#singing and rapping? AND acting? AND modeling? AND HIS DANCING?

[veriken]

"you look cute" | WEAK HERO CLASS ONE | yeon sieun + ahn suho

#weak hero class 1 #weak hero class one #yeon sieun #ahn suho #bromance #park jihoon #choi hyunwook #cried my eyes out #this show is incredible #will never recover #park jihoon's acting #let's talk about that #he's so good at everything like #singing and rapping? AND acting? AND modeling? AND HIS DANCING? #anyway linked in the source is a gallery of my whc1 gifs #kennyxsoup #kdrama #kdramadaily #veriken #weak hero class

[lumiconic]

“ if you’d say you love me ”

✧ some way or another, every member of the global pop sensation 6REEZE has fallen head over heels for you.

✧ kunikuzushi, venti, kazuha, heizou, aether, xiao ; fluff, slight hurt comfort ; idol au ; not proofread

  the first to be sucked into your irresistible gaze is kunikuzushi, known as the main dancer kuni to 6REEZE’s devoted fanbase, STORM’S EYE. it’s almost funny, considering how kuni is known for being the sharpest and most angry member of the group, who dismissively flicks his hand at fans pleading for his autograph. somehow, it was always you who was able to see past his thorny exterior to the blazing passion underneath.

  as the group’s manager, you know almost everything about each of the boys, from their favorite colors to their most coveted dreams. only kuni refused at first to open up to you, calling it a waste of time because he had more important things to do than team-building. there were some tiny hints of disappointment on your face whenever he opted out of the group hangouts early, but you never forced him into anything, no matter how eager everyone else was.

  yet, there was some tiny part of him, buried far beneath, that almost wanted you to make him. to be given an excuse to learn more about you, and to be known as well as you knew the other boys. he never acted on it, and so it’s by complete chance the first time you show having knowledge of him beyond what he’s voluntarily shared.

  he was in the rehearsal room, packing up his bag and wiping the sweat off his brow after another long day of practice. while his singing and rapping skills were mediocre – for an idol, of course, which made them still far above average – he had been scouted solely for his skill at dancing and thus had to train much more in that area than any other. while it was his passion, he still found himself exhausted beyond belief at the end of the day.

  you opened the door without looking up, talking on the phone to someone about future marketing plans (i’m sorry, but if you want heizou to model that line then you need to take aether too because he doesn’t have enough deals yet). kuni cleared his throat.

  your head shot up and your eyes landed on him. “kuni!” you said, sounding surprised and ending the call with a tap of your finger. “oh, do you want this? here – ” you dug in your tote for a moment, then tossed a bottle to him. startled, he threw out his hands and almost fumbled the catch. 

  “ragnvindr energy?” he read the label out loud. the neon pink coloring on the plastic wrap almost hurt his tired eyes, but he was still able to discern the title. “what is this?” 

  “isn’t that your favorite brand?” you asked, sounding surprised.

  “yeah, but – how would you know that?” he said, the usual bite in his voice gone, replaced by confusion as he stared at the bottle. you tilted your head. “well, you bring it practically every day and keep it in your bag, so,” you shrugged, “i just noticed. that one’s my favorite, so i thought i’d have you try it too. which flavor do you like best?”

  there was some strange pulse of feeling through his chest at those words. that casual recognition, the easy way you stated that you had noticed something about him. that you were paying attention. He couldn’t explain why it felt so important. so heady and exhilarating in a way that almost rivaled the feeling of dancing.

  “green tea,” he said, without thinking. “the more bitter it is, the better.”

  you laughed, and he sucked in a breath. the sound was like – the first rays of light peeking over the horizon in the morning; like rain drumming on leaves in the midst of a storm. like music. so easily, he could be lost in that rhythm the way he gets swept into a song even in just the first few beats of an addictive melody.

  “green tea, huh. you aren’t supposed to have that much caffeine, but i saw how hard xiao was pushing you today.” you lifted your shoulders in a what can you do gesture, then pressed your index finger to your lips. “maybe try to drink more water in the future, but for now you definitely deserve this. let’s keep it our secret, okay?”

  “o-okay,” kuni stumbled over the word, surprise still freezing his wide-eyed expression in place, hating the choked breath lingering in his throat as you smiled back at him. a blush rose to his face at the sight, coloring the apples of his cheeks bright red. “thanks.” 

  “of course! once this next m/v comes out, you’ll have more room to breathe,” you said reassuringly. “just hold out til then.” he nodded, not trusting himself to speak without his voice cracking embarrassingly. what is this? [name] of all people, causing this reaction? get yourself together! they’re just your damn manager, not your – 

  he silenced his inner thought before it could finish that humiliating sentence.

  “well, see you later,” you said, waving goodbye and leaving the room as you tugged your phone out of your bag, already returning to your itinerary of plans to make. there was silence for a long moment, his eyes still focused sightlessly towards the door. kuni looked at the bottle in his hand, turning it over multiple times before unscrewing the cap, lifting it up, and dumping the whole thing over his head.

  he stood there for a moment, the smell of artificial sunsettia flavoring soaking through his hair and cool, sticky juice dripping down his cheeks, soaking into his long sleeved exercise shirt, and pooling at his feet, an speechlessly angry and dumbfounded expression on his face. the heat in his cheeks refused to dissipate. then he took a deep breath in, hoisted his bag over his shoulders, and headed for the showers.

  the second person to be enchanted by you is venti, the main singer, with a pleasant, boyish voice that can go unexpectedly deep and serious. considered immature and childish, he’s also the most rebellious of the group, in a way; the one who would disappear for hours at exactly the wrong times, fetching expensive gifts for the other members and interrupting meetings with the company heads to interject his own opinions on music and production.

  this was yet another day that he was spending doing the opposite of what he was meant to; visiting a local café, one of his personal favorites because of their cutely decorated cakes and lattes, wearing thick black sunglasses and a face mask.

  currently, he was hurrying away from the café, holding a bag with a small box of petit fours and a caramel-apple flavored special edition coffee, trying to lay out his plans for the rest of the day. i just need to get out of here, then i’ll get right back to the company and start practicing again. it’ll only be about ten minutes to go straight home, it shouldn’t take that long…

  “oh my god! is that venti?! like, from 6REEZE?!” 

  … damn it.

  “can i please get a photo? i love 6REEZE, i know all your songs! i have, like, every single photocard released since you debuted!” the nervous babble of the girl who spotted him was admittedly somewhat flattering. “h-hey, sure, a photo’s fine!” venti said, a dazzling smile leaping to his face as he bent slightly to make a peace sign at the camera. the girl clutched her phone in both hands as she took the photo, like it was a priceless item of some kind. 

  “oh, me too, please! you’re my favorite!” begged her friend, bouncing excitedly; her hysterical voice reached a new pitch as venti did finger hearts in her photo. “hey, what’s going on over there?” “what, is he some kind of celebrity?” voices began to bubble through the crowd at the noise, and soon enough, there was an entire group of people shoving up against him, asking for pictures and autographs and asking questions that he could barely hear. 

  panic was starting to burn in his chest, flustered words of hey, excuse me, i’ve really got to go spilling from his lips, with no end in sight to the mayhem. then, he spotted a familiar figure; you, hand shielding your eyes from the sun, peering out over the crosswalk for, presumably, him. your gaze lit on the commotion, and then on him. your jaw dropped slightly in surprise at the uproar being caused simply by his presence. 

  he made eye contact with you through the crowd, panic sparking in his eyes, an unmistakable help me forming on his lips. there was annoyance on your face, and for a second he thought you were going to leave, but instead you opened your mouth as wide as it would go and shouted, “HEY! IS THAT CHILDE FROM DCKZ?” pointing – somewhat unkindly – at a random passerby, a tall boy with bright ginger hair.

  screams rose from the crowd, the unique sound of teenagers seeing their favorite, most handsome celebrity crush, and in the following roar of sound as the poor boy was swarmed without warning, venti was able to slip away, flicking his sunglasses back down onto his face. 

  you met him in the center of the crosswalk, quickly starting to walk again. you chided him gently, smacking his arm with the back of your hand at his impulse to suddenly disappear, and he apologized, only sort of meaning it.

  “part of me is kinda annoyed that someone like childe would get more attention than me,” venti remarked wryly, hooking his mask with one finger and pulling it back over his face, careful to tuck his two toned braids into the back of his hoodie. “with his one-note singing, he shouldn’t have half the audience i do.”

  “sure, but don’t worry, that won’t last for long,” you said, your eyes sparkling with determination as you strode confidently through the streets; venti’s slightly shorter legs scrambled to keep up with your quick, assertive pace. “you’ll be a superstar someday. i’ve always been sure of it.”

  there was a sudden, strange feeling of a lump in his throat; his green eyes flickered to your back, the 6REEZE tour hoodie that you were wearing and its list of sold out dates written down the smooth, high quality fabric, and strange whispers of memory fluttered into his mind. a thousand days spent practicing, the moments right before rising onto the stage, his heart pounding so hard he could barely think and sick nervousness boiling in his stomach, rendering him almost unable to speak. and you, of course, holding out a water bottle, a sheet of lyrics, a helping hand, as always.

  his breath caught and a frantic whirl of thoughts spilled into his mind. the feeling that there’s something he was always overlooking before, something obvious that he never noticed even though it was right in front of his face, like he was missing something crucial, something so important that now that he had noticed its absence it was like a puzzle piece had been cut out of his still beating heart.

  wind blew past his face, and time seemed to slow down in the next second; you turned, a smile flitting to your lips and the words “hey, go a bit faster!” falling into the air as your hand flashed out, connecting the space between you, and grabbed his wrist. in that moment, there was no other way to describe you than… angelic, with golden sunshine drenching your face, your fingers cool against his skin, and he struggled, suddenly, to take air into his lungs.

  “anyway, what did you leave for?” you asked, abruptly breaking the spell. venti shook his head, disoriented. “w… what? oh – i,” he held up his paper bag sheepishly. “i wanted to get a coffee.”

  “oh? from where?”

  “just this café i like,” he said, almost embarrassed of the answer. “well, can i try something?” you asked. he fumbled in the bag for a moment before taking out a small pastry, a layered cube of strawberry shortcake. you popped it into your mouth and chewed for a moment, and he found himself holding his breath with the hope that you would like it.

  “wow, that’s really good,” you said with surprise. “can i come with you next time?”

  there was no excuse for the shot of adrenaline that rushed through him at the innocent question, and he was so thankful that you weren’t facing him as a giddy smile crossed his face. “sure thing!” he said, brightening, and quickened once more to continue in pace with you.

  the third person to melt into your fascinating mind is kaedehara kazuha, the songwriter of the group and main rapper; a fan favorite for his calm and relaxing exterior that belies a fierier soul underneath. it helped, of course, that he wrote extremely popular and romantic songs. you had a strong friendship with him, as he was the member you had known the longest, practically since he was a trainee and you were both much younger.

  right now, he was laying on the floor of your apartment and listening to a demo track of a new song, already planning the words to the sweet, delicate piano melody, while you sat on the couch scribbling in a spiral bound notebook, eyebrows knit in a concentrated expression. you heaved a sigh, ripping out a sheet of paper and crumpling it into a ball before tossing it on the floor frustratedly. kazuha paused the music. “what’s wrong?”

   “i’m just – trying to figure this out,” you sighed. “the words just won’t come to me.”

  “what are you writing?”

  “… poetry,” you said begrudgingly. when he laughed, hiding the surprised and excited thump his heart made when he heard that word, and then the following shock at those emotions, you threw a pillow at him. “stop it! you write this kind of thing too!” 

