Thank u for your reaction. Taemin is known to be The Dancing King in kpop everyone respect him, he's from the 2nd Gen way before all the new dancers, he was a role model for a lot of them, he's also know to be the MJ of Korea bcs he's a fan of MJ and love creat some moves inspired by him
Usually people get mad when reaction channels pause too much, but I love it, especially from professionals like you and your friend. Hope you get to watch Famous, Sayonara Hitori, Flame of love, and Drip drop dance practice, or dance mv 🫶
Taemin did some early work with Ian Eastwood. You should check out their stuff, it's dope. I know Danger, Taemin's debut was the first time they worked together. Ian said in an interview that Taemin's team kept coming back for harder choreo until he submitted like 4 or 5 different concepts. If you want live dancing, the stage performance of Black Rose is must see
I love that fact you are reacting to Taemin's stuffs now. He is the best, a legend. Can't wait for his comeback. Thank you Don for often bringing your friends, they always teach us something new with their professional point of view.
Let’s not forget Taemin has a degree in film and music. He’s a very art oriented person and he has a very creative mind. He hand picked some directors he worked with and he personally worked on postproduction and editing of his MVs with these people. Other beautifully shot MVs of his are Criminal, Want, IDEA and let’s not forget Move. Also, if you like color red please watch Taemin’s Thirsty. I absolutely love this song and the MV is quite interesting too! Thanks a lot for your reaction!
Taemin embodies such wonderful darkness and sensuality. He's exactly my vibe which is why he's my full kpop Ult. His art usually has darker, creepy themes and impeccable visuals. He also often showcases duality in his MVs, lyrics, dance, or visuals. I'd say a good 90% of his MVs and performance videos have themes of duality or multiplicity and the splitting of the self/psyche. His lyrics also usually are about exploring his identity both as Taemin the Idol vs Taemin the man. In Advice, specifically, we get the stark contrasts in colors: black and white, red and green, blue and orange, red and black. Advice's lyrics explore his battle with public opinion about who he should be and directly calls out people who voice demands on his body and personhood. Lyrics like "You take me apart however you wish" and "Moving around the tip of your tongue." are direct callouts to those who trash talk him online or in the media and those who speak on him without any authority or understanding of who he truly is. "You don't get it, get it" and "Do you never get the keys to my lock" are saying "You don't understand me and you never will." "I destroy the torso you were chasing after" and "The more you try to trap me, I'll go off the rails so take a good look" can be seen as him defying those who trap him in a box of what they think he should look like and be like. The "torso" line specifically seems to call out those who commodify his body but also have demands on what he should do with it. For example, the way some people reacted to his tattoos. To note, this was the first MV where he fully revealed and showcased his side/hip tattoo. "Why are you crossing the line again?" Some people are also weird and invasive about his looks and what he should dance like as a man. Since his debut at 14 with SHINee until now, people have tried to impose a lot of their view of who Taemin is on him. From a very young age there were a lot of people and fans trying to force him into an "innocent" yet "feminine" yet "sexual" box. Sometimes people would say he needs to be more "masculine" and he's actually too "feminine." (He was subjected to a lot of very weird behavior from people in the industry and some fans, tbh.) Taemin struggled a lot with these invasive expectations when was younger and even has a song that was written specifically for him by his SHINee bandmate Jonghyun called "Pretty Boy" which directly addresses this topic. Kai from EXO is a feature on it as they are best friends who grew up in the industry together and Kai faces a lot of weird behavior and expectations on his looks as well. In order to counter all those expectations, Taemin now fully embraces his femininity and his masculinity in equal parts. He also styles himself in an androgynous way for a lot of his projects. Notice in this video his red and white Supreme outfit which is a ladies' sportswear crop top. If you take another look at the scene at 17:47, you'll notice Taemin's styling also sits right in the middle of the styling his female and male dancers have which could almost symbolize that he is both and neither of them and that he embraces both sides of himself. He also very deliberately uses choreography that mixes feminine and masculine movements or has very neutral vibes that adhere to neither sides of the gender binary. He almost always has female dancers as part of his projects and stages. It's pretty rare, actually, for him to have an all male dance crew during his solo work and oftentimes he'll switch up the gender parity from stage to stage as he's doing promotions. So one stage might have all male dancers, the next one will be mixed and the next one may be all female. Advice was his last release before he enlisted in 2021. He will leave the military on April 4th and will most likely have a SHINee (his main group) and SuperM (his side group) comeback in the first half of the year. We'll probably get more solo work from him in the back half of the year or maybe at the start of 2024.
Taemin's art is infused with symbolism and often through his spiritual lens. Advice is the last song he dropped before he entered military service and it completes the first chapter of his creative life. He promises the second chapter in his solo comeback in 2023. (He returns from the military in early April.) He's an artist who never disappoints. I have found him to be very inspirational. I think you would find his behind-the-scenes and making-of videos very interesting because he discusses his concepts and his creative process. He debuted with SHINee in 2008 where he was designated the main dancer at age 14. ( He was recruited through an open audition by SM Entertainment at age 11.) SHINee also promises a comeback this year, and each member is super creative with exceptional solo careers. We're ready for a deep dive into Taemin's art, so perhaps you'd be open to a marathon of sorts? Thank you for another awesome reaction video! I admire you both for your thoughtful and insightful analyses that set you apart from other content creators. We would love to see some of your creations too. Please keep us posted.
Taemin MVs have many visual symbolic meanings, what's cool is that they can be read as an obvious interpretation, like for example his life as an idol, his passion for music, his suffering and pains through it all, his dark side and innocent side... and a deeper interpretation (common in all his MVs) which refers to religious and biblical symbolisms
Thanks for the shout out! I am ALWAYS here to recommend, you know that. Carter will definitely love Taemin’s other works in this trilogy, Criminal and Idea. All three use chiaroscuro and the contrasts between light and dark and complementary colors to emphasize the overall message that Taemin is trying to bring across, particularly in Advice, that there are two sides to him, one which sees the light and one which he hides in the shadows and keeps to himself. All the visuals in the videos are trying to get people to realize that while there are two opposing forces at work, a love/hate relationship (Criminal), a messiah that also brings pain and death (Idea), it’s all just allegory for Taemin’s real message: that while he has a side that sees the light and a side that he hides, while his public and personal personas may seem to be at conflict with one another, they are both just facets of his personality, complimenting each other to keep him whole. As for standing in the T pose, that could be seen as something spiritual, as he is a known Catholic, and using such a pose could be his way of emphasizing different aspects of the iconography of the crucifixion (though I doubt it, personally) such as the sacrifice and drawbacks that are brought with his fame, or could be a version of the orans prayer stance in which he is asking for blessing or emphasizing that he has been blessed to be put in the position he is in. Or as many fans think, it’s simply a T for Taemin. He uses the pose often-incredibly often-in not just Advice but the music videos for Idea, Criminal, Famous, Move, plus the SuperM video for Jopping, and many of his stage performances, particularly televised ones. It could be his method of showing the continuity of his videos and also a “this is my kingdom” kind of statement. It’s really not something fans have a concrete answer on. If that makes sense. And yeah, the match-cuts from one scene to another through a continuous movement is super popular in kpop. Also, the androgynous look is very intentional with Taemin, as early in his career he was called feminine and girly and they would also call him gay, and he started in Shinee at 14. 14! And as he said, he once apologized for looking girly but feels like it is a disservice to himself, his art and his fans as well. That apologizing for his aesthetic would be giving looking feminine or androgynous a negative connotation and could make others feel badly. That if it is a look that enhances his art, he’s going to do it. He talked about it in an Allure article a few years ago, I’ll link it as well as an earlier Billboard article where he discusses his look and his dance androgyny. www.allure.com/story/taemin-k-pop-interview-mascara-and-masculinity www.billboard.com/music/music-news/taemin-interview-move-gender-stereotypes-pushing-the-boundaries-8014100/
He is a TOP TIER Artist who has been dancing since he was 10 years old up to now as well as been active in the industry since prior to 2008 before official debut which is when they made their public appearance as a group.
Taemin, the Idol of Idols!! Loved your reaction and I learned quite a few new things about the video production thanks to you both! If you haven't checked out some of Taemin's other works, here's just a few to mention: Criminal and IDEA go along with the last album theme he put out before he left to serve in the military. Some older vids are Danger (his debut as a solo artist), Want, MOVE, and the Japanese hit "Famous" vids. I think you would enjoy those if you haven't seen them already.
Taemin surrounds himself with high caliber dancers and this contributes to the success of his mv's and songs, but his solo works are amazing too. His artistry is so fantastic, from styling, gazes, the meanings of his works, etc. Wonderful, exciting Taemin. Love Taeminography. BTW -- I would love to see you dissect "Don't Call Me" by SHINee with Taemin and Onew and Key and Minho too. YAY for the 20K.
