#lyrics that remind me of nct

[amourfae]

hi fae 🐻 if u ask game is still open, that is :>

[lulujeno]

finding out you sleep with a plushie

— nct dream ᡣ𐭩

cw : none! 100% fluff ^^

a/n : my tumblr debut yay! tried to make it as gender neutral as possible so i hope you enjoyyy

mark:

came home late from practice and found you sleeping on the couch with a winnie-the-pooh plushie tucked under your arms

first time seeing you sleep with the plushie despite knowing that you can't sleep without it

takes note of it for future occurrences

going on a flight? road trip? staying at your friends place? he will for sure remind you about the plush

when you forget the plushie at his place he will have it sitting on his bed against a pillow (sometimes 'reading' one of his books)

every time he sees winnie-the-pooh now he will take a quick pic of it to send to you

"yooooo why this lowkey looks like you"

doesn't forget to remind you that you're cuter tho

poor markie was so panicked when he couldn't find the plush after you texted him that you left it at his place

had a whole apology written down knowing how precious it was since its your childhood plushie

promised to buy you the exact same one and is basically crying now because he knows that it won't be able to replace the one you had

luckily he found it under his bed so we're all good!

renjun:

you were taking a nap on his bed when he saw you hugging a duck plushie

takes a quick pic for memories sake (and to tease you about it in the near future)

since then his little notes for you include a small duck doodle on it

"left early for practice 𓅭" "leftovers are in the fridge 𓅿" "goodluck for the interview today 𓅹"

when he's overseas for schedules he'll find something with ducks on it to give to you as a little souvenir

kisses both you and the duck when he sees you asleep after a long day (it calms him down)

would ask who's cuter, him or duckie?

you jokingly say duckie which causes him to nag to your plushie about stealing his partner

ducks are now his new favourite thing to draw (lyric sheets are his no. 1 victim)

when you couldn't find the plush he offers himself as something for you to cuddle with

resulted in him getting smacked and proceeding to help you find the duck

gets sulky after, saying that hes better at cuddling than the "piece of fluff"

you coo at his jealousy over a stuffed toy and cuddle the both of them

jeno:

he arrived at your place a little later than usual and sees you tucked in with a black bunny

he coos at how adorable the sight is and takes a picture to set as one of his many lockscreens of you

noticed that its the bunny he bought for you before he went on tour for tds2

"if you miss me just cuddle the bunny okay? he has black hair like me so it wouldnt be that much of a difference"

obviously cuddling a grown man and a 31cm plushie is different but what can you do when he's halfway across the globe?

also the type to kiss you and your bunny goodnight

caught him doing it one day and now try to stay awake long enough to catch him doing it again

you fail to do so since his schedules always end soooo late f u sm!!

would give your bunny a wash once every few months since the bunny is a representation of him and he takes personal hygiene very seriously! (his words, not yours)

the bunny would have a new ribbon tied to its ears, depending on what colour his hair is this time (always praying for the pink or white ribbon to come back one day)

gets jealous that you cuddle the bunny more than him

you'd get back at him saying that he's the one that bought the bunny

haechan:

could not shut up when he realised that the plushie you couldn't sleep without was a brown bear

teases you to no end because everyone knows the he is the og brown bear

he finds it too cute that you need a mini him to sleep

"awwwh, you're so in love with me that your plushie is basically me"

you tell him that its just a basic bear, theres no deeper meaning to it

you did buy it because it looks like him but he can't know that! the teases will be insufferable

doesn't care if it had another name before hand because it is now haechan jr.

if he sees the plush on the floor he'll pick it up and tuck it under your arms

the type to tell the little guy to take care of you in your sleep

you'd buy a mini version for him to bring around for schedules and tours

gives you updates about mini haechan jr. every second

practice room? recording studio? m/v shoot? fansign? filming 7llin? you will be getting updates!! not missing a single one

would post haechan jr. and mini haechan jr. on his instagram as a soft launch

it's a little too soft but its okay since you both want to keep it on the downlow anyways

jaemin:

found you sleeping one night with a pink bunny hidden under the blanket next to you

was cooing at how cute the sight was

also one to take pics because that's his partner!! why wouldn't he?

had to hold himself back from pinching your cheeks and opted to pat your head instead

will ask about it the next time he sees you and wont stop telling you how cute you are

you left it at his place once and suddenly theres a ribbon on your bunny's ears (i wonder who added it)

caught him having a full on conversation with your bunny a few times damn your bf is weird

basically treats the bunny like his child at this point

will remind you to bring your bunny when going on overnight trips with him

will not stop taking pictures of the bunny (he has a whole file for it on his phone btw)

"aigoooo look how adorable she is"

"awww both my babies look so cute I have to take a pic"

also one to send you pics of things with bunnies on it when on tour, buys it for you too sometimes

his cats loves bitting everything, including your bunny

makes sure that its as far away from luna, lucy, and luke after he caught them trying to bite on it

you're now 100x cuter in his eyes and he wont shut up about it

chenle:

slightly smiled to himself when saw you bring a dumbo plushie the first time you slept over at his face

he bought it so of course you'll be sleeping with it

why dumbo? because he has big ears and you're nosy as hell (his words btw)

you got sulky when you heard the reason and he corrected himself and said that it was because he was a yapper and you're the listener instead

starts calling you dumbo and the plushie dumbo jr. instead

would also ask to pick between him and the plushie

got so offended when you picked dumbo

"i am THE zhong chenle, who wouldn't choose me?"

would replace the plushie with himself after you sleep since he's petty like that, he wouldn't let a stuffed toy win over him

but would also put dumbo in between your arms if he wakes up first in the morning (it's to keep you company while he's cooking breakfast)

sends you pics of daegal and dumbo together like a proud dad

he's still chenle though so dont expect your plushie to get the same dad treatment as jaemin

the type to get you more dumbo related items since dumbo is the only plushie you sleep with

jisung:

his heart melted at the sight of you sleeping on the couch with a hamster plushie squished against your cheeks

if that man wasn't a simp for you already then he is now

needs a few seconds to just admire how cute you were for faling asleep while trying to wait for him to end his schedules

he's not one to bring it up directly, but that doesn't mean he won't tease you about it from time to time

probably annoys the members (read: chenle) about how adorable his partner is when cuddled up with a plush version of him

he's so down bad but you can't blame him for being in love

took him a few nights to realise that its the plushie he bought for you when you visited him during smtown live in tokyo

got so shy and couldn't contain his smile when he realised it

would ask you if you've given the hamster a name yet and when you said you haven't he suggested 'hamster'

you don't have the heart to tell him how corny it is so you agree to it

you both are down bad!!!!

if he sees the hamster on the floor he'll dust off any possible dust before tucking it under your arms again

takes a picture to make it last longer

you leave the plush at his place on accident once

send you a message saying that he can't believe you just forgot your son like that

takes a pic of him cuddling the hamster to show that he is being taken care of no ones focusing on the doll when his hands are right there

[ghostofhyuck]

NCT Dream as NIKI songs.

AN: I'm a huge Niki fan, so...I need to do this. 

Mark Lee ; La La Lost You

If I'm honest, I'd call, but I'm trying to let go And I hope you're happy, livin' life in taxis But you'll always have me, you'll always have me

La La Lost You has a lot of US references, that's why it reminded me of Mark so much! AND I know that this is breakup song but you know what? This one of the reason why it suit Mark so much! Because imagine being with someone at an unfamiliar place, trying to find home in the form of him and then you guys broke up! And every places just reminds him of you, and you couldn't help but wonder if he's also coping from the break up or has he moved on already. 

Huang Renjun ; Every Summertime

Baby, I'd give up anything to travel inside your mind Baby, I fall in love again come every summertime

No doubt that Renjun is the definition of summer, that's why Every Summertime suits him so much!! It's cute and a bubblegum pop. Reminds you of a high school love and the summer you spent with him. Everything is just so wholesome with Renjun, even though you two have grown together, you will always reminisce about the summers with him. Oh my god this is so cute and wholesome because imagine just watching the summer sun set with Renjun the love of you life. :< 

Lee Jeno ; Urs

You come see me, only when I ask first When you kiss me, do you wish it were her? The best at bein' the worst

I don't why but this is so Jeno-coded. It's the push back in the lyrics and not knowing where to stand! Imagine the angst and the pain, you don't know what your status is, and you're just standing there wondering when he will acknowledge you! When will he give you assurance about you two, and yet, you crave for him, and you want him! You are willing to throw away yourself for Jeno. (I would too.)