  “yes, but i get paid to do it,” he pointed out, refraining to mention that it was also his main pastime outside of his idol duties. “can i see it?” you shook your head instantly, and his lips tugged downwards into a frown. so, [name] writes poetry. what a coincidence. his eyes glittered, fixing his unhappy look on you.

  you closed your notebook and gave him a big smile, slightly pained in a way he could only recognize due to your years of friendship. “really, it’s just a hobby. it’s about time for dinner anyways. shall i start making something?”

  “no, show me,” he requested, tilting his head, dark red eyes locked onto yours. “please?” he wanted to see them so badly, a hint of desperation seeped into his voice. he almost cringed at that sound. but why was he so curious? of course, he inexplicably loved the idea that you had one of the same hobbies as him. composing poetry and songs? it was as if you were made to be together.

  he bit down hard on the inside of his cheek, and tasted salt on his tongue for a second, the pain jolting him back into his right mind. partners, of course, is what he meant. friends. nothing more than that. how could he be having such stupid thoughts about you, his oldest friend? 

  your voice drew him into reality again. “okay, fine, just don’t judge me. it’s… really dumb,” you admitted, closing your eyes and cracking open the spine of the notebook. kazuha ran his fingertips over the paper, ridged with line after line of your cramped handwriting in thick ink. as he took in the contents of the pages, his eyes widened. this is…

  “a love poem?” he said aloud. you squeezed your eyes shut as he started to read the words halfway down the page. “… lost to me like dandelion fluff / i grasp for another handful / another breath, wishing for you cupped in my hands.” he rocked backwards, clapping his hand over his mouth not soon enough to muffle the laughter.

  your cheeks colored and you snatched the notebook back. “ugh, kazuha! get out of here! i didn’t even finish it yet!”

  “no, no! i’m not laughing at you!” he said, though he was a bit. such a tacky way of words, and yet… “it’s just so sentimental, i never would have expected this from you. it’s, sort of sweet.”

  “well, you never know,” you said, placated slightly by his words. “and anyway, i’d never show it to anyone but you. it’s just for fun.”

  you’d never show it to anyone but me? logically, he knew there were a thousand reasons for you to say that, ranging from him being another poet, to him being your close friend. and yet, he latched onto the one he wanted the most. 

  “who’s it for?” he asked, as casually as he could, as calmly and slowly as he could. as if there was no meaning behind that question at all. as if the idea that such a poem could maybe, possibly be for him didn’t make his heart explode into fireworks of joy, without him even knowing why. no, not quite; of course, he knew why. his job was writing love songs, anyway. he had just never thought that of all people, it would be you who caused these feelings he’d sang about a thousand times yet never experienced.

  “i’m not telling,” you said, sticking your tongue out childishly before looking embarrassed. his heart plummeted into his stomach. even though it was an answer to be expected. he couldn’t explain this crushing disappointment at your refusal to speak. “w-well, anyway… why don’t we go get something to eat now?”

  it was unmistakably an escape from a conversation you didn’t want to continue. yet, kazuha wanted to ask you to wait, so he could see another poem of yours. even if it led to heartache, he wanted to know so badly that it almost hurt. the possibility of you writing something like that for him was something he wanted more than anything in that instant. and yet…

  more than that, he wanted you to be comfortable around him. that was truly what he wanted most. so… “okay, sure,” he obliged, and you set down your precious notebook as the two of you stood to leave, him casting one more glance towards it and wondering after its tantalizing contents. 

  as you both stood in the elevator, waiting for its descent to the bottom floor, he turned to you. “hey, what was the name of that poem again?”

  “dandelions,” you said, another embarrassed flush tinting the tips of your ears. “it’s silly, but— ”

  “no, it isn’t. dandelions,” he repeated, the word tingling on his tongue. it felt like he was on the verge of something new, somehow, that familiar warm, sparking feeling he always got right before an idea for a brand new project. “i like it.”

  the next single is soon released, titled wishes in the breeze, a heartfelt ode laced with sugary-sweet declarations of love for an unknown person. you find a copy of the tape– its cover plastered with an image of the boys sitting together with their backs to the camera, kazuha in the middle, one eye showing as he turns his head– outside your apartment door; in the liner notes of the tape are shreds of a poem in red ink.

  the third to fall prey to your beauty is shikanoin heizou, the main visual and most outgoing, charismatic member of 6REEZE. of course, he’s quite talented as the other members, but his true strength is in his magnetic personality that draws in new fans almost every day. he always knows just what to say, a perfect comeback locked and loaded on his tongue and ready to burst no matter what the situation is.

  after wishes in the breeze won ‘best new pop song’ at a prestigious teyvat awards event, you and 6REEZE were invited to a celebration dinner with many other famous artists. heizou was standing with the other members and holding small talk with a punk-pop girl band trio that recently released an album that swept the awards, golden apple. 

  “heya, [name] just came in,” the shortest girl said, tilting her head towards the entrance. “ain’t  that ya manager, heizou?” he smiled instantly, and agreed, “ah, yes!” with a gleeful look on his face. “i wasn’t sure they were going to show up, they don’t usually like big crowds, but i guess this was too important of an opportunity to pass up.”

  he swiveled to greet you, hand already raising in a wave, and as his gaze landed on you, the world seemed to stop turning for a moment, the words falling out of his mouth and disappearing.

  highlighted underneath the dancing lights, there you were; in a forest green tuxedo, the silken material of your sleeves almost glowing as you rubbed the back of your neck nervously. your hair was styled in such a way that you looked like royalty, sweeping over your shoulders, and when you turned your head slightly and the bright color of your eyes was caught in the glimmer from the spotlights above, he could just feel his heart in his throat and the bittersweet taste of longing.

  heizou was unable to speak for a few seconds, almost unable to breathe. it was lucky for him that kazuha caught sight of you and waved you over, because he couldn’t get a single syllable out, let alone a greeting. you crossed the room to the small group.

  “how fancy,” kuni scoffed, sharp nose turned up as he jutted out his chin. “no wonder it took you so long to get here, primping like this.”

  you pulled at your sharp collar. “it’s a little stifling,” you said with just a hint of sweat to betray your flustered interior underneath your calm expression. “i don’t usually get dressed up like this, but… it’s for such a special occasion, and it’s a little fun too – ”

  “it looks amazing, [name]!” venti exclaimed, stars in his eyes as he grabbed your hand and pumped it up and down. “seriously, the best! you didn’t have to go so all out for us, we would have been happy with just a fancy sash or something,” he laughed. you accepted his handshake without a change of expression, as the other boys oohed and aahed dutifully.

  “i mean, come on! this is so fancy, i’m shocked to see [name] all dressed up and looking sharp! i wish we could see you like this more often,” venti continued, turning to look at heizou with a smile. “right?” 

  the question was surely meant innocently, as a query for the other contender for flirtiest member. it was most likely that venti had expected only a oh yes, it’s quite stunning, but not as stunning as [name]’s cute face by itself. but heizou had no smart remark, instead offering only a “yeah, it’s fine,” with a flat, unchanging face, before turning on his heel and practically running for the exit. “hey!” venti said, surprised, as if trying to call him back, but it was no use; the red-head boy was already out of earshot in a matter of seconds.

  “ah… ? heizou?” you said, taken aback as you watched heizou’s rapidly retreating frame. “did i… do something wrong?” a strange sadness seemed to fill your chest, and your hand fell away to rest limply by your side.

  pushing through the double doors, heizou finally managed to escape. he ducked around a corner, hunching over and staring at the floor, his breathing fast with exertion and agitation. “that’s… just not fair,” he mumbled into his hand, palm pressed to his mouth and face burning red. “to suddenly show up in something like that? it’s practically playing dirty… ”

  he sunk to the floor, getting dust on the legs of his suit, but he barely noticed, burying his face in his hands with only thoughts of you rushing through his head. he had no doubt the others were wondering after him, but there was no chance he could go back in his current state, barely able to think straight. 

  “man, [name]… you really are dreamy.” 

  though the mood of the celebration was dampened by heizou’s partial absence and your dejection, you managed to go to bed that night with a smile on your face due to the fun atmosphere and the others making a special effort to cheer you up. the next time you saw heizou, he presented you with a gift box tied in an intricate knot with a silk ribbon. inside, was a less formal version of that outfit, in a popular style that you could wear out on the street.

  “because you said you thought it was fun,” he says, tucking his hands behind his back to conceal their shaking. “i thought you would like something like this. to wear whenever you want. but if it’s too much, or silly, i – ”

  “i love it, heizou,” you say firmly, cutting him off. “thank you.” when you hesitantly pulled him into a hug, his arms came up automatically to wrap around your back, his breathing almost stopping with an nervous thrill that traveled up his spine. he wondered for a second if you could feel his heartbeat and how fast it was pounding inside his chest, before pushing the thought aside and letting himself just feel the warmth of your arms for that short moment.

  the fifth person captivated by your kindness is aether, the youngest member and the least experienced, with no solid lead position. every person in 6REEZE has their fair share of fans, but he had a noticeable lack of support compared to the others; the company that managed the group, SHOGUNATE ENTERTAINMENT, just seemed to have it out for him, barely giving him any solos or spending any time marketing him.

  of course, no one ever voiced their concerns at his treatment aloud, not when he seemed so truly optimistic. nobody wanted to be the person to make that grin disappear. spending all day, every day practicing, waving the others off when they asked him to take a break, every moment was dedicated to the betterment of his idol persona, never letting that golden smile drop from his face.

   it felt like it was a thousand degrees on the set of their next m/v, yet aether was still practicing, the sound of their upcoming release today and tomorrow blaring through his ears. it was the only song he had heard in at least a week, but he couldn’t take a break for even a second if he wanted to remember the whole thing without one mistake.

  when his twenty-third(? he lost count around number fifteen) runthrough of the song finally finished, leaving him kneeling on the floor, he shut off the music. in the silence of the empty room, there was some kind of pounding still echoing in his head, making it hard for him to think straight. as he rose to his feet, his vision blacked out for a moment.

  “aether, you’re still here?” said a sudden voice, laced with surprise. he looked up to find you, apparently having just entered and in the midst of rearranging a couple of set pieces. as your gaze traveled over him, your eyes widened slightly. “are you okay? you look so pale.”

  “yeah, ‘m fine, just – just tired,” he mumbled, swaying on his feet slightly. your worried expression swam before his eyes. “is it hot in here, or… ?” were his last words before he stumbled and fell, the ground rushing up to meet him faster than he could react with his exhausted, nonresponsive limbs, eyes closing and unable to think properly.

  huh… ?

  the world pulsed around him in blinking black dots. somehow, he hadn’t hit the ground yet. it felt wrong that he would still be falling; he forced his eyes open with great struggle, and found that you had caught him. how strange… why couldn’t i move… ?

  you gently lowered yourself to the floor, allowing him to rest his head against your leg. “aether,” you said, your voice pained and worried, “how hard have you been practicing? have you taken any breaks today?”

  “no, i was trying to learn the choreography without – ” the words caught in his dry throat, breath scraping painfully, and you looked even more worried as he coughed. “without pausing at all.”

  a tch sound escaped your lips, expression more concerned than he’d ever seen it before. “you must be so dehydrated.” you bit your lip. “aether, you know you’re just hurting yourself this way. this level of work… it’ll hinder your progress, rather than help it.”

  despite the discouraging nature of your words, it was gratitude for that acknowledgement, and some thick, warm emotion that brought a strange moisture to aether’s eyes. he tried to rub at his eyes, but his hand was shaking too hard. “no, i have to do this.”