I see "Advice" as a continuation of the themes within Taemin's previous Never Gonna Dance Again album trilogy -- "2 Kids," "Criminal" and "Idea." With "Criminal" and "Idea," Taemin talks about being involved in a toxic relationship -- not necessarily a romantic relationship, but a metaphor for his relationship with fame -- in which he agrees to be manipulated almost to the point of being destroyed in order to become the artist we see today. But in the end of "Idea" we see him become free from the box everyone wants to put him in and he comes to terms with his role as an idol. He has now formed his own "Idea" about himself and what it means to be an idol, etc. As Taemin explained during his VLive event for "Advice", "Advice" is like the end to the first chapter in his life, and the beginning of his second chapter, which will be after he completes his military service. (He enlisted May 30, 2021, and he will be on hiatus for almost 2 years as he fulfills his duty to his country.) The song seems to be his way of saying I am done caring to everyone who judged him and all those haters who spread rumors and misinformation about him. "Advice" is showing that he is now free and confident to be himself, breaking stereotypes and now only listening to himself. Taemin is just one of those performers that leaves you speechless every time he steps on stage. He was born to be a performer and that is one of the reasons why he has become known as the Korean Michael Jackson. That is also why, as one of the top two performers in the industry, he was made a member of SuperM. Taemin is an Idol of Idols and a legend of legends. And the title of the industry's BEST dancer isn't just a fan's opinion but it's a widely agreed upon title bestowed on Taemin by his peers and the industry as a whole. In "Advice" he's basically saying, "Stop trying to put me in a box, in which I'll never fit in." He is also speaking to everyone that says he's getting old, that he's just a Michael Jackson wannabe that doesn't sell a lot of albums because he tries too hard to be edgy, etc. He's rebelling against all those people who are constantly advising him to make more mainstream music or to follow the traditional Kpop idol style in order to boost his sales and his popularity. However, as Taemin is making clear in "Advice," that is not who he is and he will never be "normal" or "mainstream" and he is OK with that. In the scenes where you see him covered in ink, I think that is supposed to be him showing everyone how he is no longer the "unstained," cute maknae everyone wants to think of him as. The diamond you see painted on his hand when he is playing the piano, and you see drawn on his bicep, etc. is SHINee's official symbol, and all the pearl aqua blue/green colors you see in the MV is SHINee's official color. (The large tattoo on his hip is real. Hence why in the lyrics he says, "I destroy the torso that you were chasing after." He's tired of people thinking they even have a say in what he does with his body.) This song was specifically designed to not be like anything he has ever done before. He plays the piano, he raps, he shows off his falsetto notes, etc., which is different than what we often hear and see from him. He intentionally used this song to prove that he isn't one type of singer. People often think of Taemin as a sultry vocalist that sings in a breathy comfortable, less dynamic style. So, with this song he wants to prove to everyone that he can be unpredictable and try new things. Yet again, you can't put him in a box or tell him who to be. Everything you see in this MV is 100% Taemin, including the piano playing. Everything that Taemin's haters like to point out about him and say are reasons why he shouldn't be held to such high esteem, I find completely ridiculous. I don't think that anyone who actually knows him would ever say he has played it safe at anytime in his career. If you think he is only one dimensional, and that he is trying to be anything other than himself, then you really don't know Taemin. Everything he does is different, out there and definitely not safe. It's always uniquely Taemin, and he couldn't do it any other way. Also, because Taemin is a member of SHINee, none of his songs are ever like anything you have every heard or seen before from him. It will always have a new beat, style and sound. As SM Entertainment's experimental boy group, SHINee is meant to be the first and they are expected to set the trend, and that includes the members' solo work. With every new song Taemin produces it's expected to be different than the last, so you will never hear the same style or sound from him in any of his songs, even on the same album, and yet, it still will be uniquely Taemin-like. Which is another example of how you can never put him in a box or expect anything from him. :D Another theme in "Advice" is about how Taemin is embracing his androgynous side -- but on his own terms -- which I think is a continuation of the message in his "Move" MV. Early in his career when Taemin was growing up in SHINee -- he debuted when he was 14 years old -- he was known for his feminine look. It took him a long time to accept that he was known for his looks and to come to terms with the fact that everyone thought of him as a "pretty boy," etc. So, at this point in his career -- he is now 27 years old in this MV -- he is making a statement about how he has decided to be himself and no longer care what people think. Music is art and art has no gender. So, that is why in "Advice" you see him wearing hair extensions, fishnets and women's Supreme sports wear, etc. But if you notice, his choreography is very fast paced and sharp, which is hyper masculine -- a complete contrast to the "feminine" image people want to give him. You also see him wearing makeup, but it's smeared on his face, as if to say, "people may think of me as a 'Pretty Boy,' but I don't care about looking pretty." In the lyrics he is saying, "It's creepy how people are always looking to cause drama, so stop trying to create scandals in my life that don't really exist. It's all just stories you make up." He's tired of all those people who seem to look for reasons to cause drama, where none really exists.
Where he says "floppy" in the lyrics, I think he's talking about knowing about or hearing firsthand the things people are saying about him, but he is choosing not to pay attention to them because what they're saying is flopping or doesn't hold any weight or have any substance, etc. "Advice" just proves that everytime people try to put Taemin in a box he destroys it and keeps coming back with something more unique and never seen before. Hence, why in the choreography he puts his hands in front of his face and creates a movement that looks like an animated mouth talking. It represents how everyone keeps talking about him and what they are saying is nonsense, which makes them look and sound ridiculous, etc. Which is why in the lyrics he says, "You will never get the keys to my lock" because he doesn't ever plan to give people what they want and allow them access to his secrets and personal life, etc. (Those people who like to gossip about him will never truly know the real him.) I interpret the "One (piece of ) Advice" he is talking about in the lyrics as a reference to the advice he keeps being given about being more mainstream, but he's saying, "stop trying to make me conform to the image you have in your head of who I should be and what I should do" -- in other words, take all that time and effort you have been using to come up with ways to talk about how I don't fit in, etc. and put it to better use. "Follow my own advice" and do something original for once. As a devout Catholic, Taemin often uses Biblical references and metaphors in his songs and MVs. And the crucifixion pose at the end of "Advice" is sort of a signature pose for him. I interpret it to be like he is saying, "And that is the end, this is my final word, take it or leave it, but don't doubt me. I have gave it my all and laid everything I had out there for you," etc.
Hands down, this is the BEST reaction I've seen so far, you both need to react to IDEA and Heaven by Taemin, his videos are art and I'm sure your friend will appreciate them as well. BTW, his comments on color theory and explanation of the complementary colors and visual perspective was ON POINT! As an ex visual artist I LOVE when people talk about this stuff, your boy knows his sh!t and I'm all here for it!
Criminal, Idea and Advice have common symbolisms, color palette... it would be interesting for you to watch them and try to find connections in ideas and visuals. Those 3 songs belong to his last comebacks before goimg into the military service (he'll be out very soon)
I love reactors like you both. Normally, I don’t care much for reactors that constantly pause. If I wanted to see the video straight through I’d just go watch the mv. But getting to hear your explanations to the different scenes in the video makes it more understandable as to why people are drawn to it. Thank you for taking the time to analyze this. 🎶💕🦋
Technique name you’re looking for is “match-cut”! Also taemin has a lot of say in his visuals and messages in his videos. So all of his videos are individual pieces of art. This is pt. 3 of his Never Gonna Dance Again series he did right before military enlistment. Criminal and Idea are the other two Also all his videos you can just go on for hours on his usage of color theory. It’s always impeccable
I think Taemin would be really happy that you both can see all the little details. He's so hands on with every single aspect of his artistry, you recognising & seeing the layers of his brilliance is awesome. He is dazzling!
Great video my man! I respect people who really dive deep through the dance and choreography because it has so much meaning along with the song! Taemin is such an inspiration and one of the best dancers in the KPOP industry and SM ent. Another music video that showcases lots of dance styles is Shut up and dance with Lay, Jason Derulo, and NCT! Theres so much culture and art in that video i’m sure youd enjoy it. Keep up the good work man.
Hey Don and Carter, thanks for reacting. 🎉20k followers🎊 Yes, yes, the match cuts are on point and the use of inverted colour is crazy clean and I love it.
This video has so many layers, it was fun to watch. Thanks for sharing. I know you have lots of requests so if it wasn't requested already please add Taemin's Drip Drop to your list. You will enjoy it just as much as the other masterpieces.
You see duality in a lot of his videos and this one is no different! The fluidity is something he wasn't super comfortable with when he was younger(he debuted in his group SHINee just a couple months before turning 15) but has found a way to really own it.