Lee Haechan ; Autumn

And I love you but with you It's heartache I breathe You gave it your all, just with everything you took from me

It was hard to find a song that suit Haechan the most but I kinda lean on Autumn for the reason that it's such an upbeat yet heartbreaking song. Imagine being with Haechan, literally throwing everything for him, and yet you found yourself still alone in the relationship. And it's a sequence of misunderstanding and a lot of hurt! no comfort, just hurt! You love Haechan so so much that you became empty with and without him. 

Na Jaemin ; Backburner

Hey, are you still there? Good

Let's be real, Jaemin is the type of person who'll make someone a backburner. You're just one unlucky girl who's willing to be his. You have that push and pull affection towards Jaemin. At first, you hated him for leading you onto nothing but when he shows you the affection that you've been craving for, you'll throw everything away just to be with him. And it sounds so stupid but it's Jaemin! And you couldn't blame him for what he did, because you're still hoping that maybe someday, you won't be his backburner anymore. 

Zhong Chenle ; Strange Land

With you, love was simple My spiritual crystal But now life is limbo I'll wait for tomorrow

It's the mixture of "right person, wrong timing" and "wrong person, right timing" type of relationship. Chenle just suits this song so much, like a summer love affair that happened in the strangest town. Something sparked between the two of you and the whole summer just felt so right only for you, while for Chenle, he thinks that it's just a summer thing. It probably something that he'll get over immediately but hopes that someday you two cross paths again. 

Park Jisung ; Take A Chance With Me

In the end, we only regret the chances we didn't take I'll be your safety net, so why not raise the stakes?

LISTEN!!! This is so shy guy who has a crush on you type of song!! This is so Jisung-coded!! It's like you two has a crush on each other, (he doesn't know) and you're just dropping hints for him to confess but he's just!! too! shy! to! do! so!! it's a frustrating because you're just there waiting for him to confess!! I can imagine this the type of song you'll sing in public while Jisung is right there, trying to decipher your hint. It's such a cute and lively song so it suits Jisung too :< Jisung, just one chance pls JOKE. 

[gentaro-kinniecom]

˚✧₊⁎ Songs that I think fit the l&ds men⁎⁺˳✧༚

Characters: Rafayel, Sylus, Xavier and Zayne

C/w: none! (maybe explicit language in some songs?)

A/n: This is my opinion when it comes to what kind of songs they remind me off and their lyrics :] All links are directed to Spotify ! Then again thank you all so much for all the support regarding my works🥹🙂‍↕️✨

Rafayel ⁎⁺˳✧༚

1. Behind the Moon Shadow by Lamp

2. Good Old Fashioned Lover Boy by Queen

3. The less I know the better by Tame Impala

4. Candy by Baekhyun

5. Telepatia by Kali Uchis

6. Something about you by Eyedress & Dent May

7. Date by Soma Saito

8. Soledad y el Mar by Natalia Lafourcade & Los Marcorinos

9. Good looking by Suki Waterhouse

10. Round & Round by Nct U

Sylus ⁎⁺˳✧༚

1. Ride or Die, pt 2 by Sevdaliza, Villano Antillano & Tokischa

2. Fiancé by Mino

3. Criminal by Taemin

4. Always Forever by Cults

5. 505 by Arctic Monkeys

6. Romantic Lover by Eyedress

7. Dark Red by Steve Lacy

8. Luxurious by Gwen Stefani

9. Hotel California by Eagles

10. She keeps me up by Nickelback

Xavier ⁎⁺˳✧༚

1. Right side of my neck by Faye B Webster

2. Messages from the Stars by The Rah Band

3. Tempo by Exo

4. Sugar Sugar by Mamoru Miyano

5. Goddess by Beach Weather

6. Dream Girl by Crisaunt

7. Reflections by The Neighborhood

8. Dream by Baekhyun & Suzy

9. Like or Like Like by Miniature Tigers

10. Something Stupid by Frank Sinatra & Nancy Sinatra

Zayne ⁎⁺˳✧༚

1. Once more to see you by Mitski

2. Trauma by ms. isohp romatem

3. Show me how by Men I Trust

4. Oblivion by Grimes

5. Corduroy Dreams by Rex Orange Country

6. Where’d all the time go? by Dr. Dog

7. Me and my husband by Mitski

8. Seppun -Kiss- by Original Love

9. Numb by Men I Trust

10. Italo Disco by Last Dinosaurs

[beautifulpersonpeach]

Bpp I'm dying to know your song rankings in chapter 2 now they've all debuted. What are your top picks this year? I miss your writing and hope I can coax you back with 'a fun ask'

***

Okay. :)

Since you asked...

Top 10 Non-BTS K-pop Songs in 2023

10 - Watch It - The Boyz (this song just dropped and it's already in my top ten, yes)

9 - Seoul - H1-key

8 - Ay-Yo - NCT 127

7 - Sweet Venom - ENHYPEN

6 - Neverland Farewell - TXT (Say whatever you like about BigHit, they know how to make good music. Soobin sounds incredible on this song. Beomgyu too. Really, they all do.)

5 - Cool With You - NewJeans

NewJeans isn't going anywhere, so everyone else really should get comfortable with the idea of seeing them at the top. That's all there is to say.

*

4 - Crying - BOYNEXTDOOR

I don't know where my head was at when I ranked this the worst song on the album. Clearly, I was wrong. This song was a pleasant companion during the autumn months, and I can't wait to see what else they come out with.

*

3 - Chaconne - ENHYPEN

Do you know what a chaconne is? That's not a rhetorical question btw. No shade either, I'm just curious. For those who don't know, a chaconne is a rhythmical and harmonic motif over a pronounced bass-line. That's my leftover understanding from music classes taken a lifetime ago. According to google, a chaconne is also "a slow, solemn dance in 3/4 time, of Spanish or Moorish origin, similar to the passacaglia." For a non-k-pop example, I recommend Hilary's rendition of Bach's chaconne (more leftover knowledge from a lifetime ago).

Anyway, this likely isn't important context. The use of "chaconne" in the song probably has more to do with how it sounds in the song, than what it means. In any case, Enhypen earned a gold star from me with this pantydropper anthem.

*

2 - Criminal Love - ENHYPEN

I'm not sure how many of you were here when Heartbeat and Dream Glow were released. What I remember was shock, pure incredulity that BigHit would release songs of that quality for game OSTs. From ARMYs and k-pop stans alike, this was the sentiment. It was like a flex that BTS had such a peerless discography they could make songs like this for a side gig.

That's immediately what I was reminded of when I first heard Criminal Love, released as the OST for Enhypen's webtoon. It's moody, vampy, seduction in a song. That's what that song is. Sad too, when you hear the lyrics. Watching the live performance only drives it home.

*

1 - Blind - ENHYPEN

This song has given me one of the best auditory experiences I've ever had in k-pop. Which is a bit odd because yes a lot happens in the production, but the switches are so subtle you almost don't notice it.

Heeseung, Ni-ki, Jay, Sunoo, Sunghoon, Jake, and Jungwon - all outdid themselves on this song. Vocally, they sound incredible. The writing, (again) is top notch. This is one of the only songs released this year that I genuinely struggle not to loop.

*

Top 5 BTS Solo Songs

5 - Yes or No - Jung Kook

This is one song I'm praying and begging that we get thousands of remixes of. HYBE, please work your magic and give us 10 remixes of Yes or No. I need it. This is the perfect pop song in that it makes you crave more. I know it's got a predictable, common almost, chord progression in VI -> V -> I -> IV, but it's perfect in that it's impossible to get sick of it. It just worms itself into your head and all you can think of is all the ways to sing all over those chords.

Jung Kook's vocal work on that song is irreproachable. He's really set himself apart with this album and I'm glad he did it.

