SM founder’s Chinese girl group 'A20 May' enters US, China charts — marking start of global push

Group's debut single, "Under My Skin," lands at No. 39 on US Mediabase chart — a first for a Chinese girl group

A20 May (A20 Entertainment)

A20 May, a new Chinese girl group launched by SM Entertainment founder Lee Soo-man, is quickly gaining global traction, breaking into music charts in both China and the US ahead of its scheduled performance at the 102.7 KIIS FM Wango Tango festival Sunday.

The multinational group will be the first Chinese act to perform at the well-known festival in Huntington Beach, California, which this year features artists such as Doja Cat, Meghan Trainor and David Guetta.

A20 May’s second single, “Boss,” released April 25, recently entered the No. 8 spot on the Hot Song Chart of QQ Music, China’s largest music streaming platform. It also topped the platform’s New Song Chart, where it debuted at No. 1 and has remained in the upper ranks — helping it break into the platform’s main Top 10 chart.

“Boss” is also gaining attention in the US, where it entered the Mediabase Top 100, a key mainstream radio chart. Following the success of debut single “Under My Skin,” which peaked at No. 39 on the same chart, A20 May has become the first Chinese act to have two songs in the Mediabase Top 100 at the same time.

The music video for “Boss” has surpassed a combined 60 million views across Weibo and YouTube, demonstrating the group's growing global reach and the appeal of their signature "Zalpha Pop" sound. Zalpha Pop, a term introduced by Lee, is a genre that blends Gen Z and Alpha Generation sentiments.

A20 May is produced under A20 Entertainment, led by Lee as key producer and visionary leader. The group’s concept centers on Zalpha Pop, which aims to reflect the unique spirit of a new generation and foster a deeper cultural connection with fans worldwide.

Following their successful debut in December, A20 May returned in April with “Boss,” showcasing a refined yet powerful charisma. The track features punchy drums and siren-like synths that build tension, layered with playful sonic textures that add intrigue.