The Dream: Debut Academy.Photo:HYBE x Geffen Records
HYBE x Geffen Records
Get ready to meet the next big thing in music.
On Monday, HYBE and Geffen announced the project and shared that 20 women are set to compete in an audition process that they’re callingThe Debut: Dream Academy, which willair on YouTubeand later be the subject of aNetflixdocuseries. Throughout the process, fans will be able to vote through platforms such as TikTok andWeverseand a panel of industry experts will offer feedback.
‘The Debut: Dream Academy’.HYBE x Geffen Records
Along with the news, HYBE (which artists likeBTSandNewJeansare signed to) and Geffen (a subsidiary of Universal Music Group) announced the 20 talents who will be facing off in the audition process. The young women from across the world were chosen from over 120,000 names who submitted themselves when HYBE and Geffen originally put out a call in November 2021.
Anart filmfeaturing the 20 trainees also dropped on Monday. The seven-minute clip shows the girls coming together and sharing their cultures with one another. It also highlights the talent they’re each bringing to the competition, with various dance numbers and a brief singing interlude.
According to a press release, Chairman of HYBE Bang Si-Hyuk shared a statement at a press event surrounding the project. He said, “I have wanted to form an international group based on K-pop methodology for a while. To do this I believed we needed a capable partner. When I met John [Janick, Chairman & CEO of Interscope Geffen A&M], from the first moment, we both felt instantly that we had a connection, musically and creatively. I am very proud of the rich history we have made and the tremendous talent we have found. I am proud of the opportunities we have created within the K-Pop universe.”
Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Janick added, “Since we began our partnership two years ago, Bang and I have often spoken about our shared beliefs in artist development, music and creativity. To develop a global group with Bang, with the best of K-Pop methodology, and our Geffen team, is truly special and will bring to life a first-of-its kind experience in music. Each candidate is incredibly talented, dedicated, and driven, making this an exciting moment for music fans around the world.”
Footage ofThe Debut: Dream Academywill premiere on YouTube on Sept. 1 at 8 a.m. PT.
source: people.com