Here's the behind the scene of the MV that you guys might like. (turn on CC) In KPOP, green screen is rarely used as replacement to a real location. They sometime will actually build the set. ruclips.net/video/9z7Wj8_KaaY/видео.html
I highly recommend y'all watch/react to the behind the scenes for Advice MV and album. They actually show the lighting and production aspects for making this MV as well as you get some of his thoughts as an artist on this project. ‘Advice’ MV Shooting Behind | TAEMIN 태민 - ruclips.net/video/9z7Wj8_KaaY/видео.html ‘Advice’ Jacket Photoshoot Behind | TAEMIN 태민 - ruclips.net/video/CvlGhTYEA_Y/видео.html Taemin's behind the scene videos are always worth checking out for anyone interested in his artistry. There's also a third behind the scenes video of him in the studio recording two of the songs from the Advice mini album if you're interested in the music side of things. (ruclips.net/video/oYbdK2WWYvQ/видео.html) For other MV reactions, he has a trilogy of MVs that all tie together. It starts with 2 Kids > Criminal > IDEA. I recommend watching these MVs in order of their release just to experience the intended movement of this story. It's not 100% imperative or anything but I think it's interesting to consider them in relation to each other. On the choreography side, Taemin deliberately linked the ending and starting poses for 2 Kids, Criminal, and IDEA to connect them thematically. Also, it's worth noting that the dance he does for 2 Kids was completely freestyled and was developed as he was shooting the MV rather than choreographed. It's more stripped back and bare which I think could be interesting for you to check out as a dancer now that you're familiarly with his heavy choreo tracks.
1. So the music video and lyrics are very much connected. It can be interpreted in many ways. But the main point I got is him singing about how he has to hide himself and who he actually is, but at the same time, he realized that it doesn't matter because he still gets criticized. Him being in a small room symbolized how he felt trapped or contained. And of course there is the removing of the mask part and them wearing black and white to show he has 2 sides of him, etc.
2. His past was a bit rough, since he got in the industry at a young age(14) he was bullied and constantly told that he looked like a girl/feminine and before he used to hate being called pretty/feminine, which I understand, he was young. And at times, they would sexualize him for that, which is disgusting, knowing he was underage at the time. He later on embraced his androgynous side instead of hating it. He was also called tone deaf when he was training and got barely any lines in Shinees debut. But I'm so happy he got help from his members and he was able to overcome all that. I hope he's happy and healthy now 💓 🙏.
Yes, this elegant performing artist always dances to his own unique music. He began by copying dance moves he watched Michael Jackson perform. His family supported his creative dreams and his mother took him to an audition where SM Entertainment hired him at age 11 to become a trainee. At age 14, Taemin debuted as SHINee's main dancer and has his first sweet dance solo in the now iconic debut of the song Replay. In 2014 he debuted as the first soloist in a current group, paving the way for other artists. His debut songs, Danger and Ace, show him create a new persona different from his work as the maknae (youngest) of SHINee, complete with choreography by Ian Eastwood. And what follows is a beautiful, creative discography and beautiful mvs. Please enjoy your journey!
You guys mentioned Maxwell… Taemin’s member in SHINee, Jonghyun, was a fan of Maxwell and he covered his song: A Woman’s Work. Maxwell even came to Korea to visit Jonghyun’s radio show where he praised Jonghyun’s music. They took pictures together. The cover is worth checking out. Not dance focused tho obviously just straight vocal performance. Thought I’d mention it 😊 Thanks for the reaction!
@@DonaldIsom Sure! Here it is: ruclips.net/video/tqYpYtNzXCc/видео.html He sang a few of his solo songs in this session but This Woman’s Work starts at the 7:25 mark. There are time stamps on the video. 😊
The T-pose is Taemin's signature pose, but he also has a theme of rebirth going on. Criminal ends in a T-pose, and Idea opens up with the T-pose. First one is about the toxic relationship with himself in terms of love for who he currently is, and doesn't let him evolve, while idea is about the toxic relationship he has with his idea of his own perfection/transforming into a more ideal self. That's how I see it anyway.
Ps. I call it toxic because he says he's being controlled in Criminal and he says the strive for his ideal self is also killing him. There's a ton of contrast in the videos as well... black & white, heaven & hell etc. I always get this sense of him being split or conflicted by two opposing ideas.
3:33 If my memory serves me correctly, the concept he used for his album and this song was CHESS (hence B&W suited dancers on each side as the ponds while he wears both colors with a chess board shirt as queen & king) in my opinion and observation; I think it relates to MENTAL STRATEGY considering he says “I’ll Shoot One Advice” then says “Best Take My Own Advice” but I could be wrong.
This was his last song before his military enlistment and I believe this was his way of saying goodbye to one thing and welcoming a new era once he returned. I believe this music video was a symbolism of the last stage of a rebirth. Also he grew up in a catholic setting if I remember correctly so he often plays with religion in his music videos.
To understand Taemin's music, you need to know him. Taemin infuses himself and his life experiences into most of his work. He is also very deep and thought-provoking with his concepts. Another thing to remember is that Taemin is a devout Christian (of the Catholic variety) and regularly infuses his MVs and lyrics with Christian metaphors, symbolism, iconography, allegories and allusions. So with each MV/song, you must look for those in order to properly interpret his underlying messages. For instance, Taemin regularly incorporates his iconic T-Pose in his dancing (as you see in the ending of this MV). This is a representation of the Cross. Often you will also see him make the sign of the Cross in his choreos, dance practices, and performances -- multiple times in some situations like his live performance of "Heaven". Taemin's faith is who he is, and he's not shy about it. To overlook this aspect of him as a person and artist is to miss much of his art. Lastly, Taemin's music often involves two to three meanings within one MV, which may include his real-life experiences, journey of his faith, or related to the SMC Universe storyline. In short, there is A LOT to unpack within a Taemin MV. Each and every little detail means something and since each one is his vision for his overall musical theme, he's involved in every little detail. Now with "Advice", you need to understand that it is the epilogue for Taemin's 2020 full-length, 2-part album, "Never Gonna Dance Again" (NGDA) Acts 1 and 2. The story begins with its prologue "2 Kids" of Act 1 which details the schism of his ego into 2 separate egos causing a "break-up" in his mind: the innocent 14 YO kid who debuted with SHINee in 2008 and the person he is tempted to become as an idol idolized and tempted by fame. "Criminal" MV (Act 1 Title track) details the resulting struggle of the two egos through the lens of Stockholm syndrome wherein Taemin is both the victim and "criminal" within his own mind; and "IDEA" MV (Act 2 title track) reveals the climactic battle of the two egos portrayed through the concept of Plato's Theory of Forms which states that any created being (form) cannot create itself. Only an outside power/being can be the creator and only that creator (Messiah) can make or be perfection. This philosophy fits in perfectly with Taemin's Christian worldview. The final resolution of this personal story is revealed here with this MV, "Advice" showing the new, battle-scared yet stronger Taemin who will no longer defer to the "One" (collective) advice of others regarding his music (including saesangs and haters), or his personal choices (such as getting tattoos on his torso) but instead follow his own "Advice" regarding his future endeavors. The coloring of the opening scene is very important, as it's SHINee's color: pearl aqua. You will always see representations of this color in each of the SHINee brothers' music whether as a group or in their respective solo music via the lighting, clothing, props, etc. There is a VERY strong bond between them, especially with Taemin. We also see some significant clues like the shredded paper piling up all around the room and falling from a paper-shredder chute, showing Taemin's complete disdain for unsolicited comments and how he treats them. Within the shredded paper we see a sword (Excaliber?) protruding at an angle. This represents SHINee brother Minho who always utilized a sword in any SHINee concert VCR depicting a battle scene. He is very protective of his little bro Taemin in real life. Taemin is sitting at an identical baby grand piano like the one he has at home, so we see a connection between real life and idol life. As he's playing we can see a row of thorns on his collarbone, representing the fact that his faith is still intact despite the temptations of fame. This seems to have been a huge fear of his (losing his faith), and he has finally conquered it and remains true. Even his clothing bears significance. His shirt is representative of a chessboard; the suit down to his shows is half black/half white representing the two sides of the pieces for chess, a game that utilizes strategy to win and represents the strategies Taemin has had to use to conquer the baggage that comes with fame at a young age. A major example was the stigmatism of being considered a "pretty boy", frequently dressed as a girl and made to wear long hair in his early career for comedic effect despite him repeatedly stressing he's a MAN and such things were uncomfortable for him. This fact distressed fellow SHINee brother Jonghyun enough to write a song for Taemin called "Pretty Boy" for which one line states "I am more than the imaginations in your head." Taemin then used that experience as a strategy to turn Kpop and the Korean entertainment industry on it's head by embracing the androgynous look that shocked the industry and shot Taemin to even greater fame. Now he advises junior artists (like Ten) to find something unique about themselves to make them standout and exploit that characteristic. This is pure Taemin in a nutshell: a very beautiful man with soft features and kind heart hiding a savagely calculating mind and core of iron. This is why one of his close idol friends describes him as "Tofu with a core of iron." Never underestimate him. Taemin's return from the military will begin Act 2 of his career., leaving us with the promise of what's to come from Taemin for the second half of his career. Thanks for reacting to our shining SHINee maknae!
Taemin is very involve in the process of the mv and also the edition of it, he have a master degree in music and video production after all. He also use a lot of symbolism on his art choreography and history of his work. Please react to the IDEA dance practice and MV you will see how much he can deliver please!!! Also an ADVICE. It will be much clean if you react to the video without pause one time and then other one pause and elaborating. Thanks!!!
