Best of Weekly Music Shows: 12/14 - 12/20

Welcome to another edition of the Best of Weekly Music Shows! Many groups are in the holiday spirit, so the stages were covered in tinsel and snowflakes galore. There were a number of idols decked for good cheer as Santas, elves and reindeer, much to the delight of fans. For those of you who don’t care for the festivities, there were also many performances that didn’t indulge in all of that ho-ho-hoing.

Exo took home their first trophy for “Sing for You” on KBS Music Bank while BTS picked up a second consecutive win for “Run” on MBC Show Champion. Psy was also victorious with wins on SBS Inkigayo and Mnet M!Countdown. Congrats to everyone!

There weren’t a lot of new faces on the music shows, but I’m never disappointed at seeing familiar ones again. Grab a snack and get ready to enjoy some of my picks for favorite performances of the week!

Lee Ye-joon‘s “Beautiful Lady” featuring Boys Republic‘s Sungjun, MBC Show Champion, December 16, 2015

A lot of fans differ in opinions about what makes a great singer, but I believe it’s not always about who can hit the highest or longest note. I like vocalists who understand their range and know how to control their voices for the song. Lee Ye-joon may not be the most popular soloist out there, but I appreciate her command on stage. She’s an example of a singer who gets her message across in song without the use of excessive runs and exaggerated facial expressions.

Royal Pirates‘ “Run Away,” MBC Show Champion, December 16, 2015

What isn’t there to love about bands? Nothing against the copious idol groups who sing and dance for entertainment, but I applaud those who can play instruments because that takes just as much work and dedication. The group truly loses themselves on stage, increasing their natural charisma. James is adjusting well to the keyboard after his hand injury caused him to give up his bass. I’m thankful that it didn’t change the sound of group drastically. This only proves how talented and professional they are to overcome something that would’ve derailed other groups.

Exo’s “Sing For You,” KBS Music Bank, December 18, 2015

Normally, I’m wary of Exo’s ballad tracks because the imbalance in line distribution disappoints me. I like a harmonious blend of voices when I listen to large groups, and “Sing For You” finally gave me what I needed to hear from Exo. I love that the other members get a chance to prove that they’re not just background fillers on stage. That’s honestly been my biggest criticism since the beginning, and it’s nice to know the others do have more attributes beyond dancing and being attractive. I hope SM continues giving the group more songs that allow everyone to shine.

9Muses‘ “Sleepless Night,” SBS Inkigayo, December 20, 2015

Ironically, the song puts me to sleep because it sounds like a lullaby, which isn’t a bad thing. I like tunes that relax me. 9Muses is one of those groups that don’t get credit when it’s due many times. They exhibit a captivating presence that transcends beyond the superficiality of their beauty. I love the intricacies in their choreography and how the simple movements work well with the mood of the song. The fact that they still remain synchronized with a slow-paced dance deserves accolades alone.

B.A.P‘s “Be Happy,” SBS Inkigayo, December 20, 2015

There are some groups who lose me when they go for upbeat tunes because their performances come off extra cheesy and contrived. I prefer groups to naturally let their charms show rather than force expressions of cuteness. B.A.P does that here, displaying the side of them that isn’t hard-edged and full of angst. Bonus points for the individual fan service break near the end which gave each member a chance to reveal his playful qualities.

Those were my top picks, but you’re welcomed to include yours in the comments below. Tell us which performances entertained you this past week.

(YouTube [1][2][3], Image via SBS)