  “why?” you demanded.

  he barely knew how to put it into words. “i’m just… the weak link,” he said, tears pricking for a moment before he blinked them away, one hand resting on his temples and shielding his face from your concerned gaze. “i’m not good at anything, so i have to practice and practice to make up for – ”

  “you’re not the weak link, aether,” you said firmly, your voice so kind and earnest that it almost brought tears to his eyes yet again. “you’re like – the glue, you can do everything perfectly well. there’s nothing wrong with not having a specialty. you work so hard, and always go out of your way to support everyone. don’t let me hear you talking like that, okay?”

  “but – ” he tried to protest, then almost melted underneath the force of your angry, anxious eyes. even with the embarrassment of being in this situation, there was some foreign ember of warmth in his chest that burned hotter with every word from you. he couldn’t explain it, but it was like hearing those things from you was rejuvenating somehow; soaking into his body and leaving him feeling looser, calmer in its wake. he didn’t know if it was because it was you specifically, and he was almost afraid to think about it. 

  “no buts!” you snapped. “i refuse to listen to you thinking this way about yourself. you’re incredibly capable and strong, and don’t you dare bottle this up and work yourself to the point of passing out again. i know you can do it, without punishing yourself for no reason. it’ll be okay.”

  “… okay,” he nodded. you pressed your hand against his forehead and winced. “you better not be getting sick. now go home and rest up. i don’t want to see you here again until tomorrow afternoon, got it?”

  you walked him to the exit, making sure he drank almost the entire contents of his water bottle, with orders to go to sleep extra early. yet, even with those directions, he tossed and turned almost all night, still feeling the force of your laser-hot gaze every time he closed his eyes. 

  the day filming started, there was no doubt in him that he could nail the entire choreography. even xiao commented on his movements seeming more sharp than usual, his voice more fluid as well. of course, there was a reason for that, but he would never have voiced it aloud that he wanted just one more second of your eyes on him. just one more word of praise that felt so much more real coming from you than anyone else.

  there was a six-second focus on him for the second chorus, and he poured all of his saved-up energy into that moment. “i want you here, i want you with me in my arms,” he sang, throwing his entire body into the next twirling movement, and pointed straight at the camera with the unfaltering wish that you would see and know he was speaking to you. “you’re my love, the one i’m wishing for, today, tomorrow, forever!”

  the sixth member of 6REEZE to love you is xiao, the center and leader of the group. though STORM’S EYE has no shortage of love for him due to his mesmerizing voice and mature good looks, he is the least social of the boys, known as ‘ice prince’ because he’s so aloof and cool at fan events. there is no one in public knowledge that he chooses to let his guard down around; even in vlogs, he barely socializes and keeps to himself, practicing or listening to music on bulky headphones.

  SHOGUNATE ENTERTAINMENT works mainly out of an enormous compound filled with training rooms and facilities for all of their groups and other productions. the residence reserved for 6REEZE is attached to it. technically, it could be shared by the group, but the only people who really live there are venti and xiao, and venti is almost always out on other business (or so he claims) anyway.

  the roof of the apartment has an amazing view of the entire city and the sky. it’s the perfect place to go when a break and fresh air is needed, meaning xiao can almost always be found there. and now, after an incident in which a very important standalone project where he was meant to collaborate with a girl group has been cancelled due to strong pushback from fans, he’s vanished, and you know exactly where he’s gone.

  watching the door still swinging shut from his sudden exit, president miko clicked her tongue carelessly. “ah, so immature. do you remember when we were young enough to be able to throw tantrums whenever things went awry, ei, dearest?” she tilted her head at the purple haired woman, who sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose. “we could secure another collaboration, but apparently not with any girl group. perhaps xing/yun or LUPICAL… ?” she mused. “could someone please go after him?”

  “i can – ” kuni volunteered, already raising from his seat, before you rocketed to your feet, pushing your chair in. “i’m on it! please email me your consensus later!” the other boys watched, taken aback, as you gave a hasty bow and practically sprinted out.

  you found him on the roof, of course, leaning over the balcony with a stony line to his jaw. you approached, and he raised his hand without greeting. “what happened back there?” you asked tentatively.

  “how can they take away an opportunity so selfishly?” he spat. you weren’t sure whether he was talking about the fans or SHOGUNATE ENTERTAINMENT, but nodded anyway. as the leader, he was naturally under the most stress, and when he got into a bad mood there was nothing to do but wait it out. 

  “i don’t know if i can do this anymore,” he said, feeling the smallest crack in his voice and dragging a hand down his face. “we’re always being watched, always having to obey stupid rules that don’t even make sense! this was an important collaboration, i’m not a commodity that will lower in value if i work with a girl! if our fans can’t handle us acting like normal people, they aren’t even our fans, are they?”

  “i know,” you said, trying to soothe him, placing a hand on his arm only for it to be shaken off. he glared out at the city for a moment, eyes focused above the horizon. “it’s just not fair,” you continued. “but xiao, there are alternatives – ”

  “i don’t want alternatives,” he interrupted, “i’m not sure if i even want to be an idol sometimes. all these rules are too much.” he turned and met your eyes. “and you know the worst one of all.”

  “of course i do.” you reached out and tucked a lock of hair behind his ear. “but are you serious about not wanting to be an idol? because, if you ever chose to leave the company, i… can also leave.”

  “you can’t put your career in jeopardy just for this.” he gave a frustrated huff. “this stupid company is just so stifling. i didn’t think being an idol would be like this when i first signed up.”

  “well, that’s why i’m here, right?” you offered. “to make your life easier. my career isn’t as important, so as your manager, i could – ”

  “you’re more than my manager.” his tone was gentler, the earlier roughness somehow melting away, and the words were quiet enough that nobody could possibly hear, meant only for you as he tilted his head, golden eyes finding yours. “you know that.”

  “xiao.” 

  “i won’t let you endanger your own job prospects if i leave.”

  you stared at each other for a moment. the wind stirred your hair around your face, framing it in the most beautiful way. his heart caught in his throat. the painful look of uncertainty mixed with determination that you wore was sure to be mirrored on his own face.

  “i would never stay here, without you,” you said finally, your voice tight. “i’ll go wherever you go.”

  he opened his mouth, unable to form words as a response to this, and you looked at him. there was nothing in your eyes but earnestness, and he thought for the millionth time how heart-stoppingly beautiful you were. he cupped your face with both hands, and there you were in silence for a long second, the cotton candy sunset gleaming down onto you.

  “[name],” was the word that finally escaped his lips, taking in your sweet scent that enveloped you like an angel’s aura. you wrapped your arms around his neck, murmuring xiao in the quietest voice, a secret that wreathed through the air, like smoke curling into a calm breeze. “i love you.”

  you kissed him, then; and when your lips met, he felt his worries melt away, and the overwhelming thought that he couldn’t care less if the whole world knew about your relationship; it was like he could feel everything, like he was frozen and time only started moving again when you were together. eternity could pass in a heartbeat and he would never know, not when he was holding you.

  whether 6REEZE was together or not, whether he stayed an idol, or the trifling problems of his everyday life – nothing like that seemed to matter when he was with you. it felt inconsequential. no matter what the company wanted from him, he could do it; as long as he could continue to kiss you like this, he would do anything in the world. 

© lumiconic ; please reblog and follow if enjoyed

#<3.writing #try to guess what order these were written in lol #kunikuzushi x reader #kunikuzushi imagines #venti x reader #venti imagines #heizou x reader #heizou imagines #kazuha x reader #kazuha imagines #aether x reader #aether imagines #xiao x reader #xiao imagines

[darklydeliciousdesires]

The Dream - Chapter One.

Oh, you lovely, lovely people, showing such interest in this just off the back of the prologue! it’s a slow builder, so I hope you don’t mind that, each chapter isn’t hugely long, though, 2-3k words or thereabouts, so hopefully it won’t mean people get left behind on the twice weekly updates. As I mentioned in the prologue, the unlock for the next update is set to 40 notes for each chapter going forward, so bear that in mind as I don’t want to keep on reminding you all over that :) Well, here we go, then. Let’s get it started!

Previous chapters - Prologue

Tag list - In the comments, please DM to be added/removed (note: those not engaging will be automatically removed from the tag list, FYI)

Words - 2,740

Warnings - 18+ content throughout, minors DNI!

Lying in his bed the night after the strange and yet vividly real dream, Angel could feel his eyes growing heavy, his brain succumbing to slumber, eyelids fluttering shut as he let out a deep breath through his nose and scratched his bare chest, falling into a deep sleep. He hadn’t paid much mind to the dream he’d had the previous night, much too focused upon his outlawing endeavours over the course of the day, but once again, he found himself in a dream, one which contained the exact same girl as before.  

Keri had been asleep for two hours when she began to dream of being in a club, dancing high up on a podium, which she would have been much too self-conscious to have done in her waking hours, no matter how much she loved to have a good dance to her preferred music.  

Looking out over the huge crowd, she scanned their faces, searching for any familiarity until her eyes fell upon him, staring up at her. Every single person there, including the black-haired man she focused upon was swathed in black clothes, all except for her, looking down to see she wore a long, white slip dress, unlike anything she actually would wear in reality. She was much too accident prone with condiments and drinks for white textiles.  

Moving her body to the beat of the song, her swaying and gyrating not done under any conscious control, feeling like a passenger in her own body, her eyes locked onto his. What was he doing there again? Why did her brain keep conjuring this guy? She had to have seen him before in passing, he was just too much of a vivid presence to be a mere figment of her imagination. Was he a musician, maybe, from some metal band or another? He appeared as if he could be, tattoos, heavy silver jewellery, he fitted a certain mould.  

Or was he a model, perhaps? Maybe that was it, maybe she’d seen him on Instagram. She’d be lying if she said she hadn’t spent time here and there gazing at the heavily tattooed, bearded model guys on there. What twenty-two-year-old young woman didn’t enjoy a little thirst session now and then?

After the song had finished, some dance track she was only partially familiar with, she recognised the opening bars of the next, one of her favourites by a rap duo from Michigan she liked called Twiztid, Keri climbing over the rail of the podium and jumping, the air seeming to cushion her and act against the gravity, landing neatly on her feet when she reached the floor below. In reality, she’d have ended up in a heap with snapped bones, jumping from such a height.

She watched as he began to cut through the crowd towards her, her heart thundering in her chest as they neared one another. God, he was stunning. By her own volition then, she began to mouth along to the lyrics of the song, raising her hands as she danced to the track entitled Magic Spellz, the uplifting tune having exactly the same feel-good effect on her in the dream as it did in life.  

Angel stood and watched her, smiling at her, noting how carefree she appeared, looking back at him and laughing before she continued walking to him. He couldn’t place the song playing, but she seemed to enjoy vibing with it.  

“Having fun?” he asked when she reached him, hearing her singing to the lyrics.

“You lift me up in times when I wanna die, intoxicated by your magic spells you weave all the time...” She paused, laughing. “Apologies, I was mid-song. Yes, I’m having fun. I could stand to be having more, though.”

His eyebrow tilted up, his lips setting in a slight smirk as he caught her connotations. “Oh yeah?”

She reached for him, her thumbs stroking his beard as she pulled him down to her level. “Yeah.” That time when their lips met, there was no booming noise to rouse them, nothing at all other than a kiss that instantly deepened, Angel folding his arms around her, clutching her to him tightly as their tongues fluttered together, her fingernails dragging through his hair. It felt so intense, so real, standing there kissing her, everything fading out until all he could hear was a soft ringing in his ears and the sound of his own heart thudding faster in his chest.  