This reaction was so nice!! I liked the commentary Carl (? Sorry if I messed the name) did!! There're not enough videographers reacting to kpop mvs and they have sooo much potential!! Hope to see him again (and more of Taemin ofc hehe) I saw a couple of big comments already, so I'll just point out that the T pose he did at the end is his signature pose. Iconic. Oh and the way he watches your soul every time he makes eye contact with the camera? You can feel the experience and talent he has. Also please let me recommend you to watch Taemin's Heaven performance. It doesn't have mv, only music shows, but the choreo and stage presence is amazing 🔥
I love how in-depth you got in your analysis of Advice! It's so nice to see y'all appreciating every detail that the whole team behind the production intentionally incorporated to tell the story
Taemin’s my ult bias for so many reasons. FYI: Taemin’s hands had the red/brown colour because after they shot him playing piano with those black hands they had a very difficult time removing all of that henna.
😅 LAY is one of many of my boys but there was senior youngest TAEMIN long before our boy #LAYZhang Lol so TAEMIN is TOP TIER ARTIST of ARTISTS in Kpop Industry who is basically seen as royalty along with his group #SHINee. I cant wait to see your next reactions to the his four older SHINee members’ solos #ONEW, #JONGHYUN (RIP) , #KEY and #MINHO
This reaction is awesome! I really appreciate the things y’all point out. It’s obvious that y’all take your craft seriously 🔥 I think y’all would love Le Sserafim- IMPURITIES & ANTIFRAGILE the choreography and the lighting and the set all came together to make a masterpiece.
16:09 😅 The long parts are grey extensions, but he did have a somewhat short mullet hairstyle in real time which can be seem on his album and some photos.
As of May 31st 2021 our SHINee youngest TAEMIN had officially enlisted for at least 1 1/2 to 2 years (and was supposed to return Nov 2022) but mental state was not good so his military service was extended and he’s finishing as a public worker. *Regarding the car crash scene, he jokingly confirmed with Minho during their reaction that it was REAL even though he didn’t get seriously hurt (glass CGI) he was still nervous about it; you can check out their reaction and behind the scenes to get more details about it. The more I analysis the MV, my thoughts I think when he got into the car accident he died where now is between life & death or good or evil (hence the black / white suits); which gets me thinking that its continuum of 'IDEA' because the concept is similar, Angel vs Demon but with a chess board and the back up dancers being as his guards or pons while he plays the roles of king and queen.* It has been 13+ years now for majority of us, Shawols / Taemints and we are so proud of him. I still get lost for words every time, this is definitely his way of moving into the next chapter of his career and life 😶👀🙀🤯 He went all out for his new album combination of classic with hiphop vibes along with a dark concept showing up shirtless and tattooed with Mask playing the piano Lol displaying his full-on Vampire OG Prince legendary status for the creative genius that he is experimenting with new concepts and tempos along with the beat similar to SHINee’s “Don’t Call Me” and don’t get me started with the killer choreography, fashion, visuals and background settings. He hopes that it comforts his fans but also he is calling out all the haters/ANTIs, SASAENGS and corrupt media. There’s so much going on connecting all his previous MVs together in this one video 😭 comforting on top of killing his fans. I am still trying to put together my thoughts *IT IS NOT KPOP, IT IS T-POP (Taemin Pop)* #ADVICE #Masterpiece #TAEMIN #SHINee #SuperM
Carter would love Idea!!! For selfish reasons, I want you to watch Press Your Number because it's always been a favorite Taemin track of mine, especially dance wise. It just feels so emotionally raw. But the symbolism in his videos has kind of an overarching set of themes, and yes, Carter, it is kind of spiritual! One of the many questions it poses is, maybe, who are you praying to? Or why? In Advice, it almost seems like Taemin is arriving at the idea he's going to trust himself more after some kind of traumatic or painful event and not knowing how to overcome it. Either way, it's special to me because that's how I viewed it. And tbh, I think that is kind of the point of the ambiguity of some of his art. I also always appreciate your appreciation for the dancers and all the other aspects that go into creating this art!! Love to watch your reactions :)
Taemin has always been feminized and made fun of for being pretty by the Korean entertainment industry, but he turned it into his advantage and was the person who made androgyny popular in kpop. No one does it like him tho
This should be some fun info for Carter but this year Stray Kids is supposed to release something called SKZFLIX we don’t know what exactly it is but it seems like it’ll be something either like a series or film based so when that drops you might wanna check it out and when it does drop probably closer to the end of 2023 if it is more like film and cinematography based I know us fans will be the first to be like YO CARTER GET ON THIS
The ego of an artist. To speak through art and think you know because you do so is yes purposeful and beautiful buts it’s not the end all most important. It’s the beginning of the journey and without others and a road and a “plan” to put that purpose to use and in the service of others… with out a road and partners you’ll crash. You find art through the taking in and then re voicing. Best take you’re own advice when finding peace through wants not only inside of you but what’s next to and outside of you and what shows relation and difference. Relationships. It’s never just you alone
Taemins art like many other greats too is a “great” and “true” example of what philosophy and probably humanity in an expression is. To feel and to think and have no other choice but to do so and then how do you express that
He once interviwed like_not 100%percent correct but_"I tried to express kind of edgylord sick and tired of gossips around" So I could match dirty long hair, kitch quilted clothing images with the narrator of the song.
Hi Don 👋🏾 This is completely unrelated to this video, however, I would love to see you review Hyunjin’s Artist Of The Month performance. After watching several of the reviews you’ve done on your channel, as well as your work on Insta, I immediately subscribed and have come to respect and appreciate your eye and passion for dance. Thank you!
Really enjoyed your explanations and listening to your points of view. Taemin is phenomenal. There are behind the scenes videos ruclips.net/video/9z7Wj8_KaaY/видео.html. It shows how they did some of the shots and what type of equipment they used.
Hey, Don. Here's a dance practice that just drop by a new female supergroup called GOT the beat. They consist of members of other KPOP girl groups: BoA, aespa's Winter and Karina, Red Velvet's Seulgi and Wendy, and Girls' Generation's Taeyeon and Hyoyeon. Imagine if Destiny's Child Beyoncé and Kelly, EnVogue's Terry and Dawn, SWV's Coko, TLC's T-Boz and Chilli got together to make a new R&B supergroup. 🤔 GOT the beat 갓 더 비트 'Stamp On It' Dance Practice - ruclips.net/video/mE9mj48t7s8/видео.html
Taemin returns from the military at the beginning of April their 15th debut anniversary is May 25th. Key's repackage album is in Feb. And shinee will be returning this year too. There will be alot to look forward to this year from them all as well as their solo projects. Please don't forget to check out the solo work from their late member jonghyun he should always be included
Fun fact if Taemins choreography looks easy it's hard as hell to do and if it looks hard to do its easy to do. Taemin likes his choreo hard to do but made to look easy and he tends to send choreographers away to redo if he finds it too easy to learn.. If I look at the mv for cancer as well as the dance practice he sent the choreographer back more than once to make it harder to do. ( choreographer in question was Ian Eastwood)
76 Days until Taemin’s discharge. We are all just waiting for the King.
We waited longer, he'll be here in no time 😩
I’m just glad he’ll be done and back home. 💕🦋
I’m so happy!!! Can’t wait baby cheese soon b home !!!!!🎊🎉🎉🎊
TAEMIN “ Criminal,Idea “ MV
@ernanj6992 he saw criminal
TAEMIN's live stages and dance practices are always awsome
TAEMIN is the different level. THE KING of kings
Thank u for your reaction. Taemin is known to be The Dancing King in kpop everyone respect him, he's from the 2nd Gen way before all the new dancers, he was a role model for a lot of them, he's also know to be the MJ of Korea bcs he's a fan of MJ and love creat some moves inspired by him
Usually people get mad when reaction channels pause too much, but I love it, especially from professionals like you and your friend. Hope you get to watch Famous, Sayonara Hitori, Flame of love, and Drip drop dance practice, or dance mv 🫶
Taemin is called King of Kpop, Ace of Ace or Idol's Idol in Kpop industry for a reason
Taemin did some early work with Ian Eastwood. You should check out their stuff, it's dope. I know Danger, Taemin's debut was the first time they worked together. Ian said in an interview that Taemin's team kept coming back for harder choreo until he submitted like 4 or 5 different concepts. If you want live dancing, the stage performance of Black Rose is must see
I love that fact you are reacting to Taemin's stuffs now. He is the best, a legend. Can't wait for his comeback. Thank you Don for often bringing your friends, they always teach us something new with their professional point of view.
taemin is pure art! He and his team always deliver a beautiful job.
Let’s not forget Taemin has a degree in film and music. He’s a very art oriented person and he has a very creative mind. He hand picked some directors he worked with and he personally worked on postproduction and editing of his MVs with these people. Other beautifully shot MVs of his are Criminal, Want, IDEA and let’s not forget Move. Also, if you like color red please watch Taemin’s Thirsty. I absolutely love this song and the MV is quite interesting too! Thanks a lot for your reaction!
Waiting for the king’s returned. Taemin is amazing. He has his own league, no one can do it the way he do. He is not K pop he is TPop.
