NCT DREAM is back with new music. The group has been BUSY this year. They released their fifth full-length album Go Back to the Future earlier this summer. They’ve been on tour for a good chunk of the year. Now they’re releasing their sixth mini album Beat It Up before the year ends.
Released on November 18, the title track Beat It Up is bold, loud, and insanely catchy. Honestly, it might be one of their best title tracks so far.
Why Go With Boxing for the Concept?
Out of all the concepts to pick, why did SM choose boxing for NCT DREAM?
Boxing is a very specific language. It isn’t just about fighting. It represents overcoming challenges with strength and resilience. The group is fighting off any obstacles that stand in their way. Even when life knocks them down or leaves some scars behind, they find a way to preserve.
DREAM spent the entire year fighting through schedules, high expectations, the pressure that comes with growing up in the spotlight. The boxing concept gives us a visual for those struggles. Beat It Up is about pushing through the noise, no matter what’s thrown your way.
A Sound That Hits First
Sonically, Beat It Up throws the first punch. The song is built on heavy kicks, a thick bass line. It has a dramatic take on Y2K era hip-hop. The instrumental never sits still. It lunges then pulls back a sharp switch-up for the bridge. The song keeps the energy high through every second.
The repetitive “beat it up” refrain loops like a chant, giving the track a playful edge even with the aggressive production. The hook keeps the song bouncing around in your head long after it ends.
The lyrics talk about breaking down every wall that’s in your way. NCT DREAM encourages listeners to set their own pace instead of following anyone else’s. It’s a song that tells you where they’re headed, what they’re willing to do to get there.
Choreography That Matches the Punch
The choreography hits with the same intensity as the track. The boxing-inspired movements are powerful yet fluid.
The choreo was made by Kaea Pearce of AG SQUAD and Kim Ingyoo of WE DEM BOYZ. Having dance crew members involved with making the choreography adds another layer. Every member gets a moment to shine, but the power comes from how unified the performance feels.Beat It Up works because it’s honest about its ambition. The confidence the track exudes is the perfect way for NCT DREAM to end 2025.