*

4 - Snooze - AGUST D, ft. Ryuichi Sakamoto & Woosung

HUH?! should be here, as should Amygdala so consider this a triple entry: HUH + Snooze + Amygdala. The reason why is self-evident (I hope).

Anyway... I want to talk a bit about Snooze.

Yoongi loves using the piano. He likes the sound of it, and you can tell in songs like Snooze. He has such a profound love and respect for that musical instrument that it only makes sense a man like Ryuichi acknowledged Yoongi before he passed.

With everything that happened this year, remembering Moonbin, and knowing that Yoongi made this song for his juniors... the first time I heard this song it completely destroyed me. Anyone who hasn't paid attention to the lyrics yet should check it.

When I casually listen in to TXT, SVT, Enhypen, BoyNextDoor, and see the work they're doing, putting out easily some of the best music and performances in their generations, I hope and pray they develop a support system that genuinely values them, soon. I hope they survive this industry, and thrive in it.

*

3 - All Day - RM ft Tablo

Not to be that person (since he's canceled for reasons and it actually makes sense why), but when I first saw the song title All Day, I immediately remembered All Day by Kanye West - one of the sauciest and meanest songs he's ever made. I was worried, given the tone of the album to that point, that Namjoon was going to give us his take on Ye's original. Joon is more than capable of dropping a track just as mean if not more. I didn't put it past him to pay homage to the Kanye joint by taking a spin on it. But, thankfully, All Day is nothing like Kanye's song, and it's my favourite song on Indigo because it's the best.

Joon's diction on this track is *chef's kiss*. His voice.... that outro, and thank goodness, Tablo came through. He actually has a presence on the track and made it even more worth the listen.

It kills me that we don't even have a visualizer for this masterpiece.

*

2 - Set Me Free Pt 2 - Jimin

Thank you for giving me another chance to talk about Set Me Free Pt 2.

One reason all the anxiety and fear-mongering around Jimin seems insane to me is because Jimin dropped this song and ended k-pop in 2023. He literally has no real competition. He came in, showed out, and left. That song is the sexiest joint out of Korea this year. It's so nasty. He's absolutely disgusting on this song in how brutally he makes rubbish of everything beneath him. Like, he literally has people bowing down to him in the choreography. Bobbing their heads like Funko Pops, while he sings to be set free. I'm going on a bit of a tangent here, but I want to say something. There's a cruelty in the way Jimin speaks. Whether to someone else or to himself. It's often (somewhat) restrained, born of the way he sees the world I think, and it was especially brutal in their early days, but he's toned it down significantly since 2016. It's virtually non-existent in his speech patterns and word choice now. Jimin of the last few years communicates gently, directly, tactfully, and at worst, bluntly. A lot of that cruelty is toned down but he unleashes a whisper of it on SMF Pt 2. Just listen to what he's saying on that song. That autotune effect on his voice was for our benefit and safety. Nothing can convince me otherwise. And we haven't even yet gotten into the full symbolism of the MV and his lyricism...

The moment I heard this song I knew I would bias Jimin. He's a man who knows what he's doing.

Jimin is a one of a kind wonder. Real magic in a person. An artist. He proves it on Set Me Free Pt 2. Kudos to PDogg too - the GOAT.

*

1 - On The Street - j-hope ft J. Cole

When it comes to song construction, I have to give credit where credit is due and the fact is Hoseok outdid himself with this song. It is perfect, my top pick for a k-pop song in 2023. Jermaine did good on it too. But, you know... Hoseok.

The whistle melody he came up with, the beat, the vocal layering, the mixing, the MV direction - all of it is perfect. If we were giving scores based on separate components, OTS would get 10s in every category.

Honestly, Hoseok coming out at number 1 is kind of expected of him lol.

[dojae-huh]

Fancon Mute: Day 2

(271024)

Doyoung, Johnny came. Chris Lee (the head of A&R in SM and the CEO of r&b label KRUCIALIZE), Kang Byeongjun (Neo centre director). Do's manager. JN's manager? And some other staff.

It's important that both Jae and Do are supported by higher ups in the company. Both Lee and Kang were with NCT in the beginning.

There are videos on YT and Beyond live rips of Day2 somewhere, so I will just post a few fancams.

Entering the venue.

Song cuts: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Can’t take my Eyes off you, Completely, Try again

Real Peach VCR

Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Out of the smoke, English please, rambling Jae, Resonance, R2, reading a fan letter,

Peach boy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Explaining why he cried during Day1, farewell words, farewell joke, stay healthy, final kiss. A letter for the fans.

Leaving the venue with flowers.

Do cheering: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, pics, 7, 8, 9, singing along to Dandelion, joining fans calling Jae as Jaehyun-samchon (uncle Jaehyun)

Cinematic parallels.

The concert was finished with NCT 127's song "Promise you". JohnDo were shown during this segment on the screen. No, you will greet Jaehyunee standing, Johnny-hyung, heh. Later that day Doyoung posted an IG story with a picture of the scene with the first words from the song and caption "Jaehyunee *heart*" and giant handwritten "J".

Bye 아무렇지 않게 인사한 채

Why 우린 아직까지 닿지 못해

(Bye, greeting each other casually

Why haven't we reached each other yet)

Fans commented that Do was too engrossed in watching the concert and waving his lightstick, so he took out his phone only at the end.

"Promise you" is a fitting song for the last appearence of Jae before the fans, however, can't help myself and not think about JaeDo's chorus and Do's prominent "so stay" part. Afterall, if I'm not mistaken Jae was the only neo who used a full NCT song? (won't be surprised if it was staff's idea, though, the lyrics were not prepared in advance (no special font or effects), it looked like a last minute addition)

[Chorus: Doyoung, Jaehyun] Oh, I promise you, on the day we meet again I will hug you, and more than saying just a single word Even if I cry out of joy This time I will convey my feelings to you Oh, I promise you, on the day we meet again (So stay) I'll smile, and more than saying any words at all (So stay) Just like you showed me, this time I will give you my heart for eternity

[Outro: Doyoung] So, so stay Oh-oh-ooh-ooh So, so stay Oh-oh-ooh-ooh, ooh

Some shippers were worried that Doyoung won't come. Such an idea is nonsence. Regardless of the type of relationships, Doyoung supports all 127 neos. If he can't visit in person, he watches a live in his hotel room (Taeyong) or is the most active in a video message (Yuta). He goes to Dream concerts the most. And in general likes to go to concerts, big stars and small ones he likes.

The "VIP" zone is one of the furthest from the stage, heh. Not so VIP, just close to the exit and secluded. This and Do being filmed by fans sitting nearby reminded me how hard it is for neos to just go to a concert of their friend. They won't have the experience all to themselves and would have to wear masks if they would like to hide their emotions.

Speaking of VIPs. It looks like not only Jae's parents visited him on Day1, but also his granny. And maybe even his English uncle with his aunt? (the whole bottom row)

Johnny left earlier. Doyoung appeared with a mysterious box. Maybe a present for him (or Jae? and he carried it?) from SM staff or someone else from the VIP guests. Liquor would make the most sense, but the box looks too plain for that. In any case, pretty sure JaeDo had dinner together afterwards.

[sadfragilegirl]

Xavier 10/16 Happy Birthday 30 Day Countdown Challenge

Day 15: A song reminds you of Xavier.

This is going to be silly and I know that I stopped being a Kpop fan since last August 28, 2024 but I want to share a song that reminds me of Xavier.

The title is "Little Light" by Doyoung of NCT.

