BTS Butter arrived quietly… and then, boom! It suddenly became a global sensation. Released on May 20, 2021, this irresistibly catchy track (in the best way possible) from our beloved South Koreans simply melted everything in its path — from the music charts to the hearts of listeners.
You know that moment when you’re just relaxing, turn on the radio or open YouTube, and hear “Smooth like butter, like a criminal undercover…”? That’s it. The beginning of the end. You’ll be humming it for hours — or days. But hey, that’s okay, because it’s impossible to resist.
This was BTS’s second fully English-language single, and they were not playing around. The infectious mix of disco-pop, dance-pop, and EDM was tailor-made to get everyone moving — even those who swear they “don’t dance” end up tapping their feet.
And of course, you can’t talk about BTS Butter without mentioning the explosive music video, a true visual spectacle: bursting with color, fun references, loads of charisma, and a choreography that’s a joy to watch. RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, Taehyung, and Jungkook gave it their all (and then some) in this release that became one of the biggest hits of their career. So get comfortable, because we’re diving deep into the world of BTS Butter: lyrics, translation, pronunciation, fun facts, and a touch of emotion for those who already love it — and also for anyone just stepping into this ever-growing universe. 🧈
BTS Butter: the Lyrics That Took Over the World
Smooth like butter
Like a criminal undercover
Gon’ pop like trouble
Breaking into your heart like that (ooh)
💜
Cool shade stunner
Yeah, I owe it all to my mother
Hot like summer
Yeah, I’m making you sweat like that (break it down!)
💜
Ooh, when I look in the mirror
I’ll melt your heart into two
I got that superstar glow so
Ooh (do the boogie like)
💜
A side step, right, left to my beat
High like the moon, rock with me, baby
Know that I got that heat
Let me show you ’cause talk is cheap
Side step, right, left to my beat
Get it, let it roll
💜
Smooth like butter, pull you in like no other
Don’t need no Usher to remind me you got it bad
Ain’t no other that can sweep you up like a robber
Straight up, I (got ya) making you fall like that (break it down)
💜
Ooh, when I look in the mirror
I’ll melt your heart into two
I got that superstar glow, so
Ooh (do the boogie, like)
Get it, let it roll
💜
Ice on my wrist, I’m the nice guy
Got the right body and the right mind
Rolling up the party, got the right vibe
Smooth like (butter), hate us (love us)
Fresh boy, pull up and we lay low
All the players get moving when the bass low
Got ARMY right behind us when we say so
Let’s go
💜
Side step, right-left, to my beat (right-left, to my beat)
High like the moon, rock with me, baby
You know that I got that heat
Let me show you ’cause talk is cheap (you know that talk is cheap)
Side step, right-left, to my beat
Get it, let it roll
💜
Smooth like (butter), cool shade (stunner)
And you know we don’t stop
Hot like (summer), ain’t no (bummer)
You’ll be like, “Oh, my God”
We gon’ make you rock, and you say (yeah)
We gon’ make you bounce, and you say (yeah)
Hotter, sweeter, cooler, butter
Get it, let it roll
BTS Butter and the Perfect Summer: The Release That Came to Melt Everything
BTS Butter was released on May 20, 2021, with a single mission: to become the anthem of the summer — and, of course, to stick in your head like that chorus you end up singing in your sleep.
After the massive success of “Dynamite”, BTS’s first-ever 100% English-language single, the boys thought: “What if we did it again?” The result? Their second English single — with even more sparkle, an infectious beat, and charisma to spare.
In an interview with Apple Music, RM, the group’s leader, shared that they hadn’t even planned to release another single. But with the pandemic dragging on and live shows still on hold, the idea came up: “How about one more summer track to lift the world’s spirits?” And that’s how BTS Butter was born — light, dancey, and with that special something that makes you smile for no reason.
Watch the interview here:
The timing of the release was strategic: just ahead of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, when upbeat, feel-good songs tend to explode. And it worked! Butter took over the charts, playlists — and hearts.
How BTS Butter Became a Global Event (Yes, with Live Melting Butter!)
The promotion of BTS Butter was anything but basic. Big Hit Music (now known as HYBE Labels) decided that if they were going to drop a hit, it would be with a full-blown spectacle. And that’s exactly what happened.
It all started with a YouTube livestream showing… yes, a stick of butter melting. For a full hour, millions of fans were mesmerized, watching the butter slowly melt until, finally, the song title and release date appeared. The result? Over 13 million views. The internet went wild.