Taemin embodies such wonderful darkness and sensuality. He's exactly my vibe which is why he's my full kpop Ult. His art usually has darker, creepy themes and impeccable visuals. He also often showcases duality in his MVs, lyrics, dance, or visuals. I'd say a good 90% of his MVs and performance videos have themes of duality or multiplicity and the splitting of the self/psyche. His lyrics also usually are about exploring his identity both as Taemin the Idol vs Taemin the man. In Advice, specifically, we get the stark contrasts in colors: black and white, red and green, blue and orange, red and black.
Advice's lyrics explore his battle with public opinion about who he should be and directly calls out people who voice demands on his body and personhood. Lyrics like "You take me apart however you wish" and "Moving around the tip of your tongue." are direct callouts to those who trash talk him online or in the media and those who speak on him without any authority or understanding of who he truly is. "You don't get it, get it" and "Do you never get the keys to my lock" are saying "You don't understand me and you never will."
"I destroy the torso you were chasing after" and "The more you try to trap me, I'll go off the rails so take a good look" can be seen as him defying those who trap him in a box of what they think he should look like and be like. The "torso" line specifically seems to call out those who commodify his body but also have demands on what he should do with it. For example, the way some people reacted to his tattoos. To note, this was the first MV where he fully revealed and showcased his side/hip tattoo.
"Why are you crossing the line again?" Some people are also weird and invasive about his looks and what he should dance like as a man. Since his debut at 14 with SHINee until now, people have tried to impose a lot of their view of who Taemin is on him. From a very young age there were a lot of people and fans trying to force him into an "innocent" yet "feminine" yet "sexual" box. Sometimes people would say he needs to be more "masculine" and he's actually too "feminine." (He was subjected to a lot of very weird behavior from people in the industry and some fans, tbh.)
Taemin struggled a lot with these invasive expectations when was younger and even has a song that was written specifically for him by his SHINee bandmate Jonghyun called "Pretty Boy" which directly addresses this topic. Kai from EXO is a feature on it as they are best friends who grew up in the industry together and Kai faces a lot of weird behavior and expectations on his looks as well.
In order to counter all those expectations, Taemin now fully embraces his femininity and his masculinity in equal parts. He also styles himself in an androgynous way for a lot of his projects. Notice in this video his red and white Supreme outfit which is a ladies' sportswear crop top. If you take another look at the scene at 17:47, you'll notice Taemin's styling also sits right in the middle of the styling his female and male dancers have which could almost symbolize that he is both and neither of them and that he embraces both sides of himself.
He also very deliberately uses choreography that mixes feminine and masculine movements or has very neutral vibes that adhere to neither sides of the gender binary. He almost always has female dancers as part of his projects and stages. It's pretty rare, actually, for him to have an all male dance crew during his solo work and oftentimes he'll switch up the gender parity from stage to stage as he's doing promotions. So one stage might have all male dancers, the next one will be mixed and the next one may be all female.
Advice was his last release before he enlisted in 2021. He will leave the military on April 4th and will most likely have a SHINee (his main group) and SuperM (his side group) comeback in the first half of the year. We'll probably get more solo work from him in the back half of the year or maybe at the start of 2024.
if you haven't watched the music video for "idea" by taemin, i think you guys would really enjoy it based on your comments in this video!
YESS, that and Criminal and Press it very interesting music videos
Taemin's art is infused with symbolism and often through his spiritual lens. Advice is the last song he dropped before he entered military service and it completes the first chapter of his creative life. He promises the second chapter in his solo comeback in 2023. (He returns from the military in early April.) He's an artist who never disappoints. I have found him to be very inspirational. I think you would find his behind-the-scenes and making-of videos very interesting because he discusses his concepts and his creative process. He debuted with SHINee in 2008 where he was designated the main dancer at age 14. ( He was recruited through an open audition by SM Entertainment at age 11.) SHINee also promises a comeback this year, and each member is super creative with exceptional solo careers. We're ready for a deep dive into Taemin's art, so perhaps you'd be open to a marathon of sorts? Thank you for another awesome reaction video! I admire you both for your thoughtful and insightful analyses that set you apart from other content creators. We would love to see some of your creations too. Please keep us posted.
Thank you for this breakdown. This context helps tremendously
Taemin MVs have many visual symbolic meanings, what's cool is that they can be read as an obvious interpretation, like for example his life as an idol, his passion for music, his suffering and pains through it all, his dark side and innocent side... and a deeper interpretation (common in all his MVs) which refers to religious and biblical symbolisms
Thanks for the shout out! I am ALWAYS here to recommend, you know that. Carter will definitely love Taemin’s other works in this trilogy, Criminal and Idea.
All three use chiaroscuro and the contrasts between light and dark and complementary colors to emphasize the overall message that Taemin is trying to bring across, particularly in Advice, that there are two sides to him, one which sees the light and one which he hides in the shadows and keeps to himself. All the visuals in the videos are trying to get people to realize that while there are two opposing forces at work, a love/hate relationship (Criminal), a messiah that also brings pain and death (Idea), it’s all just allegory for Taemin’s real message: that while he has a side that sees the light and a side that he hides, while his public and personal personas may seem to be at conflict with one another, they are both just facets of his personality, complimenting each other to keep him whole. As for standing in the T pose, that could be seen as something spiritual, as he is a known Catholic, and using such a pose could be his way of emphasizing different aspects of the iconography of the crucifixion (though I doubt it, personally) such as the sacrifice and drawbacks that are brought with his fame, or could be a version of the orans prayer stance in which he is asking for blessing or emphasizing that he has been blessed to be put in the position he is in. Or as many fans think, it’s simply a T for Taemin. He uses the pose often-incredibly often-in not just Advice but the music videos for Idea, Criminal, Famous, Move, plus the SuperM video for Jopping, and many of his stage performances, particularly televised ones. It could be his method of showing the continuity of his videos and also a “this is my kingdom” kind of statement. It’s really not something fans have a concrete answer on.
If that makes sense.
And yeah, the match-cuts from one scene to another through a continuous movement is super popular in kpop.
Also, the androgynous look is very intentional with Taemin, as early in his career he was called feminine and girly and they would also call him gay, and he started in Shinee at 14. 14! And as he said, he once apologized for looking girly but feels like it is a disservice to himself, his art and his fans as well. That apologizing for his aesthetic would be giving looking feminine or androgynous a negative connotation and could make others feel badly. That if it is a look that enhances his art, he’s going to do it. He talked about it in an Allure article a few years ago, I’ll link it as well as an earlier Billboard article where he discusses his look and his dance androgyny.
www.allure.com/story/taemin-k-pop-interview-mascara-and-masculinity
www.billboard.com/music/music-news/taemin-interview-move-gender-stereotypes-pushing-the-boundaries-8014100/
He is a TOP TIER Artist who has been dancing since he was 10 years old up to now as well as been active in the industry since prior to 2008 before official debut which is when they made their public appearance as a group.
Taemin, the Idol of Idols!! Loved your reaction and I learned quite a few new things about the video production thanks to you both! If you haven't checked out some of Taemin's other works, here's just a few to mention: Criminal and IDEA go along with the last album theme he put out before he left to serve in the military. Some older vids are Danger (his debut as a solo artist), Want, MOVE, and the Japanese hit "Famous" vids. I think you would enjoy those if you haven't seen them already.
Taemin surrounds himself with high caliber dancers and this contributes to the success of his mv's and songs, but his solo works are amazing too. His artistry is so fantastic, from styling, gazes, the meanings of his works, etc. Wonderful, exciting Taemin. Love Taeminography. BTW -- I would love to see you dissect "Don't Call Me" by SHINee with Taemin and Onew and Key and Minho too. YAY for the 20K.
I see "Advice" as a continuation of the themes within Taemin's previous Never Gonna Dance Again album trilogy -- "2 Kids," "Criminal" and "Idea." With "Criminal" and "Idea," Taemin talks about being involved in a toxic relationship -- not necessarily a romantic relationship, but a metaphor for his relationship with fame -- in which he agrees to be manipulated almost to the point of being destroyed in order to become the artist we see today. But in the end of "Idea" we see him become free from the box everyone wants to put him in and he comes to terms with his role as an idol. He has now formed his own "Idea" about himself and what it means to be an idol, etc.
As Taemin explained during his VLive event for "Advice", "Advice" is like the end to the first chapter in his life, and the beginning of his second chapter, which will be after he completes his military service. (He enlisted May 30, 2021, and he will be on hiatus for almost 2 years as he fulfills his duty to his country.) The song seems to be his way of saying I am done caring to everyone who judged him and all those haters who spread rumors and misinformation about him. "Advice" is showing that he is now free and confident to be himself, breaking stereotypes and now only listening to himself.
Taemin is just one of those performers that leaves you speechless every time he steps on stage. He was born to be a performer and that is one of the reasons why he has become known as the Korean Michael Jackson. That is also why, as one of the top two performers in the industry, he was made a member of SuperM. Taemin is an Idol of Idols and a legend of legends.
And the title of the industry's BEST dancer isn't just a fan's opinion but it's a widely agreed upon title bestowed on Taemin by his peers and the industry as a whole.