Here's the music video link. It has English subtitles so you will see the English translation of the lyrics:

Stars Brighten And Twinkle Today: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[ayushipop]

J - The 1st Album impressions/opinions

this is a 2nd/3rd impressions post bc i just had to listen to the whole thing a few times before actually putting anything to paper. disclaimer that i've been waiting for this album since before it was even officially announced and jaehyun was just being coy about potentially dropping something in august so this has been very VERY highly anticipated & will go platinum in my airpods <3

Smoke - watched the MV several times over for the plot <3 i LOVEE love the verses & prechorus & how they build up to the chorus, and the chorus!! absolutely fed w those delicious deep register subrapper vocals

Roses - also very familiar w/this track as it's been on repeat since it dropped! the CHOIR ECHOOO and the valentine's gag is crazy, YES I DO WANNA BE YOURSSS <3 especially loved the contrast in the pre-release mv that combined roses & dandelions, absolutely serving desperate rnb guy sobbing on his hands and knees in the rain begging for his bitch back

Flamin' Hot Lemon - my notes for this are very exclamation pointed and incoherent so i will report accordingly: THE PRECHORUS!!!!!!!! UGHHHH BUT I HOPE THAT U DONT PICK NOBODY ELSEE!! the rapping !!!!! his lower register <333

Dandelion - the mv for this caused me genuine psychic damage. he's just soooo quirky professor manic pixie dream man husband that dies at the beginning of the move coded i need to eat him. a tune to which i would frolic in a sunny field. again love the layering in the prechorus, reminds me of blueberry eyes which i also love, FALSETTO ADLIBS <33

Completely - lyrically.. just incredible. it's so "to be known is to be loved." it feels so soothing on the wound of unknowability & unlovability. have already recommended it to a friend on the basis of it sounding like a little mix ballad, like i could very much imagine perrie and leigh-anne's voices esp in the chorus <3 another gorgeous display of his range. a bitch might have teared up

Easy - more Korean-heavy so it was harder for me to immediately follow the meaning of the song, but vocally and production-wise still very up to the standards of the rest of the tracks!! honestly feels very nct 127 b-side coded, he should link up w those guys and collab or smth :)

Can't Get You - love lovee that thrumming instrumental, also reminds me of Orange Seoul which was one of my fav Walk tracks <3 love his little whiny sYstem, & the backing vocals again are just lovely. the lyrics!!!! i know you know!! I KNOW YUNOH!!!! and the way he shouts OH DARLIN' and the bridge slides into that sexy brass solo!! and as usual the falsetto adlibs <33

overall: i knew mr jung jaehyun was gonna DELIVER some rnb excellence on this album, genuinely one of my most anticipated albums of this year <3 it's so well-put together & cohesive, i'm so glad to see that he worked on this for so long w a specific creative vision in mind and it came to fruition. i loved hearing his range from falsetto-heavy songs to that deeper talk-singing register. valentines were ABSOLUTELYYY fed w this one <3

[lowkeychenle]

Songs that remind me of Chenle <3

Okayyy I'm gonna make a list of songs that remind of Chenle and any lyrics in specific or if it's the whole thingggg this is the most delusional thing I've ever done soooo keep scrolling I know it's BAD all songs are linked <3

Also this will be an ongoing list that I'll be adding to when I hear new songs okay byeee

Rainbow - NCT Dream

I think it’ll be okay, I think we’ll be shining The rainbow that connects our hearts

2. Like We Just Met - NCT Dream

Even if say I love you every day Forever still isn't enough

3. Paper Rings - Taylor Swift

I want to drive away with you I want your complications too I want your dreary Mondays

4. Enchanted (Taylor's Version) - Taylor Swift

This night is sparkling, don't you let it go I'm wonderstruck, blushing all the way home I'll spend forever wondering if you knew I was enchanted to meet you

5. Fictional - Khloe Rose

I'd rather keep on dreaming of someone I'll never meet than give love to another one who won't choose me

6. Dream in a Dream - TEN

I'm staying up I don't wanna come down from your love We'll get lost together, let me flow Don't ever let me come down from your love

7. Sorry, Heart - NCT Dream

Not any of the lyrics to this song lol but hearing him sing this live was a 10/10 experience and it changed my life fr

8. everything everywhere always - elijah woods

Everything, everywhere, always Love 'til it hurts, 'til my heart aches The light in my world on my dark days For always you'll be my Everything, everywhere, always

9. Work Song - Hozier

When my time comes around Lay me gently in the cold dark earth No grave can hold my body down I'll crawl home to her

10. Nervous - John Legend

Like flyin' in the fast lane, no headlights in the dark That existential feelin' when you wonder what you are Got a wild wind in my head But the butterflies in my heart make it worth it

11. Complete Mess - 5 Seconds of Summer

I ask no questions as your colors take their hold As my darkness turns to gold inside

12. Stuck - Imagine Dragons

You were my one, you were my one When all has been said, all has been done You were my one, you were my one Now I am left reaching above me Time goes by and still I am stuck on you

13. Feel Like This - Ingrid Andress

I thought I knew what I knew what love was Guess I didn't know at all

14. Nights Like This - Josh Golden

But on nights like this I still think of you When it's cold outside and the bed is too

15. Never Let Me Go - Florence + the Machine

And it's over and I'm going under But I'm not giving up, I'm just giving in I'm slipping underneath So, so cold and so sweet

16. Nonsense - Sabrina Carpenter

Think I only want one number in my phone I might change your contact to "don't leave me alone"

17. Magic - NOVO

See me in sight Feel the magic Let your heart open Fight and keep going You won't be broken forever

18. this is how you fall in love - Jeremy Zucker & Chelsea Cutler

This is how you fall in love Let go and I'll hold you up So pull me tight and close your eyes Oh, my love, side to side

19. Dandelions - Ruth B.

'Cause I'm in a field of dandelions Wishing on every one that you'd be mine, mine And I see forever in your eyes I feel okay when I see you smile, smile

20. Never Say Never - The Fray

You can never say never While we don't know when But time, time and time again Younger now than we were before Don't let me go

21. I Would For You - Lauren Duski

Give you all of my time Lay my heart on the line I'd even walk through a fire I would for you Be the strong when you're weak Be the truth you believe Be the more than you need

22. Ring Pop - Jax

'Cause if we're gonna die, let us die sugar-coated Oh, we don't got a dime to our names, but we're loaded

23. Out of My Head - Theory of a Deadman

I don't know just what it is But I know I want this to last I can't get you out of my head God knows I've tried But I just can't forget

24. Something Just Like This - The Chainsmokers & Coldplay

I want something just like this

25. Paradise - Coldpay

In the night, the stormy night, she'd close her eyes In the night, the stormy night, away she'd fly

26. Yellow - Coldplay

Look at the stars Look how they shine for you And everything you do

27. I Like Me Better - Lauv

I like me better when I'm with you I knew from the first time, I'd stay for a long time 'cause I like me better when I like me better when I'm with you

28. YOUTH - Troye Sivan

My youth, my youth is yours Trippin' on skies, sippin' waterfalls My youth, my youth is yours Runaway now and forevermore

29. Never Enough - Loren Allred

Will you share this with me? 'Cause darling, without you All the shine of a thousand spotlights All the stars we steal from the night sky Will never be enough Never be enough Towers of gold are still too little These hands could hold the world but it'll Never be enough

30. I'm Yours - Jason Mraz

So, I won't hesitate no more, no more It cannot wait, I'm sure There's no need to complicate, our time is short This is our fate, I'm yours

31. REALLY REALLY - WINNER

The most beautiful thing in my eyes right now Is you If my feelings for you were money I’m a billionaire I like you

32. I Just - Red Velvet

When I close my eyes, it gets slow Your voice, your breath, your smile comes to me again On my lips, the flow, your name I’m swallowing it up, feels like I could burst I’m running again

33. This Feeling - The Chainsmokers

They tell me think with my head, not that thing in my chest They got their hands at my neck this time But you're the one that I want and if that's really so wrong Then they don't know what this feeling is like

34. The Only Exception - Paramore

And I've always lived like this Keeping a comfortable distance And up until now I had sworn to myself That I'm content with loneliness Because none of it was ever worth the risk Well, you are the only exception

35. There You Are - Zayn

Need you when I'm broken, when I'm fixed Need you when I'm well, when I'm sick Friends that I rely on don't come through They run like the river, but not you

36. Ruin My Life - Zara Larsson

Baby, come bring me hell Let it rain over me Baby, come back to me I want you to ruin my life

37. This City - Sam Fischer

This city's gonna break my heart This city's gonna love me then leave me alone This city's got me chasing stars It's been a couple months since I felt like I'm home Am I getting closer to knowing where I belong? This city's gonna break my heart

38. august - Taylor Swift

But I can see us lost in the memory August slipped away into a moment in time 'Cause it was never mine

39. Broken Melodies - NCT Dream

I lay awake Inside my head Your voice is on repeat

[127luvr]

yoo can i request a mark lee (nct) x male reader where mark is basically the reader’s muse when it comes to writing lyrics and stuff. btw the reader is also in nct and since he and mark are the same age, they go to each other a lot for music advice. basically one day the reader asks mark to fetch something from his studio and then goes cuz mark seems to be taking too long, and like sees mark hold a page full of lyrics that can be read as a full on confession. and it’s super obvious that the subject in question is mark lee. and things get a bit angsty after, and yeah everything is up to you!!

