Crafting Chart-Topping Hits: Tyler Spry's Journey from Bad Bunny to BTS
How does a producer continue to create chart-topping hits after working on a Grammy-winning album for Bad Bunny? Tyler Spry, a key member of the creative team behind Bad Bunny's DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, is now collaborating with another global sensation, BTS. The South Korean boy band's latest project, ARIRANG, marks their return after individual solo endeavors. With a diverse lineup of talent like Diplo, Ryan Tedder, Kevin Parker, El Guicho, and more, ARIRANG embraces cultural heritage while exploring new sounds.
Spry's journey with BTS began with pitching ideas early in 2025, leading to his involvement in a writing camp in Los Angeles. The creation of the R&B track "Please" and the trance-like lead single "Swim" unfolded during these sessions. Spry describes the organic process of crafting "Swim" in under 30 minutes, highlighting the seamless collaboration with Diplo, Tedder, and RM to shape the song's vision. As the album took shape, the pressure intensified, especially with the band's self-imposed deadline.
Despite the challenges of working across continents, Spry navigated late-night sessions and constant communication to finalize the album. The success of ARIRANG, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and producing chart-topping singles, including "Swim," reflects the dedication and creativity poured into the project. Spry's experience with BTS showcases the magic of collaboration and the thrill of creating music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Reflecting on the album's reception, Spry expresses gratitude for the opportunity to work with BTS and witness their legendary performances. The unexpected success of "Swim" and the album as a whole underscores the innovative approach taken by the team. Spry's initial involvement in the project, driven by a desire to challenge himself and collaborate with top artists, laid the foundation for a transformative creative journey with BTS.
The collaborative process with BTS allowed Spry to witness the band members' individual talents and personalities. From Jung Kook's songwriting prowess to V's warm demeanor, each member brought a unique energy to the studio. The open communication and mutual respect among collaborators led to the creation of impactful songs like "Please" and "Swim," showcasing the band's evolution and artistic vision.
As BTS explores new musical territories with ARIRANG, Spry's contributions as a producer have helped shape the album's sound and direction. The decision to release English-language tracks like "Swim" reflects a strategic approach to reaching a broader audience while staying true to BTS's artistic identity. The album's success on global charts highlights the universal appeal of BTS's music and the impact of their creative evolution.
Navigating tight deadlines and high expectations, Spry and the team worked tirelessly to deliver a cohesive and compelling album. The collaborative spirit and dedication to excellence fueled the creative process, resulting in a project that resonates with fans worldwide. Spry's experience with BTS on ARIRANG exemplifies the power of collaboration, innovation, and artistic vision in creating music that transcends boundaries and captivates audiences.