In "Advice" he's basically saying, "Stop trying to put me in a box, in which I'll never fit in." He is also speaking to everyone that says he's getting old, that he's just a Michael Jackson wannabe that doesn't sell a lot of albums because he tries too hard to be edgy, etc. He's rebelling against all those people who are constantly advising him to make more mainstream music or to follow the traditional Kpop idol style in order to boost his sales and his popularity. However, as Taemin is making clear in "Advice," that is not who he is and he will never be "normal" or "mainstream" and he is OK with that.
In the scenes where you see him covered in ink, I think that is supposed to be him showing everyone how he is no longer the "unstained," cute maknae everyone wants to think of him as. The diamond you see painted on his hand when he is playing the piano, and you see drawn on his bicep, etc. is SHINee's official symbol, and all the pearl aqua blue/green colors you see in the MV is SHINee's official color. (The large tattoo on his hip is real. Hence why in the lyrics he says, "I destroy the torso that you were chasing after." He's tired of people thinking they even have a say in what he does with his body.)
This song was specifically designed to not be like anything he has ever done before. He plays the piano, he raps, he shows off his falsetto notes, etc., which is different than what we often hear and see from him. He intentionally used this song to prove that he isn't one type of singer. People often think of Taemin as a sultry vocalist that sings in a breathy comfortable, less dynamic style. So, with this song he wants to prove to everyone that he can be unpredictable and try new things. Yet again, you can't put him in a box or tell him who to be. Everything you see in this MV is 100% Taemin, including the piano playing.
Everything that Taemin's haters like to point out about him and say are reasons why he shouldn't be held to such high esteem, I find completely ridiculous. I don't think that anyone who actually knows him would ever say he has played it safe at anytime in his career. If you think he is only one dimensional, and that he is trying to be anything other than himself, then you really don't know Taemin. Everything he does is different, out there and definitely not safe. It's always uniquely Taemin, and he couldn't do it any other way.
Also, because Taemin is a member of SHINee, none of his songs are ever like anything you have every heard or seen before from him. It will always have a new beat, style and sound. As SM Entertainment's experimental boy group, SHINee is meant to be the first and they are expected to set the trend, and that includes the members' solo work. With every new song Taemin produces it's expected to be different than the last, so you will never hear the same style or sound from him in any of his songs, even on the same album, and yet, it still will be uniquely Taemin-like. Which is another example of how you can never put him in a box or expect anything from him. :D
Another theme in "Advice" is about how Taemin is embracing his androgynous side -- but on his own terms -- which I think is a continuation of the message in his "Move" MV. Early in his career when Taemin was growing up in SHINee -- he debuted when he was 14 years old -- he was known for his feminine look. It took him a long time to accept that he was known for his looks and to come to terms with the fact that everyone thought of him as a "pretty boy," etc. So, at this point in his career -- he is now 27 years old in this MV -- he is making a statement about how he has decided to be himself and no longer care what people think. Music is art and art has no gender. So, that is why in "Advice" you see him wearing hair extensions, fishnets and women's Supreme sports wear, etc. But if you notice, his choreography is very fast paced and sharp, which is hyper masculine -- a complete contrast to the "feminine" image people want to give him. You also see him wearing makeup, but it's smeared on his face, as if to say, "people may think of me as a 'Pretty Boy,' but I don't care about looking pretty."
In the lyrics he is saying, "It's creepy how people are always looking to cause drama, so stop trying to create scandals in my life that don't really exist. It's all just stories you make up." He's tired of all those people who seem to look for reasons to cause drama, where none really exists.
Where he says "floppy" in the lyrics, I think he's talking about knowing about or hearing firsthand the things people are saying about him, but he is choosing not to pay attention to them because what they're saying is flopping or doesn't hold any weight or have any substance, etc. "Advice" just proves that everytime people try to put Taemin in a box he destroys it and keeps coming back with something more unique and never seen before.
Hence, why in the choreography he puts his hands in front of his face and creates a movement that looks like an animated mouth talking. It represents how everyone keeps talking about him and what they are saying is nonsense, which makes them look and sound ridiculous, etc. Which is why in the lyrics he says, "You will never get the keys to my lock" because he doesn't ever plan to give people what they want and allow them access to his secrets and personal life, etc. (Those people who like to gossip about him will never truly know the real him.)
I interpret the "One (piece of ) Advice" he is talking about in the lyrics as a reference to the advice he keeps being given about being more mainstream, but he's saying, "stop trying to make me conform to the image you have in your head of who I should be and what I should do" -- in other words, take all that time and effort you have been using to come up with ways to talk about how I don't fit in, etc. and put it to better use. "Follow my own advice" and do something original for once.
As a devout Catholic, Taemin often uses Biblical references and metaphors in his songs and MVs. And the crucifixion pose at the end of "Advice" is sort of a signature pose for him. I interpret it to be like he is saying, "And that is the end, this is my final word, take it or leave it, but don't doubt me. I have gave it my all and laid everything I had out there for you," etc.
Hands down, this is the BEST reaction I've seen so far, you both need to react to IDEA and Heaven by Taemin, his videos are art and I'm sure your friend will appreciate them as well. BTW, his comments on color theory and explanation of the complementary colors and visual perspective was ON POINT! As an ex visual artist I LOVE when people talk about this stuff, your boy knows his sh!t and I'm all here for it!
Criminal, Idea and Advice have common symbolisms, color palette... it would be interesting for you to watch them and try to find connections in ideas and visuals. Those 3 songs belong to his last comebacks before goimg into the military service (he'll be out very soon)
cant wait for "move" and "want" mv reactions. i think Want gives off a Prince/ Micheal vibe but when foes he not- it just the strongest in that mv lol
TAEMIN IS ART
♥
He is the best not for nothing he is idol of idols❤
I love reactors like you both. Normally, I don’t care much for reactors that constantly pause. If I wanted to see the video straight through I’d just go watch the mv. But getting to hear your explanations to the different scenes in the video makes it more understandable as to why people are drawn to it. Thank you for taking the time to analyze this. 🎶💕🦋
Technique name you’re looking for is “match-cut”!
Also taemin has a lot of say in his visuals and messages in his videos. So all of his videos are individual pieces of art. This is pt. 3 of his Never Gonna Dance Again series he did right before military enlistment. Criminal and Idea are the other two
Also all his videos you can just go on for hours on his usage of color theory. It’s always impeccable
Thank you. I was a little tipsy from celebrating and I couldn't remember this at all!
OMG yes!! Carter and Don what a combination, I learn so much from you two. Both provide us different details of art, appreciate really
I Love your reaction. I am fan of Taemin.
I think Taemin would be really happy that you both can see all the little details. He's so hands on with every single aspect of his artistry, you recognising & seeing the layers of his brilliance is awesome. He is dazzling!
Great video my man! I respect people who really dive deep through the dance and choreography because it has so much meaning along with the song! Taemin is such an inspiration and one of the best dancers in the KPOP industry and SM ent. Another music video that showcases lots of dance styles is Shut up and dance with Lay, Jason Derulo, and NCT! Theres so much culture and art in that video i’m sure youd enjoy it. Keep up the good work man.
Taemin's T pose is iconic.
Hey Don and Carter, thanks for reacting.
🎉20k followers🎊
Yes, yes, the match cuts are on point and the use of inverted colour is crazy clean and I love it.
This video has so many layers, it was fun to watch. Thanks for sharing. I know you have lots of requests so if it wasn't requested already please add Taemin's Drip Drop to your list. You will enjoy it just as much as the other masterpieces.
You see duality in a lot of his videos and this one is no different! The fluidity is something he wasn't super comfortable with when he was younger(he debuted in his group SHINee just a couple months before turning 15) but has found a way to really own it.
I think your friend will like want mv. There is a lot of work with light, montage and symbolism.)))
Here's the behind the scene of the MV that you guys might like. (turn on CC) In KPOP, green screen is rarely used as replacement to a real location. They sometime will actually build the set. ruclips.net/video/9z7Wj8_KaaY/видео.html
Taemin has the best solo mvs in kpop fr
I highly recommend y'all watch/react to the behind the scenes for Advice MV and album. They actually show the lighting and production aspects for making this MV as well as you get some of his thoughts as an artist on this project.
‘Advice’ MV Shooting Behind | TAEMIN 태민 - ruclips.net/video/9z7Wj8_KaaY/видео.html
‘Advice’ Jacket Photoshoot Behind | TAEMIN 태민 - ruclips.net/video/CvlGhTYEA_Y/видео.html
Taemin's behind the scene videos are always worth checking out for anyone interested in his artistry. There's also a third behind the scenes video of him in the studio recording two of the songs from the Advice mini album if you're interested in the music side of things. (ruclips.net/video/oYbdK2WWYvQ/видео.html)
For other MV reactions, he has a trilogy of MVs that all tie together. It starts with 2 Kids > Criminal > IDEA. I recommend watching these MVs in order of their release just to experience the intended movement of this story. It's not 100% imperative or anything but I think it's interesting to consider them in relation to each other.
