K-Pop Risers & Fallers: September 2026

Rather than contain my “Risers and Fallers” feature to a single post in June, I’m going to share a bite-sized version at the end of each month. This will let me account for more songs and make a nice lead-in to the monthly round-up post. I anticipate most of these ratings adjustments will be negligible: a 0.5 shift here, a 0.25 shift there. But, it’s a fun way to keep track of how my feelings on songs have changed over time – as well as which tracks currently have momentum on my playlist. And remember, just because a song is marked as a “faller” doesn’t mean I hate it! Falling from a “9” to an “8.75” is no shame. 9+ rated songs occupy a totally different playlist in my music library, so I’m pretty particular about what qualifies. It’s a high bar. This month’s feature covers the period from August 18th to September 21st. ALPHA DRIVE ONE – Born Dire Rating: 8 → 8.25 Big Ocean – Love Sign Rating: 8 → 8.25 Close Your Eyes – Open Your Eyes Rating: 8.25 → 8.5 Doh Kyung Soo – Guitarist Rating: 8 → 8.25 hrtz.wav – Alive Rating: 8.25 → 8.5 NEXZ – Saucin’ Rating: 8 → 8.5 *Biggest Riser* TNX – Die Another Day Rating: 8.5 → 8.75 VERIVERY – Don’t Panic! Rating: 8 → 8.25 xikers – Just For Fun (M...