Pulling away, he tried to open his mouth to speak, yet despite his attempt, no words came out, the girl suddenly looking as if she was an AI generated image that had begun to malfunction, flickering before she vanished. Instantly, he awoke... as did Keri.

“I swear, if someone is lacing my flippin’ drinks.” she muttered, fluffing her pillow before turning, falling asleep again quickly. In her last waking moments, she didn’t expect to fall straight into another dream, but once again, he would come to her, she was to find.  

She found herself standing in the middle of a beautiful house, surrounding by happy looking people, some she knew and some she didn't. Looking at her own reflection in a big window she was walking towards, she noticed everyone else was dressed so smartly compared to her attire of jeans and a strapless, black top. She felt a little underdressed and out of place, but no one else seemed to notice her. Just the man who she could see through the window, standing out on the lawn.  

She opened the large, glass door, stepping out onto a white patio, a man sitting at a baby grand to her left whom she passed by, the notes tinkling into the dark of the evening as she descended the steps. As with the other dreams, her words and actions were pre-programmed for the most part, and she had absolutely no control of herself as she reached him, happily being pulled into his arms.  

“You vanished,” he told her, fingers tickling the side of her neck.  

She shrugged, reaching to place her hands on his thick shoulders. God, he felt like he was carved out of rock, such a feast of muscles, and so tall! “I’m back now, wherever the hell this is.”  

“Somewhere fancy,” he replied, snorting softly. “I’m surprised they let my bitch ass in.”  

She laughed, stroking his face. She wanted to ask him who he was, and why, why, why she kept on dreaming about him, yet when she went to speak, it felt as if she had a stone lodged in her throat, no words coming forth. Floundering, she coughed, feeling something pulling her from behind, some force that parted them, her vision spinning. “Who are you?”  

Opening her eyes, the only thing that was before her was her bedroom wall, Keri sighing, rubbing her eyes as the early morning sun stung them. She cursed her seeming inability to shut curtains correctly, leaning over to yank them closed before flopping down on her back again, dozing until her alarm blared at seven fifteen. She knew she’d mostly slept, but Keri was one of those people who if interrupted by waking even once, she felt shattered. Twice, and with the mystery man she continued to see repeatedly in her dreams on her mind, she wasn’t quite with it on that particular Thursday.

A snap of fingers in her ear roused her from her thoughts five hours later, her friend Rachel raising her eyebrows across the table. “Keri? Hello? Some input to the conversation might be nice.” She and the rest of their little friendship group were communed at their usual place in the canteen at college, discussing plans for the weekend.  

Looking around, she saw the expectant faces of Rachel, Frankie, Aaron and Ash all focused on her, feeling a little embarrassed at being caught zoning out. “Sorry, I was just thinking. Yeah, a hike and a visit to the lake sounds like fun.”

Ash couldn’t help himself, perpetual joker that he was. “Ooh, thinking? Sounds painful.” His words earned him a scowl.  

She was quick with her retort. “Only about as much as it hurts you to remember your own name after three beers, lightweight.” She had him there, their friends erupting as he received the standard razzing for it. Ash and alcohol did not mix well, but he endeavoured to improve. Mainly to his personal detriment.  

Since their afternoon lecture consisting of a visit to Provo Peak had been cancelled due to a weather warning, the group of friends all in the last year of studying for their Visual Communications Degree (except for Ash, a year ahead on his biochemistry masters) decided to use the free time to catch up on assignments in one of the plush study suites, pairing off upon arrival, Frankie opening the blinds to keep an eye on the weather. When it snowed in Provo, Utah, it really came down hard.

“It’s a shame,” she lamented, sighing while taking a seat. “I mean, the peak must be gorgeous, but we can’t even get up there!”

Keri nodded, accessing the files from their joint project on her laptop. “Yeah, it would have been nice, but I can’t imagine search and rescue would be impressed if the weather warning was ignored and we decided to hike up there anyway.”

Her words were met by a little grunt. “Pussy.” She turned to her side, raising an eyebrow.  

“Let’s not forget who can’t even walk up Main Street without falling on her ass when it’s only a little bit snowy under foot. Even in Timberland boots!”

Frankie shoved her shoulder softly, snorting laughing at herself. “Yeah, yeah. You got me there, beets.” Beets. It had been her nickname since the very first time Frankie had witnessed her blush, Keri having the unfortunate predisposition of turning beetroot red when embarrassed. All talk of beet cheeks and snow slipping ended, the girls knuckling down to begin choosing the pictures they were to contribute to their joint assignment.  

About halfway through their tour of over two hundred images, Keri found herself zoning out again, her thoughts becoming consumed once more over her dreams, or more precisely, the man who kept appearing in them. Who the hell was he, that one man who she was sure she’d never met before, yet who her dream self ran to, and kissed as if she'd known him forever. She never invested too much thought into the reasons behind why people dreamed what they did, figuring it to be just some nocturnal strangeness of brain activity that meant nothing at all, but her belief system was starting to become tested by that theory.

“I think if we take this one and show it in a different light as well as hue it'd look so effective. But then I guess that does kinda mean we’re blanking out the natural beauty of the sunset, if we manipulate it too much,” Frankie thought aloud, opening the image editing software and selecting the picture, beginning to tinker. “Oh no, see that? Ruins it.”

Keri cocked her head, twisting her mouth as she thought. “It's what we're supposed to do though, improve upon a picture using digital manipulation, unless we pick one of the pictures that are less naturally radiant than that. How about that one? You shouting at me over whether I wanted mustard on my burger or not kinda distracted me when I took it.”  

She received a soft nudge. “I shouldn’t even ask. You and condiments never mix well. All food dry, that’s what you need. Or a bib.”

“Rude.” Frankie was in soft fits at that, clicking the next picture. “Oooh, this one! I think that was one of my fuck ups, but it we lighten it, aha! Houston, we have lift off. A definite improvement!”

“Agreed, but we can do better.” It was something Frankie loved about Keri, the fact that her eye for detail always picked up on extra processes they could run through an image to spruce it up, just like she did then, taking control of the mouse pad and continuing to edit, until the picture looked worlds apart from the original, and all for the better. While they continued to scour, Keri once again fell into daydream land, leaning back in her seat with her arms folded, her forehead crinkling.  

It took three rouses from her zoned out state before Frankie finally questioned it. “Okay, beets. What the F gives? You keep sitting there frowning and looking like you’re wrestling with something other than photo choices.”

“It's no biggie,” she began, waving her hand dismissively. “It’s just that I keep having the same dream. Well, no that's wrong. I keep having a dream with the same person popping up in it. Have you ever had that?”

“The things Taylor Swift and I get up to in my dreams on a regular basis!” Her dreamy face had Keri shaking her head, Frankie continuing. “But seriously, yeah, I have. Why do you ask?”

“Well, after you dropped me home on Saturday night, I had this really vivid dream. I was in this house, god knows where or who it belonged to, that isn’t the point, but I was sitting at the bottom of a staircase and I could hear all these creepy scratching noises, and sounds of what I can only describe as someone trickling slime into a metal bucket, real eerie and stuff and everything was in this green light, except for me. Then I heard this banging noise that scared the shit out of me, so I started running from it up the staircase, which crumbled beneath my feet,” she began, taking a breath as Frankie nodded and asked her in hand gestures if she wanted to go outside for a cigarette, waving her pack of Marlboro Lights.

Once outside, Keri continued, lighting up a seldom enjoyed cigarette. She was only really a social smoker, but felt she needed one in that moment.  

“So, after I got to the top of the stairs, I ran along this huge hallway, and at the other end was this tall guy with black hair running towards me. I had this feeling that I had to get to him, and when we reached each other, I asked him if he’d look after me, and not let it get me. I don’t know what the ‘it ‘I referred to was, but he said he would. Then last night, I had another two separate dreams he popped up in.”

Frankie nodded in interest. “And you’ve never seen this guy before, no?”

She shook her head. “No, I really don’t think so. This morning I made myself late checking through Instagram to see if he was a model I follow or something, or a musician, looking through band members of all the groups I listen to, because I was of the opinion that I had to have seen him somewhere before, to picture him so vividly. But nope, I have no idea who he is or why I'm dreaming about him! C'mon, dude. Help a girl out here. You’re smart.”

“That I am.” Frankie’s cockiness was delivered with her usual playful mirth. “Why not keep a dream journal and write down everything you dream about that involves this guy, I'll give it to Jaime when you have a few jotted down and see what she makes of them. You know how much she's into all that dream interpretation hippie stuff. In the meantime, you could research dreams and their meanings on the internet?”  

Frankie’s girlfriend Jaime was very much into dream interpretations, crystal healing, reiki, everything her girlfriend had little to no clue over other than the little bits and pieces she picked up here and there from living with her.  

'Yeah, yeah I might just do that. Thanks, homeslice. I mean, who knows? He may never appear again, but I would like to know why he's been there three times when I fall asleep, especially since I've never had dreams like that before. It was really... well, intense.”  

Frankie’s eyebrow raised. “Oh, like that, huh?”

Immediately, she went red, Frankie reaching to pinch her cheeks. “Beets, my beets!” Keri shook her head, pulling the hood of her coat up and obscuring herself from view, Frankie laughing as she hugged her tightly.  

No, they definitely weren’t dreams with anything sexier than kissing featured in them. Yet.  

#angel reyes #angel reyes fanfiction #angel reyes imagine #angel reyes smut #angel reyes x ofc #angel reyes fanfic #angel reyes fic #mayans mc #mayans mc fanfiction #mayans mc imagine #mayans mc smut #mayans mc fanfic #mayans mc fic

[randomvarious]

Technotronic - "Get Up! (Before the Night Is Over)" 1990 Eurodance / Hip-House / Eurohouse / New Beat

When Belgian project Technotronic first stormed onto the global dance scene in 1989 with their all-time classic debut single, "Pump Up the Jam," it legitimately became the single-biggest song in the entire world. And the sudden star of the group happened to be a beautiful Congolese model named Felly, who naturally shined in the music video, performed the song on TV multiple times, and was exclusively featured in the art for both the single and its corresponding album too.

But as the world would soon find out, all of this actually turned out to be an enormous ruse. Felly was *not* the singer-rapper of Technotronic that everyone was tricked into believing she was. She actually had nothing to do with the making of the group's music at all and apparently didn't even speak English either! And whenever she performed "Pump Up the Jam," all she did was just lip-sync the words! 😲

So, who was Technotronic's lead vocalist then? Another Congolese-born person: a mere teenager named Ya Kid K, who seemed to possess this uncanny ability to both rap and sing effortlessly in this assertively cool, deep, distinct, velvety-smooth, and magnetically thick New York-sounding accent. She wasn't the most technically skilled rapper out there by any means, but as someone who served as a sort of cross between fitness tape instructor and narrator of catchy contemporary tracks that had been inspired by 1960s dance craze tunes, Ya Kid K was unparalleled. No one else in the world seemed to have a voice that was quite like hers and her mic presence was spectacular.

So then why did they initially try to hide her? Well, Ya Kid K didn't want to sign a contract with ARS Records, the label that was intent on releasing "Pump Up the Jam" and shooting a video for it, and she was already signed to Technotronic leader and producer Jo Bogaert's own record company anyway. In fact, the initial pressing of "Pump Up the Jam," before it ever even broke big, was released on his Sound 89 label, and Ya Kid K was actually credited. But Bogaert wanted to make the record much bigger, and ARS was apparently capable of helping him do that.

But when Ya Kid K refused to sign that contract, what she didn't seem to be aware of is that ARS was then going to recruit someone else to pump up the jam. And when she found out that her own record was in the shops, with some other woman featured on the cover, she was not happy about it, to say the least.