From there, the promo went full throttle: concept photos, teaser videos, and a global press conference just one hour after the official release. The boys were also the first guests on the show BigHit Music Record on the Melon Station platform, where they introduced the track and chatted with fans.
And of course, the whole world got a taste of BTS Butter: unforgettable performances on major U.S. shows like the Billboard Music Awards, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and Good Morning America.
To keep the hype sky-high, the group dropped several remix versions, including the Hotter Remix, Sweeter Remix, and Cooler Remix — each with its own vibe, but all equally addictive. (You’ll find all the versions further down.)
And as the cherry on top (or better yet, extra butter on toast), in August 2021, a remix featuring rapper Megan Thee Stallion was released, helping to push the song’s reach even further across the globe.
BTS Butter and the Records It Broke Without Even Sweating (Just Melting)
BTS Butter didn’t come into the world to be just another cool track — it came to make history. From its very first second, it was already breaking records like it was no big deal.
Right out of the gate, the music video hit 10 million views in just 13 minutes. In less than 24 hours, it had racked up 108.2 million views, breaking the previous record held by Dynamite — and earning a spot in the Guinness World Records. And, of course, who beat BTS? BTS themselves. Naturally.
On Spotify, it was the same story. The track debuted with 11.042 million global streams in a single day, making it the biggest debut in the platform’s history at the time. And to this day, over 5 million unique listeners have hit play on BTS Butter.
The 5 Official Guinness Records Held by “Butter”:
- Most viewers for a premiere on YouTube
- Biggest debut of a music video on YouTube
- Most viewed MV in 24 hours on YouTube
- Most viewed K-pop MV in 24 hours
- Most streamed track on Spotify in 24 hours
Simply surreal.
BTS Butter on the Charts: Total Domination
If the music charts were a dance floor, BTS Butter showed up in heels and a red carpet look. The song debuted straight at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 — and didn’t just stop by. It stayed at the top for 8 consecutive weeks, and 10 weeks total. Oh, and let’s not forget: 15 full weeks in the Top 10. A true reign.
On the Billboard Global 200, which tracks worldwide success, Butter also reigned supreme, being considered the biggest #1 hit in the chart’s history at that point.
And it didn’t stop there. The song hit #1 in several countries including Japan, Mexico, Malaysia, South Korea, India, Hungary, Singapore, and Vietnam. In over 30 countries, it was among the Top 10 most played tracks.
In South Korea, the success was total: it topped all major charts and earned BTS 13 wins on music shows, including Music Bank, Inkigayo, and Show Champion.
And as if that wasn’t enough, Butter was nominated for the 2022 GRAMMY Awards in the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance category — yet another historic milestone in BTS’s career.
Among the most prestigious wins, Butter also took home the coveted Daesang for “Song of the Year” at major Korean award shows like the MAMA and MMA.
What Does the BTS Butter Lyrics Really Mean?
At first glance, the lyrics of BTS Butter may just seem like a fun, danceable track (and it absolutely is!). But behind the breezy vibe, there’s a message full of confidence, charm, and that signature musical flirt that BTS delivers like no one else. Shall we break down a few lines?
A Flirty Invitation (With Melted Metaphors)
The song wastes no time showing what it’s here for. The first verse blends bold metaphors with a flirty vibe — all served with style:
Smooth like butter, like a criminal undercover
Gon’ pop like trouble, breaking into your heart like that, ooh
Cool shade stunner, yeah, I owe it all to my mother, uh
Hot like summer, I’m making you sweat like that (break it down!)
In this part, the group compares themselves to a “criminal undercover”, someone who sneaks in quietly and—before you know it—you’re hooked. The “smooth like butter” line is a symbol of confidence, ease, and charm — they glide into your life and your heart effortlessly.
Oh, and fun fact: that opening line “Smooth like butter, like a criminal undercover” is a clear nod to the iconic “Smooth Criminal” by Michael Jackson. And this isn’t just a casual reference — BTS has long shown their respect for the King of Pop, both in performance and style. It’s one more layer of charm in the track.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall…
Next, we hit one of the song’s most captivating moments. It’s pure glittery self-esteem:
Ooh, when I look in the mirror
I’ll melt your heart into two
I got that superstar glow, so
Ooh (do the boogie like)
Here, BTS shows how self-confidence can be cute and fun. The mirror reflects not just looks, but the natural charisma they radiate. And the best part? It’s not arrogance — it’s light, joyful pride.
