"Grow up"- Fans defend Stray Kids' Felix for his take on "the groups that paved the way" amid backlash 

On October 5, 2024, Billboard released an interview video of Stray Kids ahead of the AMAs (American Music Awards) 50th Anniversary Special, airing on October 6. The K-pop phenomenon will pay homage to boy bands at the event and share a stage with the popular American group NSYNC for a collaborative performance.

In the interview, rolled out on Billboard's official YouTube channel and other social media platforms, Stray Kids spoke about their recent achievements, including topping the Billboard 200 for the fifth consecutive time with ATE.

The interviewer, referring to the octet's upcoming performance paying tribute to the legacy of boy bands, went on to ask about what groups paved the way according to Stray Kids.

Answering the question, member Felix voiced how several boy groups can be credited for paving the way and added that NSYNC also set a solid example alongside other groups, performance-wise and culturally. He said:

"Well, I mean, I think there are so many boy groups that paved the way, but also just like, to perform, I think NSYNC also paved a way along. And yeah, they've showed a lot of culture. And yeah, it's cool!"

While Felix's candid response was praised by many fans. It also quickly drew the attention of other K-pop fans, who seemingly did not agree with his choice. Several K-pop fans started pointing out how Felix could have named artists from the K-pop industry itself, which would have been fitting in this context.

Noticing the bevy of online disapproval, STAYs (Stray Kids' fandom) stepped up to defend Felix on his answer. While some called his stance respectful and thoughtful, considering how it was natural for him to pick a band Stray Kids recently teamed up with at the AMAs. Others agreed that all artists are paving the way with their own contributions. Here's what a fan said:

"Felix said there are many boy groups who paved the way. *NSYNC was specifically mentioned because they would also be performing on AMA. Some people are really making issue out if this. Grow up!"

There were many supportive comments by STAYs who stand with the Deep end singer on his comment.

"Felix was brilliant. Great conversation skills. Polite, respectful and thoughtful. All groups/bands in the world with different styles of music deserve respect. They are all paving the way for their music to flourish. A variety of music from different cultures and histories. There's always something new going on." wrote one netizen.

"i don't see why they're being attacked for this like felix answered that question in the best way he's always so respectful and mindful," added another STAY.

"Felix answered that “paved the way” question in the most eloquent way possible, showing respect to every boyband that existed. literally no one can be mad at this," one X-user said.

Fans repeatedly pointed out how Felix's answer aligned with the performance they shared with NSYNC.

"Felix's answer is quite obvious, because they will be performing with NSYNC," another fan commented.

"These fan wars are so pointless and boring at this point. I liked Felix's answer, he is there to promote their performance and their collab with 'NSYNC." another fan said.

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Stray Kids to perform for the first time at the AMAs for the 50th Anniversary Special

The American Music Awards will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Sunday, October 6, 2024, from 8 pm ET/5 pm PT. The segment will be aired on CBS and will be streamed on Paramount+.

Stray Kids will be performing for the first time at the annually held award ceremony's 50th Anniversary Special to pay a special tribute to boy bands through their stage, and have been much-anticipated for the same.

In line with the concept, a picture of the group with the legendary American rock band Green Day is also going viral on the internet. Stray Kids even shared the original snaps on their official Instagram handle with the caption,

"@greenday + @realstraykids = ICONIC!"

During the Billboard interview, interviewer Tetris Kelly inquired Stray Kids about what it was like to perform with NSYNC. The members visibly exuded excitement about the stage they shared with the Bye Bye Bye singers. Felix responded that performing for the first time at the AMAs and collaborating with NSYNC on top of that, felt memorable and special.

The next question asked what sets them apart as a boyband, to which leader Bang Chan replied that they make their own music and they have been transparent about showing their originality since the beginning. They wanted to spread the message people needed through their music. Bang Chan even credited the team's love for each other as something unique and special.

On self-producing and its importance, Bang Chan further expressed how since the members are the ones performing on stage and singing the lyrics, it is necessary to make the genuine music they want to present.

Felix further added how performing Chk Chk Boom in front of fans was special as STAYs' energy and excitement could be felt. When the JYPE group was asked if there were any future plans lined up, Bangchan stated the group is constantly trying to create more music and are currently in the middle of their dominATE World Tour.

He asked fans to keep an eye out for things yet to come. The interview concluded with Felix stating that performing at the AMAs for the first time was his most memorable moment from the event.

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In other news, Stray Kids have been on their dominATE World Tour since August 24, when they kicked off the tour at Seoul's KSPO Dome. They have performed in Singapore since then, and their next stage will be on October 19 at Melbourne's Marvel Stadium.