Now, you also have to keep in mind that Technotronic exploded right at the time when lip-syncing was seen as this totally scandalous act of purely unconscionable inauthenticity. It *ended* Milli Vanilli's career and Italo-dance project Black Box caught a whole lot of flak for it too. So when people finally managed to actually catch on to Technotronic's game, Ya Kid K rightfully and immediately became the face of the group, and then Felly was cast out to the sidelines. And in 1990, Ya Kid K would front Technotronic as the opening act on Madonna's own Blonde Ambition tour.

So, this super fun video here for the group's second single, "Get Up (Before the Night Is Over)," is the one that really marked Ya Kid K's official introduction to the world as the person who truthfully possessed Technotronic's captivatingly golden voice. And she comfortably rocked a wholly different look than Felly's too, by decking herself out in a rotating wardrobe of baggy hip hop clothes, while also covering her short, cornrowed hair with an alternating pair of backwards snapbacks. Felly's presence as the group's original frontwoman had clearly been a boon to Technotronic, and she also still appeared in this particular video by mouthing Ya Kid K's multitracked "before the night is over line" too, but this full package that finally matched Ya Kid K's voice to her own genuinely infectious tomboy swagger was simply unbeatable.

And rather than Technotronic flailing to stay relevant after they'd inevitably found themselves caught up in such an embarrassing fiasco, "Get Up (Before the Night Is Over)" ended up succeeding as an excellent follow-up to their previous era-defining smash, landing itself in the top ten across the entire globe, including #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #2 on the US Dance Play chart as well.

The group's magic would virtually run out by the dawn of the mid-90s, but at least Ya Kid K got a couple years to really bask in a moment that she had been so clearly deserving of all along. It was unfortunate that "Pump Up the Jam" had left her out of the spotlight, but we also don't know if that record would have succeeded as well as it did without Felly either. However, with such a momentous hit then under their belts, Technotronic no longer had to sell that faux image that had helped them become famous in the first place; the people had clearly fallen in love with their tunes, and they were now free to be themselves.

More fun videos here.

#eurodance #dance #dance music #euro dance #hip house #hip hop #rap #old school hip hop #old school rap #house #house music #eurohouse #euro house #new beat #electronic #electronic music #music #80s #80s music #80's #80's music #90s #90s music #90's #90's music

[tomorrowxtogether]

The inner workings of idol casting are what brought TXT and EN- to the world

When it comes to scouting, it’s all about plucking stars from the sky

2023.04.10

BIGHIT MUSIC Casting head Hong Seung Woo can still remember the first time he caught sight of future TOMORROW X TOGETHER member BEOMGYU. “Even though I was far away, I could see he had really strongly defined eyes, nose and mouth as he ran for his parents’ car, and I chased after him with all my might knowing I couldn’t just let him go.” His sharp eye, which he used to find TOMORROW X TOGETHER members BEOMGYU, TAEHYUN and HUENINGKAI, as well as ENHYPEN members JUNGWON, HEESEUNG, JAY and SUNGHOON, is a testament to how important scouting and, more broadly, casting are in the K-pop world. MOA, the fandom of TOMORROW X TOGETHER, often asks how BIGHIT MUSIC was ever able to find five members with their looks, personalities, backgrounds and capacity for growth, as well as how different they are from one another. If TOMORROW X TOGETHER were made up of different people, it’s unlikely they’d be anything like the group they are today. If ENHYPEN didn’t include former figure skater SUNGHOON and taekwondo buff JUNGWON, it’s likely the performance styles and even seemingly trivial in-house content items may have been impacted. “From management to production, things only move forward when the casting’s done the right way, and that’s what makes it the first step of everything in the entertainment industry,” Hong explained. “That makes the casting team an important pipeline that’s tightly integrated with all other areas.”

Every possible way is utilized for casting: open auditions held by labels, visits to K-pop academies and even scouting on social media. Of all the approaches available, you might expect chance encounters with future talent through street scouting to yield low results, but there’s a surprisingly active effort toward it. It’s exactly how Hong discovered BEOMGYU in front of his middle school in Daegu and where he handed his business card to future ENHYPEN member HEESEUNG as the idol-to-be left the entrance exam for an arts high school “wearing a red padded jacket” but whose “face is what immediately caught my eye.” While good looks are an important factor when it comes to street scouting, it’s what comes next in the process where the true casting takes place. According to Hong, although neither BEOMGYU nor HEESEUNG had ever had any training whatsoever, they showed clear potential during their auditions. “As soon as I heard BEOMGYU’s voice, I knew he would be great with some training,” Hong said, “and you could tell HEESEUNG had a feel for singing right from the start.” He could see what direction and how far the two boys would go after training with BIGHIT MUSIC (then Big Hit Entertainment) despite their as-yet unpolished abilities and that’s what led to the label signing them on as trainees. HEESEUNG had the skill and the attitude to make him, in the other ENHYPEN members’ words, the “model image and paragon of a trainee,” placing him top of the trainee class every month. BEOMGYU was not only ready to debut after a short time of preparation but also the song he wrote while first learning the craft, “Maze in the Mirror,” was included on one of TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s albums. Cases like these demonstrate why Hong emphasizes each person’s “potential” again and again. “There’s so many times that someone thinks they can’t sing or dance but they actually have a talent they don’t know about. We’ll even ask candidates to sing the national anthem or their school song when needed. We also have them rap or act. It’s impossible to say what talents will turn up where so we keep every door open.”

With the increase in people who want to become idols, the number of auditions has increased as well, giving them an opportunity to have their skills and potential judged directly. It’s for this reason that there are academies that specialize specifically in preparing students for the K-pop audition process entirely separate from those for music and dance alone. “We used to focus on vocal or dance skills, or teaching for school entrance exams, but now we provide training exclusively for idol auditions,” a representative from one such academy said, explaining that there’s now a demand for “training that prepares people for the audition screening process.” Their academy has come up with a system that focuses on teaching idol hopefuls to put on “a performance that most effectively shows off what makes them unique by taking a balanced approach that doesn’t prioritize either vocals or dance over the other,” and they coach students in how to maximize their individual visual appeal, too. For example, if someone aspires to join BIGHIT MUSIC and has something about them that reminds of YEONJUN from TOMORROW X TOGETHER, they receive help on crafting “a similar image, using YEONJUN’s hair and styling as reference.” As K-pop idols continue to become more skilled and the expectations in scouting and auditioning for labels have followed in tow, thorough training for a high level of aptitude across a wide spectrum of talents has become an integral part of the process for attaining the idol dream. In that sense, scouting and auditioning are equivalent to a job-hunting process in the eyes of prospective idols today, the academy rep said. “Everyone finds the process of looking for a job hard. You have to have the right stuff on your resume and put together a portfolio. What these people are doing is making a portfolio made up of singing, dancing and themselves.”

With everything idols-to-be put into training to try and become one of the labels’ trainees now, being selected through scouting or auditions is more and more about the amount of effort they’re willing to put in. It’s becoming less and less likely to be selected on looks or first impressions alone. “These days it’s hard to make it to the end, even if you look good, if you don’t have talent,” the academy rep said. “Naturally, talent tends to be proportional to the amount of practice you put in. So few people are actually scouted and it can take more than a year to be signed as a trainee, especially with the major labels, but those who continuously set goals and put in the time and effort make it in the end.” Some labels monitor how well probationary trainees are coming along before officially inducting them, and trainees in this situation are especially aware of this reality. “For those who get feedback from the label telling them where they can improve and that they should work on it, if they take that and make a real effort to improve, they usually make the final cut.” Some people therefore have the “potential” that Hong pointed to, but others can also reach the same level on their own sheer willpower. In ENHYPEN leader JUNGWON’s case, Hong received his photo from another trainee’s mother and was immediately “surprised by how cute he looked, so I had to at least check this kid out, even if it’s just because he’s so cute. They set up a proper meeting after JUNGWON had finished training with another label and Hong casted him after seeing he had “a good overall balance of singing, dancing and looks.” After Hong wrote a report on JUNGWON for the label, he was concerned how “his cuteness unfortunately didn’t come across as well as it could” and Hong suggested he go on a diet. The eventual ENHYPEN leader instilled renewed confidence in Hong, making a “drastic change in a really short timeframe thanks to cutting out his nightly ice cream completely and working out.” Hong felt “from now on he could do anything if he’s that driven and persistent.”

The academy rep said there’s been an increasing number of young hopefuls who “find the right academy and program by themselves and register after getting consultation on their own.” Teen stardom seekers have become very active in the process and it’s having a positive effect on their personal development, including in nurturing their talents. “Their one goal training to be an idol is to debut, but they also have a lot of fun doing it. They feel alive because they’re doing something and they end up knowing how to do more things in the world.” It’s also become possible thanks to “parents becoming much more aware about K-pop idols due to world-famous groups like BTS.” Hong added that he can feel how “the acceptability has clearly gone up because of this generation of parents having a comparatively strong understanding of K-pop culture.” JAY from ENHYPEN has previously talked about how he had given careful consideration to his future plans after wrapping up his previous training, at which point he had taken lessons with the goal of being a part of Big Hit Entertainment like BTS before him, practicing hard before finally passing the audition. “He stood out more than anyone his age,” Hong recalled upon having met him. “He was especially good at rapping and came across as shy at first but it was amazing to see how confident he looked as soon as he started rapping—like he had never been shy at all.” It was at that moment when all the effort he had put into, as he said, practicing for months to sharpen those skills, finally paid off. The representative with the academy stressed the importance for there to be safety measures in place to protect teenagers at a time when it’s become so commonplace for them to pursue the dream of becoming an idol. There’s fairly open access to relevant information now compared to how shrouded in secrecy the label audition process was in the past but there are still some questionable people who prey on kids’ dreams of the idol life, which is why the academy rep works so hard to share information about all the different trainee ecosystems, including their scouting and auditioning processes. “For aspiring idols, the more information, the better. I think it’s on the adults to create a healthy culture since this is a world for people in their teens and 20s.”

Generational changes have had a progressive impact on the casting process, but changes in the K-pop market have had an impact as well, as HUENINGKAI’s own experience shows. “HUENINGKAI looked particularly young for his age but it’s his voice that really stands out in my memory,” Hong said. “He had the pop vibe Big Hit Entertainment was going for at the time and I thought he would go a long way to making the team succeed not only in Korea but worldwide.” TOMORROW X TOGETHER was intended to appeal to a global audience directly from the debut and so Big Hit Entertainment was looking for trainees who would have global appeal right from the scouting stage. According to the academy rep, “It used to be that companies like overseas labels came looking for training or auditions, but now there’s far more individuals contacting us because they want to become idols in Korea.” As K-pop spreads the world over, people from all around want to become K-pop idols and, at the same time, the industry is looking abroad to scout for and cast people, which is exactly why the global BIGHIT MUSIC NEW BOY GROUP AUDITION is being held: to find future members of the successors to BTS and TOMORROW X TOGETHER. Hong said the auditions for BIGHIT MUSIC’s third boy group has an identical set of standards for all potential talent, whether Korean or not, and that “anyone who dreams of being an artist can try out.” The academy rep offers what could be another tip for those looking to audition: “The labels never used to give much thought to things like academic performance but nowadays I think they’re accounting more for grades and the ability to speak multiple languages. I think they’re paying more attention now to those who show themselves to be individualistic and self-motivated.”

