SHINee's Onew Returns with a Hip New Look in Solo Album 'PERCENT'

"The members call me 'Inspiration.' I think it's because I sing ballads and have a calm demeanor. I'd love to hear them say, 'Inspiration's gotten hip,' or 'You've really stepped up your game.'"

SHINee member and solo artist Onew has returned with a hip new look.

On June 15, Onew held a media showcase at the Myung Hwa Live Hall in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of his second full-length solo album, 'PERCENT.'

'PERCENT' marks Onew's first full album release in approximately five months since his mini-album 'CONNECTION' in January. Onew shared, "I don't really feel like I'm making a comeback because I've been continuously active. I'm running to show my best side. I'm trying to put into action the thoughts that come to mind."

Regarding the new album, Onew explained, "I wanted to quantify the emotions I feel. It's an album that quantifies emotions related to various life events. Even when you're happy, there can be a bit of anxiety, and when you're struggling, you might see hope. I tried to interpret these feelings as I experience them."

Onew also took on new challenges. He attempted singing rap again in the title track. He said, "I wondered if being too good at it might interfere with the song, but I did my best not to let it affect the music. I'm trying to show what I can do right now," he laughed.

He also ventured into English songs. Discussing the track 'Mad,' Onew said, "I challenged myself with a song entirely in English this time." He added, "I've received feedback that my pronunciation is good, so I got a bit overconfident. I recorded while discussing, 'I think this pronunciation is good, can we go with this?' but realized through various opinions that I wasn't quite right. It was fun recording while making adjustments."

This is Onew's first full album release since 'Circle - The 1st Album' in March 2023, about two years and four months ago. Onew shared, "As a solo artist, I haven't had many full albums. Now is the time. If the second album comes out after about 18 years of activity, it feels a bit late."

The SHINee members haven't heard Onew's new songs yet. He said, "I came back so quickly that there wasn't time to meet and play them. So, I couldn't share them this time," adding, "When we meet again and work together, we'll probably give each other a lot of feedback."

The driving force behind his busy schedule was his passion for performing. Onew said, "I was with SM, and now I'm doing solo activities with a new company. Performing was my biggest goal. To use songs, there are many things to communicate about, like arrangements, and it wasn't easy, so I felt I needed to create my songs quickly. That's why I didn't rest." He added, "I want to perform in new venues. Performing at a dome in Las Vegas would be fun," his eyes sparkling.

He also expressed gratitude to those around him. Onew said, "The previous company helped me develop these skills. The current company supports me well. The members who are with me are a great strength. That's why I can keep going without getting tired. I have a vague assurance that someone will be there when I'm exhausted."

Onew's new title track 'ANIMALS' captures the moment of instinctual liberation, featuring refined basslines and acoustic guitar sounds. The album includes a total of 11 tracks, and Onew participated in the overall production, continuing from his previous work.

Onew's second full-length album 'PERCENT' will be released on various music platforms at 6 PM today.

By Ji-won Kim, Ten Asia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr