KATSEYE’s ‘Gnarly’ Named One of NME’s Best Songs of 2025

KATSEYE’s ‘Gnarly’ Earns Prestigious NME Recognition

Global girl group KATSEYE is celebrating a monumental achievement as their song “Gnarly” has been recognized by the influential British music magazine NME. On December 1, 2025, NME unveiled its highly anticipated “The 50 Best Songs of 2025” list, placing “Gnarly” at an impressive number five. This critical acclaim highlights the group’s successful artistic transformation and solidifies their status as a rising force in the global music scene, with the track also experiencing a resurgence on major charts like the Billboard Hot 100.

A Bold Artistic Evolution

The recognition for “Gnarly” is particularly significant given KATSEYE’s evolution since their debut in 2024. The group initially launched with a soft and lovely concept, best exemplified by their song “Touch.” However, with the release of their second EP, “BEAUTIFUL CHAOS,” in mid-2025, KATSEYE showcased a dramatically different side. “Gnarly,” the EP’s lead track, introduced a bold and intense style that captured the attention of fans and critics worldwide, proving their versatility and artistic depth.

From Debut Sweetness to Intense Power

The contrast between their debut and their more recent work demonstrates a strategic and successful shift in their musical identity. While “Touch” established their presence with a gentle image, “Gnarly” redefined their sound with a powerful and edgy performance. This transformation has been key to their expanding international appeal and is a primary factor in their recent global chart success.

‘Gnarly’ and its Impressive Global Chart Success

Prior to the NME honor, “Gnarly” had already made significant waves on international music charts. The song’s success is a testament to its widespread appeal, charting strongly in both the United States and the United Kingdom months before its end-of-year accolades. This sustained popularity is a clear indicator of KATSEYE’s growing global fanbase.

Peak Performance on the Billboard Hot 100

In the United States, the track secured a position on the coveted Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 90 on June 21, 2025. Remarkably, six months after its initial release, “Gnarly” has re-entered the chart in December 2025, alongside fellow EP track “Gabriela.” This resurgence demonstrates the song’s incredible longevity and enduring connection with listeners.

UK Chart Impact and Critical Acclaim

Across the Atlantic, “Gnarly” also performed well, peaking at number 52 on the UK’s Official Singles Top 100 chart on May 9, 2025. The NME ranking places KATSEYE in the company of other globally recognized artists such as Pinkpantheress, Rosalía, and Lady Gaga, who were also featured on the list. This prestigious placement confirms that KATSEYE’s music is not only commercially successful but also critically celebrated on an international level.

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