When TOMORROW X TOGETHER member TAEHYUN talked about his own casting experience in the group’s promotional video for BIGHIT MUSIC NEW BOY GROUP AUDITION, he said he chose BIGHIT MUSIC over all the other labels that were trying to court him because he “felt certain that I would receive wholehearted support.” That was after the casting team spent a lot of time and effort to persuade the future idol at a point when he was refusing to become an idol trainee. Although he didn’t scout TAEHYUN personally, Hong was the one who first told TAEHYUN’s scout about him. “TAEHYUN’s so shrewd that he already had his whole life planned out despite being so young,” Hong said. “He was really passionate about his studies and was determined to get into a good school. He was mature and realistic, so we didn’t feed him an idealized version—we told him everything straight and we were realistic about it.” SUNGHOON was making a name for himself as a figure skater before he eventually debuted with ENHYPEN—again the result of Hong “pouring everything I had into” getting the future idol on board. Hong spent a significant amount of time talking with SUNGHOON’s parents, trying to persuade them with various possibilities including that he take on his careers in sports and music simultaneously. “In the end,” Hong said, casting is all about “sincerity.” Casting directors must come prepared with a full vision for their hopefuls and concrete steps the trainees-to-be can take to fulfill it, and be confident in their decisions at the same time. It’s that confidence that led him to persuading SUNGHOON, who already showed many different talents, to try out to be an idol. “I figured he would pick up dance quick thanks to all his experience figure skating and, seeing as he was an athlete, I was confident he would be responsible and competitive. People with that kind of ambition always end up doing well.” Hong’s confidence went on to completely reshape someone’s life. 

Back when they were still known as Big Hit Entertainment, the label had just one team taking on a new artist’s every need—from casting all the way to training and management. Now, BIGHIT MUSIC has a separate, specialized team for every concern, and they continue to iterate on their casting process to this day. According to Hong, the BIGHIT MUSIC Casting team continuously researches new methods on the best paths to cast artists, evaluation standards that are in line with the latest trends and approaches to promotion and scouting in addition to actually casting group members. “For casting, you can’t get stuck in an outdated mindset and you have to be quicker than anyone at picking up, and then keeping up with, new trends and especially those that are unique to and popular with teens,” Hong explained. That’s why the casting team “goes out and interviews teens directly about what they like to do, their patterns, what they’re interested in and more,” developing new avenues for scouting based on the information they amass. “Using apps like ZEPETO and Bondee that are popular with teens” is something else they consider when making contact. “We take many different possible approaches to casting, researching the trends of today and doing market research like plotting out the appearances of idols by generation and the characteristics of each country and making guidelines for that.” Hong said that casting is “mostly intuition- and feeling-dependent” and it isn’t absolutely required that they make concrete, systematic decisions for such a subjective and abstract job. Still, the reason for taking the approaches they do is clear. “If it could be in any way helpful, we just try it. We’re always eager to discover people’s latent potential and help them explore their dreams of becoming an artist. That’s also why we work hard to cultivate casting professionals by establishing a system for casting and improving on that process.”

Last year on Teachers’ Day, JUNGWON expressed his gratitude toward Hong on the EBS radio show Listen, calling Hong a memorable mentor and explaining how he spared no effort giving advice and encouragement from the time JUNGWON was casted to the day he became an artist. When artists he casted reach out from time to time to tell him they’ll never forget his efforts, Hong said, “any sense of feeling tired or drained goes right out the window and I think about how I made the right choice getting into this job.” But for anyone working in the field, that same sense of joy is accompanied by an equally serious sense of responsibility. “I used to go full speed, fearlessly, into casting, but since then I’ve necessarily started to think things through a little bit more and be more cautious,” Hong said. “My decisions change the daily and long-term lives of countless people.” Not only does the decision to cast someone in the role of idol have a profound impact on that person’s teens and 20s, but that one person in turn will have an influence on innumerable others. That’s why happiness for casting directors like Hong is their discovered trainee blooming into an artist. Hong and others can also rest assured they made the right choice when they see those artists grow. “I’m always rooting for TOMORROW X TOGETHER and ENHYPEN,” Hong said. “I feel as proud as a dad. When the members I casted myself and continue to cherish—people I realized were the one—continue to grow as artists and I see how much they’re loved by people …Is there any feeling in the world better than that?”

#txt #tomorrow x together #230410 #weverse magazine #soobin #yeonjun #beomgyu #taehyun #hueningkai #ENHYPEN

[junniieesbby]

Oh my gosh! Where do I even begin…I would like to wish this precious human the Happiest birthday ever. Our healing boy is someone so precious to me and so many more Moas out there. He has helped me in more ways than I can count. His smile always brightens my day. His laugh makes me laugh. His giggle is the cutest sound in the world. When he is really happy and he smiles so big his nose gets a little scrunched up that to me serotonin. The way he comforts his members and takes care of them as the eldest is an incredible thing to see. His constant goofiness and silly sides are always a sight I want to see. The way he always wants everyone to feel their best and boost their confidence truly shows the type of person he is. His constant comforting words to Moas. The way he loves his Moas unconditionally and the way when he looks at them there's stars in his eyes. He is constantly making sure Moas are happy and healthy and will be the first person to support Moas on what they want to do. The way his mom describes him as healing is the best way to describe someone as precious as Yeonjun. This lovely boy can heal anyone he interacts with. He is so loved by everyone and is constantly praised. The way he gets shy while meeting his seniors and the way he shows nothing but love when meeting his juniors is the sweetest sight. I can never thank this precious boy enough. No amount of “thank yous” could show my gratitude towards him. He has saved my life and pulled me out of a dark place. He has healed my pain and replaced it with joy. Just one look at him and I feel so much better. He makes my world better just by being in it. I’m so happy to have him as a role model. He has shown me that it is okay to take things slow. It is okay to work at your own pace. It is okay to create your own path and not follow the road. Can we talk about the talent this precious boy has. He can rap, sing, dance, model, and (act hehe my cutie) what can't he do. He was born to be on stage. He was born to dance. The way he moves his body to the songs is so effortless. I can watch him for hours and always enjoy what new things he has. I will always and forever love him and support him and what he does. I will constantly be proud of his accomplishment (and our other talented superstars as well). I know he will never see this but I wanted to express my love for my precious boy. I hope he is constantly happy and healthy. I hope he lives his life always doing what he enjoys. I hope He gets to achieve all his dreams and life goals. Wherever life takes him I will be on the sidelines cheering him on. I wish he had been showered with extra love today. I hope he enjoyed his birthday celebration to the fullest. If only he knew how precious and important he was to me 🥺. He will always and forever have a special spot in my heart. He’s more than just my role model, or my idol he’s my happy and safe places. To my healing I am so happy that I got to see you grow. I am so happy that I got to grow alongside you. I will always cherish you and love you endlessly. Happy Yeonjun Day♥️ when I say I love him I truly mean it from the bottom of my heart ♥️

#My forever love #happy yeonjun day #yeonjun #choi yeonjun #txt #Love him to the moon and back

[leonaluv]

Mula

Nirruti- "Goddess of Dissolution, Calamity and Destruction who Lives in the Kingdom of the Dead and is associated with the Powerful Goddess"

Mula thread Moonbyul -Idol (Mamamoo) Postion-Rapper.Mula sag moon She prefers dressing more conservatively. Before debut she was training to be singer and leader of a group. She also acts (all girls project) and still became known as a singer. recently she said she doesn't mind showing off..

her solo she took on more of male idol concept which hasnt been done. A songwriter she has under 57 songs . She also always writes her own raps. Know for her dancing skill as well.

Jaekyung friend of moonbyul sun sag mula .She was class President rank 2 . very smart

Jaekyung Rainbow Idol leader Now she works as an actress and qas know for her dancing ability. Also for intelligence because she rank first in her school. She was competing with others on show call Genuis . I think she later became known for her singing ability thx to mask singer..

Lee nayoung - Actress moon sag mula she play as a transgender trying to secretly keep a job in lady daddy. In another role she plays work as maid for her male best friend secretly. Later became a writer after divorcing her inconsiderate husband.

Lee da hae

Actress

sag 🌚 She often plays the role of an inspiring career woman trying to dominate in her field. Trying to break free of gender bias going against her male peers. She is fan of mmm and close with 🐮 byul. On running man, she became known for her competitive nature.

She might have mula in her moon in sag Suzy Bae-Idol turn actress. She play as this reporter same as Lee dae . Singer. Suzy might have this pada 1 moon in sag mula. Cf queen and know as the nation first love. Hong jin-kyung- sun sag mula 3Model turn entertainer

Debut as a model although she cross dress as a male dancer back in the days. She did do some acting and was part of an all woman cast show which at that time was unheard of call sister slam dunk. She dresses up as a male actor as a prank. Ppl assume she was a comedian.

Ra Mi-Ran

he became known for her entertainer thanks to sister slam dunk a show about living your dreams. Known to be a jack of all trades despite her age. I remember she was talking about her marriage how her husband gamble stuff away. She had to work while pregnant.

Jessi- sun sag Mula 1 Singer Although people think she is just a rapper. She said interview how she wanted to be known for her music over her image. Honestly her moon sign shows up more in Revati . She prefers dressing more comfortably and outspoken nature.

Nicolas's cage, sun Sagittarius Mula, he always has to go fight his darkness. Underworld, deity.

just made it to hell. It's so funny because her Sagittarius Sun, Mula , the hell dogs , and other themes fit so well. with Kassadrane

Lucifer Morningstar by Luke Cook Sun Sagittarius Mula 🌙 Moon cancer Punarvasu Rahu pisces revati 👺 Ketu Virgo Chitra

The music used to hit so differently in Disney Idk what happen love the venoricas. (As Aqu P.bhadra, Sun Pisces , and Moon Sagittarius Mula-Amk) the 2000 era punk -pop era

#astrology #moonbyul #mula

[lgchyun]

CASTING CALL 016: nknd audition COUNT: 984 words

entering the room for the private interview, hyun bowed at seo youngjae politely. he was nervous. this was an open audition for a new boy group and hyun wanted to join this group--any group that would take him. debut was the ultimate goal for any trainee and as he entered his third year of trianing, he wanted to reach that goal more than ever. "hello sir, i'm third year trainee, yoo hyun."

seo youngjae asked first, "so yoo hyun, why are you interested in being in NEWKIDS NEWDREAMS?"

"becoming an idol has been my goal since i auditioned for legacy. becoming a part of this new group will help achieve that goal." he stated. debuting as an idol was one of his biggest dreams since he was young and a central focus while at legacy. "i also think cementing myself as part of the original lineup of a group will show my commitment to wanting that group to succeed" during his time at legacy he had seen many of their groups go through lineup changes, but he hoped that he could prove as a stable force in a new group. "i also believe my skills and talents can add positively to this group if i am added to it. i will work hard to ensure that i am always making positive contributions to any lineup i am a part of." [88 words of dialogue]

he then asked, "considering the current confirmed members, what can you add to the formation ON AND OFF stage if you are picked?"

"on stage: i have and continuing to work hard to become a well rounded performer. i want to be someone that can form into any role thrust onto me. recently, i have been spending time and energy working on my rap abilities, in order to grow more as an on stage performer." he responds, knowing that he has the capabilities to become a better and more useful performer to any lineup he could be added to.

"and off-stage?" seo youngjae repeated.

he took a moment to consider the question. wasn't the on stage performance the most important part? "off stage...i think, well, i've also trained in modeling so i think that could service my future group well. it's something that i am very interested in pursuing and could help boost a group's notoriety and fame." he thought that might too not be enough. "in terms of the group dynamic, i'm on the more...shy and quiet side, but i think i could add a calming and mature energy to the group, to help balance out any stronger personalities." he stated. [123 words of dialogue]

taking note of his response, seo youngjae continued, "which skill (singing, dancing, acting, modeling, instrument...) do you want to be known for and why?"