Sorry, Heart

Mark Lee x Male Reader

No one is prone to Mark Lee’s charms. His soft brown eyes that follow where you go as if you’re the most important thing in the world at any given moment. His sharp cheekbones that carve out the rest of his soft face. And his nose—the faint wrinkles permanently on his face from where it scrunches up when he laughs or when he simply doesn’t know how else to express himself.

You thought you were different—the relationship between the two of you from the start was sweet. It was long nights in each other’s studios sharing unfinished melodies and lyrics. He was always there whenever you felt stuck while producing your own music. Always there when one of your ideas was turned down by management because it didn’t suit the group. And so were you.

You felt relieved when Mark came to you with his music and questions. It reminded you that Mark was human. That you could help him just as much as he’d help you. So you didn’t know when it happened. When the platonic feelings turned romantic.

It was a random Thursday night in your studio. The LED strips all around the small room transitioning from color to color every few seconds. The two of you were sitting on the (f/c) couch, sharing snacks—occasionally brushing hands when reaching for the same ones. Your (e/c) eyes had run up his hand—to his arm—to his shoulder—all the way to his face. His side profile was suddenly different, the blue reflecting off of his cheekbone hitting your eyes as if it were glowing. You felt your heartbeat quicken—a wave of butterflies hitting from the bottom of your feet to the top of your head.

Oh no.

Mark was all you could think about these days—the stack of papers scattered around your studio filled with lyrics that alluded to Mark in every way you could phrase your feelings being more than enough evidence to support it. Channeling all of your romantic feelings into songwriting helped hide your feelings around him. It helped you appear normal in the face of Mark Lee. Even when he genuinely complimented your musical ability and all you wanted to do was kiss his pink lips.

“(Y/n).” Mark waves a hand in your face to catch your attention, the beige guitar in his free hand hanging from his index and middle fingers. “Are you there?” You whisper a small apology, swallowing hard when he offers you a smile. “I was wondering if you had a guitar pick in your studio?”

“Yeah, actually.” You pause, looking around the room. “You’re gonna have to go though, I’m too comfortable. And while you’re there can you get me my headphones—they should be on the desk—if not—”

“I’ll find them.”

Mark is in your studio for a second before he notices the sheets of paper balled up and thrown around the room. A smile meets his eyes before his lips as he looks around fondly, picking a sheet up that seems to be blacked out with ink. The words going from line to line to sideways along the page. He flips the page, the smile faltering from his lips when he gets to read the mix of English and Korean lyrics. These scenarios and descriptions sounding a little too familiar for his liking. Mark sits himself down, picking up another page of lyrics. It puts him in another perspective—one that views him as if he were some godly being.

You kick your feet out, checking the clock in Mark’s studio to make sure that time was passing as you waited for Mark. You let your mind wander for a little, giving him more than enough time to grab the guitar pick—find your headphones and walk back from across the building. After the long hand on the clock passes the five, you get up, sighing as you make sure you lock Mark’s studio before you stomped your way towards your own studio.

“Mark Lee—”

He was sitting with his elbows to his knees—eyebrows furrowed as he read your lyrics before you came in. You snatch the sheet of lyrics from his hand, breath quickening as he got up from the couch trying to get you to take slower breaths. You scan the lyrics with your eyes, balling up the paper before throwing it towards your computer screen. He knew. He was too smart not to figure it out.

“Mark. Mark that was private. That wasn’t—those were my lyrics to share with you when I was comfortable enough.” Mark struggles to string words together, his mouth suddenly betraying every thought that crossed his mind. “Get out.”

“(Y/n).”

“Mark. Get out while I’m being nice.”

He waits outside of your studio door, pacing back and forth as the (Y/n/n)’s studiooooo~ sign stares down at him. He searches the ends of his mind to find what to say to you—something he’s never had to do because everything that concerned you came so easy to him. He chooses to run to his studio, silently thanking you when he turns the knob to find it locked. He walks in and out—carrying a blue journal tightly in his hand as he ran back towards you.

The knocking startles you a little. It’s so faint—timid even as he knocks again to make sure you heard it.

“(Y/n). I have something to show you.” You open the heavy door, choosing to sit back down on your couch instead of greeting him warmly as you normally would. He closes the door behind him and immediately you spot the journal in his hands.

“You have a key, Mark.” He cringes a little, upset at himself for making your voice so small in your own studio. He sits on the opposite end of the couch—one that the two of you had shared many times before so comfortably suddenly so cold and empty. He holds out the journal in front of him, giving himself a pep talk whenever he opens it to one of the first pages.

“I didn’t want to just come in.” He brings the journal between the two of you, leaning it more towards you. “You’re not the only one, (Y/n).”

You read the date on top of the page, surprised to find that it was the day the two of you met. Without taking the journal from him, you scoot closer, squinting your eyes to read the scribble of mostly English lyrics written all around the page. He skips a few pages, making a point to show the dates as he goes deeper into the journal.

“They’re all—”

“About you.” Mark looks up from his journal, again staring at you as if you were the only person on the planet. “You’re my muse, (Y/n). From the start. Those lyrics you wrote about me—I’m so glad that you have found something in me as I have in you.”

[i2ycat]

in celebration of memorabilia coming out, here are my thoughts and opinions ab the songs (excluding criminal love and one in a billion) that no one asked for 😝😝🫶🏻

fatal trouble: OH MY FUCOING GOFODOOSLDOSOSOSOZOOSODODODODOD. ik i said lucifer might’ve been my favourite song but FATAL TROUBLE JUST CANNOT BE TOPPED. THIS SONG. I NEED IT IN MY VEINS. DO WE HEAR JAKE????? DO WE HEAR HEESEUNG???? LIKE THE ‘i don’t know u’ part gets me ON MY KNEES…. 🙏🏻🙏🏻 i really love how enha stick to their concepts and they FUCKING OWN IT… i really wanna kiss the producers with this song, like this INSTANTLY BECAME MY TOP 1 ENHA SONGGGGGG

teeth: the background in the chorus kinda reminds of phonk music, LIKE PLS TELL ME U HEAR IT AS WELL. i would def listen to this to power walk ngl 😹😹☝🏻this MIGHT be least listened to song in the entire album since it’s not really my vibe but I MIGHT CHANGE MY OPINION the more i listen to it… we’ll see!!

lucifer: this song is literally the cuntiest song to ever cunt. LIKE OH MY GODDDDDDS. the beat is so sensual and sexy!!!!! but this probably has the saddest lyrics to ever exist 😹😹 IM NGLLLL, it sounds like something nct 127 would release as a bside… but it might be just me idk… AND OH MY FUCKING GOD. DO WE HEAR JAY HERE??????? like that fucking high note oh my…. this is def my top3 song in the entire album 🙈🙈

scream: OUUUUUU I DIDNT THINK THIS WOULD TOP LUCIFER WHEN I HEARD THE MEDLEY BUT IT DID… like it sounds like something you listen to while speeding at night i’m ngl,,, like it’s making me think of illegal racer!enha. i love this song sm, like enha really has released not a single bad song, and i’m not even exaggerating 😭😭😭 UGHHHH.

can u guys tell i like fatal trouble a little too much..

[mrklcnd]

THE IMPACT OF MUSIC ON MOOD

Weekly Journal Entry #3

Hello! Today, I have been thinking about the profound effect music has on our emotions. It is fascinating how different genres can transport us to various states of mind, often reflecting or influencing our mood in unexpected ways.