“Let me show you, ’cause talk is cheap”
Now we reach the chorus — where the song really shines (or should we say, melts):
Side step, right-left to my beat
High like the moon, rock with me, baby
Know that I got that heat
Let me show you ’cause talk is cheap
This is where BTS invites you to join their rhythm. It’s a little romantic, but also a clear message: they don’t need to talk much — they show it with presence, confidence, and talent. A modern flirt, with choreography and charm to match.
Boldness, Style, and Swag (Perfectly in Sync)
In the second half of the song, things heat up even more. Check this out:
Ice on my wrist, I’m the nice guy
Got the right body and the right mind
Rolling up the party, got the right vibe
Smooth like (butter), hate us (love us)
Here, BTS steps into full superstar mode, no modesty. They talk about style, attitude, and how their energy lights up every room — from parties to stages to our hearts. Simple rhymes, sharp delivery.
ARMY in the Driver’s Seat (Or Right Behind)
And BTS never forgets who’s been with them all along:
All the players get moving when the bass low
Got ARMY right behind us when we say so
Let’s go
It’s a subtle but powerful thank-you. They recognize the ARMY as a driving force behind all their success. None of this would be as massive without their support.
An Explosive (and Lighthearted) Finale
To wrap things up with a golden key (or better yet, golden butter), the lyrics blend sensuality, fun, and a bit of playful exaggeration:
Smooth like (butter), cool shade (stunner)
And you know we don’t stop
Hot like (summer), ain’t no (bummer)
You’ll be like, “Oh, my God”
We gon’ make you rock, and you say (yeah)
We gon’ make you bounce, and you say (yeah)
Hotter, sweeter, cooler, butter
Get it, let it roll
Here, the song becomes pure entertainment — it feels like they’re having just as much fun as we are. There’s no deep message here, just good vibes, smiles, and a rhythm that makes you want to dance until the very end.
BTS Butter and the “Do the boogie like”: A Trip Through Time (and Groove)
Right before the chorus kicks in, RM throws in a smooth “Do the boogie like” — and you might have wondered: What exactly is “boogie,” anyway?
Let’s break it down: boogie has its roots in the early 20th century, starting as a rhythmic style within the blues called boogie-woogie. Back then, the piano led the way with a fast, repetitive pattern that made people want to move. Over time, boogie evolved, getting picked up by genres like rockabilly and rock and roll in the ’50s, and even popping up in bands from the ’80s and ’90s.
Today, “boogie” is a slang term for dancing — especially to pop, disco, or retro-inspired music we all love. And we can’t talk about boogie without mentioning the classic: “Blame It On the Boogie” by The Jacksons (yep, Michael Jackson’s group with his brothers), released in 1978 — a song that, much like BTS Butter, is all about rhythm and energy.
So when RM says “Do the boogie like”, he’s basically saying: “Let’s dance — this is how we do it!” And then comes that iconic visual moment: all the members run their hands through their hair in perfect sync, signaling the start of the group choreography.
It’s vintage, it’s pop, it’s fun — and of course, it carries that signature Michael Jackson flair that BTS has turned into a recurring source of inspiration.
The BTS Butter Music Video: Pure Color, Dance, and Charisma
Let’s talk about the BTS Butter music video — not only did it break records, it also got the whole world up off the couch and dancing!
The MV is a true explosion of color, style, and charisma — a visual feast that shows exactly why BTS is a global phenomenon. With vibrant sets, flawless outfit changes, and addictive choreography, the video delivers everything the ARMY loves (and then some).
Watch the Butter Official MV:
The Visual Aesthetic of BTS Butter: A Feast for the Eyes
Right from the start, what stands out most in the BTS Butter MV is its carefully crafted visual aesthetic. The video begins in black and white, creating a mysterious and elegant vibe. But gradually, vibrant colors take over the screen — with yellow front and center, a direct nod to butter. It’s as if BTS is saying: “Yes, we’re sophisticated — but we also know how to have fun!”
The video shifts between group scenes and solo moments, letting each of the seven members shine in their own unique way. And speaking of shine: the lighting is a show in itself! The interplay of light and shadow helps create different moods, from sleek and mysterious to upbeat and carefree.
The Iconic Sets: Vibrance, Style, and Cinematic Energy
The settings in the BTS Butter MV are a whole production on their own — each with its own vibe, yet all connected by the vibrant color palette, slick style, and that cinematic touch only BTS can deliver.
