Happy Birthday B.I: Diving into hitmaker's resilient journey from Show Me the Money to 1st K-soloist on Grammy's Global Spin

To celebrate B.I's birthday, we dive into his journey from Show Me the Money fame to becoming the first Korean soloist on Grammy's Global Spin, proving resilience and talent are his true signatures!

Updated on Oct 22, 2024  |  03:12 PM IST |  39.5K
B.I; Image Courtesy: 131 Label
B.I; Image Courtesy: 131 Label

Today, we celebrate the birthday of B.I aka Kim Hanbin, the talented artist whose journey from underground battles to the global stage is nothing short of inspiring. As the former leader of iKON and a solo artist, B.I has proven time and again that talent, passion, and resilience can break through barriers and redefine success in the music industry. 

From his rise to fame on the hit competition show Show Me the Money to becoming the first Korean solo artist featured on the Grammy's Global Spin, B.I's story is about the power of perseverance.


Early beginnings: A star in the making

Born on October 22, 1996, in Seoul, South Korea, B.I showed a passion for music from a young age. As a trainee under YG Entertainment, he dedicated years to honing his skills in rap, songwriting, and performance. His hard work paid off when he debuted with iKON in 2015, quickly establishing himself as a multifaceted artist. B.I's charismatic presence and exceptional talent at producing music and rap shone brightly, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

The group’s debut track, My Type, showed not only B.I's unique musical style but also his ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. As a songwriter and producer, he played a crucial role in shaping iKON's sound, contributing to hits like Rhythm Ta, Love Scenario, and Killing Me.

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The breakthrough: Show Me the Money 

B.I's journey took a turn when he participated in Show Me the Money 3 in 2014, a popular rap competition that showed the best of South Korea's underground talent. His incredible lyrical prowess and commanding stage presence captivated audiences and judges alike, topping charts but, missing the final trophy. 

However, success did not come without its challenges. In 2019, B.I faced a significant setback when he was involved in a drug controversy that led to his departure from iKON and YG Entertainment. The incident shocked fans and cast a shadow over his career. Yet, B.I's resilience shone through as he took time to reflect, determined to rise above the adversity and reclaim his place in the industry.


Rising from adversity: The solo debut

In 2021, B.I made a triumphant return to the music industry with his solo debut album, Waterfall. The album featured a blend of genres, showing his growth as an artist and his ability to express vulnerability through his music. With heartfelt tracks like illa illa and Waterfall, B.I demonstrated his evolution, captivating listeners with his introspective lyrics and melodic sensibility.

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The success of Waterfall marked a new chapter in B.I's career, allowing him to reconnect with fans and gain new supporters. His authenticity and willingness to share his journey resonated deeply with audiences, reinforcing his status as a relatable and inspiring figure in the music industry.


The Grammy Achievement: A Historic Milestone

In 2023, following the success of his viral sensation, BTBT, B.I made history as the first Korean solo artist to be featured on the Grammy's Global Spin, a significant recognition for his contributions to music on a global scale. This achievement not only highlighted B.I's talent but also reflected the growing influence of K-pop and Korean artists in the international music market.

The Global Spin feature showed B.I's unique artistry and the versatility that sets him apart from other artists. His ability to blend various genres, including hip-hop, R&B, and pop, while maintaining his distinct style, has captured the attention of audiences worldwide.

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The impact of B.I’s music

B.I’s music goes beyond mere entertainment; it speaks to the experiences and emotions of his listeners. Through his lyrics, he addresses themes of love, loss, and resilience, creating a deep connection with fans. His authenticity allows fans to see a reflection of their own struggles and triumphs in his work, making his music a source of comfort and inspiration.

In a world where many artists conform to trends, B.I remains true to himself and his artistry. He constantly pushes creative boundaries, exploring different sounds and collaborating with various artists to create fresh, innovative music. His dedication to his craft has earned him respect not only from fans but also from fellow musicians and industry professionals.


As B.I celebrates another year of life, it’s essential to acknowledge the incredible journey he has embarked upon. From his early days as a trainee to becoming a celebrated solo artist and a trailblazer in the music industry, B.I's story is one of perseverance and unwavering passion.

His resilience in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to many, reminding us that setbacks can lead to comebacks when fueled by determination and hard work. B.I’s continued evolution as an artist is exciting to witness, and fans eagerly anticipate what he will achieve in the years to come.

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On that note, wishing B.I a very happy birthday! As you blow out the candles today, know that your journey has inspired countless fans around the world. Your music resonates deeply, and your story encourages others to embrace their individuality and rise above challenges. Here’s to many more years of creativity, innovation, and success.

ALSO READ: Happy Birthday Chuu: From debuting as LOONA member to going solo with Howl; a walkthrough young idol-actress' resilient journey

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About The Author

Saumya is a Journalism and Mass Communication graduate, with a knack for digital storytelling and over a

...

Credits: 131 Label
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