When I am feeling down, there is nothing like turning to some soulful blues. The raw emotion in artists like Insomniacks or Hafiz Suip resonates deeply with me. Their music feels like a comforting hug, acknowledging my sadness while reminding me that I am not alone. The heart-wrenching lyrics and smooth melodies have a way of validating my feelings, making it easier to process them.

On the other side, when I need an energy boost, I turn to upbeat pop or dance music. Artists like NCT or Chase Atlantic always lift my spirits and get me moving. Their catchy hooks and infectious beats seem to fill the room with positivity, inspiring me to dance around my living room and forget my worries for a while. It is amazing how just a few minutes of a lively track can turn my whole day around!

And then there is the nostalgic pull of old songs from my childhood. Listening to My Chemical Romance or Exist transports me back to simpler times, filled with memories of family road trips to hometown or vacations. These songs stir up a sense of warmth and familiarity that makes me smile, reminding me of the joy and innocence of those days.

It is incredible how a simple melody or lyric can influence our emotions so deeply. Music is like a universal language, speaking directly to our hearts and minds. I am grateful for the way it shapes my experiences and helps me navigate life’s ups and downs.

Until next time!

[ghostofhyuck]

NCT Dream as Angsty Day6 songs

AN: It's Day6 comeback and I just missed them so so much!! Just a small tmi, I used to write songfics for Stray Kids using Day6's songs, so writing this kinda reminds me of my old fics. (All of them are deleted now, unfortunately.)

Mark Lee ; I Smile

Mark just reminds me of I Smile so so much. It feels like ex-lovers who crossed paths once again. One is happy while the other one is not, wasn't able to move on properly and while he sees you happy with someone else, he tries to be supportive of you!! Mark will congratulate you even though it feels bitter for him, and will give you an assuring smile so that the frown on your face could turn upside down. 

Huang Renjun ; You were beautiful

Of course Renjun's You Were Beautiful I MEAN look at this beautiful creature and tell me that he doesn't suit YWB??? He's that lover that you once had. Your relationship with him was the very best, and was everything that you want BUT sometimes, relationship do not work out and unfortunately, it didn't work out with you and Renjun. So the only thing you can do is reminisce the beautiful memories of him. 

Lee Jeno ; Letting Go

Already crying with this one BUT Jeno's Letting Go. It's just. It suits him so much, like a last goodbye to someone that has been very very dear to you. All the time you had together, all the things you two had done, will be gone in just a simple goodbye. You know it's hard for both of you, but it's for the best to just let go of each other even though there's a small hope inside you two that wanted to try again, but chose not to. 

Lee Donghyuck ; I Would

This one felt like regret and rage. It suits Haechan so much because I feel like he's very emotional when it comes to relationships especially on fights. I Would sounds like someone regretting letting go of someone because of a petty mistake. Now he could do nothing but to yearn and he wanted to win you back, but he can't because he felt like he already lost even though he hasn't started yet. 

Na Jaemin ; I Loved You

I Loved you = Jaemin. End of discussion. Jaemin felt like a first love whom slowly drifted away from you. It sounds like a first love that hit you hard like a truck, (really.) but that's the problem! Jaemin doesn't reciprocate your feelings. You're in an unrequited love with him, and it took you YEARS to moved on from him. But fate loves to play games because at the moment that you lost your feelings to Jaemin, he suddenly began noticing you. 

Zhong Chenle ; Goodbye Winter

In contrast to Chenle's summer vibe, he suits Goodbye Winter so much. He reminds you of winter, the day you two broke up after the many trials you two had. You remember how cold it was, on the outside of your apartment as you talked to him. Tears streaming on your face, and you can see the pain in his eyes too. You two agreed that this is the end, and at the first fall of snow, you two shared a hug before he leaves you there. 

Park Jisung ; First Time

Yes First Time is lively BUT let me tell you, the lyrics are just something else. First Time suits Jisung so much because it feels nostalgic. Like a childhood friend who was separated and found each other again. The problem is, Jisung doesn't remember you at all. And while you yearn from afar, Jisung is completely clueless about you. It hurts but there's nothing you can do at all, so at the end, you let go at the idea of having your childhood friend back.

[yourkimjaejin]

Debut Day

The four members of AG just finished their rehearsal before SMTown Tokyo tonight. Excitement was bursting from them at the chance to perform Cowboy again since their tour. It had been an easy couple of months since the turn of the new year. The tables had turned for AG. Usually Moxy, Aurora and Hannah were the ones who busy rushing around to various schedules while Juno stayed home.

Luckily, or unluckily depending on how you look at it, Things had changed. Now Juno was the one rushing around the world on schedules with her second NCT team, NCT Wish. While Hannah, Moxy and Aurora were enjoying a bit of a break, Juno hand been to Thailand and Barcelona filming content for the groups debut and part 1 started today.

Aurora wrapped her arms around Hannah shoulders, making the elder drag her weight up the stage. Moxy's laughter echoed around the empty arena at Hannah's exaggerated movements. She went to make a comment to Juno but she wasn't there. Juno still stood on the extended stage, looking around at the empty seats.

Moxy walked back to the silent singer.

"Is it strange....that I'm not nervous?" The singer asked, still looking out at the stadium.

Moxy shook her head, "I don't think so. You've been here before." The leader gestured to the arena. "You've been at SMTown. You've debuted before. Sometimes not everyone gets rattled. That's just who you are. Don't question it." Moxy rubbed Juno's shoulder. Some idols may find Juno's confidence off-putting but her leader knew that's just who she is.

Juno nodded, "Yeah...Yeah, you're right."

"I'm always right." Moxy attached herself to Juno's arm and shakes a smile out of her. They bowed to the staff then walked back to the top of the stage. "The boys excited?"

"You can tell they're hiding their nerves behind excitement. I keep thinking about what to say; help them relax."

"Just remind them of who they are and why they're here. Thousands of wannabe idol could be in their position. But they aren't. And thats goes for all of us."

The girls stop at the top of the stage when they hear a cacophony of young male voices shout "Ane!!" and "Noona!!" They both couldn't stop laughing as the six new members of NCT ran onto the stage for rehearsal. Wide eyes and dropped jaws followed as they looked out at the stadium that would be filled with fans in a few hours. Moxy hugs Juno then heads to the back. The six boys bow respectfully to their sunbae as she passes.

Riku attaches himself to Juno left side, "Ahhh, theres my stage five clinger. You know I got used to feeling my arm over the past three hours." Riku clicks his tongue.

"You know you love me Ane."

"Debatable." The members laugh at Riku's despair over Juno's rejection. The stage director calls them to attention and Juno leads their introduction as they start their rehearsal.

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

"Alright, NCT Wish! You're on in five minutes." Seven voices shouted acknowledgements to the warning. Several pairs of feet frantically moved around the room. Grabbing jewelry, getting makeup touched up, Hair pins being taken out and final layers of clothing being put on.

Before the newest members of NCT walked out of the door, Juno said, "Yeoreobun!! Gather up." The boys form a tight circle around their eldest. Their eyes met hers and the leader had to force herself not to cry.

"I am so proud of all of you. I'm not gonna give you a peptalk cause you don't need it. There is nothing else we can do to be better than what we already are. You know these steps, you know the lyrics and this is just another stage. Go out there and kill it like I know you can." Juno puts her hand in the middle with each of the boys following suit.

"Set It Up!"

"Shut It Down!"

"HANA DUL SET!"

"LET'S WISH!!" Spirits were high as the group walked out the door. Juno walked behind them like parent watching their children run free. The boys jogged forward, getting into position for their opening entrance.

Juno almost caught up with them when six bodies crowded around her. Wrapping her between their intertwining arms.

"We are so proud of you Juno!" From Taeyong.

"You're finally debuting!!" Jungwoo said with a huge smile.

"You're gonna be amazing out there! i just know it." Winwin ruffled her hair

"And Wish is gonna be amazing. Especially with you and Sion leading." Doyoung smoothed out the mess Winwin made. But Jaehyun yanked Juno into his side, proceeding to mess up her hair again.