On the choreography side, Taemin deliberately linked the ending and starting poses for 2 Kids, Criminal, and IDEA to connect them thematically. Also, it's worth noting that the dance he does for 2 Kids was completely freestyled and was developed as he was shooting the MV rather than choreographed. It's more stripped back and bare which I think could be interesting for you to check out as a dancer now that you're familiarly with his heavy choreo tracks.
1. So the music video and lyrics are very much connected. It can be interpreted in many ways. But the main point I got is him singing about how he has to hide himself and who he actually is, but at the same time, he realized that it doesn't matter because he still gets criticized. Him being in a small room symbolized how he felt trapped or contained. And of course there is the removing of the mask part and them wearing black and white to show he has 2 sides of him, etc.
2. His past was a bit rough, since he got in the industry at a young age(14) he was bullied and constantly told that he looked like a girl/feminine and before he used to hate being called pretty/feminine, which I understand, he was young. And at times, they would sexualize him for that, which is disgusting, knowing he was underage at the time. He later on embraced his androgynous side instead of hating it. He was also called tone deaf when he was training and got barely any lines in Shinees debut. But I'm so happy he got help from his members and he was able to overcome all that. I hope he's happy and healthy now 💓 🙏.
Yes, this elegant performing artist always dances to his own unique music. He began by copying dance moves he watched Michael Jackson perform. His family supported his creative dreams and his mother took him to an audition where SM Entertainment hired him at age 11 to become a trainee. At age 14, Taemin debuted as SHINee's main dancer and has his first sweet dance solo in the now iconic debut of the song Replay. In 2014 he debuted as the first soloist in a current group, paving the way for other artists. His debut songs, Danger and Ace, show him create a new persona different from his work as the maknae (youngest) of SHINee, complete with choreography by Ian Eastwood. And what follows is a beautiful, creative discography and beautiful mvs. Please enjoy your journey!
You guys mentioned Maxwell… Taemin’s member in SHINee, Jonghyun, was a fan of Maxwell and he covered his song: A Woman’s Work. Maxwell even came to Korea to visit Jonghyun’s radio show where he praised Jonghyun’s music. They took pictures together. The cover is worth checking out. Not dance focused tho obviously just straight vocal performance. Thought I’d mention it 😊 Thanks for the reaction!
Send it to me I would love to see it. Thank you for this message.
@@DonaldIsom Sure! Here it is: ruclips.net/video/tqYpYtNzXCc/видео.html
He sang a few of his solo songs in this session but This Woman’s Work starts at the 7:25 mark. There are time stamps on the video. 😊
The T-pose is Taemin's signature pose, but he also has a theme of rebirth going on. Criminal ends in a T-pose, and Idea opens up with the T-pose. First one is about the toxic relationship with himself in terms of love for who he currently is, and doesn't let him evolve, while idea is about the toxic relationship he has with his idea of his own perfection/transforming into a more ideal self. That's how I see it anyway.
Ps. I call it toxic because he says he's being controlled in Criminal and he says the strive for his ideal self is also killing him. There's a ton of contrast in the videos as well... black & white, heaven & hell etc. I always get this sense of him being split or conflicted by two opposing ideas.
3:33 If my memory serves me correctly, the concept he used for his album and this song was CHESS (hence B&W suited dancers on each side as the ponds while he wears both colors with a chess board shirt as queen & king) in my opinion and observation; I think it relates to MENTAL STRATEGY considering he says “I’ll Shoot One Advice” then says “Best Take My Own Advice” but I could be wrong.
The one and only artist I admire, the best.😍
please watch next Taemin - famous ❤️
TAEMIN es único.Otro nivel del kpop ARTE .KING of KINGS del kpop .pliss reacciona a DANGER ACE ..Su debut como solista .Un tributo a si ídolo .M .S
I'm so glad you reacted to this! Congratulations on 20K 🫶🏾
This was his last song before his military enlistment and I believe this was his way of saying goodbye to one thing and welcoming a new era once he returned. I believe this music video was a symbolism of the last stage of a rebirth. Also he grew up in a catholic setting if I remember correctly so he often plays with religion in his music videos.
To understand Taemin's music, you need to know him. Taemin infuses himself and his life experiences into most of his work. He is also very deep and thought-provoking with his concepts. Another thing to remember is that Taemin is a devout Christian (of the Catholic variety) and regularly infuses his MVs and lyrics with Christian metaphors, symbolism, iconography, allegories and allusions. So with each MV/song, you must look for those in order to properly interpret his underlying messages. For instance, Taemin regularly incorporates his iconic T-Pose in his dancing (as you see in the ending of this MV). This is a representation of the Cross. Often you will also see him make the sign of the Cross in his choreos, dance practices, and performances -- multiple times in some situations like his live performance of "Heaven". Taemin's faith is who he is, and he's not shy about it. To overlook this aspect of him as a person and artist is to miss much of his art. Lastly, Taemin's music often involves two to three meanings within one MV, which may include his real-life experiences, journey of his faith, or related to the SMC Universe storyline. In short, there is A LOT to unpack within a Taemin MV. Each and every little detail means something and since each one is his vision for his overall musical theme, he's involved in every little detail.
Now with "Advice", you need to understand that it is the epilogue for Taemin's 2020 full-length, 2-part album, "Never Gonna Dance Again" (NGDA) Acts 1 and 2. The story begins with its prologue "2 Kids" of Act 1 which details the schism of his ego into 2 separate egos causing a "break-up" in his mind: the innocent 14 YO kid who debuted with SHINee in 2008 and the person he is tempted to become as an idol idolized and tempted by fame. "Criminal" MV (Act 1 Title track) details the resulting struggle of the two egos through the lens of Stockholm syndrome wherein Taemin is both the victim and "criminal" within his own mind; and "IDEA" MV (Act 2 title track) reveals the climactic battle of the two egos portrayed through the concept of Plato's Theory of Forms which states that any created being (form) cannot create itself. Only an outside power/being can be the creator and only that creator (Messiah) can make or be perfection. This philosophy fits in perfectly with Taemin's Christian worldview.
The final resolution of this personal story is revealed here with this MV, "Advice" showing the new, battle-scared yet stronger Taemin who will no longer defer to the "One" (collective) advice of others regarding his music (including saesangs and haters), or his personal choices (such as getting tattoos on his torso) but instead follow his own "Advice" regarding his future endeavors. The coloring of the opening scene is very important, as it's SHINee's color: pearl aqua. You will always see representations of this color in each of the SHINee brothers' music whether as a group or in their respective solo music via the lighting, clothing, props, etc. There is a VERY strong bond between them, especially with Taemin. We also see some significant clues like the shredded paper piling up all around the room and falling from a paper-shredder chute, showing Taemin's complete disdain for unsolicited comments and how he treats them. Within the shredded paper we see a sword (Excaliber?) protruding at an angle. This represents SHINee brother Minho who always utilized a sword in any SHINee concert VCR depicting a battle scene. He is very protective of his little bro Taemin in real life. Taemin is sitting at an identical baby grand piano like the one he has at home, so we see a connection between real life and idol life. As he's playing we can see a row of thorns on his collarbone, representing the fact that his faith is still intact despite the temptations of fame. This seems to have been a huge fear of his (losing his faith), and he has finally conquered it and remains true. Even his clothing bears significance. His shirt is representative of a chessboard; the suit down to his shows is half black/half white representing the two sides of the pieces for chess, a game that utilizes strategy to win and represents the strategies Taemin has had to use to conquer the baggage that comes with fame at a young age. A major example was the stigmatism of being considered a "pretty boy", frequently dressed as a girl and made to wear long hair in his early career for comedic effect despite him repeatedly stressing he's a MAN and such things were uncomfortable for him. This fact distressed fellow SHINee brother Jonghyun enough to write a song for Taemin called "Pretty Boy" for which one line states "I am more than the imaginations in your head." Taemin then used that experience as a strategy to turn Kpop and the Korean entertainment industry on it's head by embracing the androgynous look that shocked the industry and shot Taemin to even greater fame. Now he advises junior artists (like Ten) to find something unique about themselves to make them standout and exploit that characteristic. This is pure Taemin in a nutshell: a very beautiful man with soft features and kind heart hiding a savagely calculating mind and core of iron. This is why one of his close idol friends describes him as "Tofu with a core of iron." Never underestimate him.
Taemin's return from the military will begin Act 2 of his career., leaving us with the promise of what's to come from Taemin for the second half of his career. Thanks for reacting to our shining SHINee maknae!
i learn so much from you and everyone who joins you, thanks so much for what y'all do!
Taemin is such an incredible artist! please watch "criminal" m/v next!!
Taemin is very involve in the process of the mv and also the edition of it, he have a master degree in music and video production after all. He also use a lot of symbolism on his art choreography and history of his work. Please react to the IDEA dance practice and MV you will see how much he can deliver please!!! Also an ADVICE. It will be much clean if you react to the video without pause one time and then other one pause and elaborating. Thanks!!!
If you liked this I suggest you and your friend look at his MV for "Want". You will not be dissatisfied, and the message is in your face for sure.
