In an article, pop reporter Lee Seung Rok highlighted the reasons aespa NingNing is a "hidden gem" who deserves more recognition for her "sincere" vocals.
Reporter Reveals Insights After Watching aespa NingNing's 'Something Like That' Cover
On September 2, MyDaily Pop Reporter Lee Seung Rok wrote an article emphasizing why NingNing is a "hidden gem" in the K-pop scene.
As the main vocalist of the girl group aespa, reporter Lee described NingNing's voice as "impressive," but it was only when he heard her sing a solo cover of Hwayobi's "Something Like That," that he indulged in her vocals even more.
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"Sometimes you have to listen to a song with your eyes. That's what NingNing's song was like."
The reporter emphasized that the song performed and released by singer Park Hwayobi in 2001 will always be unrivaled no matter how many top singers try to cover it.
But after hearing the version of 02-liner's NingNing who wasn't even born yet when it was released, he felt a force that attracted him to her voice that led her to watch it a couple of times.
In particular, NingNing performed the song, "Something Like That," for the "it's Live" YouTube channel, and now has more than 2.1 million views after it was posted in May.
During the performance, NingNing delivers the hymn of love and separation. Despite her calm, soothing, and smooth tone, it has a firm effect on making you more immersed in the feelings of the song.
"Standing alone on the red stage, NingNing was waiting for the song to start, holding the microphone and lowering her eyes. Her face seemed determined by the moment's silence.
Soon, the faint prelude to "Something Like That" began, and asNingning looked up and hummed, "Who-Woo-Woo," the sensibility of separation and love, which was bigger than expected, quickly came."
Reporter Points Out What Makes aespa NingNing's Vocal Shine
As the article continues, the reporter then points out the "real source" of NingNing's singing prowess.
"It was her 'sincerity.' While watching Ningning's performance, her expression, hand gestures, and even her eyes caused the illusion that she's the main character of the breakup and love in the song, 'Something Like That.'
Lee continued:
"It was clear that she focused on emotions rather than techniques. Even though it was a stage that was performed alone without the other aespa members, Ningning devoted herself to fully understanding and delivering the song rather than boasting her singing ability.
They are facial expressions, gestures, and eyes that can never come out without doing so. A transparent "truth" that can only be seen with the eyes, which can never be felt when simply heard with the ears."
The reporter concluded:
"Now I can't wait for NingNing's stages. Those who have seen such a thing know. When NingNing is singing, you don't only open your ears but eyes as well."
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