NCT‘s Taeyong’s “SHALALA” undoubtedly marked a highly anticipated significant milestone for the singer as he embarks on his solo journey with his first official mini-album! From the very beginning, he has consistently impressed the audience with his artistic choices and this music video is no exception. The visuals, concepts, and overall execution are a testament to his carefully curated creativity.
The music video kicks off with Taeyong’s voice taking center stage, accompanied by his striking Neo Green hair. The presence of a man representing God adds an intriguing dynamic, ripe for social commentary. The cinematography is captivating, portraying God from different angles, sometimes as the predator and other times as the prey, targeted explicitly by Taeyong.
One notable aspect of the video is the unique color editing with a blue-tuned palette that creates an eerie and unappetizing atmosphere. This intentional contrast adds an unsettling effect especially when juxtaposed with the rich colors of the music video’s version of Hell, creating an unexpected sense of comfort.
The appearance of Demon Hacker Taeyong, dressed in a black hoodie with his brightly-colored hair peeking out, introduces an element of mischief and excitement. It’s intriguing how Taeyong incorporates the topic of the metaverse into the music video and potentially alludes to some subtle criticism of the current state of the entertainment industry. The playful hacking of God’s system by Taeyong, accompanied by the beat as his fingers dance across the keyboard, is both visually and audibly satisfying.
Another fascinating character is the Game Boy Taeyong, representing the singer’s love for gaming. Through his mischievous actions, Demon Hacker Taeyong disrupts the past and present by inserting a TV which creates a distorted world where everything gets mixed up.
One of the yetis finds itself in a bowling alley in 2023 while Game Boy Taeyong goes back in time, exchanging places with it. Unfazed by the change, Game Boy Taeyong continues to enjoy his gaming experience. The medieval knight, on the other hand, enters an advertising company in the 1980s, takes charge, and becomes the employee of the month while absolutely slaying with his killer looks.
Taeyong’s green hair is a standout feature that boldly embodies his “Neo-ist” persona. His various hair colors represent different facets of his personality with red hair symbolizing a Boss Taeyong, black hair portraying a King Taeyong, and pastel hair colors resembling a Fairy or Angel Taeyong.
The use of the igloo and the Ice Age references echoes back to his previous single, “Love Theory,” where the igloo represented his frozen heart and the journey towards learning how to love with the help of fellow rapper, Wonstein.
The theme of rising to the top prevails throughout the song, regardless of changing times and circumstances. Taeyong consistently emerges as a natural-born superstar and superhuman with his talent and charisma guaranteeing his success in any situation presented in the music video.
In the bridge of the song, Taeyong finds himself on the metaverse bus with his yeti friends, and the space-time continuum is disrupted by God deciding to reset the world thanks to Demon Hacker Taeyong’s shenanigans.
Musically, this segment stands out as it is reminiscent of Simon Dominic‘s “Pose (feat. YUMMDA)” which exudes extreme flashiness and a boss attitude. Perhaps there is a touch of egotism in portraying the big spoiled man representing God. His decision to delete Taeyong, relishing in his apparent threat, ultimately leads to his downfall.
For the first watch, I found myself overwhelmed by the visual spectacle, unsure about the song’s impact. However, as I listened to the song without watching the video it soon grew on me.
The lyrics and music video perfectly encapsulate Taeyong’s essence—entertaining, cute, quirky, hot, and weird. The song’s structure is repetitive which makes it easy to sing along and dance to. With its relatively simple set, the chorus exudes an effortless and seductive swag enhanced by Taeyong’s blinged-out appearance.
In conclusion, “SHALALA” is undeniably catchy and energizing which makes it the perfect solo debut track for Taeyong. It showcases his diverse concepts, exceptional visuals, and magnetic performance. This release has undoubtedly set the stage for Taeyong’s promising solo career and leaves fans eagerly anticipating his future releases.
If you haven’t watched his music video yet, check it out here!
What do you think of Taeyong’s music video “SHALALA”? Let us know your thoughts by tweeting to us @whatthekpop1 or leaving us a comment on Facebook and Instagram!
AMP_POWER is an Asian culture enthusiast from the US who enjoys having discussions with fellow fans about the industry and newcomers who are interested in broadening their horizons and expanding their taste in music. Having lived in Asia for a few years, she would be overjoyed to grab a cup of tea and sit down with you to tell of her cherished adventures. Art is her Life.
MEDIA: SMTOWN