This reaction was so nice!! I liked the commentary Carl (? Sorry if I messed the name) did!! There're not enough videographers reacting to kpop mvs and they have sooo much potential!! Hope to see him again (and more of Taemin ofc hehe)
I saw a couple of big comments already, so I'll just point out that the T pose he did at the end is his signature pose. Iconic. Oh and the way he watches your soul every time he makes eye contact with the camera? You can feel the experience and talent he has.
Also please let me recommend you to watch Taemin's Heaven performance. It doesn't have mv, only music shows, but the choreo and stage presence is amazing 🔥
YAY ANOTHER TAEMIN REACTION 🙈
I love how in-depth you got in your analysis of Advice! It's so nice to see y'all appreciating every detail that the whole team behind the production intentionally incorporated to tell the story
both of you should react to "WANT" by TAEMIN.... that video is art too!
Taemin’s my ult bias for so many reasons.
FYI: Taemin’s hands had the red/brown colour because after they shot him playing piano with those black hands they had a very difficult time removing all of that henna.
Taemin💯💯
😅 LAY is one of many of my boys but there was senior youngest TAEMIN long before our boy #LAYZhang Lol so TAEMIN is TOP TIER ARTIST of ARTISTS in Kpop Industry who is basically seen as royalty along with his group #SHINee. I cant wait to see your next reactions to the his four older SHINee members’ solos #ONEW, #JONGHYUN (RIP) , #KEY and #MINHO
Criminal and Idea are 🔥🔥🔥
thank you for the reaction❤
This reaction is awesome! I really appreciate the things y’all point out. It’s obvious that y’all take your craft seriously 🔥 I think y’all would love Le Sserafim- IMPURITIES & ANTIFRAGILE the choreography and the lighting and the set all came together to make a masterpiece.
Crash was actually real, not animated 💎💎💎👍🏼 good review
16:09 😅 The long parts are grey extensions, but he did have a somewhat short mullet hairstyle in real time which can be seem on his album and some photos.
나를 포함한 내 주변 사람들은 모두 태민을 좋아한다. 한국에서 태어나 30년이상 살면서 태민을 싫어하는 한국인을 본 적이 없다.
As of May 31st 2021 our SHINee youngest TAEMIN had officially enlisted for at least 1 1/2 to 2 years (and was supposed to return Nov 2022) but mental state was not good so his military service was extended and he’s finishing as a public worker. *Regarding the car crash scene, he jokingly confirmed with Minho during their reaction that it was REAL even though he didn’t get seriously hurt (glass CGI) he was still nervous about it; you can check out their reaction and behind the scenes to get more details about it. The more I analysis the MV, my thoughts I think when he got into the car accident he died where now is between life & death or good or evil (hence the black / white suits); which gets me thinking that its continuum of 'IDEA' because the concept is similar, Angel vs Demon but with a chess board and the back up dancers being as his guards or pons while he plays the roles of king and queen.* It has been 13+ years now for majority of us, Shawols / Taemints and we are so proud of him. I still get lost for words every time, this is definitely his way of moving into the next chapter of his career and life 😶👀🙀🤯 He went all out for his new album combination of classic with hiphop vibes along with a dark concept showing up shirtless and tattooed with Mask playing the piano Lol displaying his full-on Vampire OG Prince legendary status for the creative genius that he is experimenting with new concepts and tempos along with the beat similar to SHINee’s “Don’t Call Me” and don’t get me started with the killer choreography, fashion, visuals and background settings. He hopes that it comforts his fans but also he is calling out all the haters/ANTIs, SASAENGS and corrupt media. There’s so much going on connecting all his previous MVs together in this one video 😭 comforting on top of killing his fans. I am still trying to put together my thoughts *IT IS NOT KPOP, IT IS T-POP (Taemin Pop)* #ADVICE #Masterpiece #TAEMIN #SHINee #SuperM
Thank you! I really want to see him react to film kai. I think he will have a field day. And congrats on 20k!!!🎉
oh trueeee
Congratulations on 20 000 subscribers 👏👏👏👏
hmmm. if you like red, i think you should consider watching Taemin's Thirsty performance video :)
Carter would love Idea!!! For selfish reasons, I want you to watch Press Your Number because it's always been a favorite Taemin track of mine, especially dance wise. It just feels so emotionally raw. But the symbolism in his videos has kind of an overarching set of themes, and yes, Carter, it is kind of spiritual! One of the many questions it poses is, maybe, who are you praying to? Or why? In Advice, it almost seems like Taemin is arriving at the idea he's going to trust himself more after some kind of traumatic or painful event and not knowing how to overcome it. Either way, it's special to me because that's how I viewed it. And tbh, I think that is kind of the point of the ambiguity of some of his art. I also always appreciate your appreciation for the dancers and all the other aspects that go into creating this art!! Love to watch your reactions :)
the paint symbolized blood but with those light change the color
Taemin has always been feminized and made fun of for being pretty by the Korean entertainment industry, but he turned it into his advantage and was the person who made androgyny popular in kpop. No one does it like him tho
not y'all wearing read and green while talking about red and green omgggg
And if you love to make red color music video, there's Taemin's 'Thirsty' mv. Its all red.
Please
React to “WANT” MV by Taemin
Oh gosh
PLEASE😂
Also I’m not sure if you’ve already reacted to this but you should watch hyunjin artist of the month!!!
There's a behind the scenes video.
This should be some fun info for Carter but this year Stray Kids is supposed to release something called SKZFLIX we don’t know what exactly it is but it seems like it’ll be something either like a series or film based so when that drops you might wanna check it out and when it does drop probably closer to the end of 2023 if it is more like film and cinematography based I know us fans will be the first to be like YO CARTER GET ON THIS
The ego of an artist. To speak through art and think you know because you do so is yes purposeful and beautiful buts it’s not the end all most important. It’s the beginning of the journey and without others and a road and a “plan” to put that purpose to use and in the service of others… with out a road and partners you’ll crash. You find art through the taking in and then re voicing. Best take you’re own advice when finding peace through wants not only inside of you but what’s next to and outside of you and what shows relation and difference. Relationships. It’s never just you alone
Taemins art like many other greats too is a “great” and “true” example of what philosophy and probably humanity in an expression is. To feel and to think and have no other choice but to do so and then how do you express that
You have to take a look on famous and flame of love
You have to react to Hoshi spider dance practice it’s just WOW!!!!
He once interviwed like_not 100%percent correct but_"I tried to express kind of edgylord sick and tired of gossips around" So I could match dirty long hair, kitch quilted clothing images with the narrator of the song.
You should react SuperM Jopping
Seventeen's Dont Wanna Cry 2x Dance Speed Challenge. 🤧
ruclips.net/video/q90f5AlPjV4/видео.html
I think you may need to revisit Criminal with Carter.
I agree
I also want to add a non-Taemin entry since you love the color red - NCT U - The 7th Sense (NCT’s debut) and it has 2 versions.
Hi Don 👋🏾 This is completely unrelated to this video, however, I would love to see you review Hyunjin’s Artist Of The Month performance. After watching several of the reviews you’ve done on your channel, as well as your work on Insta, I immediately subscribed and have come to respect and appreciate your eye and passion for dance. Thank you!
Really enjoyed your explanations and listening to your points of view. Taemin is phenomenal. There are behind the scenes videos ruclips.net/video/9z7Wj8_KaaY/видео.html. It shows how they did some of the shots and what type of equipment they used.
You should react to sunmi- tail choreography
You should watch “idea” first
Hey, Don. Here's a dance practice that just drop by a new female supergroup called GOT the beat. They consist of members of other KPOP girl groups: BoA, aespa's Winter and Karina, Red Velvet's Seulgi and Wendy, and Girls' Generation's Taeyeon and Hyoyeon.
Imagine if Destiny's Child Beyoncé and Kelly, EnVogue's Terry and Dawn, SWV's Coko, TLC's T-Boz and Chilli got together to make a new R&B supergroup. 🤔
GOT the beat 갓 더 비트 'Stamp On It' Dance Practice - ruclips.net/video/mE9mj48t7s8/видео.html
Please do watch don quixote by seventeen it's dance practice is newly released hehe
hello, please react to Ten "BIRTHDAY" dance practice :)
PLEASE REACT TO HALAZAIA DANCE PRATICE
Infinite's Last Romeo pleaseee. 🥺
ruclips.net/video/Keux-aGfoM4/видео.html
Taemin returns from the military at the beginning of April their 15th debut anniversary is May 25th. Key's repackage album is in Feb. And shinee will be returning this year too. There will be alot to look forward to this year from them all as well as their solo projects.
Please don't forget to check out the solo work from their late member jonghyun he should always be included
Check out shinee's entire discography and solo work you won't ever regret taking the journey through their entire discography.
Fun fact if Taemins choreography looks easy it's hard as hell to do and if it looks hard to do its easy to do. Taemin likes his choreo hard to do but made to look easy and he tends to send choreographers away to redo if he finds it too easy to learn..
If I look at the mv for cancer as well as the dance practice he sent the choreographer back more than once to make it harder to do. ( choreographer in question was Ian Eastwood)
Taemin is Catholic so he uses a lot of ideology in his mvs