"since i was a kid, i've wanted to dance. it is what drew me to wanting to be an idol and a passion i've pursued wholeheartedly while being a trainee." he began, wanting to show that his focus and passions lied in dancing. "i've continue my growth in the dance field at every opportunity, including expanding my skills into learning how to choreograph routines. i'm most confident in street style dances, but i have done my best to learn all manners of styles that would be useful in an idol group." he realized he hadn't really answered the question in his rant about loving dance. "so, dancing, would be my answer. i want to be known as a talented and versatile dancer." he concluded. [95 words of dialogue]

once hyun was finished, seo youngjae continued with his next question, "what kind of concept are you good at and what kind are you bad at?"

"i've always preferred darker, more intense concepts from idols and artists i'm a fan of." but that didn't seem to be the concept of this new group and he wanted to get into this new group if he could, "but really any concept that allows me to put full force into my performances, i enjoy. even if it's not a concept i personally enjoy in my free time, i can still enjoy performing something new. i really enjoy any concept that is fun and challenging to dance to is always what draws me to it." he quickly added, wanting to seem like he would be a good fit for this group. "i don't back away from a challenge." he finished, hoping that maybe the coach would want to hear that. [78 words of dialogue]

"finally, what kind of group would you ideally want to be part of and why?" hyun looked at the older man confused, so the manage added, "for example: self-composing or self-content making type of group. or a group known for high performance or live vocals, etc."

hyun nodded, understanding what seo youngjae was asking but unsure of how to respond. when he thought of a future group he would want to be apart of, his mind didn't immediately turn towards the content or performances. he generally thought of concepts that he enjoyed, music styles he would want to perform, activities he would want to do outside of just performing. but it was an important part of a group's identity. "i really enjoy performing, so being a part of a group that is known for energetic and intense performances is important to me. even if it's not something the group is 'known' for, i hope that my performances can help us be known for it." he answered. performing was a central part of being an idol. hyun thought a group should have that down that aspect down first before focusing on other aspects. "being able to put on a good show is something i've admired about senior groups." he added, specifically thinking about how groups like type zero had been able to wow him as a fan and trainee. [76 words of dialogue]

#lgc:castingcall016 #filed under : solo #'many of their groups go through lineup changes' and ive had two boys join and then leave lgc groups #...the call is coming from inside the house

[rowonlgc]

⠀SOLO⠀›⠀WORKSHOP 001⠀›⠀WC: 453

⠀⠀⠀“am i the last one you’re seeing today?” rowon leans back against the seat, comfortable and quite casual. he’d gathered from the other trainees that this is just a progress check, so no need to get worked up. “must be tiring talking to everyone. i’ll make it quick for you.”

⠀›⠀WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE YOUR STRENGTHS?

⠀⠀⠀“mm, maybe ..” he doesn’t answer this quickly, even though he has a pretty solid idea of his strengths. “i would say ACTING, which goes with PERFORMANCE. i think i have decent stage presence because of that. it’s what makes me stand out, especially since i’m not where i should be in terms of vocality.” humility. humbleness. there’s a certain image he has crafted for the coaches; he wants to be confident, not conceited. “i wasn’t born here, so my KOREAN wasn’t as good at first, but i’ve gotten better and more articulate over time. does that count as a strength?”

⠀›⠀WHAT SKILLS WOULD YOU LIKE TO WORK ON?

⠀⠀⠀this, he answers immediately. “DANCING. i’ve got the basics down. i can do the choreography. it’s just a matter of refining it for the stage. MODELING, too. i saw the pictures that came out of the family concert. my angles need some working on. that should be my priority, since people are typically drawn in by visuals first, no?” he considers mentioning singing and rapping - skills that he actually needs to focus on, but instead, he goes with what’s more interesting. “i would also like to work more on my ACTING. there’s always room for improvement.”

⠀›⠀WHAT TYPE OF GIGS ARE YOU INTERESTED IN?

⠀⠀⠀“i can see myself ACTING IN DRAMAS, preferably as the lead, but i’ve got a long way to go before i can land one of those roles.” in truth, he thinks he can do a lot better but without the experience to back it up, it’s just words. “people have told me i’m really convincing, so i could do well in MODELING FOR COMMERCIAL FILMS.”

⠀›⠀WHAT ARE SOME LESSONS YOU’VE LEARNED?

⠀⠀⠀he’s surrounded by passion and desperation. everyone is so focused on their careers, while he caters more to the crowd. but of course, this isn’t what he tells the coach. “i’m flexible,” he says. “i pick up skills fairly quickly, and i’m confident in my ability to shine where i’m needed.” he pauses, tilts his head as if he’s considering what else to relay. after some thought, he leans forward in his seat. “i’m most useful when i’m helping others, whether it’s calming them down, encouraging them, or just being someone they look up to. i think i would do well in a leadership position.”

#lgc:workshops #‘make it quick’ and he rambles for four paragraphs lmao #rw — solo.

[dojae-huh]

I always think that within the group, Doyoung doesn’t have the chance to stand out. He’s not unique. His vocal is cool, so compared to taeil and haechan’s vocal which are sharper, warmer and have this piercing quality(especially during high notes, they have more resonance); plus their title tracks which suits haechan and taeil voices more, Doyoung’s voice is pale in comparison to them. And he always got parts that is quite high which is not his comfortable range, so i see he struggles a lot more compared to taeil haechan. So he falls into an average singer in comparison.

He also doesn’t stand out in the dance department. Within the group he was said to be the worst in dancing. But it’s nct, he CAN dance but just average compared to other members.

In other fields like acting and modelling, he’s just warming up. Variety as well.

The thing is, he works so hard especially in singing. He wants to be remembered because of his singing but at the end of the day, he’ll never be good enough like other members. Wait, no it’s not that he’s not good enough, he just doesn’t have a unique quality in his voice. Taeil is a powerhouse vocal, haechan has unique voice as well, jaehyun is a very good barritone. And because he also did okay in other field, makes me think of him being jacks of all trades but a master of none. This situation can be good or a bad thing. Makes me also think of hard work over talent. But in this case the more talented people work equally hard as him, so…

People say Jaehyun is a tenor, actually.

I see your point. In the last albums the songs are more tailored for Taeil and Haechan. If Doyoung gets parts to stand out, they are in slower B-tracks (like Lightbulb). He also adapts his voice to Korean taste, makes it breathy, which results in it not sounding very strong (especially alongside Taeil). Doyoung is the backbone, he harmonises with everyone, he does backvocals to add layers, addlibs, he gives Taeil breathing space to prepare for a big note. (2 Baddies is a good example, Doyoung leads Na-Na-Na. Doyoung almost always leads the choruses). He is an instrument in an orchestra. If you listen to an NCT song carefully, not on the background, all 4 of the main vocals stand out all the time.

I wouldn't agree that Doyoung's voice is unmemorable. You are talking personal taste here. I, personally, find Haechan to be "average". I hear this nasal tone in other k-pop groups all the time (not as strong technically, but similar in colour, I even get fooled for a second here and there because I'm not too familiar with Dream's discography). I also can sometimes hear that Haechan isn't strong vocally as Taeil and Doyoung, it is noticeable in places. And, pwraonally, I find Taeil often lacking in emotion as well. The uncrossable gap you are talking about isn't there.

Doyoung has a distinct tone. And most of his fans like him for his voice (they just don't spend their time on TW and don't participate in squabbles). He wouldn't get so many OSTs if he was unmemorable. You don't see a singer's face to attract with visuals.

I do agree (and Doyoung as well) that his voice isn't one of a kind (he is no Houston) and that technically he has a big room to grow (he is no Kyuhyun either). But he works on it. Which only makes him more relateable and interesting to follow as an idol. At a certain angle, it his attractive point. And I saw many of his fans supporting him for this trait exactly.

Doyoung is frustrated with his position in 127 (it took him time and effort to understands the benefits), but he is not a person to just whine. He got his OSTs and he got money for his covers. He is given all the duets and has always been pushed as a vocalist first and foremost.

Your opinion about Jaehyun's voice doesn't reflect in reality. Jaehyun is always excluded from the talks about NCT vocals. And SM has hard time weaving him in 127's songs. He is super in Tende combo, but SM want to highlight Woo and Hyuk more recently, so Jae gets rap parts.

Doyoung is an idol. As an idol he stands out. Asian fans love him. Whatever he wears or uses is instantly sold out. He is simply not the type for Westerners. And it's OK. That's the point of putting diverse members in one group. By their profession idols are jacks of all trades (they are not even expected to sing well). And it's the members with only one skill (Taeil), who loses the game of popularity. It's Taeil who gets cut by editors in MVs during his high notes. Doyoung gets his eyes close up shots.

Doyoung does variety and YT content not only for himself, he does it for the group. He can get all the attention, but he is afraid to stand out too much, he sacrifices himself for the group (he lets to be teased, for one, while he can have the upper hand, he gives the credit to others). You are saying he isn't "good enough" in comparion to others, while he is daily accused of hogging all the opportunities from other members.

[askew-d]

a terrifying list of wang yibo’s skills

acting

dancing

singing

rapping

composing

hosting

motorcycle racing

skateboarding

snowboarding

ice skating

driving

surfing

jetski-ing

magic tricks

lego building

golf player

drummer

tv show judge and captain

shooting

doing his own stunts

bilingual

radio host

modelling

ambassador

breakdancing

yoyo

billiard

being a goddamn hottie

#wang yibo #the untamed #list #like seriously someone stop this guy

[lgcmanager]

DEBUT BOOTCAMP 001

SCHEDULE TYPE: TRIMESTER ( PART 1 OUT OF 2 ) SCHEDULE RESTRICTIONS: Cannot be paired with another trimester schedule, unless stated otherwise. muses must be debut ready; for reference as to whether your muse is eligible for this event, please click over HERE. You may only take part in ONE bootcamp.

on OCTOBER 10 at 10:00AM sharp, ALL the debut ready trainees (minimum of +50 SINGING/RAPPING, +50 DANCING, +50 PERFORMING, +50 KOREAN) not in the ACTING or MODELING paths are gathered together in one of the building’s meeting rooms.

KIM HYUNCHEOL and various familiar staff members arrive shortly after everybody is seated. "you may have noticed that many familiar faces from the previous season of future dreams are here with us today. we didn't expect things to go the way they did, nor did we expect to see so many contestants to come back as regular trainees. this season of future dreams made us realize that even our strongest trainees - male or female - currently have fundamental flaws that need to be fixed before any more debut can happen." a stern hyuncheol explains. "for the last couple of weeks, your coaches and I have been working on putting together an intensive program that will not only address the lacking skills, but also serve to evaluate which and how many of you are truly ready for debut. while I strongly suggest signing up, this program - that we're calling 'DEBUT BOOTCAMP' - is optional, except for NOH AREUM, WATANABE MIYU, PARK CHAEKYUNG and PARK JAEKYUNG, for whom attendance is mandatory. those of you not interested will automatically take part in the PHYSICAL BOOTCAMP with the rest of the trainees. for the others, you will need to pack your bags for a minimum of 5 weeks as we'll be moving you to CJ ENM CONTENTS WORLD to avoid information leak and distractions."

without further ado, KIM HYUNCHEOL dismisses the trainees. since regular schedules have been suspended, those planning on participating in the debut bootcamp are given the rest of the day off, as well as the following day, to get ready. meanwhile, those who do not wish to participate in the debut bootcamp are sent right away to the physical bootcamp.