"Come on! We all know they're gonna kill it." Juno used all her strength to shove Jaehyun off only to end up in Mark's arms.

"We just wanted to wish you luck before you debuted again. And I personally wanted to welcome you to the club of double debuts." Juno had to shoved her face in Mark's shoulder to hid her tears. It felt good to have her original unit surrounding her, congratulating her on re-debuting.

When she was a trainee, she never considered herself on the same level of her future AG members. Out of the four of them, Juno's dancing style fit with the girls better than the boys. But SM saw something in her and thinking back, she's glad they did.

With the help of her girls and the boss unit members, Juno became better than she ever could alone. She made strides that she wouldn't have made unless pushed to do so.

But she couldn't dwell on those thoughts. She'd end up crying and risk ruining her makeup further.

"We're one minute out! Where's Juno!!" A stage hand called out. Quickly, Mark and Juno separated. Juno took a couple deep breaths as she walked to her place.

In the corner of her eyes, she saw someone as she walked up the stairs. Donghyuck was peeking around the corner. He held two thumbs up then ducked around the corner, hoping not to get caught by one of the managers.

An easy smile grew on her face as she took her place between Sion and Yushi. It was Wish's time to shine

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

A HUGE congrats on the debut NCT WISH!! I didn't pay for SMTOWN Tokyo but I did see clips online and I am so proud of them. I've never felt so much cute aggression towards an idol group before (Especially for Riku!!)

Thanks for reading and hopefully I'll see you for the next one!!! ~ Author Izzy

Taglist: @alixnsuperstxr / @1-800-call-ria / @sophrodite / @sunflower-0180

[randomobsessionsofa30something]

My top 15 kpop albums of 2023

It's been a year since I posted something. At this point, I feel I'm only writting to keep a record for myself of my favorites of the year. Still, if anyone cares to read this, know I've posted my favorite korean music and dramas of the year every year since 2016. First up, my favorite albums of 2023.

15. Heize-Last winter. I've honestly been in a Heize break for almost two years because I felt her songs started to sound too much alike but this album got me excited for her music once again. It has bearly been a week since it came out so I did hesitate including it but I think it portrays my favorite style of hers so at the end I was like "yeah, it deserves a spot". Forget me not feauturing BIG NAUGHTY's beautiful vocals is my favorite song of the album. However her title, a collab with 10 cm, is a close second. Picnic of the Night gives us a more uptempo beat and Chan's sweet vocals are so relaxing. I think I will be listening this album a lot in the next few months.

14. PENOMECO-Rorschach (Part 1). Ever since Penomeco entered my radar I have loved pretty much everything he has released. I do prefer his more chill music but this year he brought us more of his hip hop side and released two mini albums called Rorschach, both could have easily made my list but I think at the end of the day I like the album he released in april a bit more, and he does have two songs with Zico in this one, which did tip the balance for me. As I said, I do like his more layback music so my favorite song is Margiela feauturing Paul Blanco. The album starts with strong beats with Boy Pablo (2019) and stays on track with his title song Rindaman feauturing Zico. His other collab with Zico: Pew! is also a fiery song. As is Bubble. He slows down for his other three songs and they all are such a great listen.

13. TREASURE-Reboot. I think TREASURE has had really bad luck, from their delayed debut to the ups and downs lately. The thing is I've always prefered those groups I actually feel excited to listen to their whole albums and TREASURE has really delivered in all of them as far as I'm concerned. People keep saying YG is holding them back by making them have the typical YG songs like BONA BONA or STUPID on this album but since I'm a fan of those kind of songs so I really look forward to it. However it was the songs by their subunits I actually liked the most MOVE is just such an exciting song and THE WAY TO by the vocal unit is just my kind of ballad. To be fair listening to Jungwoo and Jihoon sing is such highlight for me on all of their songs. I just love their tones.

12. Taeyeon-To. X. 2023 was a year where I really got into Taeyeon's discography. So I was really excited for this comeback. The title To. X is a fun midtempo break up song. I would have liked Melt Away more as the title but I did love both songs. This is also a recent release so I moved it up and down in my list a lot. I'm also having a hard time picking a favorite song. I also enjoy listening to Fabolous with the quorky beat and witty lyrics but I think I actually liked all the tracks equally.

11. VIXX-CONTINUUM. VIXX has changed a lot over the last few years but somehow this album with only Leo, Ken and Hyuk sounds very much like VIXX used to sound in 2015. They really stand on their own and all of their voices are amazing. However I've always had a soft spot for Leo and his vocals in Lilac are just heavenly. Probably why I love that ballad so much. I was actually surprised with Hyuk's low vocals that give a needed twist to Leo and Ken's power vocals. All five songs in this mini album are so good. The title is Amnesia and the MV aesthetic is obviously inspired by the movie Dune.

10. NCT DOJAEJUNG-Perfume. This release kind of blind sighted me. I never thought Doyoung, Jaehyun and Jungwoo would come together in a subunit so in that sense they reminded me of the time I heard EXO CBX was debuting. I really love the title Perfume. It's one of those rare times the title is actually my favorite song of the album. I thought they would do a ballad for their title but the fact it was an upbeat sexy song was unexpectedly right. Doyoung is my favorite NCT vocalist so listening to him this whole album was such a joy. Jaehyun's vocals can be a bit overlooked in NCT127 just because Douyoung and Taeil are so amazing. Listening to him have more time in this album to shine was exactly what I wanted. I love Jungwoo's personality and honestly I was afraid he would get a bit lost in this album but my worries were unnecessary. Often I found his low notes were that little bit of spice the songs needed in this album. I loved all the bsides but Dive and Strawberry Sunday were specially a fun listen. And of course they had to do a traditional SM ballad (Ordinary) which is just beautiful.

9. D.O.- Expectation. I'll never stop wishing for EXO's Kyungsoo to do an r&b album but his heart is in easy listening heartfelt songs so I can't complain. I'm just happy to get anything from him as a solo artist. This mini album has so many pretty songs. I do is my favorite hands down and one of my most played songs of the year but Lost (both the acoustic and the regular version) is such a fun song to listen to and could have easily become the title. The vocals and the melody are so powerful. Ordinary days and The view also have a fun melody. The title Somebody is really catchy and the MV is so sweet.

8. TXT- The name chapter: Freefall. I have to confess I haven't gotten into TXT's content. I just came to like them gradually in the last couple of years and there was so much to catch up on that I haven't really get to know the members at all but the albums are a different story. Deep down is my favorite of the album but Happily Ever After is also a highlight. The title Chasing the Feeling gave us a fun retro beat and the chorus was really addicting. I also found Skipping Stones to be an interesting song. Love the guitar and bass on that one and the vocals by Beomgyu, Taehyun and Huaningkai are just heavenly. And of course the collab with The Jonas Brothers was a bit unexpected yet exactly what I didn't know I wanted.

7. Zion.T-Zip. This was almost out of my list because I just listened to it a week ago, but I had to add it. Zion. T is just so unique and entertaining to listen to. His collab with AKMU called V is my favorite. But as expected, this is a no skip songs with great use of instruments, beats, vocals and occasional rapping. He even released three MVs for this comeback (Stranger, V and Unlove). The album is 10 tracks long yet only sums up 26 minutes. Thank u featuring Yun Seokcheol is also a highlight.

6. V-Layover. To be honest, I was not excited for V's solo stuff. I was expecting a lot from Jungkook and Jimin but not from him. I don't know why. So it was so surprising when I actually wasn't excited with the songs they released but I really loved V's album. It's my fault really because I do tend to overlook Taehyun's vocals when listening to BTS. The sound he went for it's exactly my kind of music. Layover just feels sophisticated. Blue is definitely my go to song with its fancy r&b sound and Love me again has my favorite beat of the album. Slow Dancing is so sweet and For us takes you in a journey. The album is only 5 songs but from the first listen I knew it would make my top 10 of the year.

