NUMBER 1'S PERFORMANCE
He wore a loose, black tank top that hinted at the powerful lines of his chest and shoulders. Paired with it were form-fitting joggers that allowed for ease of movement, accentuating his lean legs. On his feet were sleek, black sneakers, designed for both comfort and style. His simple outfit was perfect for the fluidity and intensity of dancing.
Even though he was wearing such simple clothing, it didn't affect the other's handsomeness. Just by the way he carried himself, even if he wore a sack, he could convince anyone that what he's wearing was some designer clothes or something.
No matter how much Haneul narrowed his eyes and stared at the screen, Jung Taeyang was still there. It was a good thing he had incredible self-control. Or else, the second he saw the other, he would have stood up and just screamed the other's name. That's how surprised he was.
So, who was Jung Taeyang, you ask? Before Haneul's death, Jung Taeyang was the most popular solo artist in Korea. Whenever he released a song, it would top all the domestic music charts. During his career high, he even entered Billboard Hot 100. Which was such a big deal, considering that he wasn't an idol but a soloist instead.
His songs mostly combined hip-hop, rap, and R&B. What set him apart from other soloist in Korea was the fact that he wrote and produced all his songs. And the general public just loved his music.
One might wonder what exactly was so surprising about him appearing here. Of course, it's not because the other's face was the last thing Haneul saw before he died. He wouldn't show this much of a reaction just because of that. It's the fact that Jung Taeyang was never a part of Boys Odyssey. He debuted as a solo artist three years later after the show aired.
So, what was he doing here, auditioning, no less?
Then a thought suddenly entered Haneul's mind. Wait- could it be that Jung Taeyang failed his audition here? That's why he wasn't part of Boys Odyssey? Haneul instantly calmed down when he thought of that possibility.
It's not like what he thought was impossible. No matter how talented the Jung Taeyang he remembered was, there might have been a time in the other's life where he's not as good. After all, the Jung Taeyang 10 years from now could not possibly be the same as the Jung Taeyang of today.
Haneul looked at the screen. The best way to know the answer to that was to watch Jung Taeyang's audition right now. So, he decided to focus all his attention while the other was performing.
And soon, the music started. Haneul immediately recognized what Jung Taeyang was about to perform just by hearing the first beat of the song. It was [Beat Breaker] by Infinite Boys.
They're currently the most popular male idol group, not only domestically but also internationally. Together with the girl group, Noir Roses, the two made K-POP more famous globally. The two groups were often called the representatives of the third generation.
There were obviously pros and cons in auditioning with a song by such a popular group. But since Haneul was not part of the judging panel, that's hardly any of his problems. So, he focused once again on Jung Taeyang's performance.
Yeah, who can stop me now?
I'm the one who sets the stage on fire
You can try to bring me down
But I'll keep rising higher and higher
With the opening lines of the verse, his voice rang out with conviction, each word punctuated by the rhythmic pulse of the music. His gaze locked onto the audience. With each step, he ignited the atmosphere, setting the stage ablaze with his undeniable charisma.
My rhythm hits hard, it's unstoppable
Every beat I lay down, undeniable
I break through barriers, I'm untameable
On this path to greatness, unshakable
As the pre-chorus began, Jung Taeyang's movements became more deliberate, his rhythm mirroring the relentless beat of the music. With unwavering determination, he delivered each line with precision, his voice cutting through the air like a knife. As he sang and dance, the crowd was swept up in the infectious energy of his performance, unable to resist the magnetic pull of his presence. Some even uknowingly cheered and shouted.
Beat breaker, I'm the one who shakes the ground
My flow's so sick, it's profound
With every verse, I leave my mark
Beat breaker, I'll light up the dark
With the chorus, his energy reached a crescendo, his voice soaring above the music. With every word, he exuded confidence and swagger, his flow seamlessly blending with the beat. His movements became more dynamic, commanding the attention of everyone in the venue. They all watched him with apt attention.
And Haneul was no different from them.