SHINee’s Onew makes his official debut with “Blue” from his first EP, Voice, released on December 5. As the fourth member to become a soloist, Onew showcases his own musical colors and vocal capabilities through this melancholic track.

Rocoberry, the indie duo who previously worked with the singer on “Lullaby,” produced his latest old jazz and R&B track, suitable for his tender vocals. Orchestral sounds comprised of tense piano and dramatic strings enhance the song and create a breathtaking performance surrounding feelings of isolation. Blue hues express the aura of loneliness as Onew awakens in his dark and desolate room, until a beam of blue light soars through the sky. Captivated by its mysterious glow, he sets off in search of capturing this phenomenon.

He steps out to the barren world shrouded by dark and stormy skies and an infinite pool of water where he encounters enchanting objects as well as intimidating, blindfolded figures that still manage to keep their attention locked on the wandering man. Feeling lost and isolated, the wanderer shrinks amongst the daunting, foreign beings as they surround him with cold judgement. Amidst the tension, the same flashing beam of light falls from the sky and lands in the palm of his hands, sealed away in his jewel that he keeps shining in the darkness of his chilling room. The cinematic visuals create a

theatrical performance of the haunting ambiance left by loneliness that sends us to a deeper isolation, but can also become a safe haven where peace can be found again once overcoming anxieties.  

SHINee members have each showcased their individual colors through the release of their solo projects. A long-awaited debut album released as a gift to fans before the singer’s enlistment, Voice thoroughly reflects Onew’s vocal versatility that extends beyond K-Pop, supported by the B-side tracks complete with dramatic symphonies and gentle melodies. The leader of the versatile music group delves into ballads that establish his own musical color while also completing SHINee’s prismatic discography.