The 1st and 2nd generation artists are primarily known for their raw vocal and rap talents. These idols are said to have influenced a generation of groups with their sound. When it comes to vocals, there are many K-Pop idols who gained amazing recognition for their talents both with their groups and from their solo works. These talented vocalists through their amazing arts have gone on to leave a mark on the industry and etched their names in the book of the best vocalists the industry has ever seen or produced. If you are new to K-Pop, it could be fair that you might have missed out on great music from these vocal gems, some of whom are still singing today. Here are some of the 1st and 2nd generation male vocalists that you might want to pay attention to.
1. SHINee’s JongHyun
JongHyun held magic in his artistry. From his euphonious vocal tone, his outstanding range, his lyrics, and his performances, JongHyun knew how to perfectly communicate his thoughts with his audience and not just captivate their senses but also make them feel everything he was feeling. A vocal layered with various emotions, hope, pain, love, and desire, each time JongHyun sang, you felt his words reverberating deep within your soul. A true artist like no other, his individuality shone so brightly with his songs, and he became an artist we will forever revere.
2. TVXQ’s ChangMin
ChangMin’s longevity in the industry speaks so much to his refined and masterful level of artistry. A relevant act in music today, his technique is simply unique to him alone and whenever he makes a comeback, you suddenly realize “Yes, we have been missing this”. With one of the most powerful and remarkable vocal ranges in the industry has ever seen, ChangMin invariably stands out as one of the best vocalists to this day.
3. INFINITE’s Nam WooHyun
With vocals that sound like the angels themselves manufactured them, every note that Nam WooHyun sings sends chills and creates a goosebumps effect as no matter how many times you hear him sing or perform, he still leaves you stunned by how unique his sound is. A one-of-a-kind vocalist, his songs hold an emotional effect on his listeners, from his first note to the last, he takes you on this journey of whatever message he tries to convey with a particular song. Sometimes sexy, sometimes sad, sometimes cherry, and sometimes loud, in any kind of style or concept he chooses, he fine-tunes his vocals and delivers a sound that perfectly fits it.
4. H.O.T’s KANGTA
Perhaps one of the leading ballad singers in K-Pop. KANGTA’s vocal tone is so emotional. Speaking deep to your soul, you clearly understand his message and relate to it too. There is a powerful sincerity that his vocals hold, one that makes you feel comforted, understood, and reassured. His soft dripping honey-like vocal texture is simply amazing and a joy to listen to.
5. BIGBANG’s DaeSung
Being part of one of the biggest boy bands in the history of K-Pop, every member of BIGBANG has influenced other idols for various reasons and when it comes to vocals, DaeSung has been highlighted as one of the best. His vocals seem to be an extension of his personality. Charismatic, bright, cheerful, energetic, emotional, and colorful. In various songs both as a soloist or for his group and in various genres, his vocal power and range is resoundingly clear.
6. SUPER JUNIOR’s HeeChul
When it comes to versatility, HeeChul takes the crown as he has shown that his vocals can seamlessly fit into any kind of genre, pop, rock, R&B, or ballads, as long as HeeChul is singing it, it is definitely going to be good. Powerful, soothing, soft, gentle, fierce, and chilling, these are some of the words to describe HeeChul’s vocals.
7. SS501’s Park JungMin
His tenor tone is so rich, it is very attractive. Regardless of the genre, it is not difficult to listen to a Park JungMin song as his sound is so clear and pure. His discography is filled with songs you can listen to on repeat. Many of his songs feel like an anthem, one that cheers you up motivates, and reassures you. A true artist who uses his vocals and lyrics to send a message of love, hope, and unity, Park JungMin makes music feel good. Which of these idols has piqued your interest? If you are already a fan, which one of them do you still listen to? Let us know in the comments section below. 10 Addictive K-Pop Songs That Might Be On Your Playlist (Part 1) KPOP STORIES|Jan 14, 2022 11 Songs By 2nd Generation Idol Groups That Are Timeless Bops KPOP STORIES|Apr 14, 2022 10 K-Pop B-Side Songs That Could Be The Title Tracks Of Albums (Part 1) KPOP STORIES|Feb 11, 2022