A former fourth-generation girl group member has spilled the beans on why some idols have their voices become "worse" after they debut.
On May 15, 2024, former SECRET NUMBER member Denise released a TikTok video discussing why some idols sound worse at singing after their debut. She prefaced that this doesn't happen to everyone and was simply explaining the phenomenon from her point of view when she was an idol at the time.
@denisekimsays Extra long video warning!! Also I couldn’t find the original comment anymore ♬ original sound - Denise/데니스
The first reason is that the songs aren't meant for the idols. She explained that most of the time, the idols do not have a say in what music they release, as it is selected by their companies. Usually, companies focus on the concept rather than whether it matches the vocal abilities of the idols.
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If the vocals did prove to be a problem, they would find ways to fix it during the recording. The members will then practice for when they have to sing live, or just choose not to sing live at all. This becomes a problem when they do start having to sing live. She points out that no matter how good a singer is, if it's not in their range or their style, it will always be difficult to sing.
Denise also mentioned that they aren't simply singing; their choreography is just as important in K-pop. Therefore, at the end of the day, idols will usually focus on the performance rather than the vocals.
Another reason she mentioned is vocal health. Denise recalled that there have been several situations where she was sick, but she still had to go on stage to perform. She was fully transparent with her viewers, recalling a time she was told they were singing live and not lip-syncing. She recounted being shocked and warming her voice two minutes before going on stage.
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As an idol, being tired and exhausted takes a toll on the voice. The throat is one of the most sensitive parts of the body, which is why when people are sick, the throat is usually the first to start hurting.
Additionally, Denise noted that when idols are promoted, they don't have time to practice or get extra lessons. When they are in a waiting room, some idols take the time to warm up their voices since they are there for hours. However, rookies and smaller groups tend to share waiting rooms. To be respectful, they are forced to stay quiet, meaning they cannot prepare their voices when they sing live.
The final reason Denise stated is that some idols just aren't singers. She says it's no secret that in K-pop, vocals are not the most prioritized qualities that are sought out. At the end of the day, K-pop is a business, and companies look for performers. At the end of the day, some people are not singers, and no matter how much they practice, they are not meant to sing.
What do you think of the situation? Tell us in the comments below!
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Written by Alexa Lopez
