Why NMIXX Funky Glitter Christmas Is Breaking K-pop Holiday Traditions

NMIXX Funky Glitter Christmas stands out as a refreshing addition to the K-pop holiday music scene. Released on November 23, 2022, this pop track marked the group's first "INTERMIXXION SINGLE" and showcased their distinctive musical approach. What makes this release particularly significant is that it was the final project featuring member Jinni before her departure from the group on December 9, 2022.

The song combines funky brass and piano rhythms with musical-like narrations and jazzy pre-chorus elements. Additionally, this unique blend emphasizes the colors and uniqueness of each NMIXX member's vocal abilities. While following some standard carol traditions, the track notably allows the group to demonstrate their impressive singing capabilities. For fans exploring NMIXX's discography, this holiday release represents not just seasonal cheer but also an important milestone in the group's evolution.

The story behind NMIXX’s 1st Intermixxion Single

Behind NMIXX's festive single lies a fascinating story that marked a pivotal moment in their career journey. The group introduced an innovative concept that would become significant to their artistic identity.

What is an Intermixxion Single?

"Funky Glitter Christmas" introduced fans to the concept of an "Intermixxion Single" - a special release positioned between NMIXX's main comebacks. This format allowed the group to explore different musical styles outside their signature "MIXX POP" sound while maintaining their artistic identity. For NMIXX, these singles serve as creative breathers that showcase their versatility without the pressure of a full album release.

Why release a Christmas track?

The decision to make their first Intermixxion Single a holiday track reflected strategic timing. Released in late November 2022, the song capitalized on the festive season when K-pop groups traditionally release special content for fans. Yet unlike conventional K-pop Christmas songs that often follow predictable ballad formats, NMIXX chose to infuse their track with funk elements and jazz influences - demonstrating their willingness to push boundaries even within seasonal music.

Jinni's final appearance with NMIXX

Perhaps the most poignant aspect of "Funky Glitter Christmas" remains its status as Jinni's farewell project. Though fans didn't know it during the initial release, this cheerful holiday celebration would be her last contribution to the group. When JYP Entertainment announced her departure on December 9, 2022 - just weeks after the single dropped - the song took on added emotional significance. For many fans, the track now serves as both a celebration of the holiday season and a bittersweet reminder of NMIXX's original seven-member configuration.

How Funky Glitter Christmas redefines holiday music

Unlike traditional K-pop holiday songs, "Funky Glitter Christmas" pushes musical boundaries through innovative sound fusion. This distinctive approach helps NMIXX carve out their own space in the seasonal music landscape.

Blending funk, jazz, and pop

At its core, "Funky Glitter Christmas" is a pop track led by groovy brass and piano rhythms. The song turns down NMIXX's typical style of smashing different sounds together, instead opting for a more cohesive yet still dynamic approach. This deliberate musical choice creates a cheerful, upbeat atmosphere perfect for holiday celebrations. Moreover, the jazzy pre-chorus adds sophistication to the otherwise playful track, highlighting the group's versatility.

Use of musical-like narration

What truly sets this holiday track apart is its theatrical presentation. The combination of musical-like narrations throughout the song creates a storytelling experience rather than just a standard carol. This narrative approach allows each member to showcase their unique vocal color and performance style. Indeed, the track serves as a particular showcase for Lily, who fully unleashes her impressive vocal abilities.

Incorporating classic carol melodies

NMIXX cleverly integrates familiar Christmas music into their original composition. The song features "MIXXED" melodies from existing carols to complete their unique seasonal offering. Specifically, it incorporates the classical Christmas carol "Joy To The World," adding traditional festivity to the funky track. Furthermore, the song includes various Christmas expressions like "snowman cookie" and "Feliz Navidad" that enhance its holiday spirit.

Visual storytelling in the concept photos and MV

The visual presentation of "Funky Glitter Christmas" beautifully complements its musical innovation through vibrant imagery and thoughtful styling choices.

NMIXX Funky Glitter Christmas concept photos explained

The concept photos showcase NMIXX in a festive holiday setting with a mix of sparkle and funk elements. Each image captures the members in celebratory poses, emphasizing both individual personalities and group cohesion. These photos telegraph the song's cheerful essence through bright colors and playful poses, effectively setting expectations for the music video's aesthetic.

A dream-like movie aesthetic

The music video employs a dreamy, ethereal quality commonly seen in cinematic K-pop productions. This approach creates an immersive experience where reality blends with fantasy. Throughout the video, hazy transitions and warm lighting evoke a dreamlike atmosphere, giving viewers the feeling they're experiencing a holiday fantasy alongside NMIXX.

Fashion and styling for each member

Each member's fashion tells its own story through carefully curated outfits. Jinni appears in a deconstructed Maison Margiela jumper and Alexander McQueen boots, subsequently changing into a Cult Gaia mini dress with muted green tones and layered feathers. Meanwhile, Sullyoon wears a tartan-checked outfit from Charles Jeffrey Loverboy consisting of a cropped double-breasted blazer and Paris Rara skirt.

Symbolism in the music video

The video portrays friendship during holidays, concluding with scrapbook-style photos that emphasize memories as the true meaning of seasonal celebrations. This symbolic ending reinforces themes of togetherness and joy, presenting the ultimate holiday message: cherished moments with loved ones matter most.

Lyrics that celebrate togetherness and joy

The lyrical content of "Funky Glitter Christmas" captures the essence of holiday spirit through carefully crafted verses that resonate with listeners seeking festive cheer.

NMIXX Funky Glitter Christmas lyrics breakdown

The song cleverly incorporates references to classic Christmas carols, creating an instant familiarity even for first-time listeners. Throughout the track, NMIXX playfully references beloved holiday standards such as "Feliz Navidad," "Joy To The World," and "Deck The Halls," establishing a connection to traditional Christmas music while maintaining their unique style. This approach makes the song sound familiar yet fresh, a quality that defines effective holiday music.

Themes of unity and celebration

At its heart, the track serves as a reminder of what Christmas truly represents—togetherness and joy. For many listeners, "Funky Glitter Christmas" functions as a healing experience for their inner child, bringing back the excitement that often diminishes as we grow older. As one review noted, the song speaks to "our little selves who used to be thrilled about Christmas". This emphasis on unity echoes other successful K-pop holiday tracks like B1A4's Christmas song that proclaimed "Everyone's friends on Christmas right / I just want to be a good friend".

Modern vs traditional holiday expressions

"Funky Glitter Christmas" balances traditional carol elements with contemporary expressions. In contrast to groups like Girls' Generation, who used melancholy R&B in their Christmas offerings, NMIXX embraces upbeat cheerfulness throughout. The lyrics reflect this modern approach—they don't take themselves too seriously yet maintain the heartfelt sentiment essential to holiday music. Consequently, the track fits perfectly alongside NMIXX's overall "bright, fun, and light-hearted side" while honoring Christmas music traditions.