The Best of Weekly Music Shows has arrived again! Things couldn’t be hotter now that summer is here, especially with the return of EXID, KNK, and Fiestar. Making her solo debut with the dance track “Free Somebody” was Luna of f(x). The weather seems to be agreeing with the idols seeing how much energy everyone put into their stages. It appears everybody is ready to party with the requisite beach jams, and I couldn’t be happier.
The 2016 Dream Concert took place this past week with a robust roster of talent. Mnet‘s M! Countdown also held a special episode filmed in China with a few old favorites from artists. SHINee‘s Jonghyun received his first wins for “She Is” on SBS The Show and MBC Show Champion. Twice snagged their 10th trophy for “Cheer Up” on KBS Music Bank while Baek A Yeon won for “So So” on M! Countdown and SBS Inkigayo. Congrats everybody!
As usual, I chose some of the performances that stood out best to me. Please feel free to include your own in the comments.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyKbl6XeDJ0
EXID’s “L.I.E”, KBS Music Bank, June 3, 2016
The ladies of EXID are back with another upbeat tune. I like that they’ve changed gears a bit here. My favorite part of this performance is their dance breakdown when the beat drops. I miss this brand of sexy edginess from EXID and seeing it took me back to their “I Feel Good” days. The line distribution is more even as well, which is another relief to see. I want to see them grow more in this direction.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MnuamWGKH0
Jun Jin‘s “Wow Wow Wow”, Mnet M! Countdown, June 2, 2016
Age is nothing but a number! Just because rookies have youth on their side, doesn’t mean fans should discount the talents of first generation idols. Jun Jin rips up the stage just as well as any of his juniors, proving why Shinhwa‘s members are regarded with such high respect. If the newer generations want to make it as long as they have, they’re going to need to work supremely hard for that goal. It’s not unattainable; it’s admirable.
Monsta X‘s “All In”, MBC Show Champion, June 1, 2016
Living up to their name, this group embodies the title of their latest song. They are truly all in when it comes to performing. The choreography makes great use of the group’s size, filling up the stage. Apparently, I’m not the only one mesmerized by Shownu‘s back, seeing as how the camera focused on it a lot. Actually, the camera work really helped draw out the best parts of the performance, which is a very welcomed surprise since that rarely happens. Thanks for not focusing only on faces, MBC!
Oh My Girl‘s “Windy Day”, MBC Show Champion, June 1, 2016
While I’m split emotionally over the song itself, I’m very much in love with the choreography. Musicality is often underrated when it comes to creating these routines, so I appreciate when somebody takes the time and effort to match the theme of the song. Even the styling choice works as their wispy costumes sway along with their movements. The wind machine is also a nice touch. My favorite part is the hook because it really shows that these girls know how to get down.
Jonghyun’s “She Is”, MBC Show Champion, June 1, 2016
Jonghyun was always meant to be on stage. He simply loves what he does, and that’s what makes all of his performances electrifying. He exudes a natural charisma that can’t be taught; you either have it, or you don’t. The way this man smiles throughout the entire set tells me the stage is his favorite place to be. When it can sometimes feel like certain idols are performing out of obligation, it’s refreshing to watch someone who truly enjoys putting on a show.
Jonghyun’s “White T-shirt”, MBC Show Champion, June 1, 2016
That’s right, I picked him twice in the same week! I made an exception because of the reasons mentioned for his other performance. The man doesn’t quit. I don’t see him looking tired and ready to settle for civilian life. If anything, he’s probably going to be like Jun Jin and do this as long as he can. I can’t really think of the appropriate words to accurately describe my feelings on this one, except to say I’ve never been more jealous of a T-shirt in my life.
Readers, what were your favorite stages from this past week?
