With a vocal range that is otherworldly and transcends between time and space, a tone that is angelic, and a technique that has been refined to perfection, in an industry where it is quite easy to find similarities in the vocal style of its idols, it is quite refreshing almost exhilarating even, to see one whose sound is so unique and cannot be replicated.The standard comments you might leave or see after every Onew performance or music video are “wow, his visuals are top tier and his vocals are insanely beautiful”, “his vocals are perfect”, “his vocals speak to my soul”, or “his voice gives me chills”. Without a shred of doubt, he befits comments like these as his songs, his voice, his persona, and his all-around aesthetics are a gift that’s set to make the hearts of mankind feel a diverse range of emotions.Onew understands the power and purpose of music, he can use it to heal, excite, empower, adorn, or express levels of pain or sadness. He uses his music as a tool to express not just his thoughts but those of his fans too. He perfectly communicates his emotions in a way that no other artist does. His art is relatable, it is clear, it is powerful, resonates, and leaves a memorable impression in the minds of his audience.Here are some of his music that would leave you in a state of awe and clear appreciation of his talents.
1. ‘Life goes on’
Perhaps one of the key traits that Onew possesses is how to use his vocals to send a clear message. It is undeniable that he is one of the best vocalists, and in that, many could rightfully assume that we mean, his powerful range or tone, or technique. However, these are not the only criterion that makes the term. Onew’s clear ability to emote with his vocals is what really makes him stand out. Relaxing and healing, in this song, Onew radiates the level of positivity and hope we all need. He is like a sponge that soaks up all the negativity and when squeezed, produces drips of happiness and peace. A true happy feel song, he makes you understand that regardless of the situation, life truly goes on and what we can do sometimes is life through it by finding happiness in the smallest or simplest things.
2. ‘Blue’
Right from the first note, you are already hooked. Your interest is piqued as his emotional voice bursts through your senses and immediately draws your attention to the song. He tells a story with his voice. His vocals are layered with pain, sadness, and a hint of hope and restoration. Which is perhaps what makes this song beautiful. His vocals convey his emotions so beautifully, without disguise, without fear, he expresses himself to the point where the listener gets overwhelmed and feels everything he is feeling. A true vocalist, Onew has shown that his style cannot be fitted into a box. He can make you happy, he can have you dancing, or he can make you cry your eyes out all with one vocal note. ‘Blue’ is one of the ballads of the century. A true masterpiece.
3. ‘Rainy Blue’
Without a doubt, the stage is Onew and Onew is the stage. It is the place where he shines brightest, be it with SHINee or alone, there is a magical glow that he exudes on stage that is simply enchanting. You feel a sense of peace and pride watching him perform with so much passion and desire. With each performance, it feels like he has something to say and we are all ears. This particular performance leaves us impressed. His voice is once again amazingly beautiful and special. From his expressions, you can tell he truly immerses himself in this performance, he understands and believes every word he sings, and perhaps that is how his audience is able to believe in and feel every emotion he conveys with this song.
4. ‘Your Scent’
With vocals as clear as the skies on a bright summer day, Onew thrills our senses with this heartwarming performance. ‘Your Scent’ is a very beautiful song that holds a resoundingly deep meaning, and that is conveyed and one that cannot be missed with Onew’s vocals. Simply put, Onew is a gift that keeps giving, from his thoughtful lyrics to his exciting performances, and his angelic vocals, Onew continues to bless our minds with incredible work of art that makes us believe in the power and purpose of music. We feel, we acknowledge, and we understand. We hope he continues to do this for a very long time.
5. ‘Under The Starlight’
When we mention things like “vocal kings of K-Pop” or “the best K-Pop vocalists”, it is without a doubt that Onew ranks high on that list. Regardless of the setting and regardless of the concept, the one thing that Onew needs to shine is his vocals. There is something so unique about Onew’s vocals, something that sets him miles apart from many. His tone is so soft and sweet, like the texture and taste of honey. Listening to Onew sing is truly addictive. It is a good kind of drug that makes your day just a little bit brighter.
6. ‘DICE’
The massive contrast between songs like ‘Blue’ and ‘DICE’ brilliant speaks to Onew’s artistic ingenuity. The cheery bright feel of this song comes to life with his vocal tone. He knows he doesn’t need to do much for the viewers/listeners to not just connect with the song but have a good time while listening to it. But even with his “little”, it is beyond powerful as his vocals, in any concept or style, are simply that, POWERFUL.
7. ‘On the way’
Shall we talk about Onew’s live vocals?! The stability in his vocals! Incredible! Perhaps, one could say this speaks to his years of consistency and practice to refine his art to a level where it could be termed the standard. Fans sometimes say that SHINee’s live performances are often better than the studio version, and with this performance, that could be right. Onew as always, immerses himself fully into this song. From his every movement to his vocals, you can clearly see how lost in the song he is. On stage, he is in his own world, and while he knows he has a crowd to perform for, he also knows he is here to enjoy himself. The stage is simply his playground.
BONUS
1. “Sea Of Hope” performances
Onew on “Sea Of Hope” was simply a brilliant decision as no one fits the concept of healing better than he does. All of his performances were incredible but this one with famous actor Lee DongWook was truly amazing. Speaking to his professionalism, his ability to switch his tone to match his partners, in such a swift manner, is remarkable. Frankly, looking at the beginning of this performance as a viewer, one would imagine that performing with Onew would be nerve-wracking because of how incredible he is and that could lead to mistakes. However, watching this performance, he somehow makes Lee DongWook comfortable and at ease. He guided him gently to a point where he felt confident and was able to sing beautifully. Perhaps we can add Teacher to his resume as he truly is one.
2. “Don’t Call Me”
SHINee’s discography is filled with amazing songs. This is no surprise when they are one of the best vocal groups in K-Pop. All with different vocal colors and styles, together, they fit in brilliantly and shine brightly. Speaking on Onew, fresh off the military, he reminded many of his amazing vocal abilities and his iconic range. With notes that would make the ordinary man run out of breath, he sings so effortlessly, infusing his amazing riffs and runs and leaving us floored with his incredible high note at the end.Which of these Onew performances is your favorite? Or do you have another favorite Onew song you’d like to recommend to our readers? Let us know in the comments section below. Top 12 Best Solo Stage Performances (First Half Of The Year) KPOP STORIES|Jun 29, 2022 Fans React As SHINee’s Onew Releases Comeback Album “DICE” KPOP STORIES|Apr 12, 2022 10 Male K-Pop Idols That Had Us Shook With Their High Notes KPOP STORIES|Apr 8, 2022
