Psy

South Korean rapper PSY took his unconventional looks, controversial lyrics, and comical dance moves all the way to mainstream international fame by releasing the smash hit "Gangnam Style" (2012). Early in his career, PSY was evidently bent on defying the rules. He certainly did not look like the typical male Korean pop star, yet his music set him apart from his peers. With his debut album PSY from the PSYcho World! (2001), PSY established the tone for his musical legacy, writing songs that were considered too obscene by the South Korean government. Yet, he continued to make music that incited controversy and topped domestic music charts, including the album PSY Five (2010), whose lead single "Right Now" was even banned for release due to its graphic content. In 2012, PSY went from Korean singer to household name after releasing the music video of his hit single, "Gangnam Style," which, at one point, was the most watched video on YouTube with millions of hits. The song's over-the-top, high-energy production showcased a hilarious horse-riding dance move that not only invented a worldwide dance craze, but it also marked PSY's newfound status as an internationally renowned artist.