Hidden Meanings in TWICE "The Feels": The Story Behind Their First English Single

TWICE's "The Feels" marked a significant milestone as the group's first original English single, released on October 1, 2021, through JYP Entertainment and Republic Records. Unlike their previous strategy of releasing English versions of Korean hits, this nu-disco track with its intense bass sound and disco synth beat represented a deliberate step into the global music market.

The song, featured on their third Korean studio album "Formula of Love: O+T=<3," quickly became their most successful international release. Notably, "The Feels" peaked at number 12 on the Billboard Global 200, making it TWICE's highest-performing song on that chart. Furthermore, the track earned impressive certifications, including gold status from the Recording Industry Association of America in 2022 and double platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan. Co-produced by Korean producer collapsedone, who previously worked with TWICE on their 2019 hit "Feel Special," the lyrics and musical composition offer fascinating insights into the group's artistic evolution.

The journey to TWICE’s first English single

Before diving fully into the global market with "The Feels," TWICE had carefully built their international presence through strategic steps. Their global journey began with Japanese releases and gradually expanded to include English versions of Korean hits like "More & More" and "I Can't Stop Me."

Previous English releases and global strategy

TWICE's initial global approach involved conquering Asian markets first, particularly Japan, where they achieved tremendous success with Japanese versions of their Korean hits. As their popularity grew, they began incorporating English phrases into Korean singles to increase accessibility. The group also appeared on American television shows like "The Kelly Clarkson Show" and released English versions of existing songs to test international waters.

Why 'The Feels' marked a turning point

"The Feels" represented a significant shift in strategy—instead of adapting existing content, TWICE created an original English track specifically designed for the global market. This decision signaled JYP Entertainment's confidence in TWICE's potential to connect with English-speaking audiences on their own terms. The disco-pop sound also demonstrated their versatility beyond their established K-pop identity.

Timeline leading up to the release

The path to "The Feels" included signing with Republic Records in 2020, a partnership that opened doors to American promotion. Throughout early 2021, TWICE dropped hints about an English single during interviews. By September 2021, teaser images and videos built anticipation before the official October release, which ultimately paved the way for their first world tour announcement.

Breaking down the music and lyrics

Musically, "The Feels" stands as a fast-tempo disco-pop track composed in the key of B minor at 120 beats per minute. The song combines a rolling funk bass with crisp drum tracks to create a jubilant disco atmosphere that harkens back to 90s pop aesthetics.

Genre and musical influences

The track features a groovy bassline that serves as its sturdy backbone, complemented by disco synth beats and shining synths that gradually build throughout the verses. This retro-influenced production gives the song what some critics have described as "a hint of hyperpop quality". Moreover, members Sana and Nayeon noted that "The Feels" blends elements from two of their earlier hits: "Like OOH-AHH" (2015) and "Cheer Up" (2016).

Key themes in 'The Feels' lyrics

At its core, the song captures the exhilarating experience of love at first sight. According to Chaeyoung, the message is straightforward: "Don't hide your feelings – follow your feels when you like someone". The lyrics explore the "fluttering feelings" and "supernatural attraction" that occur during that initial connection. Consequently, the song maintains an upbeat, confidence-boosting tone throughout.

How the lyrics reflect TWICE's identity

Nayeon explained they developed "The Feels" thinking about how to showcase "TWICE's bright energy". Despite being their first original English single, the track maintains what fans recognize as the group's signature bubbly style while adding a touch of maturity. Essentially, the song represents TWICE's versatility and ability to adapt their established identity to new markets.

Notable lines and their meanings

Key lyrics include:

"Boy I know, I know I got the feels" – expressing confident self-awareness
"Lightning straight to my heart" – describing instant attraction
"You have stolen my heart" – acknowledging vulnerability in love

These lines reinforce the track's themes of confident pursuit and honest expression of feelings.

The music video: visual storytelling and symbolism

The visual narrative of "The Feels" unfolds through a colorful prom-themed music video that perfectly complements the song's exuberant energy.

Retro prom concept and its significance

The storyline begins with an invitation sliding under a door, beckoning the members to "Prom 2021". From this initial moment, viewers follow TWICE through their preparations in a luxurious walk-in closet, then to the glamorous main event featuring balloon arches, decorated tables, and a prom queen throne against a sea blue backdrop. This concept isn't merely aesthetic—it serves as a metaphor for falling in love, with the invitation representing an introduction to new romantic feelings and the preparation scenes mirroring the excitement of getting ready to meet a crush.

Hidden clues and Easter eggs

Attentive fans discovered several nostalgic references throughout the video. Notably, Dahyun recreates her iconic "What is Love?" moment as Leon around the 1:20 mark, alongside Sana's arrow from "Yes or Yes" and Momo's Pulp Fiction dance. These clever callbacks reward longtime followers while maintaining accessibility for new audiences.

How the visuals support the song's message

The choreography might be TWICE's most aggressive to date, featuring complex dance sequences that underscore the song's confident message. In fact, a sign in the background reading "never miss a chance to dance" reinforces the theme that joy exists regardless of romantic outcomes. Additionally, Chaeyoung taking the crown herself symbolizes the self-assurance expressed in the lyrics.

Reception, impact, and legacy

Upon release, "The Feels" garnered widespread acclaim from music critics, with Rhian Daly of NME awarding it a perfect five-star rating and describing it as "an infectiously fun bop". The Harvard Crimson praised its "dependable character" despite using "clichéd phrases".

Critical reviews and chart performance

The song debuted at number 83 on the Billboard Hot 100 with 4.7 million streams and 10,400 digital sales in its first week. Subsequently, it peaked at number 12 on the Billboard Global 200, becoming TWICE's highest-performing song on that chart. In the UK, it reached number 80 on the Official Singles Chart, whereas in Japan, it climbed to number three on both the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and Oricon Combined Singles Chart.

Fan reactions and social media buzz

Globally, ONCE celebrated the single as "an excellent pop song", highlighting how it maintained TWICE's authentic style. On Twitter, Momo's teaser for the song trended ahead of Apple's iPhone 11 announcement, illustrating the group's social media dominance.

Awards, nominations, and certifications

"The Feels" received gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America for surpassing 500,000 units and double platinum from the Recording Industry Association of Japan for exceeding 200 million streams. Furthermore, the music video earned a nomination for Best K-Pop at the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards.

How 'The Feels' shaped TWICE's global image

Ultimately, the single established TWICE as serious global contenders. As Teen Vogue noted, it became their first Billboard Hot 100 hit, opening doors to mainstream American audiences without compromising their signature sound.