Welcome back to Best of Weekly Music Shows! This week saw the return of global superstars BTS as well as the return of K-pop legends Shinhwa on their 20th anniversary project. Former JBJ member Jin Longguo also made a comeback as a soloist with his first mini-album. In terms of music show wins, BTS rapidly picked up 2 wins while (G)-Idle got their first win for their comeback. Just like last week, Red Velvet proved their staying power by attaining the crown on M! Countdown.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDxhHPqPwqY
Stray Kids’ “Awkward Silence”, KBS Music Bank, August 31, 2018
This was already my favourite track off I Am Who but Stray Kids’ live performance of it was on a different level. The innovative choreography really elevated the track, and it is plain that the members have so much fun performing this. The rap ‘battle’ between Han and Changbin (featuring the always adorable Felix) was hilarious too.
BTS’s “Save Me + I’m Fine”, Mnet M! Countdown, August 30, 2018
It was lovely watching BTS perform “Save Me” again, but the transition between the tracks was pure artistry. The visualisation of “Save Me” being flipped into “I’m Fine” while the same music riff continued — bravo M! Countdown. The choreography for “I’m Fine” mirrors “Save Me” in some ways, but it also features new group formations and impressive synchronicity.
Produce 48’s “As We Dream”, Mnet Produce 48, August 31, 2018
This has become a requisite stage at every Produce season finale, but it is a beautiful and touching performance all the same. The beautiful floral outfits and the pristine image of the contestants fit nicely with the sweet ballad. The equal mix of Korean and Japanese lyrics of the song was impressive as well, especially since the Korean and Japanese members sounded fluent in both languages. As this internationality was a key aspect of Produce 48, it is nice that it was emphasised on till the end.
Shinhwa’s “Kiss Me Like That”, Mnet M! Countdown, August 30, 2018
This stage is the ultimate proof that Shinhwa is anything but dated, even if they are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. The subtle, sexy moves the members pull off go so well with the minimalistic “Kiss Me Like That”. Their maturity and experience really shows through this performance and is a delight to watch.
Loona‘s “Favorite”, MBC Show Champion, August 29, 2018
This stage was significantly less decorated than their “Hi High” stage, but the members make up for it with the overflowing charisma they show here. Their hair flips are so unapologetic and on point. The fact that they are wearing identical school uniforms while performing so fiercely contrasts so refreshingly with the cute school-girl image fans are used to.
What were your favourite performances of the week?
