Taeyong transcends idol status with solo concert ‘TY TRACK’
Taeyong of NCT proved he is more than just an idol at his “2024 TAEYONG CONCERT ‘TY TRACK’” solo concert showcasing his prowess not only as a performer, but also as an all-round artist.
On Sunday, the atmosphere was fervent at Olympic Hall in Songpa District, southeastern Seoul, as fans gathered to witness Taeyong’s solo endeavor. The stalwart leader of NCT for the past eight years also demonstrated his solo prowess by selling out every available seat of the two-day event.
Of particular note was the show’s setlist, which exclusively featured songs penned and composed by Taeyong himself. The announcement that the lead single “TAP” from his latest second mini-album would be premiered during the event added even more excitement to the occasion.
Taeyong made a dramatic entrance onto the stage, emerging from a colossal T-shaped structure, setting the tone for the spectacle that followed. From there, he delivered a string of performances, including unreleased tracks such as “Concrete,” “YES,” “H.E.R.” and “LONELY,” eliciting ecstatic responses from the audience.
In particular, Taeyong’s first solo title track “SHALALA” generated ear-splitting cheers and chants from the audience. He further electrified the atmosphere with an additional dance break not present in the original version, demonstrating his confidence as NCT’s main dancer.
After the impressive opening of a total of nine tracks, Taeyong took the microphone to interact with fans.
“There won’t be many speeches like this in the concert,” he said. “I wanted the concert to flow as I envisioned, so I arranged it to go smoothly. I wanted to give you all the time to focus on my stage.”
True to his word, Taeyong flawlessly transitioned between performances of his original compositions, opting to forego lengthy interludes for speeches.
His innovative use of stage props and effects throughout the concert also captivated the audience.
From traversing the stage on a conveyor belt during “Moonlight” to delivering glamorous performances under the crimson glow of the stage lights for “Ghost” and “BACK,” Taeyong left an unforgettable impression on the audience.
The crowd was left in awe during the stages of “404 File Not Found” and “404 Loading,” which incorporated pin lights and wires to create a mesmerizing visual display as Taeyong walked mid-air.
The atmosphere of the concert reached its peak when the stage for “TAP” was finally unveiled. Fans erupted into thundering cheers as Taeyong delivered a dazzling performance accompanied by his trademark witty gestures.
Following his performance of “Long Flight,” which he said was a deeply personal song, Taeyong took a moment to connect with fans on a deeper level, conveying his heartfelt emotions.
“Your happiness is my happiness. My joy stems from bringing happiness to those around me,” he said, emphasizing the sense of accomplishment he finds in performing.
With his impending military enlistment later this year, Taeyong reassured fans who would miss him during his absence.
“I believe everyone will be alright even in my absence. I look forward to the day we can enjoy such a joyful concert again… I believe we will reunite someday. I’m always by your side.”
Overcome with emotion, Taeyong could not help but shed tears amid the fan chants from the audience.
“It took me 10 years to deliver a performance that truly reflects my heart… I’m thankful for the recognition of my efforts by many. While there used to be an obsession with acknowledgment and success in my heart, I feel I can now let go of it,” he concluded.