5. NCT 127-Fact Check. For me, this is the first NCT127 no skip album. I liked LIMITLESS a lot but even that one has a couple of songs that are just not for me. NCT 127's titles are either a huge hit with me or they rub me off, this time around I found Fact Check so addicting. I love Space's melody but Misty is my favorite overall. Everyone's vocals are on point but Taeil is such a wonder to listen to on that one. Love is a beauty is also a great ballad. Parade might be a hiphop heavy song but Doyoung's beautiful vocals really stand out to me. And Angel Eyes gave me a bit of NCT U's With you vibes. I love Mark's parts in Je ne sais quoi then again everyone sounds so good in that song.

4. Taeyang-Down to Earth. Taeyang came back with a bang. Every song on the album feels so big. I wasn't a fan of the title VIBE featuring BTS's Jimin on the first listen, but it really grew on me. The chorus just pops in my head from time to time out of nowhere. Shoong featuring Blackpink's Lisa is amazing, and the performance video is crazy good. Seed is the power ballad of the album. Nightfall featuring Bryan Chase is also a highlight with its retro pop beat and beautiful vocals.

3. Taemin-Guilty. The void Taemin left while he was in the military could not really be fulled by anyone else. He's just different. And yes, a lot of it is the performance but the music always comes first. This album is only six songs but they all are so good. Not gonna lie, the first time I heard The Rizzness I was confused because the strong beat and rapping surprised me. I didn't know if I liked it but it really grew on me after hearing it a couple of times. I'm obsessed with She loves me she loves me not and its playful melody plus it's definitely my most played track of the album. Not over you and Blue takes us in a dreamlike journey.

2. Red Velvet-Chill Kill. I was surprised to realize this is the only album from a girlgroup I liked this year. I even forced myself to listen to some albums of the most popular girlgroups right now but it's just not my kind of music. However this album is straight up my alley. A Velvet R&B album. I hadn't enjoyed a Red Velvet album so much since The Perfect Red Velvet. My favorite Red Velvet comebacks are always the one with a creepy twist so Chill Kill was on point with that strong beat paired with a sweet chorus. Knock knock (who's there) is a seemless follow up to Chill Kill. Underwater is one of my favorites for sure but these days I keep going back to Nightmare. Iced coffee and One Kiss have catchy chorus while Wings is uplifting with beautiful vocals.

1. EXO-EXIST. My Spotify Wrapped top 5 songs belong all to this album. It's actually the first time it happens. Despite me being an EXO-L, some pop or indie songs are usually in the mix, but I guess I missed EXO. They just did all the things I love in an EXO album: r&b, beautiful harmonies, and fun beats. I keep changing my favorite song of the album. At first, it was Regret it just because the production is so great. Then I was like, actually, all the falsetto and runs in Cinderella makes it my favorite. Yet I kept feeling No makeup was the perfect r&b EXO song, so I thought: that one for sure! But of course, the title Cream Soda is so catchy, and the chorus is expectacular, so obviously, that's the one. Nevertheless, Love fool is so much fun to listen to, and I do love Sehun and Chanyeol's verses in Another Day. Then why is my most played song of the year Let me In? And what about Hear me out that makes me happy every time I listen to it? Don't even get me started on Private Party's lyrics! Anyway, you get the idea, so just do yourself a favor and check out this album.

[dojae-huh]

Youth: first listen

First of all. It's the first time the parasocial relationship I have with Doyoung mutated into a parasocial friendship of sorts, heh. The feeling is of cheering for a friend's project's success. I guess it is for two reasons: 1) the reverse order of things (instead of "like a song (my choice, I'm the active party)->discover artist behind", it is "like an artist->listen to what he gives you (artist's choice, I'm a passive party)", 2) I have artist friends whose drawing style I'm not particularly a fan of (i.e. I wouldn't care for it if it was made by someone else, a noname to me), but I still follow and consume their art, because I care for people behind and I know the character/thoughts/POV of the artist, which changes my perceptions).

I've listened to the album only once by the time I'm writing this post. My first impession is that there are no weak songs (yokshi, perfectionist Doyoung), and that I'm glad it is more diverse in sound and voice modulations than Korean ballads and songs usually are. As I like richness in songs.

Me and some of the readers had been apprehensive of Doyoung catering to fans and going gp friendly road. Thankfully, Doyoung is a mastermind afterall. The album is both for the fans and the general public and for himself. Half/half.

The album seems to be divided in the following parts:

Prologue: Beginning and Little light.

The main character of a Disney animation movie sets on a journey. A proclamation of intent to sing for a long time, of a goal to reach as many "stars" (hearts/listeners). "Beginning" was penned by Do himself (and, honestly, really reminded me Mulan or Moana, heh). For "Little light" he befriended Lucy's composer (they are both 96-line, btw). Considering the timing, it seems to be one of the last songs to be added. A song Doyoung needed for his vision of the album. The song was gifted to him (the composer's words), written the way he commissioned it. In other words, it is his story and his feelings, he debuted with HIS song, even if written by someone else (but for him).

2. First chapter: A letter to fans.

"From little wave" has lyrics by Doyoung. It is a song for the fans, a message to them.

3. Second chapter: Friends. Dreams come true.

"Time machine" was written by Mark, he and Taeyeon featured. Do is a known SNSD fan, a fan of Taeyeon and her friend. Mark has been Do's favourite kid since pre-debut. When the news broke, fans immidiently remembered how Do gifted Mark notebooks for writing lyrics. Let's also remember how Do sent a food-truck to Mark's first solo MV, always hyped him on IG. I think Do supports Mark as a musician in particular. Mark is a rapper in NCT, however, he wants to sing with the guitar. And that what he did on the track. A step towards his own dream, him as a songwriter and singer.

Both collabs are very meaningful and have roots in the past.

The redheaded teenager who didn't know what to do really and his prodigy baby growing up and becoming world known artists.

Do already has songs with Haechan (Maniac, Coming home), plus Hyuk has started songwriting attempts much later than Mark. He is not ready yet. Taeyong is a different story, I will share my thoughts about it later.

"Time machine" sounds like a song that will be covered a lot on Korean shows by other artists. It has that appeal. It seems relatively easy to sing (or, rather, it can be re-arranged to be simpler), and it is fit for a duet.

Chapter 4: A song for the Boyfriend.

I agree that "Serenade" seems to be the song for Jaehyun. The sound Jae likes, the placement on the album (after "friends"). It is the only positive love song on the album. For Doyoung singing is personal. It is his dream, his calling. Therefore, I wasn't expecting a lot of individual attention for Jae (opposite can be said about the upcoming Jae's album). The album is not for him. He is part of "my youth" and "the sea/warmth", and he knows it. One song is enough.

The song feels more like a gift than a dedication, though. There is no intensity or rawness (like the cover of Buzzi's "Mine" had, heh).

Chapter 5: Gems.

"Rewind" and "Warmth" are the type of songs that are popular in Korea. Do did covers of similar songs. This sound is expected from him. These two love stories are "for fans and general public" songs. Personally selected, but not too personal. Just beautiful songs to sing. Both songs reflect general experiences of youth (first love/first relationships that didn't mean to be and being alone/looking for meaningful connections). "Warmth" kind of repeats the first songs thematically.

Chapter 6: Doyoung the band vocalist.

"Lost in California" and "Rest" are band songs. Back to school. These are songs for Doyoung himself. Do's long-lasting dream of singing with a band, singing under open air on festivals, being a rock-star. The first one is Do's "28 reasons", a song where he can have fun and play with vocals. "Rest" is also an inspirational, supportive song. The was Do always cheered his fans on, talked about that it's OK to rest on the floor for a bit and start anew the next day.

Chapter 7: NCT 127

"Dallas love field" (a name for a small airport, apparently) is a song fully made by Kenzie, Do's noona. So it was for him, no doubt. Maybe we will hear the story behind one day. The lyrics about "pain being beautiful" made me think back to the trainee days. Although the lyrics alone could be read as JaeDo-coded, the sound, the upbeat melody, the chorus of male voices on ''chasing dreams so far" make it 127. Rookies and their dreams of debut, neos and their dreams for solo careers, NCT and Dreams.

Funny enough. This song sounds like anime Ending, heh. The main character's promise "to be continued". I liked how Do gave us a new tone to his voice in this song.