It opens with a police station-inspired room, in black and white, where the members hold those iconic mugshot boards — a bold and playful scene. Then we’re transported to a simple yet super colorful room, bursting with energy.
There’s also the now-famous stylized elevator, where each member dances solo, showcasing their individual charm. Then comes a film set replica, complete with director chairs, drenched in a burst of color and light.
Another standout is the press conference scene, where Jimin stands before a wall of microphones — a clever nod to the weight of fame. The gym-like set brings a school vibe but is packed with behind-the-scenes elements: spotlights, cameras, stairs, etc. Later, we discover it leads to a massive hangar-style door, with a plane on the runway visible in the background. And of course, there’s the stage decked out in yellow and black, where part of the choreography takes place. That’s where the charisma of all seven members hits its peak, with precise moves and a perfectly crafted backdrop.
The BTS Butter Choreography: Simple, Yet Killer!
The choreography of BTS Butter is living proof that less can be more — and still totally slay! Of course, we’re talking about “less” in BTS terms — which, for regular folks with no dance skills (like yours truly), is still pretty complex, lol. But compared to some of the group’s more intricate routines, the moves here are relatively simple — yet so well executed that they stick in your head and your body.
The undeniable highlight is the now-iconic side step from the chorus (“side step, right-left”), which went viral on social media for being easy to learn and seriously addictive. You know the kind of move you do alone in your room, but swear you’re on stage with them? Exactly.
But don’t be fooled: simplicity doesn’t mean lack of technique. The synchronization between the seven members is impressive — especially during the fast transitions and the moments when they form perfect geometric shapes with their bodies. That takes precision, practice, and an incredible connection among them.
Another iconic moment in the BTS Butter choreography is the elevator solos, which add a visual and dynamic touch to the performance.
Looks and Style in BTS Butter: Every Detail Shines (Literally)
The wardrobe in the BTS Butter music video is a show in itself. Honestly, it deserves an entire article of its own! The looks range from elegant to edgy — from sharp tailored suits (full of presence) to colorful jackets, stylish accessories, and that unbeatable BTS attitude. It’s living proof that style also tells a story.
And speaking of style… the hair is a showstopper on its own!
- Jimin rocks platinum blonde hair in some scenes and soft pink with lilac streaks in others — always matching the mood of each part of the video.
- Namjoon (RM) goes for a dusty pink tone, which highlights his confident leader energy.
- j-hope embraces a bright yellow blonde, full of charm and just the right dose of fashion boldness.
- Jungkook, meanwhile, stole the show with deep indigo blue hair, which shifts to intense purple in some shots — yes, it totally trended online.
- SUGA serves a powerful look with black hair and white streaks, adding a mysterious and striking touch.
- V and Jin stick to more natural tones, but with styles and shades that reinforce their well-earned status as the group’s visuals.
The accessories were also carefully chosen: stylish sunglasses, rings, earrings, necklaces — every piece helps build a distinct aesthetic that reflects both the video’s concept and each member’s unique personality. In the end, every visual in BTS Butter isn’t just beautiful — it’s functional, expressive, and full of meaning. Because in the BTS universe, every detail matters (a lot!).
Jungkook’s Symbolic Gesture and His Connection to ARMY
Yes, Jungkook kissing his own hand in the BTS Butter MV is much more than just a charming move for the camera.
It’s a quick moment, but a powerful one — it happens exactly at the 13-second mark of the MV. Jungkook kisses his right hand, and that gesture carries deep symbolic weight — especially for those who know the details. On that hand, he has tattoos that include not just the acronym ARMY, but also the initials of the BTS members.
In other words, it’s a subtle (and beautiful!) way to express love and respect for both the group and the fans. A silent gesture full of meaning — and one more reason to watch the MV with sharp eyes.
BTS Butter and the Hidden Meanings Behind the Mugshot Numbers
If you blinked, you might’ve missed one of the most curious details in the BTS Butter MV: the mugshot-style scene where the members hold those classic police lineup boards. The scene appears around the 28-second mark, and yes — the numbers on those placards have interesting (and sometimes just fun) meanings.
In a VLive from May 21, 2021, the members themselves explained the stories behind their numbers. The reveal starts around the 7:50 mark.
Watch the VLive here (English subtitles)
PTo make it easier, here’s a quick summary:
- V: 000001 – For V, this sequence represents the journey from “zero to one,” symbolizing his path to becoming number 1.
