Games developer Riot Games, owned by Tencent, has announced that HYBE-signed K-Pop group NewJeans will perform the anthem for the 2023 League of Legends World Championship. The championship, also known as Worlds, is one of the most widely viewed e-Sports tournaments, attracting millions of viewers each year. NewJeans’ song, titled “GODS,” will be released on October 3 at 10 p.m. PT. The group debuted last summer and achieved success with a No.1 album on the Billboard 200 in August this year. Riot Games has a history of collaborating with superstar artists for its anthems, including Imagine Dragons, Zedd, and Lil Nas X. NewJeans’ collaboration with Riot Games is seen as a cultural celebration, especially as the championship will be held in their home country of South Korea.
Global Head of Music & Events at Riot Games Entertainment, Maria Egan, expressed excitement about partnering with NewJeans, noting that the group joins the ranks of previous superstar artists who have made the anthem a significant moment for the League of Legends community. Carrie Dunn, Global Head of Creative, Esports at Riot Games, described the partnership as a true cultural celebration, especially given that Worlds will be taking place in South Korea. The anthem, titled “GODS,” is expected to convey the intensity and glory that players experience at Worlds, and the accompanying music video will feature familiar faces and memorable moments from previous championships.
Riot Games has a history of integrating music into its gaming events, such as the virtual K-pop girl group K/DA, which was launched at the 2018 League of Legends World Championship. NewJeans’ collaboration with Riot Games is seen as an opportunity for the group to showcase their unique colors and style while reaching a wide global audience. The League of Legends community is eagerly anticipating the release of “GODS” and the accompanying music video, which is expected to capture the spirit and excitement of the World Championship.