BOOTCAMP

on OCTOBER 12, the trainees taking part in the DEBUT BOOTCAMP are picked up by a bus, at 7AM sharp, in front of legacy entertainment. SEO YOUNGJAE, recently promoted from performance coach to KIM HYUNCHEOL's assistant, waits for all the trainee to be seated and the bus to be rolling to stand up from his seat and address the gathered crowd. "since KIM HYUNCHEOL is needed in seoul, i'll be in charge of overseeing the debut bootcamp. we've kept the details of this camp secret until now to avoid leaks. we count on you to keep for yourself any information pertaining to this bootcamp." he pauses, serious gaze going from trainee to trainee, making sure they are all listening  and understanding him right. "the next 5 weeks will serve 3 main purposes; polish your performance skills, assess which of you - if any - are fit for debut, and find dancers for BLAZing's HONEY next music video." after his last words, youngjae pinches his lips in a thin line, still, this isn't enough to fully suppress his smirk at the trainees' reactions. "the reward might sound sweet, but none of you are there yet and some of you will not make it. the next weeks are tightly packed and will be grueling work. we'll begin right away with a level assessment in acting and dancing. those who aren't students will also be evaluated on their vocals and receive vocal lessons - singing OR rapping, the others will be given this time to study. for next week and the following one, the dance coaches will be teaching you choreographies from groups outside of legacy entertainment. we figured that if we wanted to conduct a fair concept evaluation, it would be better to pick songs that none of you are likely to have practiced in the past. finally, on the 4th and 5th week, you'll be taught HONEY's new choreography and will be expected to practice it to perfection. you'll have to turn in a recording of yourself performing the choreography by NOVEMBER 19." he pauses, his eyes seeming to search for people in particular. "NOH AREUM, PARK CHAEKYUNG, PARK JAEKYUNG and WATANABE MIYU, you will be skipping the dance lessons on week 2 and 3, and therefore the concept evaluation. instead, the 4 of you will receive a NEW ORIGINAL SONG that will be a b-side track of NABI's solo album. due to NABI’s schedule, you'll be recording and practicing without her for the time being".

all of the pertinent information can be checked over HERE ( this includes participants, dorms, calendar, schedule, concept songs and original songs ) !

TO JOIN

send a submission post to lgcmanager before NOVEMBER 12, 2022 11:59PM EST with the following form:

MUSE NAME ∙ DEBUT BOOTCAMP 001 PART 1 SIGN UP STATUS: [Student / Not a Student]

LGC CAFÉ PERFORMANCES

for the first half of this trimester ( Q4 2022 ), due to their busy schedules, the trainees taking part in this bootcamp will not be eligible to participate in the LGC CAFÉ PERFORMANCES.

REQUIREMENTS

[ALL] BOOTCAMP: write a 4 replies (minimum 8 lines) with another trainee about anything happening during the bootcamp (cannot be during their days off) +7 ACTING and +7 PERFORMANCE !

[BOYS & NON FD GIRLS] LESSON: write a 300+ word solo or 4 replies (minimum 8 lines) thread with another same gender trainee happening during one of the lessons for +10 SINGING/RAPPING or +10 HOSTING/LANGUAGE !

[FD GRILS] STARLIGHT: write a 300+ word solo or 4 replies (minimum 8 lines) thread with another FD female trainee happening while they prepare for StarLight for +10 SINGING/RAPPING or +10 HOSTING/LANGUAGE !

[ALL] JUST A DANCER AUDITION: write a 300+ words solo about the audition for +10 DANCING !

make sure to use the hashtag lgc:debutbootcamp001 on your threads and solos ! to validate your skill points and collect your notoriety points, please submit the following form ONCE on the points blog before NOVEMBER 19, 2022 11:59 EST.

MUSE NAME ∙ DEBUT BOOTCAMP 001 PART 1 - BOOTCAMP: +7 acting, +7 performance [ LINK ] - LESSON / STARLIGHT: +10 ( singing/rapping OR hosting/language )  [ LINK ] - JUST A DANCER: +10 dancing [ LINK ]

#lgc:q42022 #lgc:event #lgc:debutbootcamp001

[lgcxjasper]

NOW PLAYING: Not Young by DBSD Solo | LGC Workshop Opportunity 002 wc: 667

jasper meets with his coach for a short interview.

what do you think are your strengths right now? "Ohhhh," He says lowly, followed by a low whistle. There's a smile playing on the edge of his lips. Not too long ago that question would have frightened him a bit, but… well that was a while ago. He had found a new layer of confidence, and it shows as he offers a grin along with an answer. "Of course, I'd like to think I've worked on my first talent-- singing, quite a bit, and even though that's what I've gotten in on, I'd say that's improved some. I've also played a few instruments, like piano, cello, and more recently I've gotten a guitar that I've grown a bit attached to. Performing is more a new found talent, but it's something I've grown to appreciate want to cultivate, that's another. Of course, I'm an English speaker, from across the way, so I think that's always a strength I should appreciate more."

what are three skills that you would like to work on in the next few months? "Ah, well I think, perhaps, I've got a little ways to go on dancing?" He admits with a bit of a sigh, but then a moment later he finds himself shrugging. "I can only approve with that skill, though I've told I've grown quite a bit from when I've started and I've started to develop my own style now, which is fun. Additionally, I think rapping could be something that could be improved as well, such as a better flow and gaining confidence. I'd like to dabble more in composition with music as well, both lyrically and musically, and given the chance to do so."

if given a chance, what types of gigs would you be interested in participating? "I'd love to give acting a good hefty try!" He admits with a signature grin, offering a nod for confirmation of himself, as well as the coach he's being interviewed by. "I dabbled a bit in school, but I'd like to really do more with if in the future- leaning more towards film rather than musicals, though I'll give musicals a try as well." He takes a breath, tilting his head. "After some though, maybe modeling-- I've been told I've got the face for it-- or, even a youtube show? I've got some ideas that I've been playing with a bit, there."

during your time here in legacy, what are some of the lessons that you’ve learned about yourself? He's quiet for a brief moment, taking on a more serious expression, brows furrowed in though before he's crossing his arms over his chest, adjusting in the chair he's found himself sitting. "Well, I suppose that I don't have to be everything people expect. I've learned more about my performance, my style, and what I really want out of my craft. I think I've discovered I've more to my craft than I've even originally thought. Before I was putting myself in a box without realizing it, and I've discovered I don't even have to be apart of the box, in it, or by it at all, which has frankly, been a relief. Of course, I've learned I'm a much better dancer than I originally thought, too!" He admits with a laugh.

#lgc:workshops #*♕♥︎– lgc. #*♕♥︎– solos.

[lgchyoseop]

2023 REVIEW

“what were some of hyoseop’s greatest accomplishments this year and out of all of them, which one was the most memorable?” hyoseop’s greatest accomplishment is with no doubt his debut. hyoseop was quite surprised when he was let known he would be added to type zero. hyoseop had only been a trainee at legacy for a bit over two years when the news were broken to him. this has been his goal for years, so it was really amazing to him. the most memorable achievement was his first performance with type zero during the family concert, that was the moment it all sunk in and he really realized he would be debuting.

“what area(s) do you think hyoseop personally improved on since the beginning of this year?” hyoseop has for a while focused way more on rap rather than the other skills, but 2023 has been a year for hyoseop to explore more and new skills. hyoseop has for a long while not felt confident in dancing, but he slowly grew in the skill through this year. during hyoseop’s joining of future dreams he was also let known he lacked in acting skills. 2023 has been a year of hyoseop focusing on the skills which he’s been let known he lacked in, such as dancing and acting.

“what are some of hyoseop’s personal goals for 2024?” hyoseop’s has been given the title of ‘main rapper’ within type zero, hyoseop wants to prove he is deserved of this skill, and to prove that he’ll focus on rapping and performance skills. hyoseop also wishes to grow in singing and dancing so he has more to offer to type zero than just his rapping. outside of type zero, hyoseop hopes to try minor acting gigs, along with trying modeling gigs. hyoseop hopes to do lots of things with his members, but also grow a career of his own.

“in the group, what do you consider hyoseop’s biggest weakness and what can hyoseop do to improve on it?” his greatest weaknesses is without no doubt: singing. hyoseop wishes to have his main focus on rap, dance and performance this year but will also be sure to practice his singing. hyoseop hopes to ask advice from coaches on how to practice singing by himself as he wants to use more time of his days on improving. to improve singing skills, hyoseop will try his best to find ways to improve individually.

“aside from the role attached to hyoseop (main rapper) what else do you think hyoseop contributes to the group?” hyoseop believes he contributes aesthetically. hyoseop cares lots about his looks, he works out often, puts on his own make up every day and tries his best to style his hair, hyoseop believes he counts as an ‘eye treat’ to the fans. besides his looks, hyoseop hopes to improve his variety skills, so he can join lots of variety shows for the fans and make type zero content enjoyable and interesting to watch.

“as a group, what does hyoseop hope to accomplish in the next year or two?” within the group, hyoseop hopes to make a great relationship within the group, he hopes for them all to grow close and strong together. besides that, hyoseop has a wish to go on a world tour, while that is demanding, hyoseop wishes to learn all of the type zero dances, and show he is a type zero member. hyoseop hopes for the following years to be years for the fans, for lots of content, fan calls and concerts to happen.

#it's been put in...➔ queue #lgchyoseo #lgc:yearend2023 #chachacha hyoseop headcanon #wc: 594

[hyuntaelgc]

trainee workshop

"what do you think are your strengths right now?" strengths? hyuntae didn't always think about his strengths. instead, he always thought of where he could improve. to become a better idol. so he had to think for a moment before replying. "i'm skilled in dance, rapping, acting and i'm confident in my growth in singing." to say growth would almost be an understatement. he went from being unable to carry a tune to being someone who isn't embarrassing.

hyuntae knew he had to add more explanation but these kinds of interviews always made him go from the cool-headed dancer to a nervous wreck. "im confident the most in how i can demonstrate dance and create choreography. i think in the future i could benefit a team with those skills."

"what are three skills that you would like to work on starting 2024?" what skilled did hyuntae want to focus on? hyuntae wanted to work on all of his skills. even the ones he believed he was strong at. he didn't want to let down his future teammates. "the skills I'm least strong at that i know need work are languages like japanese and english, but i want to perfect my performance more as well. and every idol needs to have the ability to model" the list he wanted to do was endless. he didn't even mention the variety aspect. what would happen if he debuted and they were sent to a variety show! how would he be able to build fans if he was a snooze-fest

"if given a chance, what types of gigs would you be interested in participating?" out of the options that he was presented there wasn't many that he was really prepared for. he had no skills in variety, modeling, or hosting. he was just a boy who wanted to dance. "given the choice acting would be my first choice. whether it be dramas or musicals. i believe i grew my singing just enough for musicals. my second choice would be variety. i enjoyed myself during spring boys when we were given that opportunity. it would be nice to do something like that again." getting to interact with their sunbaes and show themselves to the world was a huge opportunity.

"during your time here in legacy, what are some of the lessons that you've learned about yourself? ( either as a person or as a performer/trainee )." hearing the question, hyuntae smiled softly. "i've learned to open up to those around me. growing up it was always just me and my brother. i never really had many friends. so my journey in legacy has been just as much me finding out who i am, as it has been me learning skills." growing up hyuntae couldn't trust those around him. now it was completely different. but now he had to learn how to cope without his brother around. now that his brother was debuting. "i have also learned that i love leading and teaching others. especially with dance."

#lgc:workshops #midnight sun ━ solo

[alibashirtllc]

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