- SUGA: 384627 – Yoongi kept it real: he chose these numbers randomly, with no specific meaning. Just because.
- Jungkook: 110604 – When flipped, it becomes 04/06/11 — the date he arrived in Seoul, marking the beginning of his BTS journey.
- Jin: 655212 – Like SUGA, Jin admitted he picked the numbers without any particular reason.
- RM: 201904 – These numbers reference an apartment building and unit he once lived in — a personal, nostalgic touch.
- Jimin: 141018 – Reversed, it becomes 18/10/14, the date of BTS’s first major concert, The Red Bullet in Seoul. A truly emotional milestone.
- j-hope: 660660 – Hobi explained this number is used as a pager code for 뽀뽀 (bbo bbo), which means “kiss” in Korean. Cute and fun, just like him.
Yet another example of how BTS packs meaning — or humor — into even the smallest details of BTS Butter. Attentive fans were, as always, rewarded.
The Elevator Buttons and a Message Just for ARMY
Ah, the details in the BTS Butter MV… even the elevator buttons hold something special! We already had a hint thanks to Jimin’s concept photos, which gave a better look at the elevator’s colorful interior. But watching the video closely makes it even clearer: each button carries a meaning that only true fans will catch.
Here’s what appears, from bottom to top:
- The BTS symbol
- The ARMY symbol
- Buttons labeled B1 to B7 — likely referencing Butter or BTS + the 7 members
- And at the very top, the letter A, a direct nod to ARMY
But the symbolism doesn’t stop there. In a BANGTANTV Episode, Namjoon shared a heartfelt reflection on the elevator’s meaning in the BTS Butter MV, drawing a powerful connection to the group’s past:
“We also took an elevator in ‘DOPE’. That one took us out of the basement — and this one is taking us to the hearts of ARMYs.”
And guess what? In the video, at exactly the 1:02 mark, V presses the button labeled “A” — as if saying, “That’s where we’re headed.”
Just one more of those poetic details that only BTS could pull off — and that make the BTS Butter MV so layered and meaningful for those who watch with their hearts.Watch the BTS ‘Butter’ MV Shoot Sketch Episode:
The ARMY in the BTS Butter Choreography (yes, you’re there!)
Get your tissues ready, because this detail from BTS Butter is truly goosebump-worthy. In a very special moment of the choreography, BTS literally includes ARMY on stage — and that’s no exaggeration.
During one formation, the seven members position themselves strategically to form the word “ARMY.” And the most beautiful part? Our beloved RM stands right in the center of the formation — which makes perfect sense: the letters R and M are the heart of the word ARMY. The result? They form: A R(M) Y.
It’s a choice that shows not only attention to detail, but above all, the deep affection the group has for their fans. It’s not just a beautiful dance move — it’s a silent message saying: “You’re always with us — even in our steps.”
Unmissable BTS Butter Performances You Have to Watch
BTS Butter didn’t just shine in the music video — far from it. The song came to life on stages around the world, with performances that showcased the full charisma, stage presence, and synchronicity of the seven members.
From international award shows to TV programs and Korean stages, each performance brought something new: different outfits, fresh set designs, visual arrangements, and even slight changes in choreography. It’s a true festival of talent — and one that’s worth watching (and rewatching) without moderation. Below, you’ll find a curated list of the most iconic BTS Butter performances, including the Hotter Remix version — so get ready to hit play (and replay).
BTS ‘Butter (Hotter Remix)’ Official MV
‘Butter (Cooler Remix)’ Official MV
‘Butter’ Special Performance Video
‘Butter’ @ SiriusXM Hits 1
‘Butter’ | Global Citizen Live
‘Butter’ @ The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon
‘Butter’ @ The 64th GRAMMY Awards
BTS Butter: So Much More Than a Catchy Hit
BTS Butter isn’t just a catchy song with addictive choreography — it’s a complete package: stunning visuals, layered symbolism (some subtle, some not so much), overflowing charisma, and a message of lightness with a confident edge that only BTS can deliver.
Every detail — from the outfits to the elevator, the tattoos to the dance formation — was crafted with care, reinforcing the group’s bond with ARMY and showing exactly why BTS keeps breaking boundaries and making history. Butter melted records, hearts, and any doubt that BTS is at the top thanks to pure talent and hard work.
Now it’s your turn — tell us in the comments:
- What’s your favorite version of the MV?
- Did you catch all these details?
- And of course, what’s the most unforgettable BTS Butter moment for you?
We want to hear it all!
