Best of Weekly Music Shows: 8/11- 8/17

This week was a bit hectic for the music shows, with Music Core and M!Countdown airing specials in place of their usual episodes. Music Core had their outdoor concert special, while Mnet showed off the acts present at KCON in 2 Nights in LA, with Block B getting the non-aired trophy. Hyuna took Show Champion, with Sistar claiming both Inkigayo and Music Bank. Fans got treated to the first round of performances from the newly solo Taemin, as well as the return of Secret. Let’s take a look at some of the more memorable performances of the week.

BTS‘ “Boy in Luv,” Mnet 2 Nights in LA, August 14, 2014

This year’s KCON was headlined by none other than the juggernauts SNSD and G-Dragon, both of whom give excellent live performances. So imagine my shock when I realized these legends paled in comparison to rookies BTS. This is glorious. Everything is perfectly in sync, and they are so intensely into their performance. The boys of BTS are clearly feeding off the crowd’s high energy and giving it right back. More, please.

Hyuna’s “Red,” MBC Show! Music Core Outdoor Concert, August 16, 2014

First off, a round of applause for everyone who performed at the Music Core concert. It was an outdoor concert, the weather was truly horrendous, and no one looked the slightest bit bothered. Especially not Hyuna. This is one of her strongest, most charismatic performances, period. She owns that stage, no questions asked, and that is what makes her a good soloist. She can perform like nobody’s business.

Ladies’ Code‘s “Kiss Kiss,” SBS Inkigayo, August 17, 2014

As stated previously, “Kiss Kiss” sounds much, much better live. The young Ladies’ Code sounded almost flawless in every stage they did this week. However, their Inkigayo performance just popped. The quintet had such a powerful stage presence. It’s hard to believe they’re a little over a year out from debut. Add in some killer camerawork from the Inkigayo crew to a good song and great voices, and you have one of the best performances of the week.

Block B’s “H.E.R.,” KBS Music Bank, August 15, 2014

It’s going to be a shame to go through a week without the insanity of “H.E.R.,” as Block B partook in their goodbye stages this week. I don’t think there has ever been a bad performance of “H.E.R.” throughout the entire promotional cycle, but Music Bank‘s stood out by really showcasing how crazy Block B is onstage. They’re dressed normally, there’s no flashy background, but the energy and insanity aren’t lessened in the slightest.

Secret’s “I’m in Love,” SBS Inkigayo, August 17, 2014

The quartet has just started their “I’m in Love” promotions, and if this week is any indication, it’s going to be a fun cycle. Secret just seems so happy to be performing something strong and sassy again, and that carries into their performances. Their dancing has real conviction behind it. Their strong vocal performance is just the cherry on top.

Those are some of my personal favorites stages of the week. Are there any you think I missed, Seoulbeats readers?

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