Any band releasing a song titled “I Am the Best” rarely gets the chance to prove it. But for K-pop sensation 2NE1, it only took a few short months. CL, Dara, Bom, and Minzy — the four fiercest ladies of K-pop — went head-to-head against nine powerhouse musical acts. But like superheroes from a distant galaxy, like their own “Sudden Attack” video game avatars, they bested all before them. 2NE1′s instantly addictive hard-edged, synthesized, amalgamated pop sound pushes the group light years away from the girlie/sexy/cute female K-pop stereotype, winning the group legions of devoted fans far outside their hometown borders. They promised, “I’ll bring you all the way to the end, follow, follow, me.” And borne upon the shoulders of these Blackjacks, they’re leading the way forward in the 2NE1st century.

For Venezuelan La Vida Bohème, Pakistani Atif Aslam, Malaysian Yuna, and American Skrillex, the ride has been no less thrilling. Each band came equipped with a passionate fanbase but won more hearts along they way, picking up new votes with each passing week. They make us dance, swoon, and cry. They make our faces melt. And they now ride an enormous tide of worldwide support, ready for further honors and acclaim in 2012.

Our straightforward goal, from the outset, was to discover and share mind-blowing new music. To that end, we congratulate and thank all our finalists — you are the best of global pop music. Over the past six weeks, America voted for all of you in massive numbers. It’s been our pleasure to introduce you to new audiences, and now we can say with confidence — America is ready.

Source: mtviggy.com