proven their staying power, yet they’ll always keep surprising